Autonomous warehouse monitoring robot, storage system and method for storage system

Abstract

An autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 100 comprises a propulsion system 106, 108, 110, a processing unit 112 and a scanner array 114 that includes an RFID scanner arranged in a moveable tower, wherein the scanner arrangement is arranged to scan RFID data from at least one package that includes multiple articles. The processing unit is configured to receive RFID scanner data from the scanner array wherein the scanned RFID data relates a horizontal location (P1, P2, fig 1B) for the article in the warehouse, a vertical location (L1, L2, Fig 1B) for the article in the warehouse, and environmental data such as temperature and humidity (148, fig 1C) scanned at the horizontal location and the vertical location for the article. A storage system and method is also disclosed.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to autonomous warehouse monitoring robots. Moreover, the present disclosure relates to storage systems. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to methods for storage systems. BACKGROUND With an evolution in the logistics landscape, the movement of goods across the world is increasing day by day, thus leading to an increased demand for warehouses. The warehouse is a place where articles are kept, sorted, and sent out. Notably, the traditional warehouses lack visibility and thus struggle with lost goods, unreliable inventory, slow processing times and under-utilisation of the space thereof. There exist some systems that track the articles and their overall environmental conditions in the traditional warehouses. However, such systems offer limited accuracy and efficiency, which is crucial for the articles susceptible to environmental factors. For example, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and cosmetics are the articles that demand precise environmental control. In an example, the environmental conditions such as temperature or humidity could vary in different places of the traditional warehouse resulting in spoilage of the articles in some boxes, but not the others, thus reducing the accuracy. Additionally, the volume of goods moving across the world is increasing exponentially. But the labour market is not growing at that pace. The labour shortage and high demand led to the making of costly mistakes and limited the possibility of spotting them. Thus, leading to critical decisions being made blindly across the supply chain. Furthermore, the supply chains have faced unprecedented challenges over the past few years, especially in the e-commerce sector. Thus, the need for highly efficient warehousing and inventory management has grown exponentially. The difficulty in finding the right labour and soaring overhead costs have only added to the need. Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks. SUMMARY The aim of the present disclosure is to provide an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot, a storage system and a method for storage system to capture real-time insights of the warehouse operations. The aim of the present disclosure is achieved by an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot, a storage system and a method for storage system as defined in the appended independent claims to which reference is made to. Furthermore, throughout the present disclosure, the storage system may be a warehouse monitoring system. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise", "include", "have", and "contain" and variations of these words, for example "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not limited to", and do not exclude other components, items, integers or steps not explicitly disclosed also to be present. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of an environment showing an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot and a storage system being used in a warehouse, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. IB is a schematic illustration of the warehouse, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. IC is a schematic illustration of the environmental data being presented through the user interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot scanning a radio frequency identification tag on an article in the warehouse, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIGs. 3A and 3B are schematic illustrations of an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot comprising a movable tower, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; and FIG. 4 is a flowchart depicting steps of a method for a storage system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible. In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot comprising a propulsion system, a processing unit and a first scanner array, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive scanner data from the first scanner array, wherein the scanner data relates to an article stored in the warehouse, a horizontal location (Pl, P2) for the article in the warehouse, a vertical location (LI, L2) for the article in the warehouse, and environmental data scanned at the horizontal location (Pl, P2) and the vertical location (LI, L2) for the article. The first aspect of the present disclosure provides the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot equipped with the propulsion system, the processing unit, and the first scanner array. The aforementioned components synergistically offer multiple advantages, enabling real-time monitoring of the article's storage location, the horizontal and vertical positions, and the environmental conditions within the warehouse. The processing unit interprets the scanner data to provide accurate insights, while the ability to scan the environmental data at various positions ensures comprehensive assessments. The synergistic functioning of the aforementioned components empowers the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot to deliver a more accurate, energy-efficient, and comprehensive approach to the warehouse management, catering to the demands of modern inventory control and facilitating better decisionmaking processes. In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a storage system comprising a processing arrangement, said processing arrangement comprising a user interface and a processing unit configured to receive scanner data from an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot according to any preceding claim, store the environmental data of the scanner data for the article over time, and present the environmental data through the user interface. The second aspect of the present disclosure provides the storage system incorporating the processing arrangement having the user interface and the processing unit. The processing arrangement offers a host of benefits through its ability to receive the scanner data from the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot as previously described. By storing environmental data over time and presenting it through the user interface, the storage system enables a dynamic overview of the article's environmental conditions and surroundings. This real-time tracking empowers users with accurate and accessible insights, fostering informed decision-making and proactive responses. The cohesive integration of said features creates a comprehensive ecosystem that enhances operational efficiency, optimizes resource allocation, and contributes to improved inventory management, all while promoting a streamlined and informed warehousing environment. In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for a storage system, the method comprising receiving scanner data, wherein the scanner data relates to an article stored in the warehouse, a horizontal location (Pl, P2) for the article in the warehouse, a vertical location (LI, L2) for the article in the warehouse, and environmental data scanned at the horizontal location (Pl, P2) and the vertical location (LI, L2) for the article, storing the environmental data of the scanner data for the article over time, and presenting the environmental data on a user interface. The third aspect of the present disclosure provides the method for the storage system, introducing a comprehensive approach to handling the scanner data. In this regard, the method establishes a dynamic historical record of the article's conditions over time by receiving and storing the scanner data encompassing the article's location and the environmental data. Moreover, coupled with the presentation of the environmental data through the user interface, the method furnishes users with an accessible and intuitive overview of the article's surroundings, fostering informed decision-making and proactive response strategies. The seamless amalgamation of the aforementioned steps synergistically contributes to optimized warehousing operations, streamlined inventory management, and the cultivation of an environment where data-driven insights facilitate efficient resource allocation and operational enhancements. The term "autonomous warehouse monitoring robot" as used herein refers to a mobile, self-operating robot equipped with various sensors and capabilities for autonomously monitoring and managing the warehouse. Moreover, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot is modular meaning that the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot could be customized for specific applications. In this regard, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot allows customization, replacement, or reconfiguration of various components thereof to adapt to different tasks or requirements. The term "propulsion system" as used herein refers to an arrangement of various mechanical and electronic components that provides movement to the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot. In this regard, the propulsion system provides the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot, the ability to navigate and move autonomously. Optionally, the mechanical and electronic components of the propulsion system include wheels or tracks, motors, control mechanisms, and so forth. The term "processing unit" as used herein refers to an application, program, or device that responds to requests for information or services by another application, program, process or device (such as the external device) via a network interface. Optionally, the processing unit also encompasses software that makes the act of serving information or providing services possible. It will be appreciated that optionally the processing unit includes, but is not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computer (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, or any other type of processing circuit. Beneficially, the processing unit could execute algorithms, manipulate data, make decisions, control hardware components, and manage the overall operations of the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot. The terms "first scanner array and second scanner array" as used herein refer to structured arrangements of multiple sensors and scanning devices integrated into the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot, used for data collection within the warehouse. Optionally, the sensors are designed to perform similar or complementary functions. The term "scanner data" as used herein refers to information collected by the first scanner array. In this regard, the scanner data collected using the first scanner array is then transmitted to the processing unit for analysis and decision-making. Optionally, the first scanner array comprises at least one of the following environment sensors: a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, a light sensor, a barometric sensor, a sound sensor, and a volatile organic sensor. The term "environmentsensors" as used herein refers to sensors designed to detect and measure specific environmental parameters. The term "humidity sensors" as used herein refers to sensors that measure the level of moisture or humidity in the air. The term "temperature sensors" as used herein refers to sensors that measure the ambient temperature of the environment. The term "light sensors" as used herein refers to sensors that detect the intensity or presence of light in the surroundings. The term "barometric sensor" as used herein refers to a sensor that measures atmospheric pressure, which can indicate changes in weather. The term "sound sensor" as used herein refers to a sensor that detects and measures sound levels or acoustic data. The term "volatile organic sensor" as used herein refers to a sensor that identifies and quantifies the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air. It will be appreciated that the first scanner array of the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot may include the aforementioned sensors in order to enhance the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot's ability to capture a wide range of environmental data. Beneficially, the environmental data provides a more comprehensive understanding of the warehouse's environmental conditions. In an example, said understanding is beneficial for monitoring items sensitive to environmental factors such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The term "article" used herein refers to any object or item stored in the warehouse. The scanner data relates to the article stored in the warehouse in order to allow efficient tracking and monitoring thereof. Optionally, the article is part of a package of articles. Herein, the term "package of articles" refers to a collection of multiple individual articles bundled together as a single unit for storage or transport purposes. In this regard, when the article is part of the package, the first scanner array is configured to capture the scanner data related to both the individual article and the package as a whole. This provides a comprehensive view of inventory within the warehouse. Optionally, the article is stored in a pallet. The term "pallet" as used herein refers to a flat transport structure with both a top and bottom deck. Optionally, the pallet is designed to be lifted by forklifts or pallet jacks. Optionally, the articles are placed on the pallets for ease of storage, handling, and transportation thereof. Optionally, knowing the article's location within the warehouse, whether on the pallet or not, is valuable for efficient warehouse management. Optionally, the first scanner array further comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) scanner for identifying the article. The term "radio frequency identification scanner" as used herein refers to a device that uses radio frequency signals to read and identify RFID tags or labels attached to the articles. In this regard, the first scanner array employs the RFID scanner to identify the articles (namely, items) stored in the warehouse by reading the RFID tags or labels attached to them. Advantageously, the RFID technology allows for efficient and accurate tracking and identification of a given article. Optionally, the RFID scanner is integrated within the first scanner array, enabling it to read the RFID tags on the articles within the warehouse. Optionally, when the given article is scanned, the corresponding RFID tag information is collected, providing valuable data for inventory and tracking purposes. Optionally, the articles might be stored in boxes having the RFID tags stuck thereupon. In such a case, the RFID scanner is configured to scan the RFID tag stuck on the boxes to identify the contents or the articles stored therein. The scanner data relates to a horizontal location (Pl, P2) for the article in the warehouse. In this regard, the scanner data, collected by the first scanner array, includes details about the horizontal position of the article in the warehouse. Optionally, the horizontal position of the article refers to a specific location of that article along the width or breadth of a rack in the warehouse. Optionally, the horizontal position can be defined using a coordinate system within the rack. Typically, the coordinate system divides the rack's horizontal plane into sections, rows, or compartments, each with a unique identifier. For example, letters or numbers might be used to label rows and shelves within the rack. Optionally, the horizontal position of the article can then be expressed as a combination of these identifiers, such as "Row B, Shelf 3." Optionally, the horizontal location (Pl, P2) relates to a storage compartment of the warehouse. In this regard, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot can provide even more precise information about the whereabouts of the articles by associating the horizontal location with specific storage compartments within the warehouse. For example, instead of knowing that the article is somewhere on rack A, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot can specify that the article is in compartment 2 of the rack A. It will be appreciated that this not only s up the process of locating and retrieving the articles but also minimizes the chances of errors, as there's no ambiguity about where the article is stored. The scanner data relates to the vertical location (LI, L2) for the article in the warehouse. In this regard, the first scanner array could scan a position to a specific shelf or level within the rack. For example, if the article's vertical location is identified as L2, it means the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot knows that the article is stored on the second shelf from the bottom in the rack or shelving unit. Beneficially, such a piece of information is invaluable for efficient retrieval and organization of the articles in the warehouse. In another example, in a pharmaceutical warehouse storing medicines at different temperature requirements, specifying the vertical location can be crucial. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot can determine that a specific medication requiring cold storage is on the third shelf from the top (L3) in Rack C. This ensures compliance with storage conditions and efficient retrieval when needed. Optionally, the vertical location (LI, L2) relates to a shelf of a shelving system of the warehouse. Herein, the shelving system refers to the organized structure or arrangement of shelves within a warehouse or storage facility. Moreover, the shelving system is designed to maximize the storage capacity and efficiency of the warehouse by providing a framework for storing the articles in an orderly and accessible manner. Optionally, the shelving system includes shelves, racks, or compartments that are used to store goods, products, or materials. Optionally, the shelving system can vary widely in design, including different shelf heights, configurations, and load-bearing capacities, depending on the specific storage needs of the warehouse and the types of the articles being stored. The scanner data relates to environmental data scanned at the horizontal location (Pl, P2) and the vertical location (LI, L2) for the article. The term "environmental data" as used herein refers to information related to the environmental conditions around the articles stored in the warehouse, particularly at a granular level. Optionally, the environmental data encompasses factors such as the temperature, the humidity, the light levels, the barometric pressure, the sound levels, and the volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this regard, the first scanner array is used for scanning and collecting the environmental data at specific horizontal (Pl, P2) and vertical (LI, L2) locations within the warehouse. Advantageously said granular level of the environmental data allows for precise tracking of unique environmental conditions around each article, including its humidity level and temperature, among others. Additionally, by scanning and utilizing the environmental data, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot can potentially lead to energy savings by enabling targeted climate control in key areas of the warehouse. Thus, reducing the need to heat or cool the entire space in the warehouse. Optionally, the first scanner array is arranged in a movable tower. The term "movable tower" as used herein refers to a structural component that is extendable and houses and supports the first scanner array. Beneficially, the movable tower possesses the ability to change its position within the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot. Optionally, the movable tower can move vertically (up and down) and horizontally (along the aisles). Optionally, the movable tower allows the first scanner array, to scan the articles and the environmental data at various heights and locations within the warehouse. Optionally, said dynamic movement capability of the movable tower is crucial for achieving granular data collection, especially in a large warehouse with the articles stored at different heights. Beneficially, when the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot comprises a combination of a movable tower that possesses the ability to change its position and at least one, but preferably multiple, scanner arrays comprising multiple sensors a significant improvement in the speed (throughput) of scanning of articles in a warehouse is achieved. Optionally, the movable tower is designed with mechanical components that enable its vertical and horizontal movement. As the robot navigates through the warehouse, the tower can extend and retract to position the first scanner array at the desired height or location for the scanner data collection. Optionally, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot further comprises a second scanner array, wherein the first scanner array is arranged to scan at a first elevation (LI) and the second scanner array is arranged to scan at a second elevation (L2). In this regard, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot comprises both the first scanner array and the second scanner array that work in conjunction with each other to collect a first scanner data (namely, scanning data) and a second scanner data (namely, scanning data), respectively. Optionally, the first scanner array is configured for scanning the articles and the environmental data at the first elevation LI (such as a lower shelf), while the second scanner array can simultaneously scan at the second elevation (such as a higher shelf). Advantageously, such dual-scanning capability significantly enhances the efficiency and accuracy of the scanning data collection, enabling the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot to monitor and track the articles throughout the entire vertical space of the warehouse. Moreover, by scanning at multiple elevations, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot can precisely monitor and maintain the required environmental conditions for each shelf, ensuring the integrity and quality of the stored articles. Optionally, the processing unit is further configured to receive the first scanner data from the first scanner array and the second scanner data from the second scanner array. In this regard, collecting the first scanner data and the second scanner data, separately, could be advantageous in situations where the first scanner data and the second scanner data are best obtained using different arrays due to technical requirements or the nature of the first scanner data and the second scanner data. For example, the warehouse stores delicate electronic gadgets on the second elevation (L2) and non-fragile household items on the first elevation (LI). In such a case, the processing unit is configured to receive temperature and humidity data (which is the first scanner data) from the first scanner array, ensuring accurate monitoring of the environmental conditions for the sensitive electronic gadgets stored on the second elevation (L2). Simultaneously, the processing unit may receive the non-fragile household item identification and tracking data (which is the second scanner data) from the second scanner array, which concentrates on the first elevation (LI) where the non-fragile household items are stored. Such precise data collection ensures that environmental conditions are maintained for the electronic gadgets, and stock levels are accurately tracked for the non-fragile household items. Optionally, when any significant deviations are detected, such as a temperature spike near the electronic gadgets, the robot can signal for immediate action, such as recalibrating the environmental sensors. Optionally, the first scanner array is arranged to scan at a first elevation (LI) and the first scanner array is arranged to scan at a second elevation (L2) when the movable tower is raised. Optionally, the first scanner array can be arranged to scan at two different elevations, labelled as the first elevation (LI) and the second elevation (L2). In an example, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot has only the first scanner array which when deployed, initially scans the articles on the first elevation (LI). After completing the scan, if the first scanner array needs to assess the articles on the second elevation (L2), the movable tower is raised to the second elevation (L2). It will be appreciated that said feature provides flexibility in scanning the articles stored at different elevations within the warehouse. Optionally, the processing unit is further configured to receive first scanner data, receive second scanner data, determine that a data entity in the first scanner data differs from a corresponding data entity in the second scanner data by more than a threshold level, and if so, indicate that a sensor in the first scanner array for the entity is to be calibrated. In this regard, the processing unit is further configured to collect the first scanner data from the first scanner array and the second scanner data from the second scanner array. Beneficially, the processing unit is capable of analysing whether the data entity (such as information about the article or its environment) in the first scanner data differs from the corresponding data entity in the second scanner data by more than the predefined threshold level. Moreover, if the processing unit detects that the sensor in the first scanner array is providing significantly different data compared to the second scanner array (beyond the set threshold), the processing unit indicates that the sensor in the first scanner array needs to be calibrated. The technical effect of said feature of the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot is ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the first scanner data and the second scanner data. Additionally, by comparing the first scanner data and the second scanner data from two different sources, the processing unit could identify any inconsistencies or discrepancies that may arise due to the sensor inaccuracies, wear and tear, or environmental changes. Thus, calibrating the sensors, when necessary, helps maintain the overall performance of the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot. Optionally, the processing unit is further configured to receive the first scanner data and the second scanner data from a same scanner array. This feature serves a particular purpose. In this regard, the processing unit is used to streamline the collection of the first scanner data and the second scanner data from a single or the same scanner array, rather than from separate arrays. Advantageously, by receiving the first scanner data and the second scanner data from the same scanner array, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot can simplify its hardware setup and potentially reduce costs. The present disclosure also relates to the storage system as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned autonomous warehouse monitoring robot, apply mutatis mutandis to the storage system. The term "storage system" as used herein refers to a combination of software and hardware, serving as a brain and interface for managing and visualizing the scanner data collected by the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot. Optionally, the storage system is a software solution utilized in logistics and warehousing. Optionally, the storage system is an artificial intelligence (AI) -driven platform designed to handle the vast amounts of environmental data gathered by the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot during the warehouse monitoring tasks. It will be appreciated that the storage system provides a deep understanding of the warehouse environment, enabling users to predict and analyse trends effectively. Optionally, the users could be logistics and warehouse managers, supply chain professionals, manufacturers, retailers, quality control teams, facility maintenance, and energy management departments, business analysts and data scientists, regulatory compliance and auditors, and so forth. Optionally, since each article in the warehouse can be assigned various environmental factors, it would be very useful in the supply chain where, for instance, the manufacturers, the shipping companies, and the storage facilities have to warrant that the article was kept in the right conditions. Optionally, the storage system works in conjunction with the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot to enable the users to certify each of the articles separately, spot the packages with likely issues early, and address the issues before the articles are moved to the next step in the supply chain. Beneficially, said feature decreases inefficiencies, returns, and refunds. Advantageously, the storage system could use predictive analytics and intelligent decision-making to enhance forecasting, inventory management, and risk mitigation, ensuring that businesses always have the right inventory on hand while efficiently utilizing the storage space in the warehouse. For example, the storage system is a cloud-based system that stores the temperature and humidity data collected by the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot, allowing the warehouse managers to access said information remotely. The term "processing arrangement" as used herein refers to an arrangement that is responsible for receiving, storing, and presenting the environmental data received from the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot. In this regard, the processing arrangement comprises a user interface and a processing unit. The term "processing unit" as used herein refers to an application, program, or device that responds to requests for information or services by another application, program, process or device (such as the external device) via a network interface. Optionally, the processing unit also encompasses software that makes the act of serving information or providing services possible. In this regard, the processing unit within the processing arrangement is responsible for managing and processing the scanner data collected by the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot. The processing unit is configured to receive the scanner data from the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot, store the environmental data over time, and interact with the user interface for data presentation. For example, the processing unit could be a high-performance server equipped with specialized software for real-time data processing. The term "user interface" as used herein refers to a point of interaction between the user and a computer system. Optionally, the user interface encompasses the visual and interactive elements through which the users can interact with and control the storage system. Optionally, the user interface can take various forms, such as a graphical interface on a computer screen or a digital dashboard. Optionally, the user interface may include graphical elements such as screens, menus, buttons, and icons. Optionally, the user interface may include methods of input such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touch, or voice commands. Moreover, the user interface allows the user to input commands and receive feedback or information from the storage system. Optionally, the user interface serves as a means for presenting the environmental data to the users. Advantageously, the user interface allows the users to visualize the granular environmental data collected by the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot in a user-friendly manner. An example might be a webbased dashboard displaying temperature heatmaps and humidity graphs for different areas of the warehouse. Optionally, the processing unit is further configured to determine whether the environmental data satisfies requirements for the article, and if not, execute a rectifying action. The term "rectifying action" refers to corrective measures taken by the processing unit to bring the environmental conditions for a stored article within the specified requirements. In this regard, the rectifying actions are aimed at ensuring that the article is preserved in optimal conditions, preventing any potential damage or degradation thereof. Examples of the rectifying actions could include adjusting the temperature, the humidity, or the lighting levels, sealing containers more securely, or moving the article to a different location within the warehouse. Optionally, the processing unit continuously monitors the environmental data collected by the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot. Optionally, the processing unit compares the environmental data to the predefined requirements for the specific article stored in the warehouse. Moreover, if the processing unit detects that the environmental conditions fall outside the predefined requirements, the processing unit triggers the rectifying action. For instance, if the temperature exceeds the permissible limit for a pharmaceutical product, the processing unit may activate a climate control system to lower the temperature back to the desired range, ensuring the article's quality and compliance with regulatory standards are maintained. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of product loss or damage due to environmental fluctuations, enhancing overall warehouse efficiency and product quality assurance. Optionally, the rectifying action is a recommendation to reject the article. In this regard, the processing unit recommends rejecting the article to prevent potential harm or quality issues when the environmental conditions for the article fall outside the optimal condition. For example, in a pharmaceutical warehouse, if the temperature exceeds the specified limit for storing the article such as a sensitive vaccine, the processing unit recommends rejecting the vaccine to ensure patient safety and regulatory compliance. Optionally, the rectifying action is a recommendation to recalculate an expiration date for the article. In this regard, the processing unit recommends recalculating the article's expiration date based on the current storage conditions in the warehouse. For example, in a food storage facility, if the humidity levels increase beyond safe limits for the article, the processing unit recommends recalculating the expiration date for the article to maintain its quality and safety. Optionally, the rectifying action is a recommendation to reduce a price of the article. In this regard, the processing unit is configured to provide recommendations when the environmental conditions have affected the article's quality but not to the extent of rejection. In such cases, the processing unit recommends the price reduction to reflect the reduced quality. For example, in a retail store with a cosmetics section, if the storage conditions for the articles such as a skincare product have deviated slightly from the optimal range due to a temporary cooling system malfunction, the processing unit recommends reducing the price of the affected products. This adjustment reflects the product's slightly reduced quality caused by the brief temperature fluctuation, making it more attractive to cost-conscious customers while ensuring inventory turnover. Optionally, an advantage of this approach is the reduction of the product waste by offering slightly compromised articles at lower prices, contributing to environmental sustainability through waste reduction. Optionally, the rectifying action is to present an alert for the article through the user interface. In this regard, the processing unit ensures that the users are immediately informed of an undesired condition associated with the article through the user interface, allowing the users to take manual actions if necessary. Optionally, the alert could be a temperature warning, a stock depletion alert, an environmental deviation alert, an expiry date warning, and so forth. For example, in a warehouse storing high-value electronics, if a section experiences a power outage leading to a temperature rise, the processing unit is configured to execute the rectifying action such as presenting the alert on the user interface, prompting the warehouse staff to investigate and take corrective actions. The present disclosure also relates to the method for the storage system as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned autonomous warehouse monitoring robot and the aforementioned storage system, apply mutatis mutandis to the method for the storage system. Optionally, the method further comprises determining whether the environmental data satisfies requirements for the article, and if not, executing a rectifying action. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Referring to FIG. 1A, illustrated is a schematic illustration of an environment showing an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 100 and a storage system 102 being used in a warehouse 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 100 comprises a propulsion system such as 106, 108 and 110. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 100 comprises a processing unit 112 and a first scanner array 114. The processing unit 112 is configured to receive scanner data from the first scanner array 114, wherein the scanner data relates to an article such as 116, 118, 120 stored in the warehouse 104, a horizontal location Pl, P2 (as depicted in FIG. IB) for the article 116, 118, 120 in the warehouse 104, a vertical location LI, L2 for the article 116, 118, 120 in the warehouse 104, and environmental data (as depicted in FIG. IC) scanned at the horizontal location Pl, P2 and the vertical location LI, L2 for the article 116, 118, 120. There is shown, the first scanner array 114 arranged in a movable tower 122. Optionally, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 100 further comprises a second scanner array 124, wherein the first scanner array 114 is arranged to scan the article 116 at a first elevation LI and the second scanner array 124 is arranged to scan the article 118 at a second elevation L2. Optionally, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 100 further comprises an nth scanner array 126, wherein the nth scanner array 126 is arranged to scan the article 120 at nth elevation Ln. As shown, the storage system 102 comprises a processing arrangement 130, said processing arrangement 130 comprises a user interface 132 and a processing unit 134 configured to receive scanner data from the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 100, store the environmental data of the scanner data for the article 116, 118, 120 over time, and present the environmental data through the user interface 132. Referring to FIG. IB, illustrated is a schematic illustration of the warehouse 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, optionally, the horizontal location Pl, P2 relates to a storage compartment of the warehouse 104. Moreover, optionally, the vertical location LI, L2 relates to a shelf such as 136, 138, 140, 142 and 144 of a shelving system 146A-C of the warehouse 104. Referring to FIG. IC, illustrated is a schematic illustration of the environmental data 148 being presented through the user interface 132, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the environmental data 148 is presented in the form of graphs. Moreover, as shown, a digital twin 150 of the warehouse 104 is presented on the user interface 132. As shown, the digital twin 150 could be used to see where a space with higher humidity starts and ends. Optionally, the digital twin 150 could be visualised as a cloud of denser points within the shelf such as 136, 138, 140, 142 and 144. Optionally, the user could click at another digital twin of the article 116, 118, 120 presented on the user interface 132 and see exactly the environmental factors surrounding the article 116, 118, 120 based on measuring surrounding space from various angles and calculating its own average / median. Referring to FIG. 2, illustrated is a schematic illustration of the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 200 scanning a radio frequency identification tag 202 on an article 204 in the warehouse 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 200 comprises a first scanner array. Optionally, the first scanner array further comprises a radio frequency identification scanner for identifying the article 204. Moreover, there is shown (at point A) that the first scanner array is scanning the horizontal location and the vertical location of the article 204. Furthermore, there is shown (at point B) the first scanner array scanning whether the article 204 is stored in a pallet 208. Referring to FIGs. 3A and 3B, illustrated are schematic illustrations of an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 300 comprising a movable tower 302, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3A, autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 300 comprises the first scanner array 304 (as depicted in FIG. 3B) arranged to scan at a first elevation LI, wherein the first scanner array 304 is arranged in a movable tower 306 (as depicted in FIG. 3B). As shown in FIG. 3B, the first scanner array 304 is arranged to scan at a second elevation L2 when the movable tower 306 is raised. There is shown, the autonomous warehouse monitoring robot 300 is being employed in the warehouse 308. Moreover, as shown, the first scanner array 304 is scanning an article 310 and 312. Referring to FIG. 4, illustrated is a flowchart depicting steps of a method for a storage system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. At step 402, scanner data is received, wherein the scanner data relates to an article stored in the warehouse, a horizontal location for the article in the warehouse, a vertical location for the article in the warehouse, and environmental data scanned at the horizontal location and the vertical location for the article. At step 404, the environmental data of the scanner data is stored for the article over time. At step 406, 5 the environmental data is presented on a user interface. The aforementioned steps are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein. 09 12 25

Claims

1. An autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) comprising a propulsion system (106, 108, 110), a processing unit (112), and a scanner array (114), the scanner array (114) being arranged in a movable tower (122), wherein the movable tower (122) is movable vertically within the warehouse to vary the elevation of the scanner array (114),wherein the scanner array (114) comprises an RFID scanner configured to scan RFID data from at least one package stored in a warehouse (104), the at least one package comprising multiple articles, and to scan RFID data from each article, wherein each article and the package are provided with respective radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags,wherein the processing unit (112) is configured to receive scanned RFID data from the scanner array (114), wherein the scanned RFID data relates to:a horizontal location for the package in the warehouse (104);a vertical location for the package in the warehouse (104); andenvironmental data scanned at the horizontal location and the vertical location for the package,and wherein the processing unit (112) is configured to store and process the scanned RFID data to identify the corresponding article and the package.

2. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to claim 1, wherein the scanner array (114) comprises at least one environmental sensor to capture the environmental data, wherein the at least one environmental sensor is selected from at least one of: a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, a light sensor, a barometric sensor, a sound sensor, a volatile organic sensor.09 12 253. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the movable tower (122) is extendable.

4. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the movable tower (122) is configured to move vertically and horizontally within the warehouse (104).

5. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the vertical location corresponds to a location of a shelf that is part of a shelving system within the warehouse (104).

6. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the horizontal location corresponds to a location along the width or breadth of a rack within the warehouse (104).

7. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the horizontal location corresponds to a coordinate that is part of a coordinate system within the rack in the warehouse (104).

8. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to claim 7, wherein when the rack is divided into sections, rows, or compartments, each with a unique identifier, the processing unit (112) is configured to identify each section, row, or compartment based on the corresponding unique identifier and to associate the scanned RFID data with each section, row, or compartment.

9. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any of claims 7 or 8, wherein the robot is configured to record and transmit the position of a scanned package based on the identified coordinate or code.

10. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the movable tower (122) is configured to reposition the scanner array (114) between different elevations (LI, L2) to sequentially scan packages at different heights within the warehouse (104).09 12 2511. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim, further comprising a second scanner array (124) arranged at elevation L2 while the first scanner array (114) is arranged at elevation LI.

12. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to claim 11, wherein when the warehouse (104) comprises at least two packages as defined in claim 1 stored at different vertical elevations (LI, L2), the first scanner array (114) is configured to scan a first package located at elevation LI and the second scanner array (124) is configured to bCdll a becunu paCKdyc lUCdlcu al clcvdllUII LZ.

13. The autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the processing unit (112) is configured to regulate a climate control system of the warehouse (104) based on the environmental data captured by the scanner array that correspond to an area associated with the package.

14. A storage system (102) comprising a processing arrangement (130), the processing arrangement (130) comprising a user interface (132) and a processing unit (134) configured to:receive scanner data, by a scanner array, from an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any preceding claim;store the RFID data and the environmental data of the scanner data for the package; andpresent the RFID data and environmental data through the user interface (132), wherein the processing unit (134) is further configured to determine whether the environmental data satisfies requirements for the package, and if not, execute a rectifying action.

15. The storage system (102) according to claim 14, wherein the rectifying action comprises a recommendation to reject the package.09 12 2516. The storage system (102) according to claim 14, wherein the rectifying action comprises a recommendation to recalculate an expiration date for the package.

17. The storage system (102) according to claim 14, wherein the rectifying action comprises a recommendation to adjust or reduce a price of the package.

18. The storage system (102) according to claim 14, wherein the rectifying action comprises presenting an alert relating to the package through the user interface (132).

19. The storage system (102) according to any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the processing unit (134) is further configured to associate the RFID tag data with the environmental data for the corresponding package.

20. A method for a storage system (102), the method comprisingreceiving scanner data from an autonomous warehouse monitoring robot (100) according to any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the scanned RFID data relates to:a package stored in a warehouse (104), the package comprising multiple articles, wherein each article and the package are provided with respective radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags;a horizontal location for the package in the warehouse (104),a vertical location for the package in the warehouse (104), andenvironmental data scanned at the horizontal location and the vertical location for the package,storing the RFID data and environmental data of the scanner data for the package over time,and presenting the RFID data and environmental data on a user interface (132), wherein the method further comprises determining whether theenvironmental data satisfies requirements for the package, and if not, executing a rectifying action.LDCM

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