Automated sorting and container handling system

Abstract

system, exhibiting - a container matrix (510, 700, 1130) having a first level and a second level, the first level having a first plurality of container niches (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200) configured to hold individual containers (730, 820, 920, 1210), and the second level having a second plurality of container niches (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200) configured to hold individual containers (730, 820, 920, 1210); - a rack track (556); - a first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) arranged in the first level; - a first ramp (560, 562, 564) coupled to the assembly track (556) and the first running track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940); - a second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) arranged on the second level; - a second ramp (560, 562, 564) coupled to the assembly track (556) and the second running track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940); - a first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) having a conveyor belt, wherein the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) is configured to move along the first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and (i) deposit articles in containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) on the first level or the second level using the conveyor belt, and (ii) transfer full containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) of container niches (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200); and - a control system designed to control the operation of the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020), wherein - the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) furthermore - at least two side walls on opposite sides of the first movable support unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020); and - a first door arranged transversely to the at least two side walls, wherein the first door in an open position forms a slide angled towards a container (730, 820, 920, 1210); and - the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) is set up for this purpose, - to reach the first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) using the first ramp (560, 562, 564), - to reach the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) using the second ramp (560, 562, 564), - to move along the assembly track (556) between the first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940), and - to automatically open and close the first door.

Description

Cross-reference to related registrations

[0001] This application is an international application and claims priority over US application 16 / 455,069 filed on June 27, 2019, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference. General state of the art

[0002] As consumers increasingly make online purchases, fulfilling these purchases and other orders can become increasingly complex. For example, a fulfillment center might handle more than a million packages per day. Given these demands, the efficiency of logistics related to order and package handling can be critical. Accordingly, improvements in various order fulfillment activities, such as enhancements to picking technology, sorting technology, packing technology, and so on, may be desirable so that manual effort can be redirected to other tasks.

[0003] Document US 2014 / 0288696A1 discloses an automated storage system with a multi-level storage array whose storage is distributed across several aisles. Each aisle has a series of storage levels, and each level has storage locations distributed along the aisle. The guidance network extends through the multi-level storage array and is configured to allow autonomous vehicles to move along the guidance network within the multi-level storage array. The guidance network comprises an inter-aisle guideway that extends across at least two of the multiple aisles, and a set of guideway levels that extend within one of the multiple aisles and are arranged such that each guideway level is located on a different storage level, allowing vehicles on the guideway level to access the storage locations distributed along the aisle.A ramp guide connects each guide level with the guide level between the aisles and forms a common guide path that connects the guide level between the aisles and each guide level, so that a vehicle moving between the guide level between the aisles and each guide level moves along the common guide path.

[0004] Document US 2018 / 0264520A1 concerns a system with an item supply point, where the item supply point comprises a variety of items to be sorted and a first and a second transport vehicle, each having a first position where an item is stowed around the vehicle and a second position where the item is placed into a nearby container. A control system is configured to receive an order for a variety of different items, determine a destination container from a variety of destination containers to instruct the transport vehicle to unload a selected item there, instruct the first transport vehicle to transport a selected item to the destination container, and unload the item by manipulating the first transport vehicle from the first position to the second position to unload the selected item into the destination container. Summary

[0005] One objective of this disclosure is to specify improved technologies for storage systems.

[0006] The problem is solved by a system according to independent claim 1. Embodiments are the subject of dependent claims. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a hybrid schematic representation of an exemplary application for automated article sorting and automated container handling and an exemplary process flow according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a hybrid schematic representation of an exemplary use case for automated article sorting and automated container handling and an exemplary process flow according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic representation of an article sorting system and additional components according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic representation of an exemplary process flow for automated article sorting and automated container handling according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. 5 to Fig. Figure 6 are schematic representations of a sorting system with ramps according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a perspective view of a container matrix with a slide according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. 8 to Fig. Figure 9 are schematic representations of a sorting system with a lifting device according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. Figures 10 to 11 are schematic representations of a sorting system with a lifting device according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 12 is a schematic representation of a perspective view of a container niche in a container matrix according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 13 is a schematic representation of a sorting system in a spread-out arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Fig. Figure 14 schematically illustrates an exemplary architecture of a computer system associated with an article sorting system according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0007] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and merely represent exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. The drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the disclosure and should not be considered as limiting the breadth, scope, or applicability of the disclosure. The use of the same reference numerals indicates similar, but not necessarily identical or the same, components. Different reference numerals may be used to identify similar components. Different embodiments may use different elements or components than those shown in the drawings, and some elements and / or components may not be present in different embodiments.The use of the singular form to describe a component or element can, depending on the context, include a plurality of these components or elements, and vice versa. Detailed description Summary

[0008] Fulfillment centers can be used to fulfill online purchases and other orders. For example, fulfillment centers may maintain an inventory that is drawn upon when an order is placed for a specific product or multiple products. In some cases, the product(s) may be packaged and shipped by the fulfillment center. However, the process of receiving, packaging, and shipping the product(s) can be complex due to the inventory level, the number of orders to be processed, the size of the fulfillment center, and / or other factors. Furthermore, the area of ​​the fulfillment center designated for packaging or shipping may differ from the area designated for maintaining inventory. As a result, the transportation of products for each order can be time-consuming.

[0009] In some cases, a product order may contain multiple items. For example, a customer might place an order for two or more products. In such cases, the ordered products may not be located in the same place within the fulfillment center, or the time required to receive or locate one of the products may be longer than for the others. As a result, packing the order may be delayed until all items in the order are ready for packing. To increase the speed of order fulfillment, robots or other technology can be used in certain cases to redirect manual effort to other tasks. For example, robots can be used to assist in locating products within an order during the picking process.However, routing picked products to the appropriate packaging station and / or other location can create a bottleneck in the fulfillment center's operation. For example, after picking, products may be arranged in a container, such as a carrying rack or other receptacle, and routed to sorting machines to direct them to the appropriate packaging location. Products from the same order may be routed to the same packaging location for consolidation and subsequent packaging. However, a carrying rack or other receptacle may contain products destined for multiple different packaging locations, and the sheer volume of products requiring handling and / or sorting can slow down the sorting process.

[0010] Embodiments of the disclosure include methods and systems for automated item sorting that can improve the processing and fulfillment of single- or multi-item orders, or orders containing more than one item. Certain embodiments include item sorting systems with sorting mechanisms that can be used to rapidly sort items for one-to-one or one-to-many sorting requirements. Some embodiments include optimized processes for handling orders at fulfillment centers, as well as processes or methods for increasing the speed of combining products in a single- or multi-item order. As a result, the throughput of fulfillment centers can be improved and / or the logistics of fulfillment center operations can be less complex.

[0011] With reference to Fig. Figure 1 is an exemplary use case 100 for automated item sorting and automated container handling, and an exemplary process flow according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure is shown. Although the discussion takes place in the context of online orders, other embodiments may be directed to any suitable use cases in which items such as products, packaging, or other articles are picked and / or sorted, such as cases in which consumers pick up orders instead of receiving a delivery.

[0012] In Fig. 1. A fulfillment center can include a robot storage platform 110, a forwarding sorting unit 120, one or more sorting systems 130, and one or more packing stations 140. The robot storage platform 110 can be an area of ​​the fulfillment center where products picked from inventory are placed. In some cases, robots are used to pick products from inventory and deliver them to the robot storage platform, while in other cases, manual operators or a combination thereof may be used to pick products. The picking process at the robot storage platform can include locating a product in an order, receiving the product, and sending the product to the robot storage platform 110, for example, via a conveyor belt (e.g., a smooth belt, a profiled belt, etc.).In the illustrated embodiment, products can be arranged on the robot storage platform 110 in a container such as a carrying device.

[0013] At the forwarding sorting unit 120, carrying devices containing picked products can be forwarded to a suitable or specific sorting system. For example, the forwarding sorting unit 120 can identify an identifier associated with the carrying device and, using this identifier, determine the sorting system assigned to the carrying device. The forwarding sorting unit 120 can then forward or direct the carrying device to the appropriate sorting system.

[0014] The sorting systems 130 can have one or more sorting system machines. In Fig. There can be a first sorting system 132, a second sorting system 134, a third sorting system 136, and so on. Any number of sorting systems can be present. Some or all of the sorting systems can be assigned to specific carrying units, specific functions, specific geographical areas, and so on. The sorting systems can be used to combine products for single- or multi-item orders or to collect them in some other way. For example, a first carrying unit can contain the first item of a multi-item order, and a second carrying unit can contain the second item of the multi-item order. The sorting system can therefore identify the orders associated with the respective products in the carrying unit and transport the products to a container, such as a collection bin associated with the order.Once the order is complete with all products in the corresponding collection container, the order can be packed. Accordingly, a specific sorting system may be designated for fulfilling a particular order. At sorting systems 130, carrying devices received via the forwarding sorting device 120 are emptied, and the products contained in the respective carrying devices are transported to the appropriate collection containers for the orders for which the products were picked. Exemplary sorting systems are described with reference to at least... Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. 8 discussed.

[0015] Once a single- or multi-item order is complete (e.g., the sorting system has transported all products in the order to the appropriate collection container, etc.), the order can be packed at packing station 140. In some configurations, one or more packing stations may be present. In some cases, a packing station can serve more than one sorting system, while in other cases, more than one packing station can serve a sorting system. In the illustration of Fig. 1. A first packing station 142 can be used to pack orders from the first sorting system 132, a second packing station 144 can be used to pack orders from the second sorting system 134, a third packing station 146 can be used to pack orders from the third sorting system 136, and so on. At the packing stations 140, the orders can be placed in boxes and sealed for subsequent shipping. The packages can then be processed for shipment to the consumer. In other cases, the sorting systems 130 can be used to sort packages destined for different geographical areas and can therefore output packages to different loading docks, etc. The sorting systems 130 can be used for additional sorting purposes.

[0016] The fulfillment center can display an exemplary process flow of 150, which is located in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, this can be implemented to improve the performance and / or throughput of the fulfillment center. In a first block 160, items can be picked from the robot storage platform 100 into a container, such as a carrying device. In a second block 170, the carrying device can be sent to the sorting device 120 for onward transfer to a sorting system. In a third block 180, the items can be sorted from the container by the sorting system. In a fourth block 190, the items can be packed into a shipment once all items in the order have been sorted or once an order is complete.

[0017] Fig. Figure 2 is a hybrid schematic representation of an exemplary application for automated article sorting and automated container handling, and an exemplary process flow according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Other embodiments may have additional or fewer components.

[0018] In Fig. Figure 2 shows an exemplary layout of a fulfillment center 200. The fulfillment center 200 can include a robot bay 210 where an inventory can be stored for order picking, one or more forwarding sorting units 220 that can be used to forward containers or other items to specific sorting systems, one or more sorting systems or walls 230 that can be used to sort single- or multi-item orders, one or more single-item sections 260 that can be used to pack single-item orders, one or more labeling machines 240 that can be used to apply shipping labels to packages, one or more large-format sorting units 250, and shipping sorting units 270 to sort labeled shipments for collection from the fulfillment center (e.g., by destination, carrier, etc.).

[0019] The fulfillment center 200 can implement a process flow 280 for processing single- or multi-item orders. In a first block 282, items for various orders can be picked into a carrying device or container, which can be sent to a sorting machine, such as one of the sorting systems 230. The transport device can contain items from any orders, which are then combined by the specific sorting system machine. The sorting system can sort individual items in single- or multi-item orders. In a second block 284, the carrying device can be sent to a forwarding sorting device. In a third block 286, the forwarding sorting device can send the carrying device to any sorting system or an assigned sorting system (e.g.,The sorting system, which in the case of multiple orders combines items for a specific order, etc., forwards or redirects the items. In a fourth block, 288, the sorting system can sort individual items from one carrying device or container to another, based on the order contents. For example, the containers on the sorting system can be assigned to a specific order, which may consist of one or more items. In a block, 290, the order can be packed after all items in the order have been sorted.

[0020] The sorting system machines 220 can have collection bins or containers of different sizes (e.g., small, medium, large, etc.) and, in one example, can be configured to handle items weighing up to twenty pounds or more. In some embodiments, the sorting system machines 220 can have multiple chutes and be configured to sort items at a rate of approximately 3600 units per hour. In some cases, the sorting system machines 220 can have two infeed devices (e.g., one on each side) for feeding items from bins and can be modular.

[0021] In some embodiments, the sorting system machines 220 can replace other processes, such as manual processes. For example, the manual feeding of products from a carrying device into a sorting machine can be a bottleneck that is avoided by the systems and procedures described herein. The sorting system 230 can include cross-conveyor shuttles that sort individual products into bins or carrying devices. Sorting systems 230 can be capable of sorting at a rate of 3,500 units per hour. Certain sorting system machines 230 can be configured to handle items weighing up to twenty pounds, or in some cases more (e.g., 100 pounds or more), with dimensions of approximately 18 in x 14 in x 8 in or 28 in x 14 in x 9 in, thus covering almost all products in the fulfillment center 200.The 230 sorting system can operate as a high-speed sorting solution for many destinations, receiving items or packages and sorting them into containers using a shuttle that moves vertically and horizontally inside (or in some cases outside) the machine.

[0022] Individual sorting systems can be item sorting systems and can comprise a number of modular sorting machines, such as two or more, that are coupled in series or otherwise located side-by-side and connected. The modular sorting machines can include a first modular sorting machine. The modular sorting machines can be configured to separate items from a carrier containing multiple items into multiple collection containers (e.g., to feed individual items from a collection container containing multiple items and to arrange the fed items in the appropriate collection container, with collection containers being assigned to single- or multi-item orders). The carrier from which items are fed can be assigned to the individual sorting system machine (e.g., the modular sorting machines that constitute the individual sorting system machine, etc.).

[0023] Accordingly, in some embodiments, sorting systems can be arranged in rows and receive assigned carrying devices from a forwarding sorting unit, thereby streamlining the operation of the fulfillment center and reducing labor and space costs. The sorting systems can handle carrying devices for sorting and consolidating multiple orders. As a result, there may no longer be a need to separate items and send them to a wall for manual picking, since each conveying device can be assigned to a specific sorting system machine. Inbound stations can be replaced by sorting system machines.

[0024] In another embodiment, order pickers can pick items directly to a segmented conveyor belt at a station located near a sorting machine. Other nearby picking stations can also pick items directly for transport to the same sorting machine. Picked items transported to a single sorting machine can converge to be fed into its individual sorting machine, where multi-item orders can be combined and sent for packaging.

[0025] Embodiments of the disclosure include automated item sorting and automated container handling. Certain embodiments can improve the processing speed and / or throughput of fulfillment centers. Certain embodiments can improve the performance of mechanical equipment for sorting and / or merging items for multi-item orders. Although the description focuses on online ordering, aspects of this disclosure are broadly applicable to other forms of product sorting.

[0026] Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure offer a number of technical features or effects. For example, according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, certain embodiments can improve the processing speed, throughput, and / or efficiency of fulfillment centers. The above examples of technical features and / or effects of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure are merely illustrative and not exhaustive.

[0027] In the foregoing, one or more illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described. The embodiments described above are merely exemplary for the scope of this disclosure and are in no way intended to be limiting. Accordingly, modifications, alterations, and equivalents of the embodiments disclosed herein also fall within the scope of this disclosure. The embodiments described above and additional and / or alternative embodiments of the disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Explanatory embodiments and use cases

[0028] Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic representation of an article sorting system and additional components according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Other embodiments may have additional or fewer components. The representation in Fig. Figure 3 is not to scale and may not be to scale in relation to other figures. The sorting system used in Fig. As shown in 3, the same sorting system can be used as that shown in relation to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 discussed.

[0029] In Fig. Figure 3 is an exemplary use case 300, which includes a set of carrying devices 310 and one or more item sorting systems or sorting systems 320. The set of carrying devices 310 may include one or more carrying devices that are assigned to or otherwise connected with the sorting system 320. For example, a carrying device 1, a carrying device 35, a carrying device 3645, and so on, may be connected to the sorting system 320. The carrying devices may have identifiers such as alphanumeric or other identifiers. The carrying devices may be used to arrange picked items within the carrying devices. The items arranged in the carrying devices may be associated with orders to be matched by the sorting system 320.For example, carrier 1 may contain an item 1, an item 16, and an item 23. Carrier 35 may contain an item 1656. Carrier 3645 may contain an item 989, an item 145, and an item 34, and so on. The item sorting system or sorting system 320 may be configured to receive items from a carrier containing one or more items, such as numerous items, and the carrier may be routed to the item sorting system or sorting system 320.

[0030] The carrying devices 310 can be directed towards the sorting system 320 for sorting and combining. For example, items in the carrying devices 310 can be fed into the sorting system 320 via a conveyor belt.

[0031] The 320 sorting system can have one or more modules and can be resized as needed by adding or removing modules or standalone sorting systems. For example, the 320 sorting system can have a first 330 sorting system and a second 340 sorting system. The second 340 sorting system can be coupled to the first 330 sorting system or it can be a standalone sorting system.

[0032] The respective sorting systems 330 and 340 can have one or more collection containers or containers holding items from a single or multiple item order. For example, the second modular item sorting machine 340, as shown in side view 360, can have a first slide 370, or a vertical stacking, of collection containers and a second slide 380 of collection containers. The collection containers on the respective slides can have different sizes or dimensions or can be arranged at different vertical positions along the slide. The sorting system 320 can have several collection containers arranged along one or more sides of the first modular item sorting machine 330 and the second modular item sorting machine 340.The individual collection containers can be designed so that they can be repositioned to different slides and / or different vertical locations. In . Fig. In the case of container 3, collection container 1 and collection container 2 are at the same height, while collection container 3 may be at a different height in the same column or on the same chute. Any suitable number of collection containers may be included on a chute and / or arrangement.

[0033] Articles or products brought in by the carrying devices 310 can be sorted and directed to a collection container associated with the order for which the article was picked. The articles can be transported by one or more shuttles or mobile carrier units 350 that can move in one or more directions within the sorting system 320. In some embodiments, the shuttles or mobile carrier units 350 can be positioned outside the sorting system 320. In some embodiments, the sorting system(s) 320 can include one or more mobile carrier units 350 or other shuttles that can be used to move articles such as products, packages, containers, and so on.The mobile carrier units 350 can be equipped with one or more RFID tags, which can be used to maintain the traceability of an item to a carrier, thus avoiding the need to empty the entire system in the event of a complete power failure. Origin or traceability can be established by linking a barcode or other identifier of the item at the point of entry or elsewhere with the carrier's RFID tag.

[0034] For example, item 1 can be brought in from carrying device 1 and, together with item 989 and item 34, placed in collection container 3 from carrying device 3645. Collection container 3 can be assigned to an order containing these three items and is therefore ready for packing. Similarly, item 16 can be transferred to collection container 4, item 23 to collection container 5, item 145 to collection container 6, and so on. Any number of collection containers, carrying devices, and / or modules can be present.

[0035] Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic representation of an exemplary process flow 400 for automated article sorting and automated container handling according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. One or more of the blocks shown in Fig. The processes shown in Figure 4 can be executed in a different sequence or across a distributed environment. In some embodiments, the activities of process flow 400 can be carried out by a controller or computer system in communication with one or more sorting systems.

[0036] Block 410 allows for the determination of an initial item identifier for a first item at an entry point of a sorting system. For example, a computer system or controller with one or more computer processors coupled to memory and configured to execute computer-executable instructions can be set up to determine an initial item identifier for a first item at an entry point of a sorting system. The initial item identifier can be a barcode or other machine-readable identifier. To determine the initial item identifier, the computer system can use a scanner or other component to determine the identifier. The initial item identifier can be associated with a first item. The first item can be part of an order, such as an online order, and therefore be associated with an order identifier.The infeed section of the sorting system can be a section of the sorting system where items or containers are fed into or guided into the sorting system. In some cases, the items or containers can be fed in manually, while in other cases, they can be fed into the sorting system automatically using a conveyor. The computer system can be local or remote with respect to the sorting system and can be in wired or wireless communication with one or more components of the sorting system. In some embodiments, the determination of a first item can be achieved using various investigation methods, such as weight scanning (e.g., using a weight sensor to determine whether an item weight matches an expected item weight, etc.) or volumetric scanning (e.g.,Using a computer vision point cloud to determine if an item's size matches an expected size, etc., secondary verification can be performed in addition to, or instead of, barcode scans to ensure the item is correctly identified. For example, a barcode scan may be inaccurate due to more than one label on an item or package, etc., so a secondary volumetric scan can provide additional verification. If the secondary verification does not identify the item, the item or package may be directed to a location for subsequent automated or manual inspection.

[0037] Block 420 allows the determination of an order identifier linked to the first item identifier. For example, the computer system can determine an order identifier linked to the first item identifier. The order identifier can be linked to any of the item identifiers in an order. The computer system can determine the order identifier linked to the first item identifier, for example, using a database. In some cases, the first item identifier can be linked to more than one order identifier. In such cases, the computer system can determine the order identifier that corresponds to the order being sorted by one sorting system, as opposed to another sorting system.

[0038] In Block 430, a first container associated with the order ID can be determined. For example, the computer system can determine a first container associated with the order ID. The sorting system can have a number of different containers, such as carrying devices, collection bins, or bags, and the like. The containers can be used to collect items for specific orders, packages destined for similar locations, and so on. Similarly, in some cases, a single container can be associated with one or more order IDs. The computer system can determine the first container located on the sorting system used to collect items for the order ID. The order ID associated with a container can remain static until all items associated with the order have been collected in the container.

[0039] At Block 440, a first moving carrier unit can be directed to retrieve the first item. For example, the computer system can be configured to direct a first moving carrier unit to retrieve the item. The computer system can be connected to one or more moving carrier units. The moving carrier units can be configured to retrieve items and / or deliver items into containers, retrieve empty containers and / or deposit them in container niches, retrieve full or completed containers and / or deposit them at an outgoing section of the sorting system, and so on. The moving carrier units can be configured to move around the sorting system using any suitable form of propulsion, such as motors, rollers, belts, mobile drive units, and so forth.Movable carrier units can have components designed to move items and containers, such as rollers, arms, side panels, and / or other components. The computer system can send instructions or commands to a specific movable carrier unit to retrieve the first item from the infeed section of the sorting system. The movable carrier can then maneuver to the infeed section to retrieve or otherwise obtain the first item.

[0040] In Block 450, the first moving carrier unit can be directed to deliver the first item to the first container. For example, the computer system can direct the first moving carrier unit to deliver the first item to the first container. The computer system can send instructions or commands to the first moving carrier unit to move to the designated first container and deposit or deliver the first item to the first container. The first moving carrier unit can move to the first container in some cases using one or more ramps, or in other cases using a hoist. For example, the computer system can direct a track-based path system to establish a path along which the first moving carrier unit can move to reach the first container.The first container may be located at different levels of the sorting system, and the computer system can cause the first movable carrier unit to follow the path and / or take a lifting device to the appropriate level to reach the first container.

[0041] In optional block 460, it can be specified that the first container holds the items associated with the first order identifier. For example, the computer system can determine that the first container holds the items associated with the first order identifier. The first order identifier can be associated with one or more items. The computer system can determine that the one or more items are positioned in the first container. For example, all items in the order may have been arranged in the first container by one or more movable carrier units. For orders with multiple items, the computer system can determine that the order identifier is associated with a second item identifier and specify that the first container holds both the first and second items.The computer system can therefore track items being fed into and dispensed from the sorting system, as well as the contents of the respective containers, during the sorting process. In some embodiments, the carrier units for both item delivery and removal from the carrier can be identical, while in other embodiments, the carrier units for item delivery and removal from the carrier can be different. For example, carrier units used for removal from the carrier can have additional or different hardware than carrier units used for delivering items or packages to containers.

[0042] With the optional Block 460, a second moving carrier unit can be instructed to retrieve the first container. For example, the computer system can instruct a second moving carrier unit to retrieve the first container. In some cases, the second moving carrier unit can be the same unit as the first moving carrier unit, while in other cases, the second moving carrier unit can be a different unit. To retrieve the first container, the moving carrier unit can move to the container niche containing the first container and retrieve it. For example, the moving carrier unit can pull the container out of the container niche, or the container niche can have hardware such as a tilting floor, an extendable arm, powered rollers, or other hardware to slide or position the container onto the moving carrier unit.

[0043] With the optional Block 480, the second moving carrier unit can be directed to deliver the first container to a full container discharge section of the sorting system. For example, the computer system can direct the second moving carrier unit to deliver the first container to a full container discharge section. Once the container contains all the items in an order, it can be determined to be full. In some cases, a full container may not be physically full. In other cases, a full container may be physically full. The full container discharge section of the sorting system can be a conveyor belt or another section of the sorting system to which containers leaving the sorting system can be directed. The outgoing containers can contain sorted items.After full containers have been removed from the sorting system, the container niche from which the full container was taken can be refilled with an empty container, which can then be assigned a different order ID. For example, the computer system can instruct a container lift to transport a container from an empty container access section to the first moving carrier unit. The empty container access section can be an access queue or a receiving area where empty containers can be fed into or guided into the sorting system.

[0044] In some embodiments, the computer system can determine, instead of determining that the first container contains the items associated with the first order identifier, or additionally, that the container is full. A full container can contain a specific, predetermined set of items or simply be physically full. The computer system can then instruct a mobile carrier unit to retrieve the second container after delivering the first item to the first container. For example, to improve efficiency during its same run through a container matrix, a mobile carrier unit can first deliver an item and then retrieve a full container for delivery to the outbound section.

[0045] Fig. 5 to Fig. Figure 6 shows schematic representations of a sorting system 500 with ramps according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Other embodiments may have additional or fewer components. The representation of Fig. 5 to Fig. Figure 6 may not be to scale and may not be shown to scale in relation to other figures. The sorting system used in Fig. 5 to Fig. As shown in section 6, the same sorting system can be used as the one described in relation to Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 discussed.

[0046] In Fig. 5. The sorting system 500 can comprise a container matrix 510, an infeed section 520, an outfeed section 530, an empty container infeed section 540, one or more tracks, and one or more movable carrier units 580. In the example shown, the sorting system can have a length of approximately seventy feet and a width of approximately eight feet.

[0047] The Container Matrix 510 can be a modular racking system with one or more vertically or horizontally spaced levels, some or all of which may have container niches. The Container Matrix 510 can accommodate containers such as carriers, collection bins, bags, or other receptacles used to hold sorted items, such as items corresponding to specific orders. The Container Matrix 510 can be an array of containers with removable and / or reconfigurable container configurations. The containers may have the same or different dimensions. The Container Matrix 510 can have one or more levels, such as a first level and a second level.The first level can have a first plurality of container niches designed to hold individual containers, and the second level can have a second plurality of container niches designed to hold individual containers. The first level can be an upper or a lower level with respect to the second level.

[0048] The infeed section 520 can be an entry point for items such as products or packages, which are fed into the sorting system 500 for sorting. The sorting system 500 can sort the incoming items into different containers in the container matrix 510. Items fed into the infeed section 520 can be retrieved by one or more of the moving carrier units 580 and conveyed into or arranged within specific containers. At the infeed section 520, an item can be identified, and a computer system can send instructions to the moving carrier unit 580 to retrieve the item and deliver it to a specific location. The computer system can manage the flow of the moving carrier units 580 through the sorting system 500 to improve efficiency and avoid collisions.The infeed section 520 can be set up to transport individual items into the sorting system 500.

[0049] The dispatch section 530 can be located where containers that are full or contain all items in an order are directed after sorting is complete. For example, containers ready for transport to another station or section of a fulfillment center can be retrieved from the container matrix 510 by one or more of the mobile transport units 580 and delivered to the dispatch section 530. The dispatch section 530 can be configured to transport full containers from the sorting system 500.

[0050] The empty container feed section 540 can be located where empty containers are fed into the sorting system 500. For example, when full or completed containers are taken from container niches in the container matrix 510, the container niches can be filled with empty containers. For example, one or more moving carrier units can retrieve an empty container from the empty container feed section 540 and deliver the empty container to an empty container niche. In some embodiments, the moving carrier unit can retrieve an empty container after delivering a completed container, for example, by moving backward or forward along a track. Although the feed section 520, the discharge section 530, and the empty container feed section 540 are located in Fig. Although the components shown in Figure 5 are arranged in a specific configuration, other arrangements can be used. For example, the empty container feed section 540 can be positioned on the opposite side of the infeed section 520 with respect to the outfeed section 530. The empty container feed section 540 can be configured to transport empty containers into the sorting system 500 or to feed empty containers into the sorting system 500. The infeed section 520, the outfeed section 530, and the empty container feed section 540 can optionally have conveyor belts and can be arranged side by side.

[0051] The sorting system 500 can have one or more tracks. The tracks can be used by the movable carrier units 580 for movement between the respective sections of the sorting system 500 and the container matrix 510. For example, the movable carrier unit 580 can move along a specific track or set of tracks to reach a first container and along a different set of tracks to reach a second container. Tracks can lead to different levels of the container matrix 540. Fig. The sorting system 500 can have a first track 550, a second track 552, a third track 554, and a fourth track 556. The tracks can be rails or other types of paths that guide the movable carrier units 580. The tracks can form an open or a closed loop. The movable carrier units 580 can move unidirectionally or bidirectionally along the tracks. For example, the movable carrier units 580 can move counterclockwise along the tracks. The tracks can be arranged on different planes. For example, the first track 550 can be arranged on a first plane, the second track 552 on a second plane, the third track 554 on a third plane, and the fourth track 556 on a fourth plane.

[0052] The tracks and / or the sorting system 500 can have one or more ramps leading to different levels of the container matrix 510. The ramps can be used by the movable carrier units 580 to access the different levels of the container matrix 510 and the containers located on those levels. For example, a first ramp 560 can lead from the fourth track 556 to the third track 554. A second ramp 562 can lead from the fourth track 556 to the second track 552. A third ramp 564 can lead from the fourth track 556 to the first track 550, and so on. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth track 556 can therefore be used to access the other tracks of the sorting system 500.

[0053] The fourth track 556 can serve as a queuing track, which can be a track on which unused movable carrier units are lined up while the units wait for instructions to retrieve or deliver items or containers, or it can be used by movable carrier units to move between different tracks and / or levels of the container matrix 510. For example, the movable carrier unit 580 can reach the third track 554 using the first ramp 560, or reach the second track 552 using the second ramp 562, and so on. The movable carrier units 580 can therefore be configured to move via the queuing track, or the fourth track 556 in the representation of Fig. 5 to move between the raceways. The auger track can form a closed loop that passes through the container matrix 510.

[0054] For movement between trackways or trackway components (e.g., ramps, etc.), the sorting system 500 can have any number of switches 570 or other mechanisms for redirecting movable carrier units 580 in a specific direction or onto a specific track. The operation or setting of the switches can be controlled by the same computer system or controller that controls the operation of the movable carrier units 580, or by a different computer system. For example, a first switch 572 can be used to redirect movable carrier units 580 from the fourth track 556 to the third ramp 564, a second switch 574 can be used to redirect movable carrier units 580 from the fourth track 556 to the second ramp 562, and so on. Switches can be used to redirect movable carrier units 580 from ramps and back onto the fourth track 556.

[0055] The movable carrier units 580 can individually have one or more conveyor belts, such as cross conveyors or other mechanical components, and can be configured to move along the respective tracks of the sorting system 500. The movable carrier units 580 can be configured to perform various functions, such as retrieving items, depositing items into containers at different levels of the container matrix 510, retrieving full containers from container niches, placing empty containers into container niches, and other functions. The movable carrier units 580 can be controlled by one or more computer systems or controllers. The movable carrier units 580 can have at least two side walls on opposite sides of the movable carrier unit. The side walls can be used to secure a load.Some embodiments may not have side walls. Some embodiments may have one or more doors that can be opened or closed. For example, the movable support unit may have a first door arranged transversely to the at least two side walls, the movable support unit being configured to open and / or close the first door automatically. In some cases, when in an open position, the first door may form a slide that can be angled toward a container on a lower level. In some cases, the movable support unit may have a second door arranged opposite to the first door, the movable support unit being configured to open and / or close the second door automatically.Movable carrier units that have multiple side walls and / or doors that serve as side walls can be used to secure various types of loads, such as round balls or objects that may remain trapped between the side walls during movement.

[0056] The movable carrier units 580 can move along the track system of the sorting system 500 with fully open, partially enclosed, or fully enclosed surfaces. For example, the movable carrier units 580 can have one or more side walls to secure loads. Individual tracks along which the movable carrier units 580 can move can be arranged in open or closed loops of the sorting system 500, allowing the movable carrier units 580 to be circulated within the system and / or moved to a holding area (e.g., the queuing track, etc.). Based on the throughput required by the sorting system 500, as well as any available floor space limitations, the tracks can also be stacked vertically or horizontally.In some embodiments, the raceways may include deflection elements and / or mechanisms, such as switches 570, which allow individual movable carrier units 580 to be directed to different raceways as well as different vertical heights. As a result, the sorting system can provide a flexible raceway layout that may include bypass loops, deflection loops, etc., and consequently has the ability to align movable carrier units 580 and adapt systems with varying loads on the sorting system 500 based on demand and / or any bottlenecks that may arise.

[0057] In some embodiments, the movable support units 580 and the raceways can be used in multiple layers / levels in conjunction with a modular racking system with high storage density, or the container matrix 510, which is used to receive, hold and / or deliver different items, as at least in Fig. Figure 5 illustrates this. The movable carrier units 580 can be universal and can accommodate loads with different form factors (e.g., individual items, full and empty carriers, boxes, etc.). The load can be arranged in an open-topped, box-like enclosure with two fixed walls and optionally two movable walls that allow for loading and unloading. The optional movable walls of the enclosure of the movable carrier units 580 can be actuated mechanically by the movable carrier units 580 themselves or by one or more components on the track or modular racking system. The movable carrier units 580 can be configured to move using various drive mechanisms (e.g., conveyors, linear induction motors, drive motors, drive rollers, etc.).

[0058] The movable carrier units 580 can, for example, have an article handling system on their upper surface, such as a driven belt that can move in one or more directions, including directions different from the direction of movement of the movable carrier unit 580, tilting platforms, or units, etc. The article handling system can be configured to move articles from the carrier and into a container (e.g., carrying devices, bags, boxes, etc.). The containers can be held within one or more cells of the modular storage racks. A quick-change interface can be provided to allow different article handling technologies to be attached to the individual movable carrier units 580.The modular racking system can incorporate detection and design elements to ensure that each load is correctly placed, held, and either returned to the movable carrier units 580 or to an alternative retrieval option for delivery. The modularity of the racking system can include individual cells for holding items, a column or row of cells that can be moved individually, or a bank of columns or rows of cells that can be moved as a single unit.

[0059] In Fig. Figure 6 illustrates the operation of the sorting system 500 in different states. In a first state 600, the sorting system 500 can be in a neutral state, in which movable carrier units deliver items to containers in the container matrix. In a second state 610, empty movable carrier units 620 can leave the container matrix and be returned to the infeed section of the sorting system. In a third state 630, as the movable carrier units approach the infeed section, the empty movable carrier units can be lined up in a queue 640 to manage the flow and traffic through the computer system. As the various movable carrier units gather from different ramps on the queue track, the movement of each individual movable carrier unit can be controlled to avoid collisions.In some embodiments, the movable carrier units can automatically perform certain movements without instruction from a computer system. Although the illustrated states appear to show that all movable carrier units complete a single task and return to the insertion section at the same time, it is understood that different movable carrier units may be at different stages of completing a task at any given time, and that movable carrier units can continuously perform tasks without waiting for other movable carrier units to perform or complete tasks.

[0060] Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a schematic and perspective view of a container matrix 700 with slides according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Other embodiments may have additional or fewer components. The representation of Fig. Figure 7 may not be to scale and may not be shown to scale in relation to other figures. The container matrix 700, which is shown in Fig. As shown in section 7, the same container matrix as that shown with reference to Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6 discussed.

[0061] Movable carrier units 710 can move along rails or tracks through the container matrix 700 to deposit items, retrieve full containers, and so on. The container matrix 700 can have a number of chutes 720. The chutes 720 can be used to guide items into specific containers 730. The containers 730 can be located in container niches and can be removed from the niches when full or complete. For example, the container niches can have one or more extendable arms, drive rollers, conveyor belts, or other components configured to push or move containers from a container niche onto the movable carrier units 710. In some cases, movable carrier units can be configured to pull or retrieve containers from the container niches.

[0062] As shown in schematic view 750, the movable carrier units 710 may have a carrier section 760 coupled to a shuttle section 762. The shuttle section 762 can cause the movable carrier unit 710 to move along the track 740 and may have one or more drive motors. The carrier section 760 may be detachable and may have rollers, belts, side walls, and / or other components for securing a load 770 and for moving the load 770 to and from containers or other locations. In some cases, the containers may be angled away from the chute so that when the load 770 is dropped down the chute, it slides to a far end of the container. Such angling may reduce the likelihood of items accumulating in the container near the end of the chute.

[0063] In the schematic representation 750, a movable carrier unit in a top level of the container matrix 700 can be configured to release the load 770 down a slide 780 into a container 790 located in a level below the movable carrier unit. A movable carrier unit in a middle level of the container matrix 700 can be configured to release its load either down a slide to a container in a lower level or horizontally to a container in the same level. A movable carrier in a lower level 792 of the container matrix 700 can be configured to release its load horizontally to a container in the same level.Accordingly, movable carrier units in the top level of the container matrix 700 can only carry items and no containers as cargo, movable carrier units in the middle level of the container matrix 700 can carry both items and containers as cargo, and movable carriers in the bottom level of the container matrix 700 can only carry containers and no items as cargo. The slide-based container matrix of . Fig. 7 can be used in any sorting system, such as the one based on Fig. 5 to Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 to Fig. As described in section 9, it will be recorded.

[0064] Fig. 8 to Fig. Figure 9 shows schematic representations of a sorting system 800 with a lifting mechanism according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Other embodiments may have additional or fewer components. The representation of Fig. Figure 8 may not be to scale and may not be shown to scale in relation to other figures. The 800 sorting system, which is in Fig. As shown in section 8, the same sorting system as that referred to in section 8 can be used. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 discussed.

[0065] In the embodiment that is in Fig. 8 to Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the movable carrier units can be designed to move along a specific track and, in some cases, cannot move between levels. Accordingly, the footprint of the Sorting System 800 can be reduced.

[0066] In Fig. The sorting system 800 may have a feed section 830, which may be a conveyor belt, a set of rollers, or another component configured to supply items such as products or containers 820 to the sorting system 800. The sorting system 800 may have one or more lifting devices that can be used to move containers 820 to different levels of the sorting system 800. For example, the sorting system 800 may have a container lifting device 840 that may be configured to move vertically between different tracks of the sorting system 800, such as a first track 870, a second track 872, a third track 874, and so on. The container lifting device 840 may move along a chute 860. The container lifting device 840 may have motorized rollers or belts that can be used to move the containers 820.The container lifting device 840 can be configured to deliver empty containers or items to the moving carrier units and / or to receive full containers from the moving carrier units.

[0067] As shown in a second state 810, a movable support unit 850 can move to a position to retrieve the container 820 from the container lift 840 when the container lift 840 lifts the container 820 onto the first level 870. The movable support unit 850 can move the container 820 to a container niche 880 located in the same plane as the movable support unit 850.

[0068] Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic representation of a top view of the sorting system 800. Fig. 9. An incoming container 920 can be guided along a feed section 910 and directed towards a container lifter of the sorting system. The container lifter can raise the container 920 to the designated level where the corresponding container niche, in which the container 920 is to be placed, is located. When the container 920 is in the appropriate level, a movable carrier unit 930 can move along a track 940 and receive the container 920. The movable carrier unit 930 can be configured to move bidirectionally along the track 940. In some cases, the movable carrier unit 930 may be restricted to the track 940 and not configured to move to other levels of the sorting system.The movable carrier unit 930 can be configured to move loads in multiple directions, such as into container niches 950 and 960 on opposite sides or container niches 970 and 980 on opposite sides, thereby increasing the total number of containers and container niches that can be served by the movable carrier units 930 without a dramatic increase in the footprint. In some cases, the container niches 960 and 980 can have hardware for pushing containers into or out of the respective niches. When containers are full, they can be retrieved and delivered to another container lift or to the same container lift and pushed onto a discharge section 990 of the sorting system. The container niches can be configured to push containers onto movable carrier units 930 using various mechanical means, as shown in [reference to relevant diagram]. Fig. 9 is represented by arrows.

[0069] Fig. 10 to Fig. Figures 11 are schematic representations of a sorting system with a lifting mechanism according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Other embodiments may have additional or fewer components. The representation of Fig. 10 to Fig. Figure 11 may not be to scale and may not be shown to scale in relation to other figures. The sorting system used in Fig. 10 to Fig. As shown in 11, the same sorting system as that referred to in Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 discussed.

[0070] In Fig. Figure 10 shows a sorting system 1000 in a top view. Infeed conveyors 1010 can be used to feed or direct items, packages, or other objects into the sorting system 1000 for sorting into containers. Items introduced at the infeed conveyors 1010 can be transported to a lifting system 1030 using one or more movable carrier units 1020. In some embodiments, the movable carrier units 1020 can be lined up on a conveyor belt arranged below the infeed conveyors 1010 so that items can be dropped from the infeed conveyors 1010 into the movable carrier units 1020. At the lifting system 1030, the movable carrier units 1020 can be raised or lowered to the appropriate level where the container, as the destination for the load in the movable carrier unit, is located.The containers can be arranged in container niches within a container matrix. Completed or full containers can be dispatched from the sorting system 1000 using outgoing conveyors 1040. Although a specific number of incoming conveyors 1010 and outgoing conveyors 1040 are shown, any number can be used. More than one lifting system 1030 can be included.

[0071] Fig. Figure 11 represents a sorting system 1100 in a perspective view. The sorting system 1100 can be the same sorting system 1000 as the one in Fig. 10 are depicted. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the incoming conveyors 1110 can be positioned relatively higher than the moving carrier units, and a lifting system 1120 can be used to raise the moving carrier units in which items are arranged. A container matrix 1130 can have containers in which items can be deposited from the moving carrier units. Outgoing conveying devices 1140 can be directed away from the sorting system 1100 along rollers or conveyors.

[0072] Fig. Figure 12 is a schematic representation of a perspective view of a container niche 1200 in a container matrix according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The container niche 1200 can be located in any of the container matrices of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10 to Fig. It should contain 11. Fig. The container niche 1200 can contain a container 1210, which can be positioned in the container niche 1200 in a removable manner. The container can be angled from an entry surface of the container niche, for example at an angle of approximately 10 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, and so on, to prevent the accumulation of items on one side of the container 1210. A container lifter 1220 can be arranged in the container niche 1200. The container lifter 1220 can be configured to lift the container 1210 from the angled position into a horizontal position. The container lifter 1220 can be used to lift one or more containers, such as the container 1210 and one or more adjacent containers.

[0073] Fig. Figure 13 is a schematic representation of a sorting system 1300 in an expanded arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The sorting system 1300 can be the same sorting system as the one described in Figure 13. Fig. 10 to Fig. 11 are depicted. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the sorting system can, for example, be pulled apart or separated into a disassembled arrangement 1310 for maintenance purposes. The disassembled arrangement 1310 can be separated by separating the components of the sorting system 1300 using rails such as those shown in Figure 13. Fig. The modules of the 1300 sorting system can be separated by sliding them along the rails, as shown in Figure 13. When returned to its assembled position, the 1300 sorting system requires a relatively smaller footprint.

[0074] The preceding text may have described that one or more activities of the procedures, processes, or use cases of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. 13. performed by a user device, or more precisely, one or more program modules, applications, or the like running on a device. It should be understood, however, that any of the activities of the procedures, processes, or use cases of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. 13. may be performed at least in part in a distributed manner by one or more devices, or more precisely, by one or more program modules, applications, or the like running on such devices. Furthermore, it should be understood that the processing performed in response to the execution of computer-executable instructions provided as part of an application, program module, or the like may be described interchangeably in this document as being performed by the application or program module itself, or by a device on which the application, program module, or the like is running. Although the activities of the procedures, processes, or use cases of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. 13. While the activities described in the context of the illustrated devices may be described, it should be understood that these activities can be implemented in conjunction with numerous other device configurations.

[0075] The activities involved in the illustrated procedures, processes, and use cases of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. The activities described and illustrated in Section 13 can be performed in any suitable sequence, such as the sequence shown, in various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. Furthermore, in certain exemplary embodiments, at least some of the activities can be performed in parallel. In addition, in certain exemplary embodiments, fewer, more, or different activities than those described in Section 13 can be performed. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. The 13 steps shown will be carried out.

[0076] Although certain embodiments of the disclosure have been described, a person skilled in the art will recognize that numerous other variations and alternative embodiments are within the scope of the disclosure. For example, any functionality and / or any processing capabilities described in relation to a particular device or component can be performed by any other device or component. And although various exemplary implementations and architectures consistent with embodiments of the disclosure have been described, a person skilled in the art will understand that numerous other variations of the exemplary implementations and architectures described in this document are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0077] Certain aspects of the disclosure are described above with reference to block and flow diagrams of systems, processes, devices, and / or computer program products according to exemplary embodiments. It will be understood that one or more blocks of the block and flow diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the block and flow diagrams, can each be implemented by executing computer-executable program instructions. Likewise, some blocks of the block and flow diagrams need not necessarily be executed in the sequence shown, or, according to some embodiments, need not necessarily be executed at all. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, additional components and / or activities may be present besides those depicted in blocks of the block and / or flow diagrams.

[0078] Accordingly, blocks in block diagrams and flowcharts support combinations of means for performing specific functions, combinations of elements or steps for performing specific functions, and program instruction means for performing specific functions. It will also be understood that each block in block diagrams and flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in block diagrams and flowcharts, can be implemented by purpose-built, hardware-based computer systems that perform the specific functions, elements, or steps, or by combinations of purpose-built hardware and computer instructions. An exemplary computer architecture

[0079] Fig. Figure 14 is a schematic block diagram of one or more exemplary computer systems 1400 according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. The computer system 1400 may (the computer systems 1400 may) comprise any suitable computing device, including, but not limited to, a server system, a speech interaction system, a mobile device such as a smartphone, a tablet, an e-reader, a portable device, or the like; a desktop computer; a laptop computer; a content streaming device; or the like. The computer system 1400 may (the computer systems 1400 may) comprise an exemplary device configuration for controlling the computer system(s) of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. 13 correspond.

[0080] The Computer System 1400 (the Computer Systems 1400) can be configured to communicate with one or more servers, user devices, or the like. The Computer System 1400 (the Computer Systems 1400) can be configured to control sorting system components.

[0081] The Computer System 1400 (Computer Systems 1400) can be configured to communicate over one or more networks. This network (these networks) can include, but are not limited to, one or more different types of communication networks, such as, for example, public networks (e.g., the Internet), private networks (e.g., frame relay networks), wireless networks, cellular networks, telephone networks (e.g., a public telephone network), or any other suitable private or public packet-switched or circuit-switched networks. Furthermore, this network (these networks) can have any suitable associated communication domain and can include, for example, global networks (e.g., the Internet), area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), or personal area networks (PANs).Furthermore, this network (these networks) may include communication links and associated networking devices (e.g., link-layer switches, routers, etc.) for transmitting network traffic over any suitable type of medium, including but not limited to coaxial cable, twisted twin cable (e.g., twisted twin copper cable), optical fiber, hybrid fiber-coaxial medium (HFC medium), microwave medium, radio frequency communication medium, satellite communication medium, or any combination thereof.

[0082] In an exemplary configuration, the computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) may include one or more processor(s) 1402, one or more storage devices 1404 (also referred to in this document as memory 1404), one or more input / output interface(s) (I / O interfaces) 1406, one or more network interface(s) 1408, one or more sensor(s) 1410, one or more transceivers 1412, one or more optional display(s) 1414, one or more optional microphone(s) 1416, and a data storage device 1420. The computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) may also include one or more bus(s) 1418 that functionally couple the various components of the computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400).The computer system 1400 may (the computer systems 1400 may) further comprise one or more antennas 1430, which may include, without limitation, a cellular antenna for transmitting or receiving signals to / from a cellular network infrastructure, an antenna for transmitting or receiving WiFi signals to / from an access point (AP), a global navigation satellite antenna (GNSS antenna) for receiving GNSS signals from a GNSS satellite, a Bluetooth antenna for transmitting or receiving Bluetooth signals, a near-field communication antenna (NFC antenna) for transmitting or receiving NFC signals, and so on. These various components are described in more detail below.

[0083] Bus 1418 can (buses 1418 can) comprise at least one of a system bus, a memory bus, an address bus, or a message bus, and can (can) permit the exchange of information (e.g., data (including computer-executable code), signaling, etc.) between different components of Computer System 1400 (computer systems 1400). Bus 1418 can (buses 1418 can), without limitation, comprise a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and so on.The 1418 bus can (the 1418 buses can) be connected to any suitable bus architecture, including but not limited to an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA), a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA), an Enhanced ISA (EISA), a Video Electronics Standard Association Architecture (VESA architecture), an Accelerated Graphics Port Architecture (AGP architecture), a Peripheral Component Interconnect Architecture (PCI architecture), a PCI Express architecture, a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association Architecture (PCMCIA architecture), a Universal Serial Bus Architecture (USB architecture), and so on.

[0084] The memory 1404 of the Computer System 1400 (or Computer Systems 1400) can include volatile memory (memory that retains its state when powered on), such as random-access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory (memory that retains its state even when powered off), such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, ferroelectric RAM (FRAM), and so on. Persistent data storage, as used here, can include non-volatile memory. In certain exemplary embodiments, volatile memory can provide faster read / write access than non-volatile memory. However, in various other exemplary embodiments, certain types of non-volatile memory (e.g., FRAM) can provide faster read / write access than certain types of volatile memory.

[0085] In various implementations, the 1404 memory can incorporate several different types of memory, such as various types of static random-access memory (SRAM), various types of dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), various types of immutable ROMs, and / or writable types of ROMs such as electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROMs), flash memory, and so on. The 1404 memory can include main memory as well as various forms of cache memory, such as instruction cache(s), data cache(s), translation buffers (TLBs), and so on. Furthermore, the cache memory, such as a data cache, can be a multi-level cache organized as a hierarchy of one or more cache levels (L1, L2, etc.).

[0086] The Data Storage 1420 can include removable and / or non-removable storage, including but not limited to magnetic storage, optical disk storage, and / or tape storage. The Data Storage 1420 can provide non-volatile storage of computer-executable instructions and other data. The Storage 1404 and the Data Storage 1420, whether removable or non-removable, are examples of computer-readable storage media (CRSM) as used herein.

[0087] The data storage 1420 can store computer-executable code, instructions, or the like, which can be loaded into memory 1404 and executed by processor(s) 1402 to perform or initiate various operations. The data storage 1420 can also store data that can be copied to memory 1404 for use by processor(s) 1402 during the execution of the computer-executable instructions. Furthermore, output data generated as a result of the execution of the computer-executable instructions by processor(s) 1402 can initially be stored in memory 1404 and ultimately copied to data storage 1420 for non-volatile storage.

[0088] More specifically, the data store 1420 can store one or more operating systems (OS) 1422; one or more database management systems (DBMS) 1424; and one or more program module(s), applications, machines, computer executable code, scripts, or the like. Some or all of these modules can be submodules. Any of the components represented as stored in the data store 1420 can comprise any combination of software, firmware, and / or hardware. The software and / or firmware can contain computer executable code, instructions, or the like, which can be loaded into the memory 1404 for execution by one or more of the processors. Any of the components represented as stored in the data store 1420 can support the functionality associated with corresponding components mentioned earlier in this disclosure.

[0089] The data store 1420 can also store various types of data used by the components of the computer system(s) 1400. Any data stored in the data store 1420 can be loaded into memory 1404 for use by the processor(s) 1402 when computer executable code is executed. Furthermore, any data represented as stored in the data store 1420 can potentially be stored in one or more data stores and accessed via the DBVS 1424 and loaded into memory 1404 for use by the processor(s) 1402 when computer executable code is executed. The data store can (can) contain databases (e.g., relational, object-oriented, etc.).), file systems, simple files, distributed data storage where data is stored on more than one node of a computer network, peer-to-peer network data storage, or the like, but is not limited to these.

[0090] The processor 1402 (the processors 1402) can be configured to access the memory 1404 and execute the computer-executable instructions loaded therein. For example, the processor 1402 (the processors 1402) can be configured to execute the computer-executable instructions of the various program modules, applications, machines, or the like of the computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) in order to perform or facilitate various activities to be carried out in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The processor 1402 (the processors 1402) can comprise any suitable processing unit capable of receiving data as input, processing the input data according to stored computer-executable instructions, and generating output data.The 1402 processor (the 1402 processors) can include any suitable processing unit, including but not limited to a central processing unit, a microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computer (RISC) microprocessor, a complex instruction set computer (CISC) microprocessor, a microcontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), a digital signal processor (DSP), and so forth. Furthermore, the 1402 processor (the 1402 processors) can include any suitable microarchitecture design, incorporating any number of structural components such as, for example, registers, multiplexers, arithmetic logic units, cache controllers for controlling read / write operations with respect to the cache memory, branch predictors, or the like.The microarchitecture design of the 1402 processor (or processors) is capable of supporting any one from a variety of instruction sets.

[0091] With reference to other exemplary components, which are represented as being stored in data memory 1420, OS 1422 can be loaded from data memory 1420 into memory 1404 and provide an interface between other application software running on computer system 1400 (computer systems 1400) and the hardware resources of computer system 1400 (computer systems 1400). More specifically, OS 1422 can contain a set of computer-executable instructions for managing the hardware resources of computer system 1400 (computer systems 1400) and for providing shared services to other application programs (e.g., managing memory allocation among different application programs). In certain exemplary embodiments, OS 1422 can control the execution of the other program module (other program modules).OS 1422 can encompass any operating system currently known or that may be developed in the future, such as, but without limitation, any server operating system, any mainframe operating system, or any other proprietary or non-proprietary operating system.

[0092] The DBVS 1424 can be loaded into memory 1404 and support functionality for accessing, retrieving, storing, and / or manipulating data stored in memory 1404 and / or data stored in data store 1420. The DBVS 1424 can use any of a variety of database models (e.g., a relational model, an object model, etc.) and support any of a variety of query languages. The DBVS 1424 can access data represented in one or more data schemas and stored in any suitable data repository, including but not limited to databases (e.g., relational, object-oriented, etc.), file systems, individual files, distributed data stores where data is stored on more than one node of a computer network, peer-to-peer data stores, or the like.In those exemplary embodiments where the computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) is a mobile device, the DMVS 1424 can be any suitable lightweight DBVS optimized for execution on a mobile device.

[0093] With further reference to other exemplary components of the Computer System 1400 (or Computer Systems 1400), the Input / Output Interface (I / O Interface) 1406 (or I / O Interfaces 1406) can facilitate the receipt of input information by the Computer System 1400 (or Computer Systems 1400) from one or more I / O devices, as well as the output of information from the Computer System 1400 (or Computer Systems 1400) to the one or more I / O devices. The I / O devices can comprise any of a variety of components, such as a display or screen with a touch surface or touchscreen; an audio output device for producing sound, such as a loudspeaker; an audio recording device, such as a microphone; an image and / or video recording device, such as a camera; a haptic unit, and so forth.Any one of these components can be integrated into the Computer System 1400 (or Computer Systems 1400) or be separate from it. The I / O devices can also include, for example, any number of peripheral devices such as data storage devices, printing devices, and so on.

[0094] The I / O interface 1406 may also include an interface for connecting an external peripheral device, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB), FireWire, Thunderbolt, Ethernet port, or another connection protocol capable of connecting to one or more networks. The I / O interface 1406 may also include a connection to one or more of the antennas 1430 for connecting to one or more networks via a wireless local area network (WLAN) (such as WiFi), Bluetooth, ZigBee, and / or a wireless network capable of communicating with a wireless communications network such as a Long-Term Evolution (LTE) network, a WiMAX network, a 3G network, a ZigBee network, etc.

[0095] The computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) may further have one or more network interface(s) 1408 through which the computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) may communicate with any one of a variety of other systems, platforms, networks, devices, and so forth. The network interface 1408 may (the network interfaces 1408) enable communication with, for example, one or more wireless routers, one or more host servers, one or more web servers, and the like over one or more networks.

[0096] The antenna 1430 (the antennas 1430 can) have any type of antenna, depending on, for example, the communication protocols used to send or receive signals via the antenna(s) 1430. Non-restrictive examples of suitable antennas include directional antennas, non-directional antennas, dipole antennas, folded dipole antennas, patch antennas, multiple-input / multi-output (MIMO) antennas, or the like. The antenna 1430 (the antennas 1430 can) can be communicatively coupled to one or more transceivers 1412 or radio components to which signals can be sent or from which signals can be received.

[0097] As previously described, the antenna 1430 (or antennas 1430) can have a cellular antenna configured to transmit or receive signals according to established standards and protocols such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), 3G standards (e.g. Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (SW-CDMA), CDMA2000, etc.), 4G standards (e.g. Long-Term Evolution (LTE, WiMAX, etc.), direct satellite communications, or the like).

[0098] The antenna 1430 (the antennas 1430 may) also or alternatively include a WiFi antenna configured to transmit or receive signals according to established standards and protocols such as the IEEE 802.11 family of standards, including over 2.4 GHz channels (e.g., 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n), 5 GHz channels (e.g., 802.11m, 802.11ac), or 60 GHz channels (e.g., 802.11ad). In alternative exemplary embodiments, the antenna 1430 (the antennas 1430 may) be configured to transmit or receive radio frequency signals within any suitable frequency range that forms part of the unlicensed portion of the radio spectrum.

[0099] Antenna 1430 may (antennas 1430 may) also or alternatively include a GNSS antenna configured to receive signals carrying time-position information from three or more GNSS satellites in order to triangulate a position. Such a GNSS antenna may be configured to receive GNSS signals from any current or planned GNSS system, such as, for example, the Global Positioning System (GPS), the GLONASS system, the Compass navigation system, the Galileo system, or the Indian Regional Navigation System.

[0100] The transceiver 1412 may (the transceivers 1412 may) include any radio component (any radio components) to transmit or receive, in cooperation with the antenna 1430 (antennas 1430), radio frequency signals (FF signals) in the bandwidth and / or on the channels corresponding to the communication protocols used by the computer system 1400 (computer systems 1400) to communicate with other devices. The transceiver 1412 may (the transceivers 1412 may) include hardware, software, and / or firmware to transmit, possibly in cooperation with any antenna 1430 (antennas 1430), communication signals according to any of the communication protocols discussed above, including, but not limited to, one or more specified by IEEE 802.The Transceiver 1412 may modulate, transmit, or receive 11 standardized WiFi and / or WiFi Direct protocols, one or more non-WiFi protocols, or one or more cellular communication protocols or standards. The Transceiver 1412 may also include hardware, firmware, or software for receiving GNSS signals. The Transceiver 1412 may include any known receiver and any known baseband suitable for communication using the communication protocols employed by the Computer System 1400. The Transceiver 1412 may also include a low-noise amplifier (LNA), additional signal amplifiers, an analog-to-digital converter (A / D converter), one or more buffers, a digital baseband, or the like.

[0101] The 1410 sensor / sensor interface can (the 1410 sensors / sensor interfaces can) have or be capable of connecting to any type of sensing device, such as inertial sensors, force sensors, heat sensors, photocells, and so on. Examples of inertial sensors include accelerometers (e.g., MEMS-based accelerometers), gyroscopes, and so on.

[0102] The optional display 1414 can be configured to emit light and / or play back content. The optional speaker / microphone 1416 can be any device configured to receive analog audio input or voice data.

[0103] It should be understood that the program module (or modules), the applications, the computer-executable instructions, the code, or the like, which are in Fig. The information presented in section 14, as stored in data storage 1420, is merely exemplary and not exhaustive, and the processing described as being supported by any given module can alternatively be distributed across multiple modules or performed by a different module. Furthermore, various program modules, scripts, plug-ins, application programming interfaces (APIs), or any other suitable computer executable code, which are included locally in computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) and / or in other computing device(s) accessible via one or more networks, may be provided to support the functionality provided by the program module(s), applications, or computer executable code contained in the computer system 1400(s). Fig. 14 are shown, is provided and / or to support additional or alternative functionality. Furthermore, the functionality can be modularized differently, so that the processing, which is considered collected by the in Fig. The collection of program modules described in section 14, which is supported by a smaller or larger number of modules, can be performed, or the functionality described as being supported by any given specific module can be supported, at least in part, by another module. Furthermore, a program module that supports the functionality described herein can form part of one or more applications that are executable across any number of systems or devices in accordance with any suitable computing model, such as, for example, a client-server model, a peer-to-peer model, and so on. In addition, any of the functions described in the list can be supported by any of the functions described herein. Fig. The 14 program modules shown support the described functionalities, which can be implemented at least partially in hardware and / or firmware across any number of devices.

[0104] It should further be understood that the computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) may include alternative and / or additional hardware, software, or firmware components besides those described or illustrated, without deviating from the scope of the disclosure. More precisely, it should be understood that software, firmware, or hardware components shown to form part of the computer system 1400 (the computer systems 1400) are merely examples, and that in different embodiments, some components may be omitted or additional components may be provided.Although various exemplary program modules have been presented and described as software module(s) stored in data memory 1420, it should be understood that the functionality described as supported by the program module(s) can be enabled by any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. It should also be understood that each of the modules described above may represent a logical division of the supported functionality in different embodiments. This logical division is presented for the sake of clarity and is not intended to be representative of the architecture of the software, hardware, and / or firmware used to implement the functionality.Accordingly, it should be understood that functionality described as being provided by a specific module may, in different embodiments, be provided at least partially by one or more other modules. Furthermore, one or more of the depicted modules may be absent in certain embodiments, while in other embodiments, an additional, not depicted module may be present and may support at least part of the described functionality and / or an additional functionality. Moreover, although a specific module may be depicted and described as a submodule of another module, in certain embodiments, this module may be provided as an independent module or as a submodule of another module (or of other modules).

[0105] One or more activities of the procedures, processes and use cases of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. 13 can be achieved by a device with the in Fig. The exemplary setup shown in Figure 14, or more precisely, the activities described, are carried out by one or more machines, one or more program modules, one or more applications, or the like, which can be performed on such a device. It should be understood, however, that these activities can be implemented in conjunction with numerous other device configurations.

[0106] The activities involved in the exemplary procedures and processes of any one of Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. The activities described and illustrated in Section 13 can be carried out or performed in any suitable sequence in various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as desired. Furthermore, in certain exemplary embodiments, at least some of the activities can be performed in parallel. In addition, in certain exemplary embodiments, fewer, more, or different activities than those described in Section 13 can be performed. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. The 13 depicted will be carried out.

[0107] Although certain embodiments of the disclosure have been described, a person skilled in the art will understand that numerous other variations and alternative embodiments are within the scope of the disclosure. For example, any of the functionalities and / or processing capabilities described with reference to a particular device or component can be performed by any other device or component. And while various exemplary implementations and architectures consistent with embodiments of the disclosure have been described, a person skilled in the art will understand that numerous other variations of the exemplary implementations and architectures described in this document are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0108] Certain aspects of the disclosure have been described above with reference to block and flow diagrams of systems, processes, devices, and / or computer program products according to exemplary embodiments. It is understood that one or more blocks of the block and flow diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the block and flow diagrams, can each be implemented by executing computer-executable program instructions. Likewise, according to some embodiments, some blocks of the block and flow diagrams may not necessarily be executed in the sequence shown, or may not be executed at all. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, additional components and / or activities may be present besides those depicted in blocks of the block and / or flow diagrams.

[0109] Accordingly, blocks in block diagrams and flowcharts support combinations of means for performing specific functions, combinations of elements or steps for performing specific functions, and program instruction means for performing specific functions. It will also be understood that each block in block diagrams and flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in block diagrams and flowcharts, can be implemented by purpose-built, hardware-based computer systems that perform the specific functions, elements, or steps, or by combinations of purpose-built hardware and computer instructions.

[0110] One or more program modules, applications, or the like disclosed in this document may comprise one or more software components, including, for example, software objects, procedures, data structures, or the like. Each such software component may contain computer-executable instructions which, when executed, cause the performance of at least part of the functionality described in this document (e.g., one or more actions of the exemplary procedures described in this document).

[0111] A software component can be coded in any of a variety of programming languages. An example programming language might be a low-level language such as assembly language, which is associated with a specific hardware architecture and / or operating system platform. A software component containing assembly language may require conversion to executable machine code by an assembler before it can be executed by the hardware architecture and / or platform.

[0112] Another example of a programming language is a high-level programming language that is portable across multiple architectures. A software component containing instructions in a high-level programming language may require conversion to an intermediate representation by an interpreter or compiler before execution.

[0113] Other examples of programming languages ​​include, but are not limited to, a macro language, a shell or command language, a job control language, a scripting language, a database query or search language, or a reporting language. In one or more exemplary embodiments, a software component containing instructions in one of the above exemplary programming languages ​​can be executed directly by an operating system or another software component without first needing to be converted into another form.

[0114] A software component can be stored as a file or another data storage construct. Software components of a similar type or functionality can be stored together, for example, in a specific directory, folder, or library. Software components can be static (e.g., pre-built or fixed) or dynamic (e.g., created or modified at runtime).

[0115] Software components can call or be called by other software components through a wide variety of mechanisms. Called or calling software components may include other custom-developed application software, operating system functionality (e.g., device drivers, data storage programs (e.g., file management programs), other common programs or services, etc.), or third-party software components (e.g., middleware, encryption or other security software, database management software, file transfer or other network communication software, mathematical or statistical software, image processing software, and format translation software).

[0116] Software components associated with a particular solution or system can reside on and run through a single platform, or they can be distributed across multiple platforms. These multiple platforms can involve more than one hardware vendor, more than one underlying chip technology, or more than one operating system. Furthermore, software components associated with a particular solution or system may initially be written in one or more programming languages, but may call software components written in a different programming language.

[0117] Computer-executable program instructions can be loaded into a purpose-built computer or other specific machine, processor or other programmable data processing device to create a specific machine, so that the execution of the instructions on the computer, processor or other programmable data processing device will effect the performance of one or more functions or activities specified in the flowcharts.These computer program instructions can also be stored on a computer-readable storage medium (CRSM), which, when executed, can instruct a computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a specific manner so that the instructions stored on the computer-readable storage medium produce a manufactured item, including instructional means that implement one or more functions or activities specified in the flowcharts. The computer program instructions can also be loaded into a computer or other programmable data processing device to cause the execution of a series of operating elements or steps on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process.

[0118] Examples of CRSMs that may be present in any of the devices described in this document include, but are not limited to, programmable random-access memory (PRAM), SRAM, DRAM, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other storage technology, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital video disc (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store and access information. Combinations of any of the above are also included within the scope of CRSMs.Alternatively, computer-readable communication media (CRCS) can contain computer-readable instructions, program module(s), or other data transmitted in a data signal such as a carrier wave or other transmission. However, in the sense used herein, CRSMs do not include CRCMs.

[0119] Although embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological actions, it is understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described. Rather, the specific features and actions are disclosed as exemplary forms for implementing the embodiments. Unless expressly stated otherwise or understood differently in the context of use, conditional formulations such as, among others, "may" or "could" are generally intended to convey that certain embodiments may include certain features, elements, and / or steps, while other embodiments do not include them.Therefore, such conditional formulations should not be generally understood as an assumption that features, elements and / or steps are required for one or more embodiments in any case, or that one or more embodiments necessarily have logic to decide, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or steps are present or should be carried out in any particular embodiment.

[0120] Embodiments of the disclosure can be described with regard to one or more of the following: Embodiment 1 can comprise an article sorting system comprising a container matrix with a first container niche in a first level and a second container niche in a second level; a first container arranged in the first container niche, the first container being configured to hold articles associated with a first order; a second container arranged in the second container niche, the second container being configured to hold articles associated with a second order; an article insertion section at which a first article to be sorted by the article sorting system is located; a movable support unit configured to secure the article; a first track in the first level, the first movable support unit being configured to move along the first track;a second track in the second level, wherein the first movable carrier unit is configured to move along the second track; and comprising a control in communication with the first movable carrier unit, wherein the control unit is configured to determine that the item is associated with the first order; to cause the first movable carrier unit to move to the item delivery section; to cause the first movable carrier unit to retrieve the first item; and to cause the first movable carrier unit to deliver the first item to the first container using the first track.

[0121] Embodiment 2 may include embodiment 1 and further comprises a first ramp coupled to the infeed article section and the first raceway; and a second ramp coupled to the infeed article section and the second raceway; wherein the first movable carrier unit is configured to move along the first ramp to reach the first raceway and to move along the second ramp to reach the second raceway.

[0122] Embodiment 3 may comprise one of embodiments 1 or 2 and further comprises a container lifting device configured to move articles and containers between the first level and the second level; wherein the control is further configured to cause the container lifting device to receive a second container at an empty container inlet section, and to cause the first movable carrier to receive the second container from the container lifting device.

[0123] Embodiment 4 may comprise one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the control is further configured to determine that each of the items associated with the first order is in the first container; and to cause a second movable carrier unit to retrieve the first container; and to cause the second movable carrier unit to deliver the first container to an output section of the item sorting system.

[0124] Embodiment 5 may comprise a system comprising a container matrix having a first level and a second level, wherein the first level has a first plurality of container niches configured to receive individual containers, and the second level has a second plurality of container niches configured to receive individual containers; a first track arranged in the first level; a second track arranged in the second level; a first movable support unit comprising a conveyor belt, wherein the first movable support unit is configured to move along the first track and (i) deposit items into containers in the first level or the second level using the conveyor belt, and (ii) retrieve full containers from container niches using the conveyor belt;and includes a control system designed to control the operation of the first movable carrier unit.

[0125] Embodiment 6 may include embodiment 5 and further comprises a assembling track; a first ramp coupled to the assembling track and the first raceway, wherein the first movable support unit is configured to reach the first raceway using the first ramp; and a second ramp coupled to the assembling track and the second raceway, wherein the first movable support unit is configured to reach the second raceway using the second ramp; wherein the first movable support unit is configured to move along the assembling track between the first raceway and the second raceway.

[0126] Embodiment 7 can comprise one of embodiments 5 or 6, wherein the augmenting track forms a closed loop passing through the container matrix.

[0127] Embodiment 8 can comprise one of embodiments 5 to 7, wherein the first level is a lower level and the second level is an upper level, the system further comprising a slide arranged between the first track and a container in a container niche in the lower level; wherein articles arranged on the slide by movable carrier units on the second track are directed into the container.

[0128] Embodiment 9 may comprise one of embodiments 5 to 8, wherein each of the first plurality of container niches and the second plurality of container niches further comprises a lifting mechanism configured to set an angle of a container; and an extendable arm, drive rollers or a conveyor belt configured to move full containers from a container niche onto the first movable support unit.

[0129] Embodiment 10 may comprise one of embodiments 5 to 9 and further comprises a second movable support unit configured to move along the second raceway; wherein the first raceway and the second raceway each form closed loops, and wherein the first movable support unit is restricted to the first raceway and the second movable support unit is restricted to the second raceway.

[0130] Embodiment 11 can comprise one of embodiments 5 to 10, wherein the first movable support unit is configured to move bidirectionally along the first track.

[0131] Embodiment 12 may comprise one of embodiments 5 to 11 and further comprises a container lifting device configured to move vertically between the first track and the second track, wherein the container lifting device has motorized rollers; wherein the container lifting device is configured to deliver empty containers or articles to the first movable carrier unit or to receive full containers from the first movable carrier unit.

[0132] Embodiment 13 may comprise one of embodiments 5 to 12, wherein the first movable support unit further comprises at least two side walls on opposite sides of the first movable support unit; and a first door arranged transversely to the at least two side walls, wherein the first door in an open position forms a slide angled towards a container; wherein the first movable support unit is configured to automatically open and close the first door.

[0133] Embodiment 14 may comprise one of embodiments 5 to 13, wherein the first movable support unit further comprises a second door arranged opposite to the first door; wherein the first movable support unit is configured to automatically open and close the second door.

[0134] Embodiment 15 may comprise one of embodiments 5 to 14 and further comprises an infeed section configured to transport individual items into the system; and an outfeed section configured to transport full containers out of the system.

[0135] Embodiment 16 can comprise one of embodiments 5 to 15 and further comprises an empty container feed section configured to transport empty containers into the system; wherein the feed section, the discharge section and the empty container feed section have conveyor belts arranged side by side.

[0136] Embodiment 17 may include a system comprising a memory that stores computer-executable instructions; and one or more computer processors coupled to the memory and configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to determine a first item identifier of a first item at a feed section of a sorting system; to determine an order identifier associated with the first item identifier; to determine a first container associated with the order identifier; to cause a first movable carrier unit to fetch the first item; and to cause the first movable carrier unit to deliver the first item to the first container.

[0137] Embodiment 18 may include embodiment 17, wherein the one or more computer processors are further configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to determine that the order identifier is associated with a second item identifier of a second item; to determine that the first container contains the first item and the second item; to cause a second movable carrier unit to fetch the first container; and to cause the second movable carrier unit to deliver the first container to a discharge section for full containers.

[0138] Embodiment 19 may comprise one of embodiments 17 to 18, wherein the one or more computer processors are further configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to determine that a second container is full; to cause the first movable carrier unit to fetch the second container after it has delivered the first item to the first container.

[0139] Embodiment 20 may comprise one of embodiments 17 to 19, wherein the one or more computer processors are further configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to cause a container lifting device to move the first container from an empty container inlet section to the first movable support unit.

Claims

[1] system, having - a container matrix (510, 700, 1130) having a first level and a second level, the first level having a first plurality of container niches (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200) configured to hold individual containers (730, 820, 920, 1210), and the second level having a second plurality of container niches (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200) configured to hold individual containers (730, 820, 920, 1210); - a rack track (556); - a first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) arranged in the first level; - a first ramp (560, 562, 564) coupled to the assembly track (556) and the first running track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940); - a second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) arranged on the second level; - a second ramp (560, 562, 564) coupled to the assembly track (556) and the second running track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940); - a first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) having a conveyor belt, wherein the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) is configured to move along the first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and (i) deposit articles in containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) on the first level or the second level using the conveyor belt, and (ii) transfer full containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) of container niches (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200); and - a control system designed to control the operation of the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020), wherein - the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) furthermore - at least two side walls on opposite sides of the first movable support unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020); and - a first door arranged transversely to the at least two side walls, wherein the first door in an open position forms a slide angled towards a container (730, 820, 920, 1210); and - the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) is set up for this purpose, - to reach the first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) using the first ramp (560, 562, 564), - to reach the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) using the second ramp (560, 562, 564), - to move along the assembly track (556) between the first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940), and - to automatically open and close the first door. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the augment track (556) forms a closed loop passing through the container matrix (510, 700, 1130). [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first level is a lower level and the second level is an upper level, the system further comprising a slide (720) arranged between the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and a container (730, 820, 920, 1210) in a container niche (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200) in the lower level; wherein articles which are arranged by movable carrier units (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) on the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) on the slide (720) are directed into the container (730, 820, 920, 1210). [4] System according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the first plurality of container niches (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200) and the second plurality of container niches (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200) further - a lifting mechanism (1220) configured to adjust an angle of a container (730, 820, 920, 1210); and - an extendable arm, drive rollers or a conveyor belt, which is or are set up to move full containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) from a container niche (880, 950, 960, 970, 980, 1200) onto the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020), exhibits. [5] System according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a second movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) which is configured to move along the second raceway (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940); wherein the first raceway (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and the second raceway (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) each form closed loops. [6] System according to claim 5, wherein the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) is configured to move bidirectionally along the first raceway (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940). [7] System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a container lifting device (840) which is configured to move vertically between the first track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940) and the second track (550, 552, 554, 740, 870, 872, 874, 940), wherein the container lifting device (840) has motorized rollers; wherein the container lifting device (840) is configured to deliver empty containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) or articles to the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) or to receive full containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) from the first movable carrier unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020). [8] System according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first movable support unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) further comprises a second door which is arranged opposite to the first door; wherein the first movable support unit (580, 710, 850, 930, 1020) is configured to automatically open and close the second door. [9] System according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising - an insertion section (520, 540, 556, 830, 910) designed to transport individual items into the system; and - a discharge section (530, 990) designed to transport full containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) out of the system. [10] System according to claim 9, further comprising an empty container feed section (540) configured to transport empty containers (730, 820, 920, 1210) into the system; wherein the feed section (520, 540, 556, 830, 910), the discharge section (530, 990) and the empty container feed section (540) have conveyor belts arranged side by side.

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