METHOD FOR MANAGING AN ORDER PREPARATION STATION

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for managing an order preparation station, at which a human or robotic operator (3) places or removes items from containers carried by self-guided vehicles traveling on a track of the station (1), comprising, at each change of operator (3) at the station (1), the following cycle: the sending (62), from the station (1) to a remote server (53), of a personalization request including an identifier of the operator (3), the determination (63), by the remote server (53), of track height adjustment information to the operator (3), the return (64), from the remote server (53) to the station (1), of a personalization response including the adjustment information, the adjustment (65), of the track height relative to the ground, carried out automatically by an internal mechanism (4) of the station (1), from the adjustment information. Figure for the abridged version: Figure 11

Description

Title of the invention: METHOD FOR MANAGING AN ORDER PREPARATION STATION FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of order preparation station management processes, also called intervention stations, particularly within automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). Self-guided vehicles, also called automated transport vehicles, move on one or more tracks, also called conveyor tracks. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] On conveyor systems, operators are required to perform a number of tasks on orders contained in containers transported by the conveyors. For this purpose, one or more work stations may be provided. A “conveyor” is defined as a system or device designed to transport goods, products, or materials from one point to another within a logistics or industrial facility. These systems automate the movement of loads, optimize workflows, and improve operational efficiency by reducing human effort and the time required for transport. The ergonomics of the work stations are an important aspect of automated storage systems.

[0003] The tasks performed can be strenuous if the operator's position is not well adapted. Furthermore, the items or containers being transported, on which the operators work, can vary in size. Such a diversity of containers can lead to frequent changes of position.

[0004] It is known to position adjustable platforms next to intervention stations to allow the operator's working height to be adjusted. Indeed, rather than being positioned on the ground or on a fixed structure, the operator can climb onto a platform, and thus lower or raise their height to improve their comfort.

[0005] Such an adjustment can be made, in particular, according to the operator's height, so that they can adopt a working height perfectly suited to their physique. However, this consideration is only one example among many situations where a height adjustment may prove necessary. For example, some operators prefer to limit the range of their movements to reduce muscle fatigue, which requires positioning the work area at a specific height. Similarly, Imperfect vision may prompt an operator to get closer to the items in order to better identify or handle them accurately.

[0006] Furthermore, some tasks involve handling heavy or bulky items, for which it is essential to minimize the distance between the operator's arms or hands and the items themselves, thereby reducing physical strain and improving ergonomics. The nature of the orders to be processed can also play a determining role: items requiring high precision, delicate handling, or increased effort to grasp often necessitate fine-tuning the working height. Ultimately, there are therefore a number of work situations that involve adjusting the operator's working height.

[0007] That being said, elevated platforms have the following disadvantages.

[0008] First, their presence necessarily implies a step to access them, which forces operators to climb up and down regularly, thus increasing the risk of falls. This risk is all the more significant because several operator shift changes may take place each day at the same workstation, amplifying the likelihood of incidents.

[0009] Furthermore, these platforms require the installation of bulky and expensive structures, which clutter the warehouse and significantly reduce available space. This reduction impacts not only the movement of operators and equipment, but also storage capacity, which is essential for optimizing logistics operations. Moreover, once on the platform, the operator is confined to a limited space. To overcome this limitation and cover multiple workstations or work areas, it may be necessary to design large platforms, which further exacerbates the problems of clutter, cost, and adaptability to the warehouse space.

[0010] The purpose of this disclosure is therefore to mitigate at least in part the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above.

[0011] According to a prior art previously described, the use of additional platforms, mobile relative to the order preparation area by the operator, is therefore known: • relatively bulky within the overall storage system, • and also offering relatively limited ergonomics for the human operators who have to use them, • such platforms being, for robotic operators, of the robotic arm type for example, • either poorly compatible with these fixed robotic operators, due to their mobile nature, • or rather complex if they had to be made fixed relative to the order preparation area by the robotic operator which is fixed. OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The invention identified that the difficulties encountered in the prior art stemmed from the underlying strategy, which consisted of adapting the operator - whether human or robotic, two very different types - to the track of the order preparation station.

[0013] The invention is based on a reverse strategy, consisting of making the track of the order preparation station adaptable to the operator, whether human or robotic. When the operator is human, this adaptation concerns a wide range of men and women. More specifically, it aims to adapt the height of this track by making it adjustable according to the operator.

[0014] This track height is the key parameter for optimizing the operator's workstation.

[0015] Indeed, for a human operator, it is essentially the variation in the optimal working height during order preparation that is the most constraining for this human operator and that will require the most effort and the most deviations from a natural and optimized position or from a natural and optimized gestural approach to carry out the orders, such as standing up, bending down, leaning over, etc., leading to two important disadvantages: • a significant risk of health deterioration (lower back pain, cramps, fatigue and joint stiffness, etc.) for the human operator, • a risk of decreased efficiency for the human operator at their workstation, since they are not working in the best position or with the best movements, • the invention aims here to improve both the health and the performance of the human operator, and not to sacrifice one for the other in a sadly more traditional way, • and always with a view to sparing the human operator, it is an internal mechanism in the order preparation station which allows the height of this track to be modified, and this in a practically automatic way (only requiring the human operator to identify himself at his workstation, which he already does elsewhere), while remaining simple and efficient.

[0016] Furthermore, for a robotic operator, it allows the use of a simpler, more efficient and more robust robot, because the robotic operator only needs to be able to work at one single height, which is the track of the preparation station. The controls will adapt, potentially also depending on the type of automated guided vehicle (AGV) operating on the track and the type of container it is carrying. This results in a significant reduction in costs through the use of a simpler and more robust robot.

[0017] Therefore, at a workstation with a height-adjustable track, automatically controlled by an internal mechanism, the invention allows: • to improve the long-term health and performance of a human operator, • and / or to simplify and extend the lifespan of the robotic operator used, • to combine the two sets of advantages for complex order preparation stations, using both one or more human operators associated with one or more robotic operators, a robotic operator being advantageously a robot or a robotic installation, • while reducing the floor space required at the order preparation station, which in turn: • also reduces the risk of falls and accidents in the order preparation station environment, • and also improves the overall efficiency of the order picking station.

[0018] To this end, the present invention proposes a method for managing an order preparation station, at which a human or robotic operator places or removes items from containers carried by self-guided vehicles traveling on a track of the station, comprising, at each change of operator at the station, the following cycle: • Sending a personalization request, including an operator identifier, from the station to a remote server also connected to several other order preparation stations, • the determination, by the remote server, based on the operator's identifier, of track height adjustment information for the operator, • the sending, from the remote server to the workstation, of a personalization response including the adjustment information, • the adjustment of the height of the track relative to the ground, carried out automatically by an internal mechanism of the station, based on the adjustment information.

[0019] The invention also identified that this new operator adaptation strategy could be more broadly extended to an adaptation strategy to a A change, no longer just of operator, but more generally a change in the configuration and / or operation of the order picking station. A prime example of a change in the configuration of the order picking station is a change of operator. A prime example of a change in the operation of the order picking station is a change in the type of container, for example, a change in its shape, one or more of its dimensions such as its depth, or a change in the container load, for example, a change in the type of items contained in the container, or even a change in the way the items are arranged within the container.

[0020] Here again, the strategy is based on the same new principle of adapting the order preparation station to the change of environment, rather than, in order to avoid the order preparation station having to adapt to it, having to impose this adaptation on each operator, human or robotic, through greater constraints and efforts.

[0021] According to the invention, a method for managing an order preparation station is then provided, at which a human or robotic operator places or removes items in containers carried by self-guided vehicles traveling on a track of the station, comprising, during a change of configuration and / or operation at the station, the following cycle: • the determination, by a remote server also connected to several other order preparation stations, based on changes in configuration and / or operation at the station level, of information to adjust the track height to the change in configuration and / or operation at the station level, • the transmission of said adjustment information from the remote server to the workstation, • the adjustment of the height of the runway relative to the ground, carried out automatically by an internal mechanism of the station, based on said adjustment information.

[0022] In a first family of embodiments, a method for managing an order preparation station is also provided, characterized in that: • The change in configuration and / or operation includes a change of operator, • This cycle also includes, prior to determination, the sending of an operator identifier from the station to the remote server. • said determination, is carried out by the remote server, from the operator's identifier, and determines track height adjustment information for the operator.

[0023] In a second alternative family of embodiments, a method for managing an order preparation station according to claim 1 is also provided, characterized in that: • The change in configuration and / or operation includes a change in container type and / or a change in the container load arriving on the runway, without a change of operator. • The determination of the runway height adjustment information is carried out in such a way that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the new type of container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the runway, remains suitable for the operator.

[0024] According to preferred embodiments, the invention comprises one or more of the following features which can be used separately or in partial combination with each other or in total combination with each other, with any of the objects of the aforementioned invention.

[0025] Preferably, the track height adjustment information is determined so that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track is adapted to the operator.

[0026] Thus, not only is the track adapted to the operator, but also the track adapted to the type of container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track.

[0027] Preferably, the track height adjustment information is determined so that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track, is adapted to the height of the operator standing on the ground.

[0028] Thus, not only is the track adapted to the operator, but also the track adapted to the type of container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track.

[0029] Preferably, after said adjustment, each time a new type of container arrives on the runway, the process for managing an order preparation station includes the following container cycle: • the dynamic adaptation, by the remote server, of the runway height adjustment information so that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the new type of container carried by the automated guided vehicle traveling on the runway, remains suitable for the operator, • the transmission, from the remote server to the workstation, of dynamically adapted adjustment information, • the adjustment of the height of the track relative to the ground, carried out automatically and dynamically by the internal mechanism of the station, from the dynamically adapted adjustment information, at the moment when the new type of container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track arrives at the level of the operator.

[0030] Thus, not only is the track adapted to the operator, but also the track adapted to the type of container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track, this double adaptation being carried out dynamically, therefore potentially continuously.

[0031] Preferably, after said adjustment or adjustments, at each change in depth at which the operator places or removes an item, the process for managing an order picking station includes the following depth cycle: • the dynamic adaptation, by the remote server, of the track height adjustment information so that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the container carried by the automated guided vehicle traveling on the track, minus the depth at which the operator places or removes an item, as they fill or empty the container, remains adapted to the operator, • the transmission, from the remote server to the workstation, of dynamically adapted adjustment information, • The height of the track relative to the ground is adjusted automatically and dynamically by the station's internal mechanism, based on dynamically adapted adjustment information, as the operator fills or empties the container. Depth is the dimension along a vertical axis. Subtracted depth is measured from the top of the container.

[0032] Thus, the adaptation to the operator is even more refined insofar as it takes into account, and potentially permanently, the state of emptying or filling of the container handled by the operator, so that even this limited adaptation effort can be spared to the operator.

[0033] Preferably, in addition to the automatic adjustment(s), the operator can fine-tune the runway height by manual adjustment, by sending, at the station level, an instruction to raise or lower the runway height to the internal mechanism which then fine-tunes the runway height in a manner corresponding to the instruction.

[0034] Thus, despite all the improvements made to the automatic runway height adjustment system, this height was not yet brought to an ideal level, or in the event of a malfunction, this height can still be adjusted manually by the (human) operator, who is thus assured of having the runway height that suits him perfectly, even if this ideal height does not correspond to that determined by the automatic adjustment system on the basis of the data relating to the operator which it has.

[0035] Preferably, the total vertical travel for adjusting the height of the track is between: 100mm and 300mm, or between 150mm and 250mm.

[0036] Thus, this stroke range is optimized insofar as it allows, in the intended application: • to satisfy almost all common operator templates, human or robotic, • without requiring an internal mechanism (of the order preparation station) that is too sophisticated to cover the entire distance of this journey.

[0037] Preferably, said cumulative height is between: 800mm and 1600mm, or between 1000mm and 1400mm.

[0038] Thus, this height range is optimized insofar as it allows, in the envisaged application: • to satisfy almost all common operator templates, human or robotic, • without requiring an internal mechanism (of the order preparation station) that is too sophisticated to traverse the entire height.

[0039] Preferably, in addition to the height of the track, the adjustment information also includes at least one other ergonomic characteristic of the track or order preparation station; the internal mechanism also modifies, automatically and where appropriate dynamically, this other ergonomic characteristic in a manner corresponding to the adjustment information.

[0040] Thus, the management process takes advantage of the fact that the layout of the track will be modified, to adjust not only its height but also one or more of its other layout or operating parameters.

[0041] Preferably, this other ergonomic feature is a function dependent on the height of the track.

[0042] Thus, the management process benefits from the possible synergy between the different parameters to be adjusted.

[0043] Preferably, the other ergonomic feature or one of the other ergonomic features is an inclination of the track towards the operator at the operator's level.

[0044] Thus, another interesting parameter, although significantly less important than the height of the runway, is also adapted to the operator.

[0045] Preferably, the inclination of the track is between an angle of 5 degrees and an angle of 15 degrees with respect to the horizontal, or between an angle of 7 degrees and an angle of 11 degrees with respect to the horizontal, the opening of the container being turned towards the operator at the operator's level.

[0046] Thus, this angular stroke range is optimized insofar as it allows, in the envisaged application: • to satisfy almost all common operator templates, human or robotic, • without requiring an internal mechanism (of the order preparation station) that is too sophisticated to traverse the entire angular stroke.

[0047] Preferably, the other ergonomic feature or one of the other ergonomic features belongs to the following list of ergonomic features: • the height of a scanner on the runway or order preparation station, • the height of a screen on the runway or order preparation station, • a display setting on a screen in the forecourt or order preparation station, including: • the color palette used for displaying the track on a screen, • the display language on a track screen, • the replacement of one type of alert with another type of alert, at the order preparation station level: • for example, replacing an audible alert with a visual alert displayed on a screen at the order preparation station.

[0048] Thus, other interesting parameters, although significantly less important than the runway height, are also adapted to the operator, and not only to the operator's height, but also to other operator-specific characteristics, particularly human ones, such as their hearing, sight, or language, in order to optimize the workstation for any human operator, overcoming the barrier of a physical disability (sight or hearing for example), rather than the barrier of a different mother tongue.

[0049] Preferably, the station's taxiway comprises, successively from the ground: • a first stationary section, in the form of a first ramp with a fixed slope, • a second movable portion comprising: • a second ramp with a variable incline, connected by a pivot to the first ramp, • a third ramp leading down to the operator, with a fixed or variable slope, • the change in the height of the track is achieved by moving the second movable portion.

[0050] Thus, this two-part structure, one fixed part of greater extent and the other mobile part of more limited extent, allows: • to fully meet the technical requirements, allowing the runway height to be adjusted within the desired range, simply and efficiently, • while limiting the cost and complexity of the moving parts of the track, performing the height adjustment of this track.

[0051] Preferably, the personalization response includes additional information for adjusting the height of an additional track of the station; the internal mechanism of the station also automatically performs the adjustment of the height of the additional track relative to the ground, based on the additional adjustment information.

[0052] Thus, several tracks distinct from each other, and even possibly different from each other, can be managed by the management process and by the same management system implementing the management process.

[0053] Preferably, either the height of the track contained in the adjustment information is identical to the height of the additional track contained in the additional adjustment information, or the height of the track contained in the adjustment information is different from the height of the additional track contained in the additional adjustment information.

[0054] Thus, an even finer adjustment, distinct between the different types of tracks, can be achieved.

[0055] Preferably: • The station's runway is a transport track for containers carried by automated guided vehicles; the containers: • arriving empty at the operator's hands, who fills them with items, • and leaving with their supplies full upon leaving the operator, • The station's additional runway is a transport track for containers carried by automated guided vehicles; the containers: • arriving full at the operator's premises, who empties them of their items, • and leaving empty upon leaving the operator's premises.

[0056] Thus, the passage track for empty containers to be filled, as well as the passage track for full containers to be emptied, the full product storage containers being emptied into the order containers destined for customers outside the storage system globally managed by the management process according to the invention or according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0057] Preferably, the internal mechanism of the station includes one or more jacks, preferably two jacks, located under the track or tracks, so as to be able to raise or lower the track or tracks.

[0058] Thus, the structure of the station's internal mechanism is both simple and effective for adjusting the height of the track, while remaining robust, because this adjustment often takes place several times a day (at each change of operator), and even sometimes, several times an hour (at each change of container type, at certain times).

[0059] Preferably the cycle includes, before sending the personalization request: the connection of the operator to his station, via his identifier.

[0060] Thus, the management process uses a simple way to recognize the operator in order to adjust the height of the track in the order preparation station to that recognized operator. This identification is often already performed by the operator for other reasons, such as the time spent at the workstation. In this latter case, the management process leverages a task already completed by the operator, without requiring the operator to perform any additional tasks.

[0061] Preferably, the operator identifier is: • either in the form of a barcode to be read by a scanner at the order preparation station, • either in the form of facial recognition of the operator to be seen by a camera at the order preparation station.

[0062] Thus, the operator identification technique is both simple and effective.

[0063] Preferably, the order picking station belongs to a group of order picking stations in a warehouse, and: • The remote server includes: • a first sub-server, • dedicated to warehouse staff, • managing adjustment information, • a second sub-server, • dedicated to managing container flows within the warehouse, • of empty containers, • and / or containers filled with identical items originating from an item storage area within the warehouse, • and / or containers filled with identical or different items destined for an order storage area or an order shipping area, • managing dynamically adapted adjustment information.

[0064] Thus, the simple structure of the management server associated with the management process allows the tasks of the management process to be carried out efficiently.

[0065] Preferably, the intervention station of a conveyor for processing orders contained in containers comprises a conveyor track configured to transport the containers, the conveyor track comprising an intervention portion, adjacent to and elevated relative to an intervention zone Z on which an operator is positioned, said intervention portion being configured so that the operator can perform operations on the containers transported by the conveyor track, the conveyor track comprising a fixed part and a mobile part, the mobile part comprising the intervention portion, the intervention station further comprising an internal mechanism for adjusting the conveyor track configured to adjust a height of the intervention portion, said height being measured relative to a reference height of the operator's intervention zone,by setting the moving part of the conveyor track in motion relative to the fixed part.

[0066] Preferably, the intervention station according to this disclosure has a height-adjustable intervention portion, typically in a vertical direction, forming part of the conveyor track. This configuration improves operator ergonomics and efficiency by allowing optimal access to containers, thereby reducing fatigue and increasing productivity. It also allows for quick and precise adjustment of the working height according to the specific operator needs or container characteristics, which improves the flexibility and adaptability of the intervention station.

[0067] Such a solution makes it possible, where applicable, to do without additional lifting platforms, and therefore to eliminate the risk of falls caused by such platforms. The space and cost associated with these platforms are also eliminated.

[0068] Furthermore, the presence of a moving part incorporating the intervention section onto which the containers are conveyed ensures continuity in the conveying flow during the adjustment of the working height. This allows for high order processing rates, thus optimizing the overall efficiency of the conveying system.

[0069] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Brief description of the drawings

[0070] [Fig. 1] shows a schematic representation of a conveyor and a ground intervention area, according to an example,

[0071] [Fig.2] shows a top view of the conveyor of [Fig.1], on which different sizes of containers can be seen being conveyed and an operator standing in the intervention zone, ready to intervene on the containers,

[0072] [Fig.3] shows, in a non-exhaustive manner, in two views 3A and 3B, two examples of conveyor tracks,

[0073] [Fig.4] shows a schematic representation of a first example of an intervention station according to the present disclosure,

[0074] [Fig.5] shows a schematic top-view representation of a second example of an intervention station according to the present disclosure, in which the movable part of the conveyor track constitutes one end of the conveyor track,

[0075] [Fig.6] shows a schematic side view representation of the example intervention station of the [Fig.6],

[0076] [Fig.7] shows a schematic top-view representation of a particular example of an intervention station comprising two conveyor tracks,

[0077] [Fig.8] shows a perspective representation of a particular example of an intervention station,

[0078] [Fig.9] shows a side view of the example from [Fig.8],

[0079] [Fig. 10] shows a cross-sectional view of a particular example comprising two jacks, which are particularly visible.

[0080] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] schematically represents the sequence of an example of a process for managing an order preparation station according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0081] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE METHODS OF EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0082] The drawings and description below contain, essentially, elements of a definite nature. They may therefore not only serve to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0083] In the various figures, the same reference numerals designate identical or similar elements. For the sake of brevity, only the elements that are useful for understanding the described embodiment are shown in the figures and are described in detail below.

[0084] In the following description, when reference is made to absolute position qualifiers, such as "front," "back," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," etc., or relative position qualifiers, such as "above," "below," "superior," "lower," etc., or to orientation qualifiers, such as "horizontal," "vertical," etc., reference is made, unless otherwise specified, to the orientation of the figures or of an automated transport vehicle in its normal operating position. Furthermore, the term "approximately" is to be interpreted as indicating that the result obtained is as precise as the known method for measuring it.

[0085] Reference is now made to [Fig. 1], which shows an intervention station 1 of a conveyor. Such an intervention station 1 is specifically intended for processing orders contained in containers 2, which are conveyed to the intervention station 1.

[0086] Such processing typically includes order picking but also control, loading, unloading, etc. operations. Order picking is carried out from items arriving in product containers to be transshipped into order containers, the product containers and order containers being themselves carried or contained in storage containers carried by automated transport vehicles or automated guided vehicles.

[0087] The containers 2 can be of various sizes and weights. It can be seen in particular in [Fig.2] that containers 2 of different sizes can be transported to the intervention station 1.

[0088] The intervention station 1 includes a conveyor track 10 configured to transport containers 2, typically from another portion of conveyor located upstream of the intervention station 1.

[0089] It is understood by "configured to convey" that the conveyor track 10 may, according to a first example illustrated in particular in figure 3a, include moving parts such as rollers to set the containers 2 in motion. According to a known embodiment, at least one of the rollers may be motorized, and transmit the rotational torque to the other rollers via transmission belts.

[0090] According to another example, notably illustrated in Figure 3b, the conveyor track 10 comprises an aisle 6, forming a substantially flat surface on which the containers 2 can roll. Such a solution can notably be adapted for the transport of containers 2 by motorized automated guided vehicles (AGVs).

[0091] The intervention station 1 is further provided at the level of an intervention zone Z in which an operator can stand in order to intervene on the intervention station.

[0092] The operator can typically be a human operator, but it can also be a robot or a robotic installation.

[0093] The intervention station can be placed on the ground, and the intervention zone Z can be a ground zone.

[0094] In another example (not shown), the intervention zone Z may be a designated area on a platform, distinct from the ground. For example, it may be a platform raised above the ground.

[0095] Generally, the intervention zone Z, on the ground or on a platform, allows the operator to stand at a height H0 called "reference height".

[0096] The conveyor track 10 further includes an intervention portion 13, adjacent to and positioned at a height relative to the intervention zone Z.

[0097] Herein, "adjacent" is understood to mean that the intervention portion 13 can, for example, be defined as a portion of the intervention station 1 that includes an intervention edge 131 near the operator's intervention zone Z. In this way, said intervention portion 13 is configured so that the operator 3 can perform operations on the containers 2 transported by the conveyor track 10 from the intervention zone Z. Typically, the operator may be required to stand on one side of said intervention edge 131 and perform an operation on a container 2 located on the other side of said intervention edge 131.

[0098] Such an intervention portion 13 is "elevated" relative to the intervention zone Z, in that it has a height H measured relative to the reference height H0 of the intervention zone Z. Typically, the height H is greater than the height H0, so that the intervention portion 13 is elevated relative to the intervention zone Z, making the intervention portion 13 easily accessible to the operator. In one particular example, the height H of the intervention portion 13 can evolve in the vicinity of an ergonomic height for the operator.

[0099] Typically, the height of the intervention portion 13 is the height H relative to the intervention zone Z. The height H is typically measured at the level of said intervention edge 131. For example, the reference height HO of the intervention zone Z may be equal to zero, and the height H may, for example, be between 65 and 110 cm, to optimize the ergonomics of the workstation. In other cases, if the intervention zone Z is not on the ground, and is located, for example, on a platform, the reference height HO may be the height of said platform, and the height H of the intervention portion 13 may be between 65 and 110 cm in addition to the height HO of the intervention zone Z.

[0100] The intervention station 1 may include a frame 100, for example fixed to the ground, on which the conveyor track 10 is mounted.

[0101] The conveyor track 10 further comprises a fixed part 15 and a movable part 14. The fixed part 15 of the conveyor track 10 is a portion of the conveyor track integral with the frame 100. The movable part 14 is then movable relative to the fixed part 15.

[0102] Generally, the fixed part 15 of the conveyor track can extend substantially horizontally, at least in the vicinity of the junction with the moving part 14.

[0103] The mobile part 14 of the intervention station 1 further includes the intervention portion 13. Thus, the intervention edge 131 of the intervention portion 13 is mobile with the mobile part 14 of the conveyor track 10.

[0104] According to this disclosure, the intervention station 1 includes an internal adjustment mechanism 4 for the conveyor track 10 configured to move the moving part 14 relative to the fixed part 15, so as to adjust a height of the intervention portion 13 carried by the moving part 14.

[0105] By "internal mechanism" is meant a mechanism that is an integral part of the intervention station 1, and which is therefore physically and structurally linked to other elements of said station. More specifically, the internal adjustment mechanism 4, as described in this disclosure, is configured to allow height guidance of the moving portion 14 of the conveyor track 10, which is used to transport the containers 2, relative to the fixed portion, and preferably configured to actuate the height of the moving portion. This configuration ensures that the adjustment of the moving portion is carried out directly by internal guidance within the station, and preferably by internal actuation within the station, and thus preferably without the intervention of external components for height actuation. In this way, thanks to the internal adjustment mechanism 4, it is possible to adjust a height H of the portion intervention 13 relative to the height HO of the intervention zone Z of the operator by moving the mobile part 14 of the conveyor track 10 relative to the fixed part 15.

[0106] In particular, the intervention portion 13 is set in motion and moves by a height AH to vary its height H. As described previously, the height values ​​are measured relative to a reference height HO of the intervention zone Z.

[0107] The height variation AH allowed by the adjustment mechanism can be positive or negative. Thus, it is possible to raise or lower the intervention portion 13, particularly for the purpose of improving the ergonomics of the intervention station 1.

[0108] Generally, the conveyor track 10 can have a general direction V along which the containers 2 progress. Such a general direction V typically corresponds to an elongation direction of the conveyor track.

[0109] According to a particular example, the movable portion 14 of the conveyor track 10 is connected to the fixed part 15, or to the frame 100, in a rotational manner by a joint 5 having an axis of rotation extending transversely to the direction V. The adjustment of the height H of the intervention portion 13 is then carried out by rotating the movable part 14 relative to the fixed part 15 around said joint 5.

[0110] In other words, the axis of rotation of the joint 5 can be substantially perpendicular to the direction of elongation of the conveyor track 10, typically horizontal.

[0111] Typically, the movable part 14 includes a proximal edge, near the fixed part 15, which it is advantageous to maintain at the same height as the fixed part 15, so that the transport of the containers 2 occurs without obstruction. Thus, the joint 5, preferably positioned at the level of this proximal edge, allows the height of the intervention portion 13 to be varied by rotation.

[0112] In particular, the movable part 14 of the conveyor track 10 can extend in length along the general direction V from said joint 5 to a distal end 101, the intervention portion 13 being adjacent to said distal end 101. A lever arm is thus formed, so that the height of the movable part 14, at the joint 5, remains unchanged, while it varies at the intervention portion 13 located at a distal end 101 of the movable part 14.

[0113] Consequently, adjusting the height of the intervention portion 13 leads to a variation in the inclination of the moving part 14: a slope forms downstream of the joint 5. In order to minimize the variation in inclination, and thus minimize the impact on the routing of the containers 2 that pass through the joint 5, the The distance L between the intervention portion 13 and the axis of the joint 5 can be dimensioned to be relatively large. For example, such a distance L could be greater than 1 meter, or even greater than 1.5m, or even greater than 2 meters.

[0114] In particular, such a distance L may be measured between the axis of the joint, and an edge of the intervention portion 13 closest to said axis of the joint 5, such an edge may be defined as being distant from the intervention edge 131 by a distance equal to the dimension of the largest container intended to be transported on the intervention portion 13.

[0115] According to another example, such a distance can be measured between the intervention edge 131 and the axis of the joint.

[0116] Advantageously, the variation in inclination A0 (or otherwise called "angular stroke") can be between -5° and +5° with respect to the horizontal. In other words, it may be advantageous for a distance between the intervention portion 13 and the axis of the joint 5 to be greater than 1 meter, or even greater than 1.5 mm, or even greater than 2 meters, or even greater than 2.5 meters, in order to obtain a height adjustment stroke of the intervention portion 13 along the vertical direction of at least plus or minus 100 mm (±100 mm) with respect to a nominal position of the intervention portion, corresponding to an angular stroke of the movable part around the joint axis less than or equal to plus or minus 5°, and preferably plus or minus 4°, for example plus or minus 2°, namely a limited angular stroke.

[0117] According to one embodiment, and for a nominal position of the intervention portion 13 corresponding to a nominal angle of inclination of the intervention portion 13 which can be 9° (to ±3°) towards the intervention zone, a variation of the angular stroke of the movable portion 14 around the nominal angle of inclination results in a vertical adjustment stroke of the intervention portion at least equal to plus or minus 100mm (± 100mm) around the height of the intervention portion 13 when in its nominal inclination.

[0118] For example, the distance between the intervention portion 13 and the axis of the joint 5 can be 3 meters and the nominal angle of inclination of the intervention portion 13 is 9°. A variation of more than 2° above the nominal position results in a positive elevation of more than 104 mm and a negative elevation below the nominal position results in a negative elevation of less than 104 mm.

[0119] The variation in inclination A0 of the moving part 14 is therefore a consequence of the height adjustment of the intervention portion, which it may be desirable to mitigate.

[0120] In particular, the conveyor track 10 of the intervention station 1 may comprise a first conveying section 11 and a second conveying section 12 connected to each other by the intervention section 13. In this case, the intervention section 13 constitutes a segment of a container 2 path, comprising between two sections of the conveyor track 10, through which the containers 2 "pass". The conveyor track 10 is then configured to transport the containers 2 through the first conveying section 11 to the second conveying section 12 via the intervention section 13.

[0121] According to examples, it may be provided that the automated vehicles and / or the conveyor track 10 are configured to temporarily stop the transport of containers 2 at the intervention portion 13, while the operator carries out the desired operation.

[0122] A particular example of intervention station 1 is illustrated in [Fig.4].

[0123] In this example, the intervention portion 13 is located between a first routing portion 11 and a second routing portion 12.

[0124] Containers 2 are transported from the first transport segment 11 to the second transport segment 12 via the intervention segment 13. As a result, the containers are transported along a main direction V.

[0125] The internal adjustment mechanism 4 (not shown in this example) can typically include cylinders, one end of which is linked to the fixed frame 100, and another movable end is linked to the movable part 14. The adjustment mechanism 4 is configured to adjust a height H of the intervention portion 13 by varying it by a height AH.

[0126] In this example, the vertical displacement AH of the intervention portion 13 creates a variation in the inclination of the conveyor track 10, in particular by creating a first slope 16 of a first inclination 01, and a second slope 17 of a second inclination 02 opposite to the first inclination.

[0127] According to the example shown, the first slope 16 is upward and a second slope 17 is downward. Of course, depending on the value of the height variation AH, which can also be negative, the first slope 16 can be downward and the second slope 17 upward.

[0128] Another example of intervention station 1 is shown in [Fig.5].

[0129] In this example, the first conveying section 11 and the second conveying section 12 extend side by side, both on the same side of the intervention section 13. In this way, the intervention section 13 forms one end of the conveyor track 10, so that the containers 2 are conveyed, before the operator's intervention, in a first direction of travel moving towards the intervention section 13, and then towards a second direction of travel opposite to the first direction of travel moving away from the intervention section 13 after the operator's intervention.

[0130] According to a particular example, and in particular as represented, the conveyor track can form a "U", the first conveying portion 11 and the second conveying portion 12 being distinct from each other.

[0131] According to examples, the first routing portion 11 can be a portion of the conveyor track through which the containers 2 pass to reach the intervention portion 13, and the second routing portion 12 can be a portion of the conveyor track 10 through which the containers 2 pass when they leave the intervention portion 13.

[0132] Furthermore, it is possible that the first routing portion 11 and the second routing portion 12 are confused and that the containers 2 reach the intervention portion 13 and leave it by the same route.

[0133] Generally, the conveyor track 10 has a general direction V, which defines the direction in which the containers 2 progress. In the particular example of [Fig. 5], the direction V typically corresponds to the general extension direction of the conveyor track 10, in which the containers 2 progress to the intervention portion 13 and in which they leave it.

[0134] According to a particular example, and in particular as represented in [Fig.6], the movable portion 14 of the conveyor track 10 is connected to the fixed part 15 in a rotational manner by a joint 5 extending transversely in the direction V.

[0135] Indeed, the joint 5 allows a rotation of the mobile part 14 relative to the fixed part 15 along an axis which cuts transversely the direction V.

[0136] Preferably, the axis of the joint 5 is substantially perpendicular to the general direction V.

[0137] According to this example, the joint 5 is such that an adjustment of the height H of the intervention portion 13 induces a variation of the inclination A0 of the advance direction V of the conveyor track 10 at the level of the moving part 14. The variation of the inclination of the advance direction V can typically be carried out in a vertical plane, as shown in the example of [Fig.6].

[0138] In this way, it is possible to adjust the height of the intervention portion 13, and thus vary its height by a value AH while containers 2 progress from the fixed part 15 to the mobile part 14. The creation of a slope, as a consequence of a variation in the height of the intervention portion 13, can indeed make it possible not to interrupt the flow of containers 2 during the adjustment.

[0139] Such a variation in inclination A0 of the direction V corresponds to a variation in inclination of the moving part 14.

[0140] To this end, the intervention station 1 may include an actuator 43, configured to vary the height H of the moving part, typically by tilting the moving part 14 relative to the fixed part 15.

[0141] The actuator 43 may for this purpose include a first end 431 pivotally mounted on the fixed part 15 of the conveyor track 10, and a second end 432 pivotally mounted on the moving part 14 of the conveyor track 10, so that an extension or retraction of the actuator allows the height of the intervention portion 13 to be adjusted.

[0142] In particular, herein it is understood by "mounted on the fixed part" that the first end 431 of the actuator 43 is mounted on a part integral with the fixed part 15, for example the frame 100, or directly on the ground on which the fixed part 15 is mounted.

[0143] According to a particular example, the movable part 14 of the conveyor track 10 extends lengthwise along the general direction V from said joint 5, and terminates with a distal end 101 adjacent to the intervention portion 13, so that the intervention area is adjacent to said distal end 101 of the movable part 14.

[0144] Typically, said distal end 101 includes an intervention edge 131 of the intervention portion 13. Such an intervention edge 131 separates the intervention zone Z, in which an operator is located, from the intervention portion 13, to which the containers 2 are routed. In practice, according to one example, the operator stands on one side of the intervention edge 131 at the level of the intervention zone Z, and reaches the containers 2 on a second side of the intervention edge 131.

[0145] In particular, the movable part 14 of the conveyor track 10 extends lengthwise along the general direction V over a distance L which may be greater than 1 meter, preferably greater than 2 meters.

[0146] Indeed, it can be advantageous for the distance L, which separates the distal end 101 from the joint 5, to be relatively large. Depending on the magnitude of the desired height variation, and for the same height variation AH, the inclination variation A0 is less significant if the distance L is large. In this way, the slope formed by the joint 5 does not impede the transport of the containers 2.

[0147] In general, the height adjustment of the intervention portion 13 is such that the height variation AH, measured with respect to the reference height of the intervention zone Z of the operator, is greatest at the intervention edge 131 of the intervention portion 13.

[0148] According to a particular example shown in [Fig.7], the intervention station 1 comprises a first conveyor track 10.1 and a second conveyor track 10.2 extending side by side, so that a first intervention portion 13.1 of the first conveyor track 10.1 is positioned next to a second intervention portion 13.2 of the second conveyor track 11.2.

[0149] In this case, the internal adjustment mechanism 4 is configured to adjust the height of each of the intervention portions 13.1, 13.2 of the first and second conveyor track 10.1, 10.2.

[0150] Advantageously, it is possible for the adjustment of the first intervention portion 13.1 and the second intervention portion 13.2 to be independent of each other. To this end, the internal mechanism 4 may include at least two actuators, a first actuator of which is linked to the first conveyor track 10.1, and a second actuator is linked to the second conveyor track 10.2, so that the height of the two intervention portions 13.1, 13.2 is adjustable independently of each other.

[0151] A particular example of intervention station 1 illustrated in figures 8 to 10 will now be described.

[0152] In these figures, the movable part 14 of the conveyor track 10 is particularly visible, the fixed part 15 not being shown. The movable part 14 is movable relative to the frame 100 on which the fixed part 15 is mounted.

[0153] According to this example, and in particular with reference to [Fig. 9], the mobile part 14 comprises a first section of track 141 inclined so that it is upward when approaching the distal end 101, and the intervention section 13 forms a second section of track 142 inclined at an opposite angle to the first section of track 141. Indeed, the second section 142 is downward in the direction of the distal end 101. In this way, the intervention station is configured to tilt, towards the intervention zone Z, a container 2 transported on the intervention section 13.

[0154] The term "tilt towards the intervention zone" means that the intervention portion 13 includes a low point located at the level of the intervention edge 131, in the vicinity of the operator's intervention zone Z.

[0155] In this way, if a container 2 is open on top, a bottom of the container 2 is more easily accessible thanks to this inclination.

[0156] Furthermore, according to one example, and in particular as shown in figures 8 to 10, the adjustment mechanism 4 may include means for manually adjusting the height of the intervention portion 13.

[0157] In particular, the intervention station 1 may include a toothed part 41 mounted remotely, in the general direction V, from the joint 5 on one of the fixed part 15 or the moving part 14 of the conveyor track 10, and a complementary part 42 mounted on the other of the fixed part 15 or the moving part 14 of the conveyor track 10, the toothed part 41 comprising a plurality of notches corresponding to several height values ​​of the intervention portion 13 of the conveyor track 10, one notch of the toothed part 41 being configured to cooperate with the complementary part 42 to manually adjust the intervention portion 13 to a chosen height.

[0158] In this way, it is possible for an operator, for example using a jack, to raise the distal end 101 of the movable part 14 to a desired height, and to make a notch of the notched part 41 cooperate with the complementary part 42 to manually adjust the height of the intervention portion 13 to the desired height.

[0159] According to examples, the internal adjustment mechanism 4 may further include means for automatically adjusting the height of the intervention portion 13.

[0160] Indeed, the intervention station 1 can include an actuator 43, a first end 431 of which is pivotally mounted on the fixed part 15 of the conveyor track 10, or directly fixed to the frame 100, and a second end 432 of which is pivotally mounted on the movable part 14 so that an extension or retraction of the actuator allows the height of the intervention portion 13 to be adjusted.

[0161] Indeed, the intervention portion 13 is typically located in the vicinity of the distal part 101 of the mobile part 14, so that a rotation at the level of the joint 5 of the mobile part 14 with respect to the fixed part 15 generates a variation in height AH at the level of the intervention portion 13.

[0162] According to a particular example, and in particular as represented in [Fig. 10], the internal adjustment mechanism 4 comprises two cylinders positioned on either side of a longitudinal median plane PI of the conveyor track 10. Preferably, the two cylinders are positioned at an equal distance from said median plane PI, so that the mechanical forces are balanced between the two cylinders.

[0163] In addition, the intervention station 1 may include a human-machine interface (not shown) typically connected to a processor and memory, through which an operator can transmit a command, either: • adjust the height of the intervention portion 13 to a height value available in memory, or • increase or decrease the height of the intervention portion 13 up to a chosen height value.

[0164] This disclosure further relates to an order preparation process implemented by an assembly comprising the intervention station 1 and an automated vehicle 7.

[0165] According to one example, the process includes a step in which a container 2 is transported by an automated vehicle 7 to the intervention portion 13, and an intervention step on the container 2 carried out by an operator.

[0166] Typically, during the intervention step, the operator is positioned in the intervention zone Z, on one side of an intervention edge 131 of the intervention portion 13, and intervenes on containers 2 transported on the intervention portion 13 on another side of the intervention edge 131 opposite to the first side.

[0167] According to an example in which the intervention station 1 comprises a human-machine interface connected to a processor and memory, and an actuator as described above, the method includes a step for adjusting the height H of the intervention portion 13 in which the operator sends an instruction via said human-machine interface to the processor, which controls the actuator to respond to the operator's instruction. Thus, if the operator's command is to increase the height of the intervention portion 13, or to adopt a pre-recorded height value that implies raising the intervention portion 13, the processor controls the actuator to extend and raise the movable part 14 that supports the intervention portion 13.

[0168] The cylinder may include a servo means configured so that the processor can stop the actuator when the chosen height value is reached.

[0169] Once the intervention portion 13 has been set according to said instruction, the operator intervenes on container 2 during an intervention step.

[0170] According to a particular example in which the intervention station comprises a first and a second conveyor track 10.1, 10.2 adjustable independently of each other, the method comprises a first step of adjusting the height of the first conveyor track 10.1, in which the processor controls the first actuator, and a second step of adjusting the height of the second conveyor track 10.2 in which the processor controls the second actuator, the adjustment of the height of the first step being independent of the adjustment of the height of the second step.

[0171] Such an example can be advantageous when a first container 2 of a first height is conveyed to the first intervention section 13.1, and a second container 2 of a second height is conveyed to the second intervention section 13.2. Indeed, particularly for ergonomic reasons, the operator can choose a first height value suitable for the first container 2 for the first conveyor track 10.1, and a second height value suitable for the second container 2 for the second conveyor track 10.2.

[0172] In this way, the difference in size between the two containers 2 can be advantageously compensated by an independent adjustment of the heights of the two intervention tracks 13.1, 13.2.

[0173] Fig. 11 schematically represents the sequence of an example of a process for managing an order preparation station according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0174] The invention relates not only to the method of managing an order preparation station, but also to the computer program executed by computer, for managing an order preparation station, which is associated with it, and the computer support which is also associated with it, containing the instructions for implementing the computer program executed by computer, for managing an order preparation station.

[0175] Messages 60 are exchanged between the various actors 50 on a wired or wireless telecommunications or communication network. The actors are the operator 3, the order preparation station 1, also called the intervention station 1, and the computer server 53. This process of managing an order preparation station 1 is therefore carried out or executed by a wired or wireless telecommunications or communication network.

[0176] At the order preparation station 1, which will also be called station 1, a human or robotic operator 3, which will also be called operator 3, places or removes items in containers carried by automated guided vehicles traveling on a track of station 1. The automated guided vehicles are automatic transport vehicles.

[0177] Server 53 is a server located remotely from station 1 and is also connected to several other order picking stations. Server 53 therefore manages several order picking stations, similar or identical to station 1. Order picking station 1 thus belongs to a group of several order picking stations within the same warehouse. Server 53 can be a dedicated machine or a software service operating in client-server mode, with the client component located at the picking station and the server component potentially located elsewhere, advantageously outside the picking station.

[0178] The method for managing an order preparation station 1 can be carried out in different ways, by performing a sequence of steps according to one or more cycles. Each cycle corresponds to a sequence of steps. Three cycles are proposed by the invention: a first cycle, a second cycle, and a third cycle. In one embodiment, the first cycle is called the operator cycle, the second cycle is called the container cycle, and the third cycle is called the depth cycle. The cycles can The cycles preferably occur sequentially, simplifying the overall management process. The cycles could potentially be nested within each other. All or part of the cycles proposed by the invention can be implemented.

[0179] The process of managing an order preparation station 1 can take place as follows, at each change of operator 3 at the level of station 1, by successively carrying out the steps which will now be described and which form a first operator cycle.

[0180] In the first step of this first operator cycle, operator 3 connects to their station 1 using their identifier. The operator performs their identification 61 with their station 1, this identification 61 also serving as their authentication with station 1. Operator 3's identifier can be, for example, either in the form of a barcode to be read by a scanner at order preparation station 1, or in the form of facial recognition of operator 3 to be seen by a camera at order preparation station 1.

[0181] In a second step of this first operator cycle, once operator 3 is connected and identified with his station 1, this station 1 sends 62, to server 53, a personalization request including the identifier of operator 3.

[0182] In a third step of this first operator cycle, the server 53, once it has received the identifier of operator 3, performs a determination 63, based on this identifier of operator 3, of a track height adjustment information for operator 3. In some cases, this determination 63 may be reduced to a simple retrieval of this track height adjustment information for operator 3, if this track height adjustment information for operator 3 already exists and has been stored in a memory accessible to the server 53. During the determination step 63, the track height adjustment information is preferably determined so that the cumulative height, from the warehouse floor, of the container carried by the automated guided vehicle traveling on the track, is adapted to operator 3.During determination step 63, the track height adjustment information is preferably determined so that the cumulative height, from the warehouse floor, of the container carried by the automated guided vehicle traveling on the track, is adapted to the height of the operator 3 standing on the warehouse floor.

[0183] In addition to the track height, the server 53 can also determine, on the one hand, and add, on the other hand, to the adjustment information, at least one other ergonomic characteristic of the track or order preparation station 1. This other ergonomic characteristic is advantageously a function dependent on the track height.

[0184] In one embodiment, this other ergonomic feature or one of the other ergonomic features is an inclination of the track towards operator 3 at the level of operator 3.

[0185] In other alternative or cumulative embodiments, this other ergonomic feature or one of the other ergonomic features may be: - the height of a scanner on the runway or at order preparation station 1, - and / or the height of a screen on the track or at order preparation station 1, - and / or a display parameter on a track screen or order preparation station 1, including the color palette used for the track screen display or the track screen display language, - and / or the replacement of one type of alert with another type of alert, at the level of order preparation station 1, for example the replacement of an audible alert with a visual alert displayed on a screen at order preparation station 1.

[0186] In a fourth step of this first operator cycle, server 53 sends back 64, to station 1, a personalization response including the previously determined adjustment information. Optionally, the personalization response may also include additional height adjustment information for an additional track of station 1.

[0187] In a fifth step of this first operator cycle, an internal mechanism of station 1 automatically performs a first action 65 of adjusting the height of the track relative to the warehouse floor, based on the adjustment information contained in the personalization response. This internal mechanism also automatically and, where appropriate, dynamically modifies this other ergonomic characteristic in a manner corresponding to the adjustment information, when the adjustment information includes such an additional ergonomic characteristic.

[0188] At its station 1, in addition to the automatic adjustment(s) previously performed during the first operator cycle 60, the operator 3 can fine-tune the runway height by manually adjusting it, by sending an instruction to the internal mechanism at station 1 to raise or lower the runway height. This mechanism then adjusts the runway height accordingly.

[0189] In other alternative or cumulative embodiments, previously mentioned, the station's internal mechanism also automatically performs a complementary adjustment action 66: - the height of a scanner on the runway or at order preparation station 1, - and / or the height of a screen on the track or at order preparation station 1, - and / or a display parameter on a track screen or order preparation station 1, including the color palette used for the track screen display or the track screen display language, - and / or the replacement of one type of alert with another type of alert, at the level of order preparation station 1, for example the replacement of an audible alert with a visual alert displayed on a screen at order preparation station 1.

[0190] The computer server 53 preferably comprises a first sub-server and a second sub-server cooperating together. The first sub-server is dedicated to warehouse personnel and manages adjustment information. The second sub-server is dedicated to managing container flows within the warehouse and manages dynamically adapted adjustment information. Containers may be empty containers, and / or containers filled with identical items from an item storage area in the warehouse, and / or containers filled with identical or different items destined for an order storage area or an order fulfillment area.

[0191] In a first option, alternative to or cumulative with the first operator cycle, the process of managing an order preparation station 1 can take place as follows: at each change of container type 2 or of container loading type 2 at station 1, by successively carrying out the steps which will now be described and which form a second container cycle of dynamic adaptation of the height of the track of station 1. Only the differences with the first operator cycle 60 are now described; the other aspects and options of the first operator cycle 60 can also be used in conjunction with the second container cycle 70.

[0192] In a first step of this second container cycle 70, each time a new type of container arrives on the track, or the load of the container arriving on the track changes, the server 53 performs the dynamic adaptation 73 of the track height adjustment information so that the height cumulative, from the warehouse floor, of the new type of container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track, remains suitable for operator 3.

[0193] In a second step of this second container cycle 70, the server 53 performs the return 74, to station 1, of a dynamically adapted adjustment information.

[0194] In a third step of this second container cycle 70, the internal mechanism 4 of station 1 performs a second adjustment action 75, of the height of the track relative to the floor of the warehouse, both automatically and dynamically, from the dynamically adapted adjustment information, at the moment when the new type of container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track arrives at the level of the operator 3.

[0195] At its station 1, in addition to the automatic adjustment(s) previously performed during this second container cycle, operator 3 can fine-tune the runway height by manually adjusting it, by sending an instruction to the internal mechanism at station 1 to raise or lower the runway height. The mechanism then adjusts the runway height accordingly.

[0196] In a second option, alternative to or cumulative with the first operator cycle, alternative to or cumulative with the second container cycle, the process of managing an order preparation station 1 can take place as follows: at each change in depth at which the operator places or removes an item, by successively carrying out the steps which will now be described and which form a third depth cycle 80 of dynamic adaptation of the height of the track of station 1. Only the differences with the first operator cycle 60 are now described, the other aspects and options of the first operator cycle 60 can also be used in conjunction with the third depth cycle 80.

[0197] In a first step of this third depth cycle 80, at each change in depth at which the operator puts or removes an item, the server 53 performs the dynamic adaptation 83 of the track height adjustment information so that the cumulative height, from the warehouse floor, of the container carried by the self-guided vehicle traveling on the track, from which is subtracted the depth at which the operator 3 puts or removes an item, as he fills or empties the container, remains adapted to the operator 3.

[0198] In a second step of this third cycle depth 80, the server 53 performs the return 84, to station 1, of a dynamically adapted adjustment information.

[0199] In a third step of this third depth cycle 80, an internal mechanism 4 of station 1 automatically performs a third adjustment action 85, of the height of the runway relative to the ground, performed automatically and dynamically by the internal mechanism 4 of station 1, based on the adjustment information dynamically adapted, as operator 3 fills or empties container 2.

[0200] At its station 1, in addition to the automatic adjustment(s) previously made during this third depth cycle 80, operator 3 can fine-tune the runway height by manually adjusting it, by sending an instruction to the internal mechanism at station 1 to raise or lower the runway height. This mechanism then adjusts the runway height accordingly.

[0201] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the examples and embodiments described and represented, but is susceptible to many variations accessible to those skilled in the art.

Claims

Demands

1. A method for managing an order preparation station, at which a human or robotic operator (3) places or removes items from containers (2) carried by automated guided vehicles (7) traveling on a track (10) of the station (1), comprising, during a change in configuration and / or operation at the station (1), the following cycle: • the determination (63, 73), by a remote server (53) also connected to several other order preparation stations, based on the change in configuration and / or operation at the station (1), of information to adjust the height of the track (10) to the change in configuration and / or operation at the station (1), • the return (64, 74), from the remote server (53) to the station (1), of said adjustment information, • the adjustment (65, 75), of the height of the track (10) relative to the ground,carried out automatically by an internal mechanism (4) of the station (1), based on said adjustment information.

2. Method of managing an order preparation station according to claim 1, characterized in that: • the change of configuration and / or operation includes a change of operator (3), • said cycle also includes, before the determination (63), the sending (62), from the station (1) to the remote server (53), of an identifier of the operator (3), • said determination (63), is carried out by the remote server (53), from the identifier of the operator (3), and determines an adjustment information of the height of the track (10) to the operator (3).

3. A method for managing an order preparation station according to claim 1, characterized in that: • the change in configuration and / or operation includes a change in container type (2) and / or a change of container loading (2) arriving on the runway (10), without change of operator (3), • the determination (73) of the runway height adjustment information (10) is carried out so that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the new type of container (2) carried by the self-guided vehicle (7) traveling on the runway (10), remains suitable for the operator (3).

4. A method for managing an order picking station, at which a human or robotic operator (3) places or removes items from containers (2) carried by automated guided vehicles (7) traveling on a track (10) of the station (1), comprising, at each change of operator (3) at the station (1), the following cycle: • sending (62), from the station (1) to a remote server (53) also connected to several other order picking stations, a personalization request including an identifier of the operator (3), • determining (63), by the remote server (53), from the identifier of the operator (3), information to adjust the height of the track (10) to the operator (3), • returning (64), from the remote server (53) to the station (1), a personalization response including the adjustment information, • the adjustment (65),of the height of the runway (10) relative to the ground, performed automatically by an internal mechanism (4) of the station (1), based on the adjustment information.

5. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the height adjustment information of the track (10) is determined so that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the container (2) carried by the self-guided vehicle (7) traveling on the track (10), is adapted to the operator (3).

6. A method for managing an order preparation station according to claim 5, characterized in that the track height adjustment information (10) is determined such that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the container (2) carried by the

7.

8. self-guided vehicle (7) travelling on the track (10), either adapted to the height of the operator (3) standing on the ground. Method for managing an order preparation station according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, after said adjustment, each time a new type of container (2) arrives on the track (10), it comprises the following container cycle: • the dynamic adaptation (73), by the remote server (53), of the runway height adjustment information (10) so that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the new type of container (2) carried by the self-guided vehicle (7) traveling on the runway (10), remains adapted to the operator (3), • the return (74), from the remote server (53) to the station (1), of dynamically adapted adjustment information, • the adjustment (75), of the height of the track (10) relative to the ground, carried out automatically and dynamically by the internal mechanism (4) of the station (1), from the dynamically adapted adjustment information, at the moment when the new type of container (2) carried by the self-guided vehicle (7) traveling on the track (10) arrives at the level of the operator (3). Method for managing an order preparation station according to claim 7, characterized in that, after said adjustment or after said adjustments, at each change in depth at which the operator (3) places or removes an item, it comprises the following depth cycle: • the dynamic adaptation (83), by the remote server (53), of the track height adjustment information (10) so that the cumulative height, from the ground, of the container (2) carried by the self-guided vehicle (7) traveling on the track (10), from which is subtracted the depth at which the operator (3) puts or removes an item, as he fills or empties the container (2), remains adapted to the operator (3), • the return (84), from the remote server (53) to the station (1), of dynamically adapted adjustment information, • the adjustment (85), of the height of the track (10) relative to the ground, carried out automatically and dynamically by the internal mechanism (4) of the station (1), from the dynamically adapted adjustment information, as the operator (3) fills or empties the container (2).

9. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in addition to the automatic adjustment(s), the operator (3) can fine-tune the height of the track (10) by a manual adjustment, by sending, at the station level (1), an instruction to raise or lower the height of the track (10) to the internal mechanism (4) which then fine-tunes the height of the track (10) in a manner corresponding to the instruction.

10. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the total vertical stroke for adjusting the height of the track (10) is between: 100mm and 300mm, or between 150mm and 250mm.

11. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said cumulative height is between: 800mm and 1600mm, or between 1000mm and 1400mm.

12. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • in addition to the height of the track (10), the adjustment information also includes at least one other ergonomic characteristic of the track (10) or of the order preparation station (1), • the internal mechanism (4) also modifies, automatically and where appropriate dynamically, this other ergonomic characteristic in a manner corresponding to the adjustment information.

13. A method for managing an order preparation station according to claim 12, characterized in that this other characteristic ergonomic is a function dependent on the height of the track (10).

14. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of claims 12 to 13, characterized in that the other ergonomic feature or one of the other ergonomic features is an inclination of the track (10) towards the operator (3) at the level of the operator (3).

15. Method of managing an order preparation station according to claim 14, characterized in that the inclination of the track (10) is between an angle of 5 degrees and an angle of 15 degrees with respect to the horizontal, or between an angle of 7 degrees and an angle of 11 degrees with respect to the horizontal, the opening of the container (2) being turned towards the operator (3) at the level of the operator (3).

16. A method for managing an order picking station according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that: • the other ergonomic feature or one of the other ergonomic features belongs to the following list of ergonomic features: • the height of a scanner on the track (10) or the order picking station (1), • the height of a screen on the track (10) or the order picking station (1), • a display parameter on a screen on the track (10) or the order picking station (1), in particular among: • the color palette used for the display on the track (10) screen, • the display language on the track (10) screen, • the replacement of one type of alert with another type of alert,at the order preparation station (1): • for example, replacing an audible alert with a visual alert displayed on, a screen of the order preparation station (1).

17. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the runway (10) of the station (1) comprises successively from the ground: • a first fixed portion (15), in the form of a first ascending ramp with a fixed slope, • a second mobile portion (14, 13) comprising: • a second ascending ramp (14) with a variable slope, connected by a pivot to the first ascending ramp (15), • a third descending ramp (13) towards the operator, with a fixed or variable slope, • the change in the height of the runway (10) being obtained by the movement of the second mobile portion (14, 13).

18. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the personalization response includes additional information for adjusting the height of an additional track (10.2) of the station (1), • the internal mechanism (4) of the station (1) also automatically performs the adjustment of the height of the additional track (10.2) relative to the ground, from the additional adjustment information.

19. A method for managing an order picking station according to claim 18, characterized in that: • either the height of the track (10.1) contained in the adjustment information is identical to the height of the additional track (10.2) contained in the additional adjustment information; • or the height of the track (10.1) contained in the adjustment information is different from the height of the additional track (10.2) contained in the additional adjustment information.

20. Method of managing an order preparation station according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that: • the track (10.1) of the station (1) is a traffic track for containers (2) carried by self-guided vehicles (7), the containers (2): • arriving empty at the operator (3) who fills them with items, • and leaving filled when leaving the operator (3), • the additional track (10.2) of the station (1) is a traffic track for containers (2) carried by self-guided vehicles (7), the containers (2): • arriving full at the operator (3) who empties them of their items, • and leaving empty when leaving the operator (3).

21. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the internal mechanism (4) of the station (1) comprises one or more cylinders (43), preferably two cylinders (43), located under the track (10) or under the tracks (10.1, 10.2), so as to be able to raise or lower the track (10) or the tracks (10.1, 10.2).

22. Method of managing an order preparation station according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cycle includes, before sending the personalization request, the connection of the operator (3) to his station (1), via his identifier.

23. Method of managing an order preparation station according to claim 22, characterized in that: • the operator identifier (3) is: • either in the form of a barcode to be read by a scanner of the order preparation station (1), • or in the form of facial recognition of the operator (3) to be seen by a camera of the order preparation station (1).

24. Method for managing an order picking station, belonging to a group of order picking stations of a warehouse, according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • The remote server (53) includes: • a first sub-server, • dedicated to warehouse staff, • managing adjustment information, • a second sub-server, • dedicated to managing the flow of containers (2) within the warehouse, • of empty containers (2), • and / or filled containers (2) of identical items from an item storage area within the warehouse, • and / or containers (2) filled with identical or different items destined for an order storage area or an order shipping area, • managing dynamically adapted adjustment information.

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