Staging system

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of temporary storage system, temporary storage system includes: temporary storage rack, is provided with at least two temporary storage positions, at least two temporary storage positions are respectively provided with electronic tags;First transport unit, is provided with at least two first storage locations, at least one first storage location stores first goods;Information terminal, with server communication connection, is configured to obtain the temporary storage position information corresponding to temporary storage position and the storage location information corresponding to first storage location, so that server associates temporary storage position with first storage location according to order information;Wherein, when temporary storage system executes temporary storage task, the electronic tag of target temporary storage position where first goods need to be stored displays visual information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] At least one embodiment of this utility model relates to the field of logistics technology, and in particular to a temporary storage system. Background Technology

[0002] In order production, after the operators pick the goods from the shelves, the goods are transferred from the transport unit to the temporary storage rack for temporary storage, and then loaded onto another transport unit for transfer to other subsequent processes.

[0003] Currently, in the aforementioned temporary storage task, operators mainly use information terminals to scan at least one of the following: the transport unit, the container in the transport unit, and the goods inside the container. After the transport unit is moved to the vicinity of the temporary storage rack, the information terminal is used to scan the corresponding temporary storage location set on the temporary storage rack, and then the goods are stored in the corresponding temporary storage location.

[0004] In actual operation, operators need to process multiple orders in one temporary storage task and store multiple goods in each temporary storage rack according to the order information. Therefore, there may be situations where operators store goods in the wrong temporary storage location. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address at least one of the aforementioned and other technical problems in the prior art, this utility model provides a temporary storage system, wherein an electronic tag configured at the temporary storage location is used to display visual information to guide operators to perform correct operations.

[0006] This utility model provides a temporary storage system, comprising: a temporary storage rack having at least two temporary storage locations, each of the at least two temporary storage locations having an electronic tag; a first transportation unit having at least two first storage locations, at least one of the first storage locations storing first goods; and an information terminal, communicatively connected to a server, configured to acquire temporary storage location information corresponding to the temporary storage locations and first storage location information corresponding to the first storage locations, so that the server associates the temporary storage locations with the first storage locations based on order information; wherein, when the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the electronic tag of the target temporary storage location where the first goods need to be stored displays visual information.

[0007] In some illustrative embodiments, when the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the first goods located in the same first storage location are stored in at least two target temporary storage locations; wherein, when the first goods are stored in the first target temporary storage location, the electronic tag hides the visible information, and the electronic tag in the second target temporary storage location displays the visible information.

[0008] In some illustrative embodiments, at least two of the aforementioned first storage locations store the aforementioned first goods; when the aforementioned temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the aforementioned first goods located in different of the aforementioned first storage locations are each stored in the corresponding aforementioned target temporary storage location; wherein, when the aforementioned first goods are stored in the first target temporary storage location, the aforementioned electronic tag hides the visible information, and the aforementioned electronic tag in the second target temporary storage location also displays the visible information.

[0009] In some illustrative embodiments, displaying visual information includes lighting up the aforementioned electronic tag; and / or, hiding visual information includes turning off the aforementioned electronic tag.

[0010] In some illustrative embodiments, the temporary storage system further includes: a second transport unit having at least two second storage locations; and a guiding device communicatively connected to the server, wherein the server is further configured to associate the temporary storage location with the second storage location based on order information, through the temporary storage location information and the second storage location information corresponding to the second storage location; wherein, when the temporary storage system performs a loading task, the electronic tag of the temporary storage location from which the second goods need to be removed displays visual information, and the guiding device provides indication information for the target second storage location where the second goods need to be stored.

[0011] In some illustrative embodiments, at least two of the aforementioned temporary storage locations store the aforementioned second goods; when the aforementioned temporary storage system performs a loading task, the aforementioned second goods located in different of the aforementioned temporary storage locations are each stored in the corresponding of the aforementioned target second storage locations; wherein, when the aforementioned second goods are stored in one of the aforementioned target second storage locations, the aforementioned electronic tag hides the visible information, while the aforementioned electronic tag in another of the aforementioned temporary storage locations displays the visible information, and the aforementioned guiding device indicates the next instruction information to the other of the aforementioned target second storage locations.

[0012] In some illustrative embodiments, the guiding device is located outside the second storage location and is configured to project the instruction information toward the target second storage location.

[0013] In some illustrative embodiments, the guiding device includes at least two lasers, each of the outputs of which corresponds to a target second storage location, for projecting laser light onto the target second storage location.

[0014] In some illustrative embodiments, the guiding device includes: an actuation unit; at least one laser disposed on the actuation unit; wherein the actuation unit is configured to adjust the projection direction of the output end of the laser so that the laser projects laser light toward different target second storage locations.

[0015] In some illustrative embodiments, the temporary storage system further includes a display device disposed on the temporary storage rack and configured to display the type of task performed by the temporary storage system based on order information.

[0016] In some illustrative embodiments, when the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the display device is configured to light up in a first color; and / or, when the temporary storage system performs a loading task, the display device is configured to light up in a second color; and / or, when the first goods in the first storage location are stored in the wrong temporary storage location, the display device is configured to light up in a third color; wherein the first color, the second color, and the third color are all different.

[0017] In some illustrative embodiments, the temporary storage system includes at least two of the aforementioned temporary storage racks, which are arranged opposite to each other.

[0018] According to the illustrative embodiment of the present invention, the temporary storage system provided includes at least two temporary storage locations on the temporary storage rack, each equipped with a corresponding electronic tag. An information terminal is used to acquire temporary storage location information corresponding to the temporary storage location and first storage location information corresponding to the first storage location, and associates the temporary storage location with the first storage location set by the first transport unit via a server. Furthermore, when the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the temporary storage location where the first goods need to be stored is displayed visually via the electronic tag. This guides the operator to accurately place the first goods retrieved from the first storage location into the corresponding temporary storage location, thus avoiding operator error. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 The schematic diagram illustrates the module diagram of a temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of the temporary storage rack of the temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of a first transport unit of a temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 4 The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of another first transport unit of the temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the electronic tags configured at each temporary storage location is shown.

[0024] Figure 6The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of the second transport unit of the temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 7 Based on such Figure 6 The diagram shows the usage status of the temporary storage system performing the loading task.

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The diagram shows a schematic of the guiding device module.

[0027] In the accompanying drawings, the meanings of the reference numerals are as follows:

[0028] 10. Temporary storage rack; 11. Temporary storage location; 12. Electronic tag; 13. Display device; 14. Main control unit; 15. Physical layer interface; 16. CAN transceiver; 17. Power supply module; 18. Control module; 19. Electronic switch;

[0029] 20. First transport unit; 21. Transfer vehicle; 22. Turnover box; 23. Distribution rack; 24. Distribution box;

[0030] 30. Second transport unit; 31. Automated guided vehicle; 32. Mobile shelving; 33. Second storage location;

[0031] 40. Guiding device; 41. Laser;

[0032] 50. Information terminal;

[0033] 60. Server. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0035] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., as used herein indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0036] All terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein are to be interpreted in a manner consistent with the context of this specification, and not in an idealized or overly rigid way.

[0037] When using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, and C," the meaning should generally be interpreted according to the understanding of someone skilled in the art. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" should include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C. Similarly, when using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, or C," the meaning should generally be interpreted according to the understanding of someone skilled in the art. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" should include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or having A, B, and C.

[0038] Figure 1 The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of a temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] According to the temporary storage system provided by this utility model, referring to Figure 1 As shown, the system includes a temporary storage rack 10, a first transport unit 20, and an information terminal 50. The temporary storage rack 10 has at least two temporary storage locations 11, each equipped with an electronic tag 12. The first transport unit 20 has at least two first storage locations, at least one of which stores first goods. The information terminal 50 is communicatively connected to a server 60 and is configured to acquire temporary storage location information corresponding to the temporary storage location 11 and first storage location information corresponding to the first storage location, so that the server 60 can associate the temporary storage location 11 with the first storage location based on order information. When the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the electronic tag 12 of the target temporary storage location where the first goods are to be stored displays visual information. The server 60 has a corresponding upper-level system, such as a warehouse management system (WMS), which is used to generate order information and associate the temporary storage location and the first storage location based on the order information using the temporary storage location information and the first storage location information.

[0040] In some illustrative embodiments, when the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, in addition to displaying visual information on the electronic tag 12 of the target temporary storage location where the first goods need to be stored, the information terminal 50 also displays the location information of the first storage location of the first goods to be removed from the first transport unit 20.

[0041] In some illustrative embodiments, the temporary storage location information corresponding to the temporary storage location 11 and / or the first storage location information corresponding to the first storage location includes, but is not limited to, image information, specifically information codes (such as barcodes and QR codes).

[0042] In some other illustrative embodiments, the aforementioned temporary storage location information and / or first storage location information may also be radio frequency identification (RFID) signals that can be recognized by a device (such as a reader) and any other information suitable for distinguishing the temporary storage location (or the first storage location) and associating the temporary storage location with the first storage location.

[0043] In this implementation, the temporary storage rack 10 has at least two temporary storage locations 11, each equipped with a corresponding electronic tag 12. The information terminal 50 acquires the aforementioned temporary storage location information and the first storage location information, and the server 60 associates the temporary storage location 11 with the first storage location set in the first transport unit 20 based on the temporary storage location information and the first storage location information. When the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the information terminal 50 displays the location information of the first storage location in the first transport unit 20 where the first goods need to be removed. Simultaneously, the temporary storage location 11 where the first goods need to be stored also displays visual information via the electronic tag 12. This guides the operator to retrieve the first goods from the first storage location displaying the location information, and, guided by the visual information displayed on the temporary storage location 11, accurately places the first goods into the corresponding temporary storage location 11, thus avoiding operator errors during the temporary storage task.

[0044] Figure 2 The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of the temporary storage rack of the temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 2 As shown, the temporary storage rack 10 is provided with partitions to divide the interior of the rack into multiple temporary storage positions 11 along the row array and / or column array. Specifically, each partition corresponds to an electronic tag 12 for each temporary storage position 11. The electronic tags 12 include, but are not limited to, being located at least one of the lower, upper, and side portions of the corresponding temporary storage position 11. Furthermore, the number of electronic tags 12 provided in the temporary storage rack 10 corresponds one-to-one with the number of temporary storage positions 11.

[0046] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 2 As shown, the multiple temporary storage positions 11 provided in the temporary storage rack 10 are configured with at least two different specifications. Specifically, they can be as follows: Figure 2 The three different specifications are shown.

[0047] For example, refer to Figure 2As shown, the upper part of the temporary storage rack 10 includes, but is not limited to, having 4 rows and 4 columns of temporary storage positions 11 with a first volume. Further, the middle part of the temporary storage rack 10 includes, but is not limited to, having 1 row (2) of temporary storage positions 11 with a second volume. Even further, the lower part of the temporary storage rack 10 includes, but is not limited to, having 1 temporary storage position 11 with a third volume.

[0048] The first volume is smaller than the second volume, and the second volume is smaller than the third volume. The reason for providing temporary storage locations 11 with different volumes within the temporary storage rack 10 is to accommodate different types of picking tasks, which will be explained in detail in the following embodiments.

[0049] In some illustrative embodiments, the information terminal 50 includes, but is not limited to, devices employing a personal digital assistant (PDA), a ring, AR (Augmented Reality) glasses, and other devices suitable for acquiring temporary location information and first storage location information. During order production, operators receive picking tasks and can confirm the specific task type based on the order information.

[0050] For example, it can be a single item collection single task, or it can be a multi-item collection single task. A single item collection single task can be understood as bringing together a single item from multiple independent orders and transporting it by a first transportation unit 20; a multi-item collection single task can be understood as bringing together multiple items from multiple orders and transporting them by a first transportation unit 20.

[0051] To illustrate the embodiments provided by this utility model, the following description will use an embodiment where the information terminal 50 employs a PDA. It should be noted that this embodiment is illustrative.

[0052] Figure 3 The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of a first transport unit of a temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] For the aforementioned single-item set and single-task, operators include, but are not limited to, using methods such as... Figure 3 The first transport unit 20 shown is used for transport.

[0054] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 3As shown, the first transport unit 20 includes a transfer vehicle 21 and multiple turnover boxes 22 stacked on the transfer vehicle 21. Each turnover box 22 forms a first storage location for storing the first goods picked from the shelf. During this process, the operator can select the corresponding transfer vehicle 21 according to the task prompt (which can be displayed on a PDA or transmitted to the operator through other devices) and scan the first storage location information of the turnover box 22 located on the transfer vehicle 21 (such as the box number and / or information code of the turnover box 22, etc.); then, the operator also needs to scan the information of the first goods picked from the shelf (such as the information code) and put the scanned first goods into the turnover box 22, thus completing the picking task.

[0055] Based on this, the first transport unit 20 can be moved to the vicinity of the temporary storage rack 10 under the operation of the operator, in order to perform the temporary storage task. The operation of the first transport unit 20 by the operator can be at least one of the following: pushing the first transport unit 20, remotely controlling the first transport unit 20 through a remote control device, or preventing the first transport unit 20 from moving on its own through self-tracking and other autonomous controls.

[0056] During temporary storage tasks, operators can further scan the temporary storage location information (such as information codes) of the temporary storage rack 10 using a PDA. The order information generated by the Warehouse Management System (WMS) will identify the corresponding temporary storage task. This allows the electronic tag 12 of the target temporary storage location in the rack 10 where the first item needs to be stored to display visual information, guiding the operator to place the first item into that target temporary storage location. Simultaneously, the PDA's display interface will further display the location information of the first storage location where the first item needs to be removed. (Refer to...) Figure 3 As shown, taking the first transport unit with three turnover boxes 22 as an example, the PDA will display which turnover box 22 contains the first item that needs to be removed, so as to guide the operator to take the first item out of the first transport unit.

[0057] In some illustrative embodiments, the location information displayed by the PDA can be a model generated on the display interface. For example, three stacked turnover boxes 22 are also visually formed and displayed on the PDA's display interface, and the turnover box 22 that needs to be removed from the first goods (i.e., the first storage location) can be displayed in a different color from the other turnover boxes 22. It should be understood that the embodiments of this utility model are not limited thereto.

[0058] For example, in some other illustrative embodiments, the location information displayed by the PDA may also be the box number, color, relative position (such as the upper box 22) of the turnover box 22 that needs to be removed from the first goods, and other location information that can distinguish the turnover box 22 from other turnover boxes 22.

[0059] Furthermore, for the above-mentioned type of picking task (i.e., single-item collection single task), operators can, as follows: Figure 3 As shown, the empty turnover box 22 located in the target temporary storage position at the lower part of the temporary storage rack 10 is taken out and directly replaced with the turnover box 22 containing the first goods in the first transport unit 20. That is to say, for a single item collection single task, the operator does not need to take out the first goods from the turnover box 22 and put it into the turnover box 22 in the temporary storage position 11, but instead replaces the turnover box 22 containing the first goods with the empty turnover box 22 in the temporary storage rack 10 as a whole.

[0060] According to another illustrative embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 3 As shown, when the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the first goods located in the same first storage location are stored in at least two target temporary storage locations. Specifically, when the first goods are stored in the first target temporary storage location, the electronic tag 12 hides its visible information (i.e., the electronic tag 12 at that temporary storage location 11 no longer displays visible information), while the electronic tag 12 at the second target temporary storage location displays visible information.

[0061] This differs from the aforementioned scenario where the entire container 22 containing the first item is replaced with an empty container 22. For example, ... Figure 2 The lower temporary storage location shown already contains the first goods, while the volume of the other temporary storage locations is insufficient to accommodate the turnover box 22. Therefore, according to the order information, multiple first goods from one turnover box 22 in the first transport unit 20 need to be placed in at least two (or more) target temporary storage locations, for example, as shown below. Figure 2 The temporary storage rack 10 shown includes two temporary storage positions 11 with a second volume in the middle. During this process, when a target temporary storage position is full, the operator can hide the visual information of the target temporary storage position and make the electronic tag 12 corresponding to the next target temporary storage position display the visual information until all the first goods have been placed in the target temporary storage positions.

[0062] Figure 4 The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of another first transport unit of the temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 4As shown, at least two first storage locations store the first goods. When the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the first goods located in different first storage locations are each stored in their corresponding target temporary storage location. Specifically, when the first goods are stored in the first target temporary storage location, the electronic tag 12 hides its visible information, while the electronic tag 12 in the second target temporary storage location displays visible information.

[0064] For the aforementioned multiple collection tasks, operators may, but are not limited to, using methods such as... Figure 4 The first transport unit 20 shown is used for transport.

[0065] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 4 As shown, the first transport unit 20 includes a movable distribution rack 23 (also referred to as a rebin rack). Multiple distribution boxes 24 are spaced apart from top to bottom within the distribution rack 23, and each distribution box 24 can be used to hold the first item of an order. Specifically, the distribution rack 23 includes, but is not limited to, five distribution boxes 24; that is, referring to… Figure 4 The first transport unit 20 shown can handle up to five orders simultaneously. Furthermore, the sorting boxes 24 are tilted so that their openings face the same side, forming a first storage location within each sorting box 24 opening to store the first item picked from the shelf. During this process, the operator can select the corresponding sorting rack 23 according to task prompts (which can be displayed on a PDA or transmitted to the operator via other devices) and scan the rack number located on the sorting rack 23. Then, the operator needs to scan the information (such as an information code) of the first item picked from the shelf, and place one scanned first item or multiple first items belonging to the same sorting rack 23 into the sorting box 24 according to the sorting information. Each time a first item is placed, the box number of the sorting box 24 needs to be scanned to confirm accurate placement. In this way, the picking task is completed.

[0066] Based on this, the first transport unit 20 can be moved to the vicinity of the temporary storage rack 10 that needs to be temporarily stored under the operation of the operator, in order to perform the temporary storage task.

[0067] During temporary storage tasks, operators can further scan the temporary storage location information (such as information codes) of the temporary storage rack 10 using a PDA. The order information generated by the Warehouse Management System (WMS) will identify the corresponding temporary storage task. This allows the electronic tag 12 of the target temporary storage location in the rack 10 where the first item needs to be stored to display visual information, guiding the operator to place the first item into that target temporary storage location. Simultaneously, the PDA's display interface will further show the location information of the first storage location (i.e., the distribution box 24) where the first item needs to be removed. (Refer to...) Figure 4As shown, taking the first transport unit with 5 sorting boxes 24 as an example, the PDA will display which sorting box 24 contains the first item that needs to be removed, so as to guide the operator to take the first item out of the first transport unit.

[0068] In some illustrative embodiments, the location information displayed by the PDA can be a model generated on the display interface. For example, five sorting boxes 24 are also visually formed and displayed on the PDA's display interface, and the sorting box 24 that needs to be removed from the first item (i.e., the first storage location) can be displayed in a different color from the other sorting boxes 24.

[0069] Furthermore, for the above-mentioned type of picking task (i.e., multi-item collection order task), operators can, as follows: Figure 4 As shown, the first item in each distribution box 24 is placed into the corresponding temporary storage location one by one until the first item in all distribution boxes 24 is placed into the correct target temporary storage location.

[0070] In this implementation, for a single task involving multiple items, after the first item in each distribution box 24 is completely placed into its corresponding target temporary storage location, the electronic tag 12 for that target temporary storage location will hide its visual information (i.e., the electronic tag 12 for that temporary storage location 11 will no longer display visual information). Simultaneously, the electronic tag 12 corresponding to the target temporary storage location of another distribution box 24 will display visual information. In other words, the multiple electronic tags 12 corresponding to different temporary storage locations 11 in the temporary storage rack 10 are displayed sequentially, thus preventing confusion caused by operators placing the first item from another distribution box 24 into another temporary storage location.

[0071] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the module layout of the electronic tags configured at each temporary storage location.

[0072] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 5 As shown, displaying visual information includes lighting up the electronic tag 12. And / or, hiding visual information includes turning off the electronic tag 12.

[0073] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 5 As shown, the temporary storage rack 10 is equipped with a main control unit 14. Furthermore, each electronic tag 12 configured in the temporary storage rack 10 is communicatively connected to the main control unit 14.

[0074] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 5As shown, the main control unit 14 includes a power supply module 17, a CAN transceiver 16, a physical layer interface 15 (also known as a PHY), and a control module 18 (including but not limited to a microcontroller unit, abbreviated as MCU). Specifically, the power supply module 17 is connected to an external power source and is used for at least voltage conversion (e.g., converting 12V to 3.3V); the CAN transceiver 16 is used to communicate between the main control unit 14 and each electronic tag 12 via a CAN bus; the physical layer interface 15 is connected to a network port for physical layer transmission of Ethernet data; and the control module 18 is used to coordinate and manage other electronic tags 12.

[0075] In some illustrative implementations, refer to Figure 5 As shown, the electronic tag 12 includes a CAN transceiver 16, buttons, indicator lights (including but not limited to three primary color light-emitting diodes, abbreviated as RGB), a control module 18 (including but not limited to a microcontroller unit, abbreviated as MCU), and a power module 17. Specifically, the CAN transceiver 16 of the electronic tag 12 is communicatively connected to the CAN transceiver 16 of the main control unit 14 for data communication and control signal transmission. Furthermore, the control module 18 is communicatively connected to the aforementioned CAN transceiver 16, buttons, and indicator lights via an internal bus.

[0076] In this implementation, the electronic tag 12 displays visual information, which can be understood as the indicator light on the electronic tag 12 being illuminated. Concealing the visual information on the electronic tag 12 can be understood as the operator turning off the indicator light on the electronic tag 12 by pressing a button after storing the first item in the first target temporary storage location. Simultaneously, referring to the usage scenario of the above embodiment, the next target temporary storage location to store the first item will be further illuminated until the temporary storage task is completed. It should be understood that the embodiments of this utility model are not limited to this.

[0077] For example, in addition to indicator lights that can be turned on or off, the visual information displayed or hidden by the electronic tag 12 can also be a display screen. In addition, the visual information can also be video information, image information, text information and other information that can be obtained by the operator.

[0078] For example, the button of the electronic tag 12 can be located outside the temporary storage position, but the indicator light can be located inside the temporary storage position. That is, the operator can operate the electronic tag 12 from outside the temporary storage position (such as pressing the button), but the area illuminated by the indicator light is located inside the temporary storage position. In this way, the instructions and guidance for the operator can be more obvious.

[0079] Figure 6 The schematic diagram illustrates the structure of the second transport unit of the temporary storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 Based on such Figure 6The diagram shows the usage status of the temporary storage system performing the loading task.

[0080] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the temporary storage system also includes a second transport unit 30 and a guiding device 40. The second transport unit 30 is provided with at least two second storage locations 33. The guiding device 40 is communicatively connected to a server 60, which is further configured to associate the temporary storage location 11 with the second storage location 33 based on order information, through temporary storage location information and the corresponding second storage location information. When the temporary storage system performs a loading task, the electronic tag 12 of the temporary storage location 11 where the second goods need to be removed displays visual information, and the guiding device 40 provides indication information to the target second storage location 33 where the second goods need to be stored.

[0081] In this implementation, when the operator receives a loading task, the operator needs to transfer at least a portion of the second goods located in the temporary storage positions 11 of the temporary storage rack 10 to the second storage position 33 provided by the second transport unit 30. When the second transport unit 30 moves to the vicinity of the temporary storage rack 10, the operator can scan the corresponding second storage position information of the second transport unit 30 (such as the information code of at least one of the second transport unit 30 and the second storage position 33) using a PDA. Similar to the temporary storage task described above, the electronic tag 12 of the temporary storage position 11 from which the second goods need to be removed displays visual information, and the guiding device 40 provides indication information for the target second storage position 33 where the second goods need to be stored, guiding the operator to accurately place the second goods retrieved from the temporary storage position 11 into the corresponding second storage position 33, thus avoiding operator errors during the loading task. With this configured temporary storage system, the operator's temporary storage task and loading task can be guided separately, effectively preventing order anomalies caused by incorrect placement of goods (i.e., the aforementioned first and second goods).

[0082] It should be noted that the aforementioned "first cargo" refers to cargo that needs to be placed in the temporary storage rack 10 during the temporary storage task, and the aforementioned "second cargo" refers to cargo that needs to be retrieved from the temporary storage rack 10 during the loading task. The distinction between "first cargo" and "second cargo" is merely based on the task in which the cargo is placed, not on the classification of the cargo itself. In other words, the same cargo may be referred to as "first cargo" during the temporary storage task, and as "second cargo" during the loading task.

[0083] Based on the differences in task types (i.e., single-item and / or multi-item order tasks) in the aforementioned picking tasks, resulting in different storage methods for the second goods within the temporary storage rack 10, a similar method can be used when the second goods are transferred to the second transport unit 30. Specifically, for second goods placed in a single-item order, the turnover box 22 containing the second goods can be replaced with an empty turnover box 22 in the second transport unit 30; while for second goods placed in a multi-item order, the second goods located in the temporary storage position 11 can be removed and placed in the second storage position 33 of the second transport unit 30. The specific method is similar to the above implementation method, and therefore will not be described in detail again.

[0084] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, at least two temporary storage locations 11 store the second goods. When the temporary storage system performs a loading task, the second goods located in different temporary storage locations 11 are each stored in their corresponding target second storage location 33. Specifically, when the second goods are stored in one target second storage location 33, the electronic tag 12 hides its visible information, while the electronic tag 12 in the other temporary storage location 11 displays its visible information. Furthermore, the guiding device 40 provides the other target second storage location 33 with the next instruction.

[0085] In some illustrative embodiments, the electronic tag 12 displays visual information, which can be understood as the indicator light of the electronic tag 12 storing the temporary storage location 11 for the second goods being illuminated. The electronic tag 12 hides its visual information, which can be understood as the operator removing the second goods from the temporary storage location 11 and placing them into the corresponding second storage location 33, by pressing the button on the electronic tag 12 to turn off its indicator light. Simultaneously, referring to the usage scenario of the above embodiment, the next temporary storage location 11 where the second goods need to be removed will be illuminated again until the loading task is completed.

[0086] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the second transport unit 30 includes, but is not limited to, an automated guided vehicle 31 (hereinafter referred to as AGV) and a mobile shelf 32 loaded on the AGV. Specifically, the mobile shelf 32 is provided with partitions to divide its interior into multiple second storage locations 33 along rows and / or columns. Furthermore, the mobile shelf 32 can be double-sided, meaning that second storage locations 33 are provided on two opposing sides. This allows the AGV to rotate in place at corresponding points so that at least one second storage location 33 faces the temporary storage rack 10, reducing the operator's travel distance and facilitating the transfer of second goods from the temporary storage rack 10 to the mobile shelf 32.

[0087] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the guiding device 40 is located outside the second storage location 33 and is configured to project instruction information toward the target second storage location 33.

[0088] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the guiding device 40 includes at least two lasers 41. The output ends of each of the at least two lasers 41 correspond to a target second storage location 33 to project laser light onto the target second storage location 33.

[0089] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the guiding device 40 is suspended outside the second transport unit. Specifically, the guiding device 40 includes a plurality of lasers 41, which are positioned facing the second storage location 33. Furthermore, when the lasers 41 output laser light, each laser 41 outputs a laser light facing a different second storage location 33, so that each laser 41 corresponds one-to-one with a second storage location 33. It should be understood that the embodiments of this utility model are not limited thereto.

[0090] For example, in addition to using a laser 41, the aforementioned guiding device 40 can also use an electronic tag as described above. Specifically, the electronic tag can be set outside each second storage location 33 so that each electronic tag corresponds to a second storage location.

[0091] For example, the guide device 40 can also be an indicator light installed in the second storage location 33.

[0092] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the temporary storage system also includes a display device 13. The display device 13 is disposed on the temporary storage rack 10 and is configured to display the type of task executed by the temporary storage system based on the order information.

[0093] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, when the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the display device 13 is configured to light up in a first color. And / or, when the temporary storage system performs a loading task, the display device 13 is configured to light up in a second color. And / or, when the first item in the first storage location is stored in the wrong temporary storage location 11, the display device 13 is configured to light up in a third color. The first, second, and third colors are all different.

[0094] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 2 and Figure 6As shown, the display device 13 includes, but is not limited to, indicator lights. Specifically, the display unit includes, but is not limited to, being located on the side of the temporary storage rack 10, that is, the portion of the temporary storage rack 10 outside the temporary storage position 11. The display device 13 includes, but is not limited to, using three primary color light-emitting diodes (i.e., the aforementioned RGB). Based on the three primary color light-emitting diodes, the first color can be green, the second color can be blue, and the third color can be red.

[0095] In other words, when the temporary storage system is performing a temporary storage task, the display device 13 displays green; when the temporary storage system is performing a loading task, the display device 13 displays blue; and when the first item is stored in the wrong temporary storage location 11 during a temporary storage task, the display device 13 displays red. Specifically, the identification of the first item being stored in the wrong temporary storage location 11 can be made by determining that the first item, which should have been retrieved from the first storage location, has not been taken, and / or that the temporary storage location 11, which should have the first item, is empty. This determination method includes, but is not limited to, visual recognition, weight detection, and any other means. It should be understood that the embodiments of this utility model are not limited thereto.

[0096] For example, at least one of the first, second, and third colors mentioned above can be a color other than red, green, and blue.

[0097] For example, in addition to indicator lights, the display device 13 may also be a monitor or any other display device 13 suitable for displaying image information and / or text information.

[0098] For example, in addition to the display device 13, an alarm device (such as a buzzer) or other sound-emitting device can be configured to work in conjunction with the display device 13 to alert the operator in case of the aforementioned erroneous operation. Of course, the alarm device can be integrated with the display device 13 to produce different sounds when the display device 13 displays different colors.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 6 As shown, the temporary storage system includes at least two temporary storage racks 10. The at least two temporary storage racks 10 are arranged opposite to each other.

[0100] In some illustrative embodiments, reference is made to Figure 6 As shown, the two temporary storage racks 10 are arranged opposite each other, which can be understood as the opposite surfaces of the two temporary storage racks 10 each having a temporary storage position 11. The two temporary storage racks 10 are configured to perform different tasks; that is, when one temporary storage rack 10 is performing a temporary storage task, the other temporary storage rack 10 can perform a loading task; or, when one temporary storage rack 10 is performing a temporary storage task (which could also be a loading task), the other temporary storage rack 10 may not perform any task. In other words, the two temporary storage racks 10 will not perform the same task simultaneously.

[0101] In this implementation, the two oppositely positioned temporary storage racks 10 are configured to perform different tasks, which can improve the temporary storage efficiency of the temporary storage system and prevent confusion and misoperation caused by performing the same task.

[0102] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The diagram shows a schematic of the guiding device module.

[0103] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to Figure 8 As shown, the main control unit 14 also includes electronic switches 19, each of which is electrically connected to a laser 41. Specifically, the electronic switches 19 are communicatively connected to the control module 18 (such as the MCU described above) of the main control unit 14, so that in the ON state, the laser output from the laser 41 is projected onto the second storage position 33; and in the OFF state, the laser 41 is extinguished, i.e., it no longer illuminates the second storage position 33. The electronic switches 19 include, but are not limited to, relays, MOSFETs, and any other switching circuit suitable for controlling the laser 41.

[0104] According to another embodiment of the present invention (not shown in the figures), the guiding device 40 includes an actuation unit and at least one laser 41. The at least one laser 41 is disposed on the actuation unit. The actuation unit is configured to adjust the projection direction of the output end of the laser 41 so that the laser 41 projects laser light towards different target second storage locations 33.

[0105] In some illustrative embodiments, not shown in the figures, the actuation unit includes, but is not limited to, a gimbal. Specifically, the actuation unit includes, but is not limited to, a three-axis gimbal. Furthermore, the laser 41 is disposed at the moving end of the three-axis gimbal. The three-axis gimbal includes a pitch axis assembly, a translation axis assembly, and an azimuth axis assembly connected in sequence. The pitch axis assembly is disposed on an external bracket, the moving end is disposed on the azimuth axis, and the laser 41 is disposed on the moving end. In this way, the same laser 41 can face different second storage positions 33 at different times under the action of the actuation unit. This reduces the number of lasers 41, thereby reducing the space occupied by the guiding device 40. It should be understood that the embodiments of this utility model are not limited to this.

[0106] For example, the actuator can also be a combination of other linear and circular actuators such as lead screws, sliding sleeves, cylinders, and motors.

[0107] It should also be noted that the directional terms mentioned in the embodiments, such as "up," "down," "front," "back," "left," and "right," are only for reference in the accompanying drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. Throughout the drawings, the same elements are represented by the same or similar reference numerals. Conventional structures or constructions will be omitted where they may cause confusion in understanding this utility model.

[0108] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Although various embodiments have been described above, this does not mean that the measures in the various embodiments cannot be used advantageously in combination. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Various substitutions and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention, and all such substitutions and modifications should fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A temporary storage system, characterized in that, include: The temporary storage rack (10) is provided with at least two temporary storage positions (11), and each of the at least two temporary storage positions (11) is provided with an electronic tag (12). The first transport unit (20) is provided with at least two first storage locations, and at least one of the first storage locations stores the first goods; The information terminal (50) is connected to the server (60) and is configured to obtain temporary storage location information corresponding to the temporary storage location (11) and first storage location information corresponding to the first storage location, so that the server (60) associates the temporary storage location (11) with the first storage location according to the order information. When the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the electronic tag (12) that needs to be stored in the target temporary storage location of the first goods displays visual information.

2. The temporary storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first goods are stored in at least two of the first storage locations; When the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the first goods located in different first storage locations are each stored in the corresponding target temporary storage location. In the case where the first goods are stored in the first target temporary storage location, the electronic tag (12) hides the visible information, and the electronic tag (12) in the second target temporary storage location also displays the visible information.

3. The temporary storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the first goods located in the same first storage location are stored in at least two of the target temporary storage locations. In the case where the first goods are stored in the first target temporary storage location, the electronic tag (12) hides the visible information, and the electronic tag (12) in the second target temporary storage location also displays the visible information.

4. The temporary storage system according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, Displaying visual information includes illuminating the electronic tag (12); And / or, hiding visible information includes turning off the electronic tag (12).

5. The temporary storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The second transport unit (30) is provided with at least two second storage locations (33); The guiding device (40) is communicatively connected to the server (60), which is further configured to associate the temporary storage location (11) with the second storage location (33) based on the order information, through the temporary storage location information and the second storage location information corresponding to the second storage location; When the temporary storage system performs the loading task, the electronic tag (12) of the temporary storage location (11) of the second goods to be removed displays visual information, and the guiding device (40) provides indication information to the target second storage location (33) where the second goods need to be stored.

6. The temporary storage system according to claim 5, characterized in that, At least two of the temporary storage locations (11) contain the second goods; When the temporary storage system performs the loading task, the second goods located in different temporary storage locations (11) are each stored in the corresponding target second storage location (33). While the second goods are stored in one of the target second storage locations (33), the electronic tag (12) hides the visible information, and the electronic tag (12) in another temporary storage location (11) displays the visible information. The guiding device (40) instructs the other target second storage location (33) to provide the next instruction.

7. The temporary storage system according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The guiding device (40) is located outside the second storage location (33) and is configured to project the instruction information toward the target second storage location (33).

8. The temporary storage system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The guiding device (40) includes: At least two lasers, each with its output end corresponding to one of the target second storage locations (33), are used to project laser light onto the target second storage location (33).

9. The temporary storage system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The guiding device (40) includes: Actuator; At least one laser is disposed in the actuation unit; The actuator is configured to adjust the projection direction of the output end of the laser so that the laser projects laser light toward different target second storage locations (33).

10. The temporary storage system according to claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: The display device (13), disposed on the temporary storage rack (10), is configured to display the task type executed by the temporary storage system based on the order information.

11. The temporary storage system according to claim 10, characterized in that, When the temporary storage system performs a temporary storage task, the display device (13) is configured to light up in a first color; And / or, when the temporary storage system performs the loading task, the display device (13) is configured to light up in a second color; And / or, in the state where the first goods in the first storage location are stored in the wrong temporary storage location (11), the display device (13) is configured to light up in a third color; The first color, the second color, and the third color are all different.

12. The temporary storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes at least two of the temporary storage racks (10), and the at least two temporary storage racks (10) are arranged opposite to each other.

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