Warehouse management system, picking and storage system and picking procedures with eye-catching indicators whose colors can be switched automatically.

Abstract

Warehouse management system (6) for controlling order picking by means of at least one picking cart (11) for storing articles (9) a compilation (45) of picking orders (43) and by means of at least one storage unit (5) with storage locations (27) for storing the articles (9) and at least one access station (29) for accessing the articles (9) by a picker (7), wherein the picking trolley (11) and the access station (29) are each equipped with an eye-catching device (35, 51) and at least one of the eye-catching devices (35, 51) has a display area (37, 55) with remotely switchable color (A, B), wherein the warehouse management system (6) is designed to automatically detect whether at least one item (9) of the assortment (45) is positioned in the access station (29) for the order picker (7) to be ready for access, and to automatically switch the color (A, B) of the at least one remotely switchable indicator (35, 51) to the color (A, B) of the other indicator (35, 51) when it has been detected that the item (9) is positioned ready for access within a predetermined time, characterized in that the warehouse management system (6) is designed to determine the position (63) of the at least one picking trolley (11) and / or the eye-catcher (51) of the at least one picking trolley (11).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a warehouse management system for controlling order picking, in particular paperless order picking, by means of at least one picking cart for storing items or a compilation of picking orders, and by means of at least one storage unit with storage locations for storing the items and at least one access station for accessing the items by a picker. The invention also relates to a picking and storage system equipped with at least one warehouse management system of the aforementioned type. Furthermore, the invention relates to a picking method in which a picking cart is assigned a compilation of picking orders with a plurality of items. Finally, the invention also relates to a computer program product or a computer-readable storage medium.

[0002] In the following, order picking refers to the process of putting items from a picking cart into a storage unit and / or picking items from a storage unit into a picking cart, primarily by an order picker. To make order picking more efficient, it can be helpful to guide the order picker, at least partially, so that they can quickly and easily locate the appropriate storage unit and / or picking cart. The guidance provided by the warehouse management system should be intuitive and as fatigue-free as possible for the order picker.

[0003] A pick-to-light system for the automated replenishment of production kits is known from publication US 2004 / 0083144A1. A mobile cart equipped with a screen, scanner, and wireless connection retrieves the kit specifications from the server, displays them graphically, and selectively activates pick lights on shelf compartments from which parts are to be taken. Each pick is validated via barcode scan, thus preventing incorrect picks. The publication solves the problem of error-prone and time-consuming manual order picking by providing networked, light- and screen-based operator guidance. Disadvantages include the high technical complexity, requiring specialized shelf electronics, data maintenance and upkeep, and the dependence on scanners, labels, and wireless connections, which can disrupt operation in case of malfunctions.

[0004] The object of the invention is therefore to provide a warehouse management system, a picking and storage system, a picking method and a computer program product of the above-mentioned type, with which improved guidance of the picker during a picking process is possible.

[0005] For the aforementioned warehouse management system, the problem according to the invention is solved in that the picking cart and the access station are each equipped with an indicator light and at least one of the indicator lights has a display area with a remotely switchable color, wherein the warehouse management system is designed to automatically recognize whether at least one item of the assortment is positioned ready for access by the picker in the access station and to automatically switch the color of the at least one remotely switchable indicator light to the color of the other indicator light when it has been recognized that the item is positioned ready for access within a predetermined time, wherein the warehouse management system is designed to determine the position of the at least one picking cart and / or the indicator light of the at least one picking cart.

[0006] Switching the color of a picking cart's indicator light to a color of an access station is facilitated by the warehouse management system being designed to determine the position of at least one picking cart and / or its indicator light. Position detection devices, such as established tracking systems, can be used for this purpose.

[0007] For the aforementioned picking and storage system, the problem according to the invention is solved in that the picking and storage system comprises at least one picking cart equipped with a visual indicator having a colored display area, and wherein the picking and storage system comprises at least one storage unit equipped with a further visual indicator having a colored display area. At least one of the display areas has a color that can be switched remotely by the warehouse management system.

[0008] For the aforementioned order picking method, the problem according to the invention is solved in that the method automatically determines that at least one item of the assortment is ready for access by an order picker at at least one access station of at least one storage unit, wherein the order picking cart and the access station each have a visual indicator with a colored display area and the color of at least one display area can be switched remotely, wherein the position of the at least one order picking cart and / or the visual indicator of the at least one order picking cart is determined, wherein the color of the at least one remotely switchable display area is automatically switched to the color of the other display area after the readiness for access has been determined.

[0009] For the aforementioned computer program product or computer-readable storage medium, the problem according to the invention is solved in that the computer program product or computer-readable storage medium comprises instructions, in particular a computer program with instructions which, when the program or instructions are executed by a computer, cause it to execute the method according to the invention or the steps of this method.

[0010] The solution according to the invention makes it possible to align the colors of the two indicator lights. In other words, the indicator light of the picking cart displays the same color as the indicator light of the access station. This makes it easy for a picker to relate an access station, where an item from a collection is to be picked up or stored, to the picking cart intended for that collection or a picking order for that collection, and to execute the access accordingly.

[0011] Access refers to the process of transferring an item from the picking cart to the access station of the storage unit, or of removing an item from the storage unit at the access station and transferring it to the picking cart. Because the warehouse management system is designed to remotely switch the color of at least one of the two indicator lights, it can react flexibly to any given situation, especially changes. The predetermined time within which an item is positioned for access refers to the maximum time within which an item is available for access. If an item is en route to an access station, its imminent arrival can be signaled by changing the color of an indicator light.If, however, a predetermined time of 0 seconds is selected, the color can only change when the item is actually positioned for access. It is advisable to choose a predetermined time of approximately 5 to 10 seconds.

[0012] The solution according to the invention can be further improved by various embodiments, each advantageous in itself and arbitrarily combinable with one another. These embodiments and their associated advantages are discussed below.

[0013] The color change can occur, for example, as soon as a previously retrieved item has been put away or picked. Alternatively, the color can also change as soon as an item intended for retrieval is moved towards the access station. The warehouse management system can, for instance, calculate the remaining time until an item arrives at the access station based on the known item location, known speeds, and / or known distances within a storage unit. Falling below a predetermined threshold for the remaining time can trigger the color change.

[0014] The order sets and their picking orders can be predetermined. In other words, a fixed list of items to be picked can exist, for example, based on a customer's order. Alternatively, the warehouse management system can dynamically modify a picking order. The order sets themselves can also be predetermined, particularly by the warehouse management system. Preferably, each order set is assigned to exactly one picking cart.

[0015] The order picking cart represents a collection area for items. Such an order picking cart is also frequently referred to as a "pick cart".

[0016] A storage unit can be a static rack, an automated storage system with a conveyor, such as a vertical lift, a storage rack with aisle conveyors, or a paternoster lift. Other means for storing and / or providing items can also constitute a storage unit.

[0017] The at least one indicator light of the access station is preferably mounted on the storage unit and positioned so that it is visible from outside the storage unit. Preferably, the at least one access station is equipped with a remotely switchable indicator light. A storage unit can have multiple spatially separated access stations. Preferably, each access station is assigned a remotely switchable indicator light. For example, a remotely switchable indicator light can be arranged at each access station. An access station can, for example, be a storage and / or retrieval station.

[0018] As an alternative to a storage unit with one or more access stations, the entire storage unit can also be an access station, for example in the case of a shelf.

[0019] A storage unit can be considered ready for access when at least one item is available at an access station within the storage unit. Alternatively or additionally, the storage unit can be considered ready for access when at least one item arrives at the access station within a predetermined transport time and / or is a predetermined distance from the access station. This can be the case, in particular, for a storage unit with a conveyor system designed to transport items between storage locations and at least one access station.

[0020] The warehouse management system can include a representation, in particular a virtual or digital representation, of the items and their position within the assortment stored or to be stored in a storage unit. The warehouse management system can be designed to use such a representation of the item positions to determine readiness for access. In other words, the warehouse management system can be designed to track the items, i.e., to "track" the items.

[0021] A warehouse management system can comprise hardware, such as a computer with at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit) or several networked computers. Alternatively, a warehouse management system can also comprise software, in particular a computer program. Likewise, a warehouse management system can comprise a combination of hardware and software.

[0022] The display area of ​​an eye-catching display can, for example, include at least one color-changing light source. Alternatively or additionally, the display area can also be formed by a suitable display device, such as a screen, capable of showing different colors. LCD, TFT, and OLED displays are just a few examples. Similarly, multicolored light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or RGB LEDs, which can be controlled to illuminate in various colors, can be used.

[0023] The display area can be designed to show additional information. For example, the display area of ​​an eye-catching indicator on a picking cart can show an identification number representing the picking cart, such as a number. Preferably, the eye-catching indicator, at least the one on the picking cart, is formed by an eye-catching light that is mounted on the picking cart and visible from a distance. When the following text refers to the color of the eye-catching indicator, it means the color of the display area of ​​the respective eye-catching indicator, or the color displayed by the display area.

[0024] A compilation of picking orders comprises at least one picking order. Particularly in cases where individual picking orders involve only a small quantity of items or only small items, a compilation preferably contains several picking orders. A compilation preferably contains enough picking orders so that the items belonging to the picking orders can be accommodated in a picking cart.

[0025] To store items, a picking cart preferably has multiple storage containers, so-called "handling units." Such a handling unit can, for example, be a compartment in a picking cart. During order picking, each handling unit is assigned to one picking order, preferably exactly one. If the number of items in a picking order exceeds the capacity of a single handling unit, a picking order can also comprise several handling units.

[0026] The access station is equipped with a visual indicator. This means that the indicator is visually associated with the access station, i.e., it is located closer to this access station than to another. The indicator does not necessarily have to be attached to or inside the access station. Preferably, it is attached to the storage unit, for example, to a housing of the storage unit, near the access station. The indicator is preferably mounted on a storage unit in a way that is visible from a distance.

[0027] As described above, the warehouse management system according to the invention can be used to immediately and identifiably link a picking cart and an access station available to the picker by color. Furthermore, the warehouse management system can be designed to also create a color link between a handling unit of the picking cart and the picking cart itself and / or the access station. For example, at least one handling unit of a picking cart can also be equipped with a display device with a remotely switchable color.

[0028] Based on the matching color of the indicators on the access station and the picking cart, a picker can first assign a picking cart to a picking station. A corresponding indicator on a handling unit then allows the handling unit to be further assigned to the access station. Assigning an item to a color-coded handling unit is called pick-by-color when picking items from a storage unit and put-by-color when putting items into a storage unit.

[0029] The term "color" as used in this invention can also include a white, black, colorless, or switched-off, i.e., non-luminous, display area. Furthermore, "colors" can also refer to various color patterns that change over time and / or space.

[0030] The warehouse management system can be further improved by being designed to automatically switch the display areas of the indicator lights of access stations identified as ready for access to items in a picking cart, based on the number of access stations each equipped with a remotely switchable indicator light, to match the color of the indicator light of that picking cart. This allows all available access stations to be color-coded, enabling the picker to approach and access them with their picking cart.

[0031] If the indicator lights at several access stations display the same color, the order picker can decide which of these stations to visit first when processing their order or picking assignment. This choice increases the order picker's autonomy. As a result, order picking can be less tiring for the picker. In other words, fatigue levels can be improved. In the long run, this can increase order picking efficiency, even if an order picker will not always choose the shortest route to complete their order or picking assignment.To assist the order picker in their choice, at least one access station can be equipped with a remaining time display that indicates how long it will take until it is ready for access, for example, how long it will take for items to arrive at the access station.

[0032] The warehouse management system can be configured to automatically switch the display areas of the indicators at multiple picking carts, each equipped with a different colored display area, and at multiple access stations, each equipped with a remotely switchable indicator, to the color of the display area of ​​that picking cart when it is identified as ready to access the picking cart's contents. This allows for the use of multiple picking carts together with multiple access stations.The access stations and the picking cart itself, which are available for use by a picking cart, can be identified by one color, while the access stations and the picking carts themselves, which are available for at least one additional picking cart, can be marked by a different color. Because the access stations and picking carts are easily distinguishable by their different colors, the risk of confusion is low, allowing a large number of picking carts and / or access stations to be used simultaneously to process a large number of orders or picking assignments.

[0033] To clearly indicate that all items from an access station have been removed, the warehouse management system can be configured to automatically change the color of the indicator light at that access station after all items in a given assortment have been accessed. For this to work, it is advantageous if the warehouse management system is designed to automatically record access—that is, the removal or placement of goods—to all items in the assortment. The removal of all items can be detected, for example, by a picker confirming the action or automatically by monitoring the access station, such as with a camera.The color of the access station's indicator light can then be set to a neutral value, for example, or to a color of the display area of ​​an indicator light of another picking cart whose items will be provided next in the access station.

[0034] The picking of items can be made more efficient by designing the warehouse system to automatically control one or more storage units so that individual items from a collection are available at more than one access station simultaneously. A picker can then visit and access the multiple access stations simultaneously or sequentially.

[0035] The warehouse management system is preferably designed to control one or more storage units in a predetermined zone around a determined position of a picking cart in such a way that individual items from the contents of that picking cart are simultaneously provided at more than one access station within the zone. Such a design can be used to provide items for a picking cart as that cart approaches the access stations. According to a further improvement, the warehouse management system can be designed so that, if the positions of several picking carts determined by the warehouse management system are located in a predetermined zone, the storage units in that zone are controlled in such a way that individual items from each of the contents of these picking carts are simultaneously provided at different access stations.

[0036] The warehouse management system can be configured to change the color of a display area on an indicator light depending on its location. This could refer to an indicator light on a picking cart and / or an access station. Furthermore, the color of a portable information display worn by a picker can also be changed depending on its location.

[0037] According to a further improvement of the warehouse management system, it can be designed to automatically switch the display areas of the indicator lights of multiple picking carts to different colors. Specifically, the warehouse management system can be designed to automatically switch the display areas of the indicator lights of multiple picking carts located within a predetermined, preferably dynamically configurable, picking zone to different colors. This prevents collisions. In other words, it prevents the same colors from being accidentally used for different combinations. Such collision prevention can be implemented particularly within a predetermined picking zone. Within a picking zone, the number of assigned colors is kept to a minimum.With a small number of colors, it can be easier to choose colors that are as easy to distinguish as possible.

[0038] The warehouse management system is preferably designed to define at least one picking zone using geofencing. Geofencing allows virtual areas to be defined and separated from one another.

[0039] Several picking zones arranged in succession can form a picking route. Such a picking route can be defined by the sequence of picking zones in which the items of the assortment are simultaneously made available for access. A picking zone can be a spatial area comprising several access stations that allow simultaneous access to items of an assortment. Thus, a picker can process several picking zones sequentially by pushing the picking cart into the individual picking zones. Preferably, each picking zone comprises at least one storage unit or at least a plurality of storage units.

[0040] Storage units containing the items in the order picking route can be arranged along the picking path. The size of the picking zone can be determined based on ergonomic considerations, such as ensuring that the display areas of the eye-catching indicators are visible and / or that storage units are accessible by picking cart. The size of a picking zone can also be determined by the number of picking carts that should be positioned within it simultaneously. Preferably, a picking zone has a length of less than 50 meters, and more preferably, a length of less than 25 meters. Successive picking zones along a picking path can overlap. Preferably, however, two successive picking zones do not overlap.

[0041] The warehouse management system can be configured to automatically set the same color on a display area of ​​a wearable information device (with remotely switchable color) and on a display area of ​​a picking cart's indicator light, depending on the picker's assignment to a picking cart. This allows a picker to easily locate their assigned picking cart. A picking order is typically assigned to a set of picking orders. Since a set of picking orders is assigned to a picking cart, a picking cart is automatically assigned to each picker. To ensure the same color is displayed on both the information device's display area and the picking cart's indicator light, at least one of the two display areas must be color-changing.To ensure high flexibility of the warehouse management system, both display areas are preferably color-changing.

[0042] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the warehouse management system can be configured to automatically set the same color on the picker's information display and on the display area of ​​a picking cart's indicator, depending on the picker's assignment to a specific picking cart. This allows each picker to easily locate their assigned picking cart, thus preventing mix-ups.

[0043] To further improve the warehouse management system, it can be designed to automatically determine the position of a wearable information device on a picker's body, particularly relative to an access station and / or a picking cart, and to change the color of the information device's display area depending on the position. Thus, a specific picking order can be assigned to the picker based on their position.

[0044] The information provider preferably includes at least one position transmitter so that the warehouse management system can record the position of the information provider and thus the position of the order picker. Alternatively, the position transmitter can also be separate from the information provider. For example, it can be a separate portable device or integrated into such a device. As a further alternative or additional way of determining the order picker's position, at least one optical system can also be used. The position can be determined, for example, by at least one camera system with automatic order picker recognition.

[0045] The warehouse management system is preferably designed to automatically adjust the color of an information display to match the color of an access station's indicator light when the information display is in a predetermined position relative to the access station. This design allows a picking order to be assigned to a picker as they approach an access station. This can be particularly advantageous when a picker already assigned to a picking order needs assistance when approaching an access station.

[0046] Such a situation can occur, for example, when a particularly large number of items, bulky items, or heavy items need to be moved. In such a situation, a bottleneck of order pickers and / or picking carts can occur. Then, at least one additional order picker can assist the first picker. In particular, at least one subsequent order picker can assist the first picker. This additional picker may initially be assigned to a different picking order or task. As this additional picker approaches the first picker's workstation, the picking order or task can be temporarily assigned to this additional picker.During this time, at least two order pickers will see the same color displayed on their information devices. These two pickers can then work together to at least partially complete the first picker's order or picking assignment. If no further assistance is needed, the other picker can leave the access station, at which point the color on their information device's display can revert to that of their original order or picking assignment. This allows any bottlenecks to be resolved quickly.

[0047] To facilitate the previously described position-dependent switching of the display color of a picker's information device, the warehouse management system is preferably designed to define an access zone in front of an access station using geofencing and to automatically set the display color of an information device located within the access zone to the color of the eye-catching device at the access station within that zone. In other words, the color of the information device's display switches to the color of the eye-catching device at the access station as soon as the picker enters the access zone. A picking zone, as described above, can contain multiple access zones.

[0048] An access zone can also be defined in front of a large number of access stations using geofencing. Alternatively, exactly one access zone can be defined in front of each access station.

[0049] The warehouse management system can be designed to reset the color of the information display area, which was set to the color of the eye-catcher of the access station, back to a previously set color when all items of the picking cart have been removed from the access station whose display area has the same color as the information display area before the reset.

[0050] In other words, a picker who has temporarily processed a different assortment can return to their original assortment and continue processing it after the color of the display area of ​​their information device switches back.

[0051] Preferably, the warehouse management system is designed to receive a withdrawal confirmation signal that is representative of the withdrawal of all items from a set at an access station. The access station and / or the information transmitter can have a confirmation transmitter for this purpose. The confirmation transmitter can be, for example, mechanical, in particular a switch, or a touch-sensitive element, such as a touchscreen. Activation of the confirmation transmitter can automatically generate the withdrawal confirmation signal.

[0052] The warehouse management system can also be configured to receive a storage confirmation signal, which represents the storage of items picked from an access station onto a picking cart. For this purpose, the picking cart and / or the information transmitter can have a confirmation transmitter whose activation automatically generates the storage confirmation signal. According to an advantageous embodiment, the confirmation transmitter for the picking confirmation signal and the confirmation transmitter for the storage confirmation signal can be identical. In other words, the confirmation transmitter for the picking confirmation signal automatically becomes the confirmation transmitter for the storage confirmation signal when the picking is confirmed, and vice versa when the storage is confirmed.

[0053] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the warehouse management system can be configured to output an optical signal to a wearable device worn by a picker. This signal represents the position of a handling unit on the picking cart, particularly one assigned to a picking order, into which an item taken from an access station is to be placed, and / or the number and / or type of items to be placed in the handling unit of the picking cart. In other words, the handling unit can indicate to the picker which handling unit of the picking cart items are to be placed in. Furthermore, the number and / or type of items can be displayed.

[0054] The signal can be represented by a color or by the display of at least one symbol, such as an arrow. The information transmitter can be integrated into the wearable. Alternatively, the wearable can be a separate component. For example, the information transmitter could be worn on the wrist, and the wearable could be shaped like glasses, allowing the order picker to see the signal while wearing them. Such glasses could be augmented reality glasses. The wearable could visually identify the handling unit for a picking order. Of course, the wearable could also be a device worn on a different part of the body, such as the wrist, upper arm, forearm, or hand. The same applies to the information transmitter.

[0055] The picking and storage system according to the invention can be further improved by comprising a plurality of picking trolleys, each with an eye-catcher, in particular with a display area that can be switched between colors remotely.

[0056] Preferably, the picking and storage system according to the invention comprises a plurality of storage units, each with an indicator light, in particular with one indicator light per access station. Preferably, each indicator light is provided with a display area with a color that can be switched remotely by the warehouse management system.

[0057] The picking and storage system can include at least one information transmitter designed as a wearable, which has an area with remotely switchable color and is connected via the warehouse management system to the eye-catchers of the at least one picking cart and the at least one storage unit.

[0058] Preferably, the order picking and storage system comprises multiple indicator lights for order picking carts, with the indicator lights being designed to be repeatedly attached to different order picking carts without tools. This allows an order picking cart to be quickly and easily equipped with an indicator light and configured for the order picking and storage system.

[0059] Preferably, the picking and storage system comprises an access zone located in front of the access station of a storage unit, defined by the warehouse management system using geofencing, and a wearable position transmitter for determining the picker's position relative to the access zone. This allows the picker's position to be determined and, in particular, their presence in an access zone to be ascertained. Specifically, the position transmitter, and thus the picker, can also be identified. The position transmitter can be part of a wearable device or the information transmitter. However, it can also be a separate device.

[0060] The term "relative to the access zone" can, in its simplest form, refer to a distinction between a position inside and a position outside the access zone. Alternatively or additionally, however, the precise position relative to the access zone can also be recorded. A precise position, in this context, means a sufficiently accurate position. This could be, for example, with an accuracy of one meter, half a meter, or even more.

[0061] Position determination can be achieved, for example, by means of triangulation. Preferably, the picking and storage system includes at least one position detection system for geofencing based on electromagnetic waves and / or ultrasound. The position detection system can comprise at least one position transmitter that is wearable by the picker, in particular designed as a wearable device.

[0062] The invention is explained in more detail below by way of example with reference to advantageous embodiments and the drawings. The combination of features shown as an example in the embodiment can be supplemented by further features for a specific application, as described above. Likewise, individual features can be omitted from the described embodiments if their effect is not important in a particular application, also as described above.

[0063] In the drawings, the same reference symbols are always used for elements of the same function and / or structure.

[0064] They show: Fig. 1 an advantageous embodiment of a warehouse with a picking and storage system according to the invention; Fig. 2 a picker with a portable information display; Fig. 3 a storage unit with an access station; Fig. 4 a picking trolley; and Fig. 5 the steps of a method according to the invention.

[0065] The following describes an advantageous embodiment of a picking and storage system 1 according to the invention with reference to the Fig. 1 explained in more detail.

[0066] The picking and storage system 1 can be used, in particular, for a warehouse 3, which comprises at least one storage unit 5. The picking and storage system 1 preferably comprises at least one warehouse management system 6, which is designed to monitor and / or control at least a part of the picking and storage system 1. The warehouse management system 6 is preferably connected to the components to be monitored and / or controlled, in particular by means of data transmission. The warehouse management system can, in particular, comprise one or more computers and / or software, especially those that are networked together.

[0067] The warehouse management system 6 is preferably equipped with a computer program product 77, which contains commands by which the warehouse management system 6 can be controlled at least partially.

[0068] Storage units 5 can be, for example, storage systems such as vertical lifts, racks, paternoster lifts, carousel storage systems, or other units. An access point on a conveyor or transport route can also be considered a storage unit 5. The only requirement is that an operator 7, i.e., a picker 7, can remove or transfer items 9 from storage unit 5. In warehouse logistics, this is often referred to as loading and / or unloading stored goods. An operator 7 is often also called a "picker" 7. Items 9 are often referred to as "stored goods." The loading and / or unloading of items 9 into or from a storage unit 5 is referred to below as "access."

[0069] A picking order 43 can be assigned to a picker 7. A picking order typically includes a list of items 9. These items 9 are to be taken from one or more storage units 5, i.e., "picked," and collected in a container, a so-called picking cart 11. Conversely, a picking order 43 can also contain a list of items 9 which are to be transferred, particularly from a picking cart 11, to one or more storage units 5.

[0070] A picking order 43 typically contains information about the article type as well as the number of articles 9 to be received and / or retrieved. One or more picking orders 43 can be grouped together in a compilation 45.

[0071] A picker 7 can process a collection 45 or a picking order 43 by visiting one or more storage units 5 and accessing the access stations 29 of these storage units 5. If the picker 7 has to visit several storage units 5, the picker 7's movement within the warehouse 3 can result in a picking route 13.

[0072] To facilitate order picking, a picker 7 can be guided by technical aids while processing a collection 45 or a picking order 43. The picking and storage system 1 uses color coding to guide the picker 7 visually. Color coding is advantageous because it can be understood intuitively compared to text or numbers.

[0073] For example, each assembly 45 can be assigned a color. Alternatively, a picking order 43 can also be assigned a color. However, it is preferred that colors be assigned to assemblies 45. Different colors can therefore identify different assemblies 45. The color that identifies an assembly 45 can be displayed at various locations in warehouse 3 to assist a picker 7 during picking.

[0074] The color belonging to an assembly 45 can be displayed, in particular, on visual indicators 35, 51. A visual indicator 35, 51 is preferably a widely visible light source, wherein the light source is preferably self-luminous. Alternatively, a visual indicator can also be a passive light source, i.e., a light source that is stimulated to luminescence by an active light source. However, the color belonging to an assembly 45 can also be displayed by other devices, for example, displays.

[0075] A storage unit 5, a picking trolley 11 and a picking operator 7 with a portable information transmitter 15 are in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 is shown schematically. These will be briefly discussed below.

[0076] The order picker 7 is equipped with at least one portable information transmitter 15. The portable information transmitter 15 has at least one display area 17, the color of which can be switched remotely.

[0077] The information transmitter 15 is preferably integrated into a wearable 19, which is in Fig. Figure 2 is shown as an example of a wearable device. Preferably, the wearable 19 is also configured to output an optical signal 21 to the order picker 7. The optical signal 21 is shown, for illustrative purposes only, as part of the display area 17 of the information transmitter 15. In this case, the display area 17 can represent the signal 21. Alternatively, the optical signal 21 can also be displayed on another device, in particular a display device on the information transmitter 15. Another alternative is to provide a separate wearable 19, which can be worn separately from the information transmitter 15 and which is configured to output the optical signal 21. For example, the separate wearable (not shown) can have the shape of glasses.

[0078] The information transmitter 15 preferably also includes at least one acknowledgment transmitter 23, at which the removal and / or placement of an item can be acknowledged. The acknowledgment transmitter 23 can be a mechanical switch, a touch-sensitive switch, for example as part of a touch display, or a barcode reader or other input device. It is also possible to design the display area 17 of the information transmitter 15 to be touch-sensitive, so that it can simultaneously serve as the acknowledgment transmitter 23. The acknowledgment transmitter 23 can also be located on a separate device, in particular a wearable device.

[0079] Preferably, the order picker 7 wears at least one position transmitter 25. The position transmitter 25 can be part of the information transmitter 15. Alternatively, it can also be separate from the information transmitter 15. Preferably, the position transmitter 25 is wearable on the body of the order picker 7.

[0080] The information transmitter 15, the acknowledgment transmitter 23 and / or the position transmitter 25 can be connected to the warehouse management system 6 for data transmission, in particular wireless data transmission.

[0081] An example of a storage unit 5 is shown schematically in Fig. 3 shown. The storage unit 5 can have a plurality of storage locations 27, which are in Fig. 3 are only indicated by dashed lines. Articles 9 from storage locations 7 can be moved to an access station 29, or from access station 29 to storage locations 27. Access station 29 can, in particular, be a loading and / or unloading station 31.

[0082] The storage unit 5, in particular a control device 33 of the storage unit 5, is preferably connected to the warehouse management system 6 via data transmission.

[0083] The access station 29 is equipped with an indicator light 35. The indicator light 35 is positioned near the access station 29 so that it can be visually associated with the access station 29.

[0084] The indicator light 35 has a display area 37, the color of which can be switched remotely by the warehouse management system 6. For this purpose, the indicator light 35 can be directly connected to the warehouse management system 6 or indirectly via the control unit 33 of the storage unit 5 for data transmission.

[0085] The display area 37 can be a color-changing light source or a display, in particular a display, which is designed to show different colors.

[0086] Storage unit 5 can be equipped with a position detection system 39, which is designed to detect the positions of position transmitters 25 and 49. The position detection system 39 is shown on a storage unit 5 only as an example. The position detection system 39 can be part of the picking and storage system 1 independently of storage units 5 and can be located within the warehouse 3.

[0087] The position detection system 39 can consist of a variety of transmitting and / or receiving devices suitable for detecting at least one position transmitter 25, 49 and determining its position. For example, the position detection system 39 can use triangulation for this purpose. The position detection system 39 can be used to define zones within the picking and storage system 1 or the warehouse 3 by means of geofencing. In particular, picking zones and access zones can be defined. This will be discussed later.

[0088] In Fig. Figure 4 schematically depicts a picking trolley 11. The picking trolley 11 is used for collecting and transporting articles 9. For this purpose, the picking trolley 11 has storage containers, so-called handling units 41. The following are shown only as examples. Fig. 4 the handling units 41 are shown as compartments in the picking trolley 11.

[0089] Preferably, a handling unit 41 is assigned to exactly one picking order 43. The picking order 43 is only schematically represented as a compilation of articles 9 in Fig. 4 shown. Alternatively, a picking order 43 can also extend over several handling units 41 if the capacity of one handling unit 41 is insufficient for a picking order 43.

[0090] Several different picking orders 43 can be combined into a set 45 of picking orders 43. A picking cart 11 is preferably assigned to exactly one set 45. The two different picking orders 43 are in Fig. 4 indicated by the different Articles 9 contained within them. Each of the handling units 41 can be equipped with a display device 47 which can indicate to the order picker 7 into which handling unit 41 Articles 9 are to be placed, or from which handling unit 41 Articles 9 are to be taken. The display devices 47 may preferably display a color and / or symbols.

[0091] The picking cart 11 is preferably equipped with a position transmitter 49, which allows the position of the picking cart 11 within the warehouse 3 to be determined. The position transmitter 49 can also preferably be used to transmit the identification of the picking cart 11 to the warehouse management system 6. The position transmitter 49 is preferably detectable by the position detection system 39.

[0092] The picking cart 11 is equipped with a visual indicator 51, which is formed in particular by a visual indicator light 53 that can be repeatedly attached without tools. The visual indicator 51 has a display area 55, the color of which can be switched remotely. In particular, the color can be switched remotely by the warehouse management system 6. For this purpose, the visual indicator 51 is connected to the warehouse management system 6 via data transmission. This can be done wirelessly.

[0093] The eye-catching device 51, in particular its display area 55, is preferably visible from all sides of the picking cart 11. This allows the picker 7 to quickly locate or identify the picking cart 11 assigned to him.

[0094] The indicator 51 preferably includes a reader for an identification means of the picking cart 11. The indicator 51 can thus read an identifier of the picking cart 11, to which the indicator 51 is attached, and transmit it to the warehouse management system 6. This allows the picking cart 11 and the indicator 51 to form a single unit for the warehouse management system 6. The reader can be, for example, a barcode reader or an RFID tag reader. Accordingly, the identification means on the picking cart 11 can be a barcode, an RFID tag, or another suitable means.

[0095] The picking cart 11, in particular the eye-catching device 51 of the picking cart 11, can be equipped with at least one projection device (not shown) designed to generate a light image suitable for indicating a direction. For example, an arrow can be generated. The projection device can, in particular, project downwards, i.e., onto a floor. Thus, depending on communication with the warehouse management system 6, the direction to the nearest access station 29 ready for use can be indicated. This can be particularly useful in large warehouses where considerable distances may have to be covered and an eye-catching device 35 of the access station 29 is not readily visible from a distance.The picking zone 57 can then be divided into different sections, which are distributed across the area of ​​the warehouse and are connected to each other by the picking line 13.

[0096] The use of a warehouse management system 6 and a picking and storage system 1 according to the invention is described below using the example in Fig. The storage area 3 shown in section 1 is described, with reference to the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. The components of the picking and storage system 1 described in section 4 are used.

[0097] The picking route 13 mentioned at the beginning can be defined by a temporal sequence of so-called picking zones 57, in which Article 9 of a compilation 45 is simultaneously made available for access. Such a picking zone 57 is indicated by the dashed line in Fig. 1 indicated.

[0098] Each access station 29 is assigned an access zone 59. Preferably, an access zone 59 is located in front of the access station 29, so that a picker 7 located in the access zone 59 has access to the access station 29.

[0099] For the sake of clarity, in Fig. One storage unit 5 is shown, each storage unit 5 having exactly one access station 29. For example, the storage units 5 can be in Fig. 1 similar to the one with reference to the Fig. The storage unit 5 described in section 3 may be constructed as follows. However, a storage unit 5 can also have multiple access stations 29 and / or access zones 59.

[0100] The access zones 59 can be virtual zones. In other words, they can be defined, for example, via geofencing. For instance, one or more location tracking systems 39, particularly through connection with the warehouse management system 6, can define the access zones 59.

[0101] Since each order picker 7 is preferably equipped with a position transmitter 25, it is possible to determine whether an order picker 7 is inside or outside a specific access zone 59. This allows the position 61 of an order picker to be determined. Furthermore, it is also possible to determine the position 61 of an order picker 7 absolutely, i.e., without reference to a specific access station 59. Position detection systems 39, especially those using triangulation, can be designed for this purpose.

[0102] Since each picking cart 11 is preferably equipped with a position transmitter 49, the position 63 of a picking cart 11 can preferably also be determined. In the simplest case, it may only be possible to detect the presence or absence of a picking cart 11 within an access zone 59. However, it may also be possible to determine the position 63 within the warehouse 3.

[0103] According to the invention, at least one of the indicator lights 35 or 51, i.e., at the access station 29 or on the picking cart 11, has a display area 37 or 55 with a switchable color. For the sake of simplicity, this is explained below using two different colors A and B. Of course, other colors can also be used, or, particularly in the case of several order pickers 7, more than two colors.

[0104] The color A is in Fig. Color 1 is indicated by simple hatching, and color B by crossed hatching. It is advantageous if the two colors A and B are clearly distinguishable from each other. For example, color pairs red and green or yellow and blue can be used. It can also be advantageous if, when using only two colors A and B, these two colors are complementary. For example, the complementary colors blue and yellow, red and cyan, or green and magenta can be used as colors A and B. This allows a picker to very quickly and unambiguously distinguish between the two colors A and B.

[0105] Preferably, both eye-catching devices 35 and 51 each have a display area 37 and 55 with automatically switchable colors A and B. Additionally, the order picker 7 also carries an information device 15 with a display area 17, the color of which can be switched remotely by the warehouse management system 6.

[0106] In the picking and storage system 1 of the Fig. 1 As preferred embodiments, the eye-catcher 35, the eye-catcher 51 and the information transmitter 15 are each provided with display areas whose color can be switched automatically.

[0107] The eye-catching elements 35 and 51, as well as the information element 15, are in Fig. 1 is merely indicated and filled with the hatching representing the respective color. For the sake of clarity, the access zones 59 are also filled with the hatching that corresponds to the color of the eye-catcher 35 of the corresponding access station 29.

[0108] At the start of a picking operation, i.e. when a picker 7 is to process a compilation 45 or a picking order 43, or at the start of a working day, a picking trolley 11 is assigned to a picker 7.

[0109] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a picker 7 with a picking cart 11 in the upper left, both displaying color A. Figure 1 shows a picker 7 with a picking cart 11 belonging to him in the lower right, with the information display 15 and the eye-catcher 51 both displaying color B.

[0110] Thus, a picker 7 can quickly and easily identify his assigned picking cart 11 by visually comparing his information device 15, or rather its display area 17, with the display area 55 of the eye-catching device 51 on his picking cart 11. He can then use the picking cart 11 to navigate to access stations 29 of the storage units 5 in order to access them. Various scenarios are conceivable in this regard.

[0111] In a simple scenario, an item 9 is provided for a compilation 45 or for a picking order 43 in an access station 29 of a storage unit 5.

[0112] The indicator light 35 of the corresponding access station can then display a color A or B representing the assembly 45 or a picking order 43. The picker 7 can compare the displayed color A or B on the indicator light 35 with the colors of his information transmitter 15 and / or the indicator light 51 of his picking cart 11.

[0113] If the colors match, as in the top left of the image for color A, order picker 7 can access access station 29, remove item 9 from it, and place it in a handling unit 41 of their order picking cart 11. Likewise, order picker 7 can remove item 9 from a handling unit 41 of their order picking cart 11 and place it in access station 29.

[0114] As described above, each handling unit 41 can also be equipped with a display device 47 for this purpose. Once access is complete, the order picker 7 can acknowledge this, for example, via an acknowledgment transmitter 23. He can then proceed to an access station 29 and continue processing his assembly 45 or his picking order 43.

[0115] As an alternative to the procedure described above, it is also possible to record the position 61 of order picker 7 and / or the position 63 of picking cart 11. For example, a virtual zone 65 can be defined around picking cart 11.

[0116] If zone 65 overlaps with an access zone 59, or if one of the access stations 29 is located within zone 65 around the picking trolley 11, this may cause the corresponding access station 29 to provide article 9 for the compilation 45 assigned to the picking trolley 11.

[0117] As soon as the item(s) 9 are provided, the color of the indicator 35 is switched to the color of the indicator 51, or vice versa. In other words, in this case, the storage units 5 react to the presence of the picking cart 11 and provide the corresponding item(s) 9 for this picking cart 11, or for its picking orders 43 or its compilation 45.

[0118] The invention offers further advantages. For example, the assignment of a picker 7 and / or a picking cart 11 to a specific assembly 45 or to a specific picking order 43 can be changed, at least temporarily. This can be indicated by a change in color on the indicator light 51 and / or on the information light 15.

[0119] To illustrate this, in Fig. 1. The following situation is indicated: The one in the bottom right corner Fig. The illustrated order picker 7, to whom a compilation 45 or a picking order 43 is assigned, accesses an access station 29. The information indicator 15, the eye-catcher 51 and the eye-catcher 35 all display the color B.

[0120] The order picker 7 accesses the access station of storage unit 5. At the same time, the [unclear text] is also [unclear text]. Fig. The storage unit 5 shown above the aforementioned storage unit 5 is ready for access by this order picker 7. Consequently, the indicator 35 of this storage unit 5 also displays the color B.

[0121] Due to the size of the compilation 45 or the picking order 43, the weight of the articles 9 or the urgency of the compilation 45 or the picking order 43, the picker needs 7 help.

[0122] He can now take the second one in Fig. Picker 7, depicted in image 1, can be asked for assistance. Alternatively, the second picker 7, assigned color A, can recognize that picker 7, assigned color B, needs help. Of course, it is also possible that this is recognized by the warehouse management system 6 and communicated to picker 7, assigned color A.

[0123] The order picker 7, assigned color A, can then, at least temporarily, move into access zone 59, whose access station 29 is also marked with color B by the indicator 35, but which is not accessed. This change of order picker 7 from one access zone 59 to another access zone 59 is indicated by arrow 67 in Fig. 1 indicated.

[0124] The moment the order picker 7, who was previously assigned color A, enters the other access zone 59, this is detected by the warehouse management system 6, in particular via at least one position detection system 39, and the color in the display area 17 of its information transmitter 15 is switched from A to B. This is in Fig. 1 is represented by the dotted line at storage unit 5 in the upper right. Picker 7 is then also, at least temporarily, assigned to assembly 45 or picking order 43 of the picker who was initially marked with color B.

[0125] Both order pickers 7 can process the assembly 45 marked with color B or the picking order 43. Both order pickers 7 can also use the picking cart 11 marked with color B.

[0126] Once the assembly 45 marked with color B or the picking order 43 has been completed or sufficiently processed, the picker 7, whose color has been changed, can return to their originally operated access station 29. The color of their information transmitter 15 will then switch back to color A as soon as they enter access zone 59 to the access station 29 marked with color A. Both pickers 7 can now resume processing their respective assembly 45s or picking orders 43.

[0127] The warehouse management system 6 according to the invention allows order pickers 7, order picking trolleys 11 and access stations 29 to be flexibly assigned to specific combinations 45 or order picking orders 43 and / or to each other.

[0128] The information transmitter 15 and / or the wearable 19 can be configured to generate an acoustic signal. This acoustic signal can be triggered, in particular, by the warehouse management system 6. Instead of or in addition to an acoustic signal, a tactile signal, such as a vibration alarm, can also be generated. Such a signal can be triggered by the warehouse management system 6, for example, when a color change occurs in the display area 17 of the information transmitter 15.

[0129] This can be useful, for example, in the case described above, where a picker 7 enters a different access zone 59, thereby triggering a change in the color of the display area 17 of their information device 15. A corresponding signal can also be generated when a picking cart 11 assigned to picker 7 changes color, or when the color of the display area 55 of the indicator light 51 of this picking cart 11 is switched. This allows picker 7 to be intuitively informed that they are now to process a different assortment 45 or a different picking order 43.

[0130] The following describes some optional improvements to the warehouse management system 6 and / or the picking and storage system 1. The warehouse management system 6 can be configured, in particular, to prevent color collisions. In other words, it can be ensured that colors are not assigned twice, unless, as described above, an assignment needs to be temporarily changed so that several pickers 7 or picking carts 11 are used in addition to processing an existing assembly 45 or picking order 43. Preventing color collisions is particularly advantageous within a picking zone 57. For example, if there are several picking zones 57 in a warehouse, the same colors can be used in different picking zones 57.

[0131] The eye-catching elements 51 of the picking trolleys 11 are preferably designed so that the color can be recognized as soon as the picking trolley 11 is visible. The orientation of the picking trolley 11 should preferably play no role in this. This differs from the optional display devices 47 of the handling units 41, which can generally only be visually detected if the picker 7 is positioned near the handling units 41 and the handling units 41 with their display devices 47 are oriented towards the picker 7.

[0132] The warehouse management system 6 is preferably connected, at least via data transmission, in particular wirelessly, to all eye-tracking devices 35, 51 and information transmitters 15. Furthermore, it is preferably also connected, directly or indirectly, to the position transmitters 25 and 49 and / or to one or more position detection systems 39. Finally, the warehouse management system 6 is preferably also connected, via data transmission, to the acknowledgment transmitters 23 and the control devices 33 of the storage units 5.

[0133] The following is a picking method according to the invention with reference to the block diagram in Fig. 5 described.

[0134] In a first procedural step 69, a picking trolley 11 is assigned a compilation 45 of picking orders 43 with a plurality of articles 9.

[0135] In a further process step 71, the warehouse management system 6 determines whether at least one article 9 of the compilation 45 is ready for access at an access station 29.

[0136] If this is the case, process step 73 is executed, whereby the color A, B of at least one display area 37 and / or 55 is switched. This ensures that the eye-catching transmitter 35 of the control unit 33 and the eye-catching transmitter 51 of the picking cart 11 display the same color A, B.

[0137] Subsequently, at least one optional process step 75 can be executed, whereby the color of at least one further display area 17, 37 and / or 55 is switched depending on location.

[0138] The various situations in which this can occur, for example, are listed above with reference to the Fig. 1 described. Likewise, the above can be used with reference to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. The uses of the warehouse management system 6 and / or the picking and storage system 1 described in section 4 are to be considered as optional process steps. Reference sign 1. Picking and storage system 3 warehouses 5 storage units 6 Warehouse Management System 7 order pickers 9 articles 11 order picking trolleys 13 Picking line 15 Information providers 17 Display area 19 Wearable 21 optical signal 23 Receipt dispensers 25 position transmitters 27 storage spaces 29 access stations 31 Loading and / or unloading station 33 Control unit 35 eye-catchers 37 Display area 39 Position detection system 41 Handling Unit 43 Picking order 45 Compilation of picking orders 47 Display device 49 Position givers 51 eye-catchers 53 Eye-catching light 55 Display area 57 Picking zone 59 Access zone 61 Position of a picker 63 Position of a picking trolley 65 Zone 67 Arrow 69-75 procedural steps 77 Computer program product

Claims

[1] Warehouse management system (6) for controlling order picking by means of at least one picking cart (11) for storing articles (9) a compilation (45) of picking orders (43) and by means of at least one storage unit (5) with storage locations (27) for storing the articles (9) and at least one access station (29) for accessing the articles (9) by a picker (7), wherein the picking trolley (11) and the access station (29) are each equipped with an eye-catching device (35, 51) and at least one of the eye-catching devices (35, 51) has a display area (37, 55) with remotely switchable color (A, B), wherein the warehouse management system (6) is designed to automatically detect whether at least one item (9) of the assortment (45) is positioned in the access station (29) for the order picker (7) to be ready for access, and to automatically switch the color (A, B) of the at least one remotely switchable indicator (35, 51) to the color (A, B) of the other indicator (35, 51) when it has been detected that the item (9) is positioned ready for access within a predetermined time, characterized by , that the warehouse management system (6) is designed to determine the position (63) of the at least one picking trolley (11) and / or the eye-catcher (51) of the at least one picking trolley (11). [2] Warehouse management system (6) according to claim 1, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to automatically switch the display areas (37) of the display indicators (35) of those access stations (29) that are identified as ready for access to articles (9) of the assembly (45) of a picking cart (11) to the color (A, B) of the display area (55) of the display indicator (51) of this picking cart (11) in a plurality of access stations (29) each equipped with a remotely switchable eye-catcher (35). [3] Warehouse management system (6) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to automatically switch the display areas (37) of the display areas (35) of the display areas (37) of the display areas (35) of those access stations (29) that are identified as ready for access to articles (9) of the assembly (45) of a picking cart (11) to the color (A, B) of the display area (55) of this picking cart (11) in the case of a plurality of picking carts (11), each having a display indicator (51) with a display area (55) of a different color (A, B), and in the case of a plurality of access stations (29), each having a remotely switchable display indicator (35). [4] Warehouse management system (6) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to automatically switch the color (A, B) of the eye-catcher (35) of the access station (29) after accessing all the items (9) of a compilation (45) made available for access from an access station (29). [5] Warehouse management system (6) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to automatically control one or more storage units (5) such that individual items (9) of an assembly (45) are made available at more than one access station (29) simultaneously. [6] Warehouse management system (6) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to control one or more storage units (5) in a predetermined zone (65) around a determined position (63) of a picking cart (11) such that individual items (9) of the assembly (45) of this picking cart (11) are made available simultaneously in more than one access station (29) of the zone (65). [7] Warehouse management system (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to switch the color (A, B) of a display area (37, 55) of an eye-catcher (35, 51) depending on location. [8] Warehouse management system (6) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to automatically switch the colors (A, B) of display areas (55) of the eye-catchers (51) of several picking trolleys (11) to different colors (A, B). [9] Warehouse management system (6) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is designed to automatically set the same color (A, B) on a display area (17) with remotely switchable color (A, B) of an information transmitter (15) wearable on the body of the picker (7) and on a display area (55) of an eye-catcher transmitter (51) of a picking trolley (11), depending on the assignment of the picker (7) to a picking trolley (11). [10] Warehouse management system (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to automatically determine the position (61) of an information transmitter (15) wearable on the body of a picker (7) and to change the color (A, B) of a display area (17) of the information transmitter (15) depending on the position (61). [11] Warehouse management system (6) according to claim 10, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to automatically adapt the color (A, B) of the display area (17) of an information transmitter (15) to the color (A, B) of an eye-catcher transmitter (35) of an access station (29) when the information transmitter (15) is in a predetermined position relative to the access station (29). [12] Warehouse management system (6) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to determine an access zone (59) in front of an access station (29) by means of geofencing and to automatically set the color (A, B) of the display area (17) of an information transmitter (15) located within the access zone (59) to the color (A, B) of the display area (37) of the eye-catcher transmitter (35) of the access station (29) of this access zone (59). [13] Warehouse management system (6) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to reset the color (A, B) of the display area (17) of the information provider (15) set to the color (A, B) of the eye-catcher (35) of the access station (29) back to a previously set color (A, B) when all items (9) of the assembly (45) of the picking cart (11) have been removed from the access station (29) whose display area (55) has the same color (A, B) as the display area (17) of the information provider (15) before the reset. [14] Warehouse management system (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the warehouse management system (6) is configured to output an optical signal (21) to a wearable device (19) worn by a picker (7), wherein the signal (21) is representative of a position of a handling unit (41) on the picking cart (11) into which an article (9) taken from an access station (29) is to be placed and / or a number and / or type of articles (9) to be placed in the handling unit (41) of the picking cart (11). [15] Picking and storage system (1) with a warehouse management system (6) according to one of claims 1 to 14, with at least one picking cart (11) which is provided with an eye-catcher (51) with a colored display area (55), and with at least one storage unit (5) which is provided with a further eye-catcher (35) with a colored display area (37), wherein at least one display area (35, 51) has a color (A, B) that can be switched remotely by the warehouse management system (6). [16] Picking and storage system (1) according to claim 15, comprising an information transmitter (15) designed as a wearable (19) which has a display area (17) with remotely switchable color (A, B) and is connected via the warehouse management system (6) to the eye-catching transmitters (35, 51) of the at least one picking cart (11) and the at least one storage unit (5) for data transmission. [17] Picking and storage system (1) according to claim 15 or 16, comprising an access zone (59) arranged in front of the access station (29) which is determined by the warehouse management system (6) by means of geofencing and is accessible to a picker (7) for accessing the access station (29) of a storage unit (5), and comprising a position transmitter (25) portable by the picker (7) for determining the position (61) of the picker (7) relative to the access zone (59). [18] Order picking procedures, where a picking trolley (11) is assigned a compilation (45) of picking orders (43) with a plurality of articles (9), where it is automatically determined that at least one item (9) of the compilation (45) is available for access by a picker (7) at at least one access station (29) of at least one storage unit (5), wherein the picking trolley (11) and the access station (29) each have an eye-catcher (35, 51) with a colored display area (37, 55) and the color (A, B) of at least one display area (37, 55) can be switched remotely, wherein the color (A, B) of at least one remotely switchable display area (37, 55) is automatically switched to the color (A, B) of the other display area (37, 55) after the readiness for access has been determined. [19] Computer program product (77) or computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause it to execute the method according to claim 18.

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