Method for controlling storage and recovery of personal storage container within automated storage and recovery system

Abstract

To provide a preferred method for controlling storage and recovery of a personal storage container within an automated storage and recovery system.SOLUTION: An automated storage and collection system transports a storage container (4) through an access station that is one of a plurality of interaction areas (6) of the automated storage and collection system (2) and controls transport of the container. The container is linked to a user and a stored article, a method is performed in a computer program product comprising a specific module performing the various steps. The module includes: a user identification module (20) that processes a user identification data and grants access to the system; a module (30) for registering an article stored in an inventory database (10); a search module (40) for the stored article in a database (10); a search result and a stored article presentation module; and an execution module (60) for generating a command for the collection and storage of a particular storage container to a system controller (100) of the system (2) through the communication module (70).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and computer program for controlling the storage and retrieval of personal items in an automated storage and retrieval system serving different interaction areas handled by different persons. [Background technology]

[0002] There are different examples of automated storage and retrieval systems for transferring and retrieving items stored in storage containers. Figure 1 shows one example of a storage and retrieval system with a skeleton structure defining a storage grid 3. The structure forms storage columns for storing storage containers, also known as receptacles. In the example shown, the storage containers are loaded by moving a lifting device in x and y directions over the storage columns to transport the storage containers to and from the access station. A vehicle or a robot can be used in place of the lifting frame to load and unload the containers. This configuration is described in W02014 / 090684A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] In the following, the expression "robot" is used as a generic term to describe a device that loads and unloads storage containers, for example, moves them between a storage grid and a container transport assembly (used to transport storage containers to and from an interaction area with an access station).

[0004] When a defined storage container is to be stowed or stored in the storage and retrieval system, the storage and retrieval system controller 100 sends control commands to the robot. The system includes an updatable database that stores data defining where each storage container is located and its contained items, e.g., "The storage container with item #122 is in column [3,4] on level 4 below the top storage container on level 1." The robot then drives up to column [3,4], removes the top three storage containers, and then retrieves the next storage container that contains item #122. Storage containers that block the storage container with item #122 can also be removed by other cooperating robots. Items that are placed in the storage containers are typically registered by a barcode that is scanned when they are placed in the storage container.

[0005] An access station may be a picking station or a stockpiling station where items are removed from or placed in a storage container. Known automated storage systems have only one or a few picking and stockpiling stations where all of the stored storage containers can be accessed by different persons.

[0006] A need exists for a reliable way of providing this functionality when an automated storage and retrieval system has multiple different interaction areas with access stations, where storage containers can be accessed from outside the system, and where only specific, identifiable storage containers should be accessed by identified persons at each access station.

[0007] This scenario is applicable when an automated storage system as described above is for example arranged in an apartment block serving different apartment sections and an access station is available in each apartment section. Storage containers with personal items from different apartment sections are stored in the same storage and retrieval. It is then crucial that only items registered and stored in the storage container by a particular person are accessible only by that person. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2014 / 090684 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention includes a method and computer program for secure control of storage and retrieval of personal items in an automated storage and retrieval system connected to multiple interaction areas located in different locations, such as in an apartment building, row house, or other building shared by multiple people (e.g., a nursing home, student dormitory, military barracks, or the like). The present invention provides an easy and secure way to move storage containers between the storage and retrieval system and an access station in a particular interaction area.

[0010] The method and computer program according to the invention can be used to control different configurations of automated storage and retrieval systems, for example those arranged in the basement, in the attic or between interaction areas in a building. The container transport assembly connecting the storage grid to the interaction areas is adapted to the layout and type of building in which it is arranged. It can thus comprise vertical or inclined storage container transport assemblies, or horizontal conveyors.

[0011] An advantage of using the method and computer program according to the invention for controlling access to storage containers in a centralized, compact, automated storage and retrieval system is the security this provides.

[0012] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS When a storage and retrieval system is used within a single residence, the system typically has one or several users with access to all of the interaction areas where containers for storing and retrieving items are available, e.g., multiple interaction areas with one interaction area on each floor. The user can thus determine the floor to which he or she wants the storage container delivered.

[0013] When disposed in an apartment building or other building with multiple users, and the users have access to a particular container via an access station in an interaction area, the system may be provided with a verification system to verify both that a user requesting a particular storage container should have access to it, and that the user has access to a dedicated access station interaction area. In the following description, the expression "interaction area" is used to describe an area where users interact with storage and retrieval via an access station. "Interacting" typically means "storing or retrieving a storage container for storing personal items."

[0014] A human interface is used to control the transport of the storage container from a storage location in a storage column of the automated storage system to a dedicated interaction area. To do this, a user operates a user-operable control system, which executes a software application (app) comprising different modules for allowing retrieval and presentation of items stored in the container and for communicating with a storage and retrieval system controller that controls a robot to stow an identified storage container from a given storage location in the automated storage and retrieval system.

[0015] The invention is defined by a method for controlling the secure storage and retrieval of a storage container for storing an item by transporting the storage container through interaction areas of a plurality of interaction areas of an automated storage and retrieval system, the storage container being linked to a user and to the stored item, the method being implemented by a computer program product comprising specific modules implementing the different steps of the method: receiving user identification data in a user identification module, processing the user identification data, identifying the user, and if the user is identified, granting access to an access station in the interaction area so that the user can store or retrieve a storage container linked to the user and add or remove items therefrom; - registering the items in a registration module for storing items of users who have been granted access to the access station, linking the items to identified storage containers linked to the users, and updating an inventory database with information about the items and the storage containers; - searching for items in an inventory database using a search module to retrieve items for a user who has been granted access to the access station, presenting the search results and the stored items using a presentation module, and selecting the item to be retrieved from the presentation module; - generating execution instructions in an execution module, the instructions including information of a particular interaction area to be used and information of a storage container to be transferred, and transmitting the execution instructions using a communication module to a storage and retrieval system controller that controls reliable transfer of the storage container or an item associated with the storage container to and from a user in the particular interaction area; Includes.

[0016] Additional features of the method are defined in the claims.

[0017] The invention is further defined by a computer program product comprising different modules which, when executed in a processor, control the secure storage and retrieval of a storage container for storing an object by transferring the object through one specific interaction area of ​​several interaction areas of an automated storage and retrieval system, the storage container being linked to a user and to the stored object. a user identification module for identifying a user and controlling access to specific interaction areas for the user; a registration module for registering and linking the items to the identified storage containers in which the items are stored and for updating an inventory database with information about the items and the storage containers; a search module for searching for an item in an inventory database; a presentation module for presenting search results of stored items; an execution module for generating execution instructions including information about the specific interaction area to be used and about the storage container to be transferred; - a communications module for transmitting execution instructions to a storage and retrieval system controller that controls the secure transfer of storage containers to and from users in a particular interaction area; Equipped with.

[0018] Additional features for the computer program are defined in the claims. The present invention provides, for example: (Item 1) A method for controlling the secure storage and retrieval of a storage container (4) for storing an item by transferring the storage container (4) through an interaction area (6) of a plurality of interaction areas (6) of an automated storage and retrieval system (2), said storage container (4) being linked to a user and to the stored item, said method being implemented by a computer program product comprising specific modules which, when operated on a control system operable by a user, perform the different steps of said method, said method comprising: receiving user identification data in a user identification module (20), processing said user identification data to identify said user, and if said user is identified, granting access to an access station in said interaction area (6) so that said user can store or retrieve a storage container linked to said user and add or remove items from said storage container; - registering an item in a registration module (30) for storing an item of a user granted access to said access station, linking said item to an identified storage container (4) linked to said user, and updating an inventory database (10) with information about said item and said storage container (4); - searching for items in the inventory database (10) using a search module (40) to retrieve items for a user who has been granted access to the access station, presenting the search results and the stored items using a presentation module (50) and selecting the items to be retrieved from the presentation module (50); - generating execution instructions in an execution module (60), said instructions including information of the specific interaction area (6) to be used and of the storage container (4) to be transferred, and transmitting said execution instructions using a communication module (70) to a storage and retrieval controller (100) that controls reliable transfer of the storage container to and from the user at the specific interaction area (6); A method comprising: (Item 2) 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein registering the item is performed by visual data being registered in the registration module (30). (Item 3) 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein registering the item is performed by means of verbal data registered in the registration module (30). (Item 4) 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein registering an item is performed by visual data, verbal data and textual data being registered in the registration module (30). (Item 5) 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein identifying the storage container (4) is performed by visual data registered in the registration module (30). (Item 6) 6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein identifying the storage container (4) is performed by reading an RFID tag registered in the registration module (30). (Item 7) 7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein searching for an item in the inventory database (10) is performed using verbal data entered into the search module (40). (Item 8) 8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein searching for an item in the inventory database (10) is performed using text data entered into the search module (40). (Item 9) 9. The method according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the stored items and search results are presented visually. (Item 10) 10. The method of any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the stored items and search results are presented orally. (Item 11) The method according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein the method is used to control an automated storage and retrieval system (2) in a building to provide reliable storage and retrieval of a storage container (4) via an interaction area (6) of a plurality of interaction areas (6) in the building. (Item 12) A computer program product comprising different modules, which, when executed on a processor, controls the secure storage and retrieval of a storage container (4) for storing an item by transporting said storage container (4) through one specific interaction area (6) of several interaction areas (6) of an automated storage and retrieval system (2), said storage container (4) being linked to a user and to the stored item, said computer program product comprising: a user identification module (20) for identifying a user and controlling access for said user to specific interaction areas (6); a registration module (30) for registering and linking an item to an identified storage container (4) in which the item is stored and for updating said inventory database (10) with information about said item and said storage container (4); - a search module (40) for searching for an item in said inventory database (10); a presentation module (50) for presenting search results of stored items; an execution module (60) for generating execution instructions including information about the specific interaction area (6) to be used and about the storage container (4) to be transferred; a communication module (70) for transmitting said execution instructions to a storage and retrieval system controller (100) that controls the secure transfer of said storage containers to and from said users in said specific interaction areas (6); A computer program product comprising: (Item 13) Item 13. The computer program according to item 12, wherein the registration module (30) registers the item by visual data. (Item 14) Item 14. The computer program of item 13, wherein object recognition of the visual data is used to identify an article. (Item 15) Item 13. The computer program according to item 12, wherein the registration module (30) registers the item by verbal data. (Item 16) Item 13. The computer program product of item 12, wherein the registration module (30) registers the item by a combination of visual data, verbal data, and text data. (Item 17) 17. The computer program according to any one of items 12 to 16, wherein the registration module (30) registers the storage container (4) by visual data. (Item 18) 18. The computer program according to any one of items 12 to 17, wherein the registration module (30) registers the storage container (4) by means of an RFID tag. (Item 19) Item 19. The computer program product of any one of items 12 to 18, wherein the search module (40) is adapted to receive and identify spoken input. (Item 20) 20. The computer program product of any one of claims 12 to 19, wherein the search module (40) is adapted to receive and identify a text input. (Item 21) 21. The computer program according to any one of items 12 to 20, wherein the presentation module (50) outputs visual data. (Item 22) 22. The computer program according to any one of items 12 to 21, wherein the presentation module (50) outputs oral data. (Item 23) 23. The computer program of any one of claims 12 to 22, used to control an automated storage and retrieval system (2) in a building to provide reliable storage and retrieval of a storage container (4) via an interaction area (6) of a plurality of interaction areas (6) in the building. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] The invention will now be described in detail, by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows an example of a prior art automated storage and retrieval system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows one example of a centralized automated storage and retrieval system serving different apartment blocks. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating the steps involved in the process of storing items within a centralized automated storage and retrieval system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating the steps involved in the process of retrieving items from a centralized automated storage and retrieval system. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows one example of search results visually presented on a tablet. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows the different modules comprised in the computer program according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] The present invention relates to a method and computer program for controlling a centralized automated storage and retrieval system that interacts with an inventory database and transfers storage containers with personal items in an interaction area where a person is given access to a storage container in which to store their items.

[0021] FIG. 1 shows one example of a prior art automated storage and retrieval system in which a robot 5 is loading or unloading storage containers 4 into or from a column 4.1 of a storage grid 3. The figure shows one robot 5 connected to and operated with a suspension system that allows the one robot to move in the X and Y directions over the storage and retrieval system 2, thereby allowing access to all of the columns 4.1 for storing storage containers 4. Other types of robots may also be used, for example robots that run on a rail system on top of the columns, and more than one robot. The use of several robots is relevant for a larger storage and retrieval system 2.

[0022] A central system controller 100 (see FIG. 6) is provided with information about the physical parameters of the storage and retrieval system. These are the input parameters when setting up the system, e.g. the number of columns, the number of storage containers 4 each column 4.1 can store, the number of interaction areas into which storage containers 4 can be input or output, etc. A database is provided within the storage and retrieval system 2 which stores this data, as well as updated data on where each storage container 4 is located.

[0023] Prior art systems do not distinguish between different interaction areas and the people who have access to them, i.e. a storage container 4 can be delivered and loaded into any interaction area by any person. When arranged in an apartment building, it is crucial to distinguish between interaction areas and the people who have access to them.

[0024] FIG. 2 shows one example of a centralized automated storage and retrieval system serving different apartment blocks 1-5. The figure shows a side view of a five-storey apartment building with a basement where the centralized automated storage and retrieval system 2 is arranged. This is intended to be merely illustrative and exemplary, and the building may of course comprise any number of apartment blocks and any number of floors. In the figure, five apartment blocks are located above the basement. A vertical container transport assembly 8 connects the automated storage and retrieval system 2 with the interaction area(s) 6 on each floor for transferring storage containers 4 from the automated storage and retrieval system 2 to the interaction area(s) 6 (and vice versa). Each interaction area 6 has an access station with controlled access to the automated storage and retrieval system 2.

[0025] The automated storage and retrieval system 2 has a skeletal structure defining a storage grid 3 for storing storage containers 4 arranged in stacks within storage columns 4.1, and at least one container handling vehicle 5 configured to raise the storage containers 4 from the storage columns 4.1, lower the storage containers 4 into the storage columns 4.1, and transport the storage containers 4 to or from a container transport assembly 8 connecting the automated storage and retrieval system 2 to a plurality of interaction areas 6 for accessing the storage containers 4 and transferring the storage containers 4 to or from the automated storage and retrieval system 2.

[0026] The automated storage and retrieval system 2 further includes a storage and retrieval system controller 100 (see FIG. 6 ) for tracking the storage containers 4 and their location within the automated storage and retrieval system 2, and for controlling the container handling robot(s) 5 for storing and retrieving the storage containers 4.

[0027] The vertical container transport assembly 8 shown in Figure 2 is, in this example, a lift comprising a storage container support on which the storage containers 4 are placed and which allows the storage containers 4 to be transported vertically from the automated storage and retrieval system 2 to the interaction area 6 (and vice versa). This is a common lift shared by multiple apartment blocks extending between the apartment blocks and the basement (or other designated floor) which comprises the storage grid 3 for storing the storage containers.

[0028] This solution calls for a new way of controlling the storage and retrieval of items between different apartment blocks and a centralized storage and retrieval system 2.

[0029] A new solution is provided by a method and computer program for controlling and ensuring that a storage container 4 linked to a particular person is available only for that person. The method is implemented by a computer program that registers in a data set the items stored in the particular storage container 4, where the particular storage container 4 is stored in the storage grid 3, the users that should have access to the storage container 4, and the interaction area(s) 6 access to the storage containers that are available.

[0030] The present invention is defined by a method for controlling the transfer of storage containers 4 between an automated storage and retrieval system 2 and an interaction area 6 by interacting with an inventory database containing information about items stored in the storage containers 4.

[0031] 3 and 4 are flow charts illustrating the steps involved in the process of interacting with inventory database 10 to store and retrieve items in centralized automated storage and retrieval system 2. FIG.

[0032] When a person should access the storage and retrieval system 2, the first step 31 is to identify the person / user in the user identification module 20 (see FIG. 6).

[0033] Examples of identification techniques that may be used are fingerprint, face or voice recognition. A combination of these techniques provides greater security.

[0034] If successfully identified in step 32, the person / user is given access to the system via an access station in the interaction area 6. Different users can have access to the same interaction area 6. In this way, different family members have access to his or her personal storage container 4 from the same interaction area 6.

[0035] The next step is to store or retrieve the articles in the automated storage and retrieval system 2. These require different method steps.

[0036] If an item is to be stored and the user has been successfully identified, the next step is to register the item in a registration module 30 (see FIG. 6) together with data 33 describing it and to link 35 the item to the storage container 4 in which it is stored. The data describing the item can be, for example, visual or verbal data.

[0037] The inventory database 10 is then updated with this information. The manner in which the steps of registering items and linking them to storage containers 4 are performed will be explained in detail below when describing the different modules of the computer program implementing the method. If a user only has a few storage containers, the steps of registering items and linking them to storage containers can be skipped. In this case, only the user is linked to the storage containers.

[0038] The items may be registered by visual data that is registered in the registration module 30. The items may also be registered by describing them verbally or using a written description. In yet another embodiment, the items can be automatically identified by their visual characteristics, for example using object recognition.

[0039] The next step is to generate an execution command to instruct the controller of the storage and retrieval system 2 to store the storage container 4 (see step 36 in FIG. 3).

[0040] The execution instructions include at least information of the particular interaction area 6 to be used and the storage container 4 to be stored. The execution instructions are transmitted to the storage and retrieval system controller 100 which controls the secure transfer of the storage container to and from the user at the particular interaction area 6. Additional information related to where the storage container is to be stored may also be entered. This may be based, for example, on whether the storage container is to be stored for short or long term, or within a cooling section of the storage and retrieval system 2.

[0041] The storage containers 4 can be identified in different ways, for example by visual data and / or an RFID tag registered in the registration module 30 .

[0042] If an item is to be retrieved and the user's identification is successful, the user is given access to the search module 40 and the access station in the interaction area 6 (32). The next step is to search for the item in the inventory database 10 using the search module 40, which receives an input describing the item (44) (45), and presents the search results (48). If found (46), the stored item is displayed using the presentation module 50. If the item is not found, a notice is displayed (47). The stored item can be presented visually and / or verbally. If the user wishes to retrieve the item (49), the item is selected and a request for a storage container 4 in which to store the item is sent to the storage and retrieval system controller 100, which then commands the robot 5 to retrieve the storage container and deliver it to the container support assembly 8, which then carries the storage container to the interaction area where the user is located.

[0043] Searching for items in inventory database 10 may be performed by speaking, i.e., entering verbal data into search module 40 to identify the item. Stored items to be retrieved may also be identified by entering text data into search module 40.

[0044] Figure 5 shows one example of search results visually presented on a tablet or smartphone. By presenting the search results as images of different stored items, it becomes easier to pick and choose the storage container 4 that contains the item(s) to be retrieved.

[0045] This method of presenting stored items is useful when a person has only a few storage containers (e.g., up to 20) and when items placed in a storage container are not covered by other items.

[0046] A visual presentation of the items stored within a storage container is useful, especially when combined with a search term. A user may search for books, for example, by saying "books" or entering "books" as a text input. The search module 40 will then identify all storage containers that store books, and the presentation module will display the storage containers and their contents.

[0047] The image showing the contents of each storage container is updated each time an item is added to or removed from the storage container 4 in the interaction area 6. This is made possible by having a camera take a picture of the contents of the storage container 4.

[0048] The camera can be disposed in the interaction area 6 or it can be a camera in a device running a computer program implementing the method described, for example a tablet or a smartphone.

[0049] Once an item to be retrieved from the storage and retrieval system 2 has been selected, it can be retrieved (49) by generating an execution command. The command includes at least the particular interaction area 6 to be used and the storage container 4 to be retrieved. The execution command is then transmitted as a request to the storage and retrieval system controller 100 which controls the reliable transfer of the particular storage container 4 to the user at the particular interaction area 6.

[0050] The computer program for controlling the storage and retrieval of personal items can be installed and executed on different devices such as smartphones, tablets and PCs. These devices comprise all the necessary means for registering and retrieving the items stored in the storage containers 4, namely a processor, input means, a display and a camera. When executed in the processor, the program comprises modules that perform different tasks such as identifying the user, interacting with an inventory database containing information about the user's personal items and the storage containers 4 in which they are stored, and controlling the transfer of the storage containers 4 between the storage and retrieval system 2 and the specific interaction areas 6 to which the user is given access (for example, a user in "apartment section 1" has access to interaction area A, while a user in "apartment section 2" has access to interaction area B).

[0051] An automated storage and retrieval system in a building, such as the one described by way of example above, can be accessed from a program (app) installed on a smartphone or tablet. For example, a new user in an apartment block having an access station and an interaction area 6 connected to the automated storage and retrieval system, will be able to access and use the system as soon as the app is installed.

[0052] 6 shows the different modules comprised in a computer program (app) that, when executed in a processor, controls the secure storage and retrieval of a particular storage container linked to a person. Personal items stored in the storage containers are registered in an inventory database 10 that can be installed locally, for example on the device that runs the program, or at a remote location, for example a cloud-based database.

[0053] The program according to the invention controls the different steps involved in a method for controlling the secure storage and retrieval of a storage container 4 containing personal items. These steps are implemented in different modules of the program.

[0054] The modules included in the computer program are a user identification module 20, a registration module 30, and a search module 40. The registration module 30 and the search module 40 can communicate with the inventory database 10. The app further includes a presentation module 50 and an execution module 60. All the modules and their purpose and operation will now be described in detail.

[0055] The user identification module 20 identifies a person / user prior to granting access to the interaction area 6 of the centralized storage and retrieval system 2. Persons who have access to the storage and retrieval system 2 via the interaction area 6 are registered in a configuration module (not shown) of the computer program.

[0056] Identification can be performed each time the interaction area 6 of the storage and retrieval system 2 is used or only once when the system is set up. This depends on the number of people who have access to the interaction area 6 in the apartment block. If only one person lives in the apartment block with the interaction area 6, there is no need to identify the user / person each time the storage system is used.

[0057] On the other hand, if several persons live in the same apartment block sharing an interaction area 6 for the storage and retrieval system 2, the user identification module 20 can be configured to verify the identity of the person each time the storage system is used. In this way, the computer program can be configured to give each person in the apartment block access to the same interaction area 6 but only to the storage containers 4 with personal items registered by that person when storing his / her items.

[0058] Identification of a person can be implemented in many ways. Examples of known identification methods are passwords or PIN codes, biometric methods (fingerprint, iris or face recognition, etc.). Identification can also be implemented through mechanical interaction, for example with a key, a key fob, a security card, etc. The key may contain an electronic chip for an additional level of security. If identification is successful, access to the system via the interaction area 6 is given.

[0059] The registration module 30 is adapted for linking and registering the items to the storage containers 4 in which they are stored and for updating the inventory database 10 with this information. Both the items to be stored and the storage containers 4 in which they are stored are registered.

[0060] For example, in a simplified solution where a user has only a few storage containers 4 , only information identifying the storage containers 4 may be registered in the registration module 30 .

[0061] In a first embodiment, the registration of the article to be stored in the storage container 4 is performed by registering visual characteristics represented by visual data. The visual data can be provided by a camera that captures an image of the article to be placed in the storage container 4. The camera can be disposed in the interaction area 6 and have a field of view such that the article to be placed in the storage container 4 is captured.

[0062] The camera used to provide visual data for registering the items may be integrated into a portable device running a computer program, such as a smart phone or tablet. A photograph of the contents of the storage container 4 can then be captured with the portable device and registered in the inventory database 10. The photographs can be further sorted and cataloged.

[0063] Object recognition of the articles may further be applied to identify articles from the visual data, thereby linking the identified articles to the storage containers 4 in which they are stored.

[0064] In a second embodiment, the identification of the items to be stored in the storage container 4 is performed by verbal data. The verbal data can be provided by using a microphone connected to a device running a computer program. The user can then describe by voice the items to be placed in the particular storage container 4.

[0065] In a third embodiment, the items stored within the storage container 4 may be identified by a written description. Text may also be used as complementary information to the visual data, for example the visual data may describe a pair of shoes while the written description describes details such as size.

[0066] In yet another embodiment, items to be stored may also be marked with RFID and registered in the inventory database 10 .

[0067] As will be appreciated from the above description, a combination of one or more of the described registration and identification methods is feasible.

[0068] In addition to the items to be stored, the storage containers 4 may also be identified by visual data, which in this case may be, for example, a bar code captured by a camera.

[0069] The storage container 4 may also be identified by an RFID tag. In this embodiment, an RFID reader is provided to register and enter the storage container identification data into the computer program.

[0070] In one embodiment of the present invention, only storage containers 4 that are adapted and approved for use with the centralized storage and retrieval system 2 are recognized when registered and identified by the computer program. If the storage container 4 is not approved, it is not possible to store the storage container 4 in the storage and retrieval system 2, i.e., the execution module 60 in the computer program does not generate instructions for the storage and retrieval system controller 100 if the storage container 4 is not approved.

[0071] The main task of the registration module 30 of the computer program is to register and link information about the items and the storage containers 4 in which they are stored, and to update the inventory database 10 with this information.

[0072] The search module 40 is adapted to search for items stored in the inventory database 10, ie items that are already registered in the inventory database 10, and the storage containers 4 in which they are stored.

[0073] The search can be performed through a user interface of the device running the program. If the stored items are registered with visual data, the presentation module 50 of the program sends the visual data resulting from the search to the display driver of the device so that all of the registered items resulting from the search are displayed. The user can then select an item, for example, by clicking on the displayed item on a touch screen.

[0074] The command is then transmitted to the controller 100 of the storage and retrieval system 2 and the item is retrieved from the centralized storage and retrieval system 2 .

[0075] If additional descriptive information is available about the stored articles, a search term can be entered and the articles resulting from the search are presented.

[0076] The search terms may also be entered using verbal data as described above when describing the items to be registered in the registration module 30. In this case, the storage and retrieval system 2 controlled by the computer program according to the present invention may be operated solely by voice.

[0077] The presentation module 50 of the computer program is adapted to present the stored items in the storage and retrieval system 2 as well as the search results. The presentation of the stored items and the search results can in one embodiment be performed by displaying them on a display, which is typically a display of the device running the computer program. In another embodiment, the presentation module 50 may present the stored items as verbal data, i.e. as words spoken through a speaker.

[0078] The execution module 60 is adapted to generate execution instructions for the storage and retrieval system controller 100 to store or retrieve the identified storage container 4. The execution module 60 is linked to a communication module 70 that communicates with the storage and retrieval system controller 100.

[0079] The communications module 70 is adapted for exchanging execution information between the computer program controlling the storage and retrieval of personal items and the controller 100 of the storage and retrieval system 2 .

[0080] All information relating to the stored items and the storage container 4 in which they are stored is controlled by a computer program according to the invention.

[0081] If a user has only a few storage containers 4, the user may store and register only information related to the storage containers 4, i.e., the contents of the storage containers 4 do not necessarily have to be registered in any case. When requesting a storage container 4, the user only needs to input the requested storage container 4, e.g., to retrieve the user's "second storage container".

[0082] When loading and unloading a storage container 4, the information exchanged from the communications module 70 in the computer program to the storage and retrieval system controller 100 is a unique identification of the storage container 4, regardless of whether the storage container 4 is to be stored or retrieved, and regardless of the interaction area 6 to be used. Additional information related to where the storage container 4 is to be stored in the storage and retrieval system 2 may also be entered.

[0083] When storing an identified storage container 4, the execution module 60 generates instructions to the storage and retrieval system controller 100 to store the identified storage container 4 using its unique identification. The instructions are transmitted via the communication module 70 to the storage and retrieval system controller 100, which then links the identified storage container 4 to its own registration system, which keeps track of where each identified storage container 4 should be stored, i.e., the column and level within the column in which it should be stored.

[0084] When retrieving an identified storage container 4, the execution module 60 generates a command to the storage and retrieval system controller 100 to retrieve the identified storage container 4 using its unique identification. The command is transmitted via the communication module 70 to the storage and retrieval system controller 100, which then looks up the identified storage container 4 in its own registration system, which keeps track of where each identified storage container 4 is stored, i.e., the column in which it is stored, and the level within the column.

[0085] The registration module 30 tracks the items that are stored or to be stored and the storage containers 4 they are stored in. The execution module 60 commands the storage and retrieval system controller 100 the storage containers 4 for storage or retrieval.

[0086] Only storage containers 4 belonging to a particular person may be accessible from a defined interaction area 6. This may be the interaction area 6 that was used when storing the storage container. This may be the default for gaining access to the storage container 4.

[0087] A user may access a storage container 4 from an interaction area 6 other than the one used to store the storage container 4. This functionality may optionally be implemented within a computer program, with access from other interaction areas 6 being granted by the user entering a code or other identification before access is granted.

[0088] As will be described, a computer program according to the present invention generates instructions via execution module 60. The instructions are transmitted using communication module 70 to storage and retrieval system controller 100, i.e., to store or retrieve an identified storage container 4. Optionally, a final check to ensure that the storage container 4 retrieved at interaction area 6 is the correct one is to check the identification of the storage container 4 prior to outputting the storage container via an access station in interaction area 6.

[0089] Additional information may be exchanged from executive module 60 to storage and retrieval system controller 100. This additional information may be, for example, the location within storage and retrieval system 2 where storage container 4 is to be stored. This may be useful for long term storage or for short term storage, depending on whether storage containers are expected to be retrieved frequently from the storage system.

[0090] In the centralized storage and retrieval system 2, there may be specially allocated areas reserved for storing items at specific temperatures, and the additional information may be, for example, whether the storage container 4 should be stored in a cooling section of the storage and retrieval system 2 when the stored item is a food or beverage item. Where in the storage and retrieval system 2 the storage container 4 is stored affects the speed at which it can be retrieved in the interaction area 6.

[0091] In addition to the different modules described above, the computer program may further comprise a configuration module for setting different parameters defining the automated storage and retrieval system installed and accessed by the computer program. This configuration module shares information with the controller 100 of the storage and retrieval system 2. The parameters exchanged may include the capacity of the storage system, the number of storage containers 4 that a user can use for storing personal items, the number of interaction areas 6 available for a person.

[0092] The method and computer program according to the invention provide high security. A thief who breaks into the storage grid is not able to easily access the individual containers due to the stacked nature of the storage containers. This makes the system advantageously suitable for storing personal items, especially those that may be of high value. The compactness of this form of centralized automated storage and retrieval system is also an advantage in apartment building scenarios where space is a constant issue.

Claims

1. A secure containment and retrieval system, comprising: A storage grid; a plurality of storage containers configured to be arranged within columns of the storage grid; a container handling vehicle movable in an X-direction and a Y-direction over the storage grid, the container handling vehicle configured to load storage containers to and from columns of the storage grid; at least one interaction area comprising an access station; a verification system configured to verify that a user of the access station requesting a particular storage container is authorized to use the access station and that the user of the access station is authorized to access the particular storage container; A secure containment and retrieval system comprising:

2. A secure storage and retrieval system as described in claim 1, further comprising a central controller, the central controller configured to control the container handling vehicles to load the particular storage container from a position within the storage grid and to transport the storage container for placement in the at least one interaction area.

3. A secure storage and retrieval system as described in claim 2, wherein the access station has a human interface configured to communicate with the verification system to verify the user and to communicate with the central controller to control the container handling vehicle to load the particular storage container.

4. A secure storage and retrieval system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the verification system is configured to receive user identification data to identify the user.

5. The secure storage and retrieval system of claim 4, wherein the verification system verifies whether the user identification data identifies a user who has authorization to use the access station.

6. A secure storage and retrieval system as described in claim 5, wherein the verification system prevents the user from using the access station when the user does not have permission to use the access station.

7. A secure storage and retrieval system as described in claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the verification system verifies whether the user identification data identifies a user who has permission to access the particular storage container.

8. A secure storage and retrieval system as described in claim 7, wherein the verification system prevents the user from accessing the particular storage container when the user does not have permission to access the particular storage container.

9. A secure storage and retrieval system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one interaction area is secured in an individual apartment section of an apartment block.

10. A secure storage and retrieval system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one interaction area is secured in a common area of ​​an apartment block.

11. A method of accessing a secure storage and retrieval system comprising: a storage grid; a plurality of storage containers configured to be arranged in columns of the storage grid; a container handling vehicle movable in an X-direction and a Y-direction over the storage grid, the container handling vehicle configured to load and unload storage containers to and from the columns of the storage grid; and at least one interaction area comprising an access station, the method comprising: verifying that a user of the access station requesting a particular storage container is authorized to use the access station; verifying that the user of the access station is authorized to access the particular storage container; A method comprising:

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising, in response to verifying that the user of the access station is authorized to use the access station and that the user of the access station is authorized to access the particular storage container, controlling the container handling vehicle to load the particular storage container from the storage grid and to place the particular storage container in the interaction area.

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