Article processing support device, article processing support method, article processing support program, and article processing support system

Abstract

To provide an article processing support device that prevents work efficiency from decreasing under the condition that a plurality of kinds of articles are stored in one section.SOLUTION: An article processing support device comprises an interface and a processor. The interface receives article information including article identification information on and the article size of each article, section information including section identification information on and section size and section position of each section of equipment storing articles, inventory information including article identification information on a predetermined article, section identification information on the section where the predetermined article is stored, and the storage position in the section where the predetermined article is stored, and stock information including the article identification information on a stock objective article. The processor estimates vacant regions in a section based upon the section information and the inventory information, detects a storage candidate region where the stock objective article can be stored among vacant regions in the section based upon the article information and the stock information, and outputs stock support information related to the storage candidate region.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an article processing support device, an article processing support method, an article processing support program, and an article processing support system. [Background technology]

[0002] The logistics industry demands automation and efficiency in logistics, and in recent years, research and development has been progressing on transport systems equipped with shelf guided vehicles that automatically transport shelves that store inventory. For example, an operator stationed at a station sends a desired operation command, such as storing or retrieving, to the transport system. The shelf guided vehicle transports the shelf to the station based on the operation command. The operator can perform the storing operation of placing items on the transported shelf or the retrieving operation of removing items from the shelf without moving from the station.

[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art A technique for assisting an operator in removing an article from a container is known that indicates where an article is stored in a container divided into multiple compartments. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-17002 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Storing the same type of item in one compartment makes item management easier. However, since items of the same type are the same size, the space utilization efficiency of one compartment may decrease. Therefore, it is possible to increase the space utilization efficiency of one compartment by allowing multiple types of items to be stored in one compartment.

[0006] However, storing multiple types of items in one section may reduce the efficiency of operators' work in loading and unloading, and there is a demand for technology that can prevent such a decrease in work efficiency.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide an item processing support device, an item processing support method, an item processing support program, and an item processing support system that prevent a decline in work efficiency under conditions where multiple types of items can be stored in a single compartment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An item processing support device according to an embodiment includes an interface and a processor. The interface receives item information including item identification information and item size for each item, compartment information including compartment identification information, compartment size, and compartment location for each compartment of equipment that stores the items, inventory information including item identification information for a specific item, the compartment identification information for the compartment in which the specific item is stored, and the storage location within the compartment in which the specific item is stored, and warehousing information including item identification information for an item to be stored. The processor estimates free space within the compartment based on the compartment information and the inventory information, detects a candidate storage area capable of storing the item to be stored from the free space within the compartment based on the item information and the warehousing information, and outputs warehousing support information regarding the candidate storage area. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a warehouse system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a layout of the warehouse system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the WCS according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of product information according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of equipment information (movable shelf information) according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of inventory information according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of inventory information according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of delivery information according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an outline of the warehousing process performed by the processor of the WCS according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of a system to which the warehousing process according to the embodiment is applied. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing details of a part of the processing in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing details of a part of the processing in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing details of a part of the processing in FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of divided areas within a section. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing items in a section. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of warehousing support information according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an outline of the shipping process by the processor of the WCS according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of a system to which the shipping process according to the embodiment is applied. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing details of a part of the processing in FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a sequence diagram showing details of a part of the processing in FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram showing details of a part of the processing in FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a first example of a section image included in the delivery support information according to the embodiment. [Figure 23]FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a second example of a section image included in the delivery support information according to the embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of shipping support information according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Each embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. [composition] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a warehouse system according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the warehouse system S includes a warehouse management system (WMS) 1, a warehouse execution system (WES) 2, a warehouse control system (WCS) 3, an automatic guided vehicle (AGV) 4, a digital assortment system (DAS) 5, and a camera 6.

[0011] WMS1, WES2, and WCS3 can be configured with one or more computers, i.e., one or more processors, memories, interfaces, etc. The one or more processors can be a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), or the like. WMS1 receives an order list such as inventory information or shipping information from a higher-level server and sends it to WES2. The inventory information includes item identification information (hereinafter referred to as item ID) of one or more items to be stored. The shipping information includes item IDs of one or more items to be shipped. WES2 outputs execution instructions based on the order list. WCS3 controls the travel of AGV4 based on the execution instructions.

[0012] The AGV 4 travels from a starting point to a destination on the floor of the warehouse under the control of the WCS 3. For example, the AGV 4 may be equipped with a camera, analyze images captured by the camera, and travel from the starting point to the destination while avoiding obstacles. Alternatively, the AGV 4 travels from the starting point to the destination using the results of reading floor position identification information (hereinafter referred to as floor position ID) attached to the warehouse floor. The AGV 4 may also be equipped with an LRF (laser range finder). The AGV 4 may travel from the starting point to the destination while avoiding obstacles based on the distance to the obstacle obtained by the LRF.

[0013] The AGV 4 also travels under the control of the WCS 3, transporting a mobile shelf 41, which is equipment for storing items. For example, the AGV 4 is equipped with a lift that moves up and down vertically. The AGV 4 slips between the warehouse floor and the bottom plate of the mobile shelf 41, and raises the lift to lift up the mobile shelf 41. The AGV 4 travels from the departure point to the destination with the mobile shelf 41 lifted by the lift. When the AGV 4 arrives at the destination, it lowers the lift to place the feet of the mobile shelf 41 on the warehouse floor, completing the transport of the mobile shelf 41.

[0014] The DAS 5 is composed of one or more computers, i.e., a processor, memory, a communication interface, a user interface, etc. The DAS 5 also has fixed shelves 51, which store items to be stored or items to be shipped. The DAS 5 also has a display, which is one of the user interfaces. The display displays storage support information or shipping support information that supports the operator in the storage or shipping work of items at the station according to the order list. The display of the DAS 5 also has a touch panel, and accepts various inputs from the operator via the touch panel.

[0015] The camera 6 outputs an image (e.g., a video) of each section S of the movable shelf 41. One camera 6 may capture an image of each section S of one movable shelf 41, or multiple cameras 6 may capture an image of each section S of one movable shelf 41. The camera 6 may be installed in any position that allows it to capture an image of the section S.

[0016] The WCS 3 receives images from the camera 6 and analyzes the received images. Based on the results of the image analysis, the WCS 3 detects items brought into or taken out of the section S. In other words, the WCS 3 detects the entry or exit of items based on the results of the image analysis.

[0017] It should be noted that a sensor may be used instead of the camera 6, or may be used in combination with the camera 6. The sensor senses the area S, and the WCS 3 receives a signal from the sensor and detects items brought into or taken out of the area S from the received signal.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a layout of the warehouse system according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, multiple AGVs 4 travel within the warehouse. The AGV 4 transports a specified mobile shelf 41 from among multiple mobile shelves 41 arranged within the warehouse to a station. The station is equipped with mobile shelves 41 and fixed shelves 51, and an operator performs a warehousing operation in which an item to be stored and prepared on the fixed shelf 51 is moved from the fixed shelf 51 to the mobile shelf 41, or a retrieval operation in which an item to be removed and prepared on the mobile shelf 41 is moved from the mobile shelf 41 to the fixed shelf 51.

[0019] The display 35 also outputs various information. For example, the display 35 displays warehousing support information or retrieval support information to support the warehousing or retrieval work of the operator.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the WCS according to the embodiment. 3 functions as an article processing support system. As shown in FIG. 3, the WCS 3 includes a processor 31, a memory 32, a communication interface 33, an input unit 34, and a display 35.

[0021] The processor 31 is the entity that executes the item processing support. The memory 32 includes a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The non-volatile memory of the memory 32 stores the operating program of the processor 31. Furthermore, the non-volatile memory of the memory 32 stores item information, section information, inventory information, warehousing information, and shipping information, etc. The communication interface 33 communicates with the WMS1 or the WES2 and receives item information, section information, inventory information, warehousing information, and shipping information, etc., transmitted from the WMS1. The communication interface 33 also communicates with the DAS5 and transmits warehousing support information and shipping support information. The information output device of the DAS5 displays this warehousing support information and shipping support information. The processor 31, the memory 32, the communication interface 33, etc. constitute an item processing support device.

[0022] The input unit 34 accepts input from an operator. For example, the input unit 34 includes terminals for inputting signals from a mouse, a keyboard, and a barcode reader, and accepts signals from the mouse, the keyboard, and the barcode reader in response to operations by the operator. The input unit 34 also includes a display unit for displaying various information. For example, the input unit 34 is implemented by a touch panel display. The display 35 outputs various information to the operator. For example, the display 35 displays warehousing support information and warehousing support information. The input unit 34 and the display 35 may be implemented as separate devices or as a common device.

[0023] The processor 31 includes an acquisition unit 311, an estimation unit 312, a detection unit 313, and an output unit 314. For example, the processor 31 executes an operation program stored in the memory 32 to realize the functions of each unit.

[0024] The operation of each part of the processor 31 during storage assistance is outlined below. The acquisition unit 311 acquires item information, section information, inventory information, and warehousing information via the communication interface 33. The estimation unit 312 estimates the available space within section S based on the section information and inventory information. The detection unit 313 detects a candidate storage area capable of storing the items to be stored from the available space within section S based on the item information and warehousing information. The output unit outputs warehousing support information related to the candidate storage area. For example, the display 35 displays the warehousing support information. Details of the operation of each unit in warehousing support will be explained in detail later.

[0025] The operation of each part of the processor 31 in the shipping support is outlined below. The acquisition unit 311 acquires section information, inventory information, and shipping information via the communication interface 33. The detection unit 313 detects the storage location of the item to be shipped based on the section information, inventory information, and shipping information. The output unit outputs shipping support information related to the storage location of the item to be shipped. For example, the display 35 displays the shipping support information. Details of the operation of each unit in shipping support will be explained in detail later.

[0026] Next, the product information, section information, inventory information, incoming information, and outgoing information will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of product information according to the embodiment. Item information is information about all items that are to be stored or shipped. Item information includes multiple item records, and each item record includes a unique item ID, item size, item name, item image, etc. For example, item size indicates the lengths of the three sides of the item (length x width x height). An item image can be a single image of the item taken from one direction, or multiple images of the item taken from multiple directions. The multiple directions include the top, front, side, back, and bottom of the item.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of equipment information (movable shelf information) according to the embodiment. The equipment information is shelf information about the movable shelf 41, which is equipment that stores items, and includes section information, etc. The section information is information about each section S of the movable shelf 41. The movable shelf 41 has multiple sections S, and each section S stores one or more items. Furthermore, each section S of the movable shelf 41 is capable of storing multiple types of items of different sizes. Furthermore, each section S of the movable shelf 41 may be the same size or may be different sizes.

[0028] The equipment information includes equipment records, and the equipment records include equipment identification information (hereinafter referred to as equipment ID) unique to each equipment, equipment images, and compartment information. For example, the equipment image is an image of the equipment photographed from one direction and includes images of all compartments contained in the equipment. The compartment information includes multiple compartment records, and the compartment records include compartment identification information (hereinafter referred to as compartment ID) unique to each compartment S, priority storage items, compartment size, compartment position, and divided area position.

[0029] The priority storage item includes the item ID of the item to be stored with priority. The section size indicates the lengths of the three sides (length x width x height) of the section S. The section position indicates the position in the equipment to which the section S belongs. The section position is one or more coordinates with an arbitrary position in the equipment as the origin, or one or more coordinates and a distance (length). The section position coordinates are two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The two-dimensional coordinates are the X-axis (left-right direction within the section) and the Y-axis (up-down direction within the section). The three-dimensional coordinates are the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis (front-back direction within the section). One section S is managed by multiple divided areas D, and the divided area position indicates the position in the section S to which the divided area D belongs. The divided area position is one or more coordinates with an arbitrary position in the section S as the origin, or one or more coordinates and a distance (length). The divided area position coordinates are two-dimensional or three-dimensional.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of inventory information according to the embodiment. Inventory information is information about inventory items. Inventory information includes multiple inventory records, and a specific inventory record includes inventory identification information (hereinafter referred to as inventory ID), the item ID and quantity of the specific item, the equipment ID of the equipment in which the specific item is stored, the section identification information of the section S in which the specific item is stored (hereinafter referred to as section ID), and the storage location within the section S in which the specific item is stored. The storage location is indicated by one or more coordinates with an arbitrary position within the section S as the origin, or one or more coordinates and a distance (length). The coordinates are two-dimensional or three-dimensional. In other words, the inventory information indicates where N inventory items (N is a natural number) are located within which section S of which equipment.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of inventory information according to the embodiment. The inventory information is information about inventory items. The inventory information includes a plurality of inventory records, and each inventory record includes the item ID (item identification information) and the number of items to be inventoryed.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of delivery information according to the embodiment. The shipping information is information about shipped items. The shipping information includes a plurality of shipping records, and each shipping record includes the item ID (item identification information) and the number of items to be shipped.

[0033] [Receipt Processing] 9 is a flowchart showing an outline of the warehousing process by the processor of the WCS according to the embodiment. The detailed sequence of the warehousing process in the warehouse system S will be described later with reference to FIGS.

[0034] The processor 31 acquires information necessary for the warehousing process using the acquisition unit 311. For example, the processor 31 acquires product information, equipment information (including section information), inventory information, and warehousing information via the communication interface 33 (ST11). The processor 31 may acquire the information all at once at a predetermined timing, or may acquire the information individually at separate timings.

[0035] The processor 31 uses the estimation unit 312 to estimate the available space in the section S of the mobile shelf 41 based on the section information and inventory information (ST12). The processor 31 uses the detection unit 313 to detect a candidate storage area capable of storing the item to be stored from the available space in the section S based on the item information and inventory information (ST13).

[0036] The processor 31 outputs the warehousing support information related to the storage candidate area to the display 35 via the output unit 314 (ST14). The display 35 displays the warehousing support information. By outputting or displaying the warehousing support information, it is possible to prevent a decrease in work efficiency.

[0037] 10 to 13 are sequence diagrams showing the operation of a system to which the warehousing process according to the embodiment is applied. Note that Fig. 11 to Fig. 13 are sequence diagrams showing details of some of the processes in Fig. 10.

[0038] Processor 31 acquires information necessary for warehousing processing via acquisition unit 311. For example, processor 31 acquires product information, equipment information (including section information), inventory information, and warehousing information via acquisition unit 311 (ST101). Note that the timing for acquiring the various types of information is not limited to this timing.

[0039] The display 35 of the WCS 3 receives a storage instruction from the operator and outputs the storage instruction to the processor 31 (ST102).

[0040] Triggered by the warehousing instruction, processor 31 generates first warehousing support information based on the warehousing information and inventory information. Processor 31 outputs the first warehousing support information to display 35 via output unit 314 (ST103). Display 35 displays the first warehousing support information. The first warehousing support information includes information about the item to be warehousing. For example, the first warehousing support information includes the item ID, item name, and item image of the item to be warehousing.

[0041] Processor 31 also outputs the storage mode selection to display 35 (ST104). Input unit 34 displays a storage mode selection screen.

[0042] The display 35 receives a designation of the first or second storage mode from the operator and outputs the designation of the first or second storage mode to the processor 31 (ST105). The first storage mode is a storage mode that prioritizes the storage location. The second storage mode is a storage mode that prioritizes storage efficiency.

[0043] 11, a process when the first warehousing mode is specified will be described. The processor 31 selects one target mobile shelf 41 based on the item information, equipment information, inventory information, and warehousing information, generates a call instruction for the selected mobile shelf 41, and transmits the call instruction (ST111). For example, the processor 31 generates a call instruction for the mobile shelf 41 that currently stores the item with the item ID included in the warehousing information, or the mobile shelf 41 that previously stored the item with the item ID included in the warehousing information. Alternatively, the processor 31 generates a call instruction for the mobile shelf 41 that includes a section S that is specified to preferentially store the item with the item ID included in the warehousing information, based on the priority storage item included in the section information. The AGV 4 transports the mobile shelf 41 to the station based on the call instruction.

[0044] The processor 31 reads inventory information including the equipment ID of the called mobile shelf 41 (ST112). The processor 31 also estimates the available space within the multiple sections S of the called mobile shelf 41 based on the section information and inventory information using the estimation unit 312 (ST113). The processor 31 also detects, using the detection unit 313, one or more candidate storage areas capable of storing one or more items to be stored from the available space within the multiple sections S of the called mobile shelf 41 based on the item information and inventory information (ST114). In other words, the processor 31 detects, using the detection unit 313, where in which section S of the called mobile shelf 41 the candidate storage area is located based on the size and number of the items to be stored.

[0045] Processor 31 generates second warehousing support information related to one or more candidate storage areas capable of storing one or more items to be stored. Processor 31 outputs the second warehousing support information to display 35 via output unit 314 (ST115). That is, processor 31 updates the first warehousing support information to the second warehousing support information via output unit 314. Display 35 displays the updated second warehousing support information. The second warehousing support information includes information indicating the section position of section S that includes the candidate storage area. The second warehousing support information will be described in detail later.

[0046] Processor 31 also requests the item ID of the item to be stored (ST116). Processor 31 accepts part of the storage information via input unit 34. For example, processor 31 accepts the item ID and quantity of the item to be stored input by the operator via input unit 34 (ST117).

[0047] Next, the processing when the second storage mode is specified will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Processor 31 requests the item ID and quantity of the items to be stored (ST121). Processor 31 receives part of the storage information via input unit 34. For example, processor 31 receives the item ID and quantity of the items to be stored input by the operator via input unit 34 (ST122).

[0048] The processor 31 detects the size required to store the received items from the item ID and quantity of the received items based on the item information, equipment information, inventory information, and part of the warehousing information (ST123), selects one target mobile shelf 41, generates a call instruction for the selected mobile shelf 41, and transmits the call instruction (ST124). The AGV 4 transports the mobile shelf 41 to the station based on the call instruction.

[0049] The processor 31 reads inventory information including the equipment ID of the called mobile shelf 41 (ST125). The processor 31 also estimates the available space within the multiple sections S of the called mobile shelf 41 based on the section information and inventory information using the estimation unit 312 (ST126). The processor 31 also detects, using the detection unit 313, one or more candidate storage areas capable of storing one or more items to be stored from the available space within the multiple sections S of the called mobile shelf 41 based on the item information and storage information (ST127). For example, the processor 31 detects, using the detection unit 313, a candidate storage area that will minimize the available space after the items to be stored are stored from the available space within the multiple sections S of the called mobile shelf 41. In other words, the detection unit 313 detects a candidate storage area that will increase storage efficiency.

[0050] Processor 31 generates second warehousing support information related to one or more candidate storage areas capable of storing one or more items to be stored. Processor 31 outputs the second warehousing support information to display 35 via output unit 314 (ST128). That is, processor 31 updates the first warehousing support information to the second warehousing support information via output unit 314. Display 35 displays the updated second warehousing support information. The second warehousing support information includes information indicating the section position of section S that includes the candidate storage area. The second warehousing support information will be described in detail later.

[0051] The operator checks the second warehousing support information displayed on display 35 and places the item to be stored in the storage candidate area included in the second warehousing support information. For example, if the second warehousing support information includes one storage candidate area, the operator sets the one storage candidate area as the storage location and places the item to be stored in this storage location. If the second warehousing support information includes multiple storage candidate areas, the operator sets one storage candidate area selected from the multiple storage candidate areas as the storage location and places the item to be stored in this storage location.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 13, after processing according to the first or second storage mode, processor 31 instructs camera 6 to take an image (ST131). Camera 6 starts taking an image and outputs the image. Display 35 displays the image output from camera 6. Processor 31 also transmits a storage waiting status (ST132). Input unit 34 displays the storage waiting status.

[0053] The processor 31 receives a warehousing specification from the operator via the input unit 34 (ST133). For example, the warehousing specification includes the item ID and storage location of the item to be warehousing. For example, the operator reads the item ID of the item to be warehousing using a barcode reader and specifies the storage location using a mouse or the like. The input unit 34 receives the warehousing specification including the read item ID and the specified storage location.

[0054] Based on the image output from camera 6 and the received warehousing specification, processor 31 generates an estimated image of the warehousing section by combining the image output from camera 6 and the warehousing location included in the warehousing specification (ST134), and outputs the generated image of the warehousing section (ST135). Display 35 displays the generated image of the warehousing section. For example, display 35 highlights the warehousing section, etc. Processor 31 requests confirmation of the warehousing location (ST136). Alternatively, processor 31 may determine whether the item to be warehousing has been stored in the candidate storage area based on the section information and inventory information, and if the item to be warehousing has not been stored in the candidate storage area, obtain, in the request for confirmation of the warehousing location, section identification information of the section where the item to be warehousing has been stored and information about the storage location within the section, and output the obtained information to assist with warehousing.

[0055] The operator checks the image of the receiving location displayed on the display 35, and if the item corresponding to the item ID included in the receiving specification is not placed at the receiving location, inputs a correction to the receiving location. The input unit 34 accepts the correction to the receiving location from the operator via a mouse or the like, and outputs the correction to the receiving location to the processor 31 (ST137). The processor 31 updates the receiving information based on the correction to the receiving location.

[0056] The operator checks the image of the storage location displayed on display 35, and if an item corresponding to the item ID included in the storage specification is placed at the storage location, inputs confirmation of the storage location. The confirmation of the storage location may include the number of items being stored. Display 35 accepts the confirmation of the storage location from the operator and outputs the confirmation of the storage location to processor 31 (ST138). Processor 31 updates the storage information based on the confirmation of the storage location (ST139).

[0057] Processor 31 outputs the update of the second warehousing support information (ST141), and display 35 ends displaying the second warehousing support information. Processor 31 also generates a return instruction for mobile shelf 41 and transmits the return instruction (ST142). AGV 4 transports mobile shelf 41 from the station to the storage location based on the return instruction.

[0058] Furthermore, the processor 31 outputs the warehousing completion information (ST143) (ST144), and the input unit 34 and the display 35 display the warehousing completion information.

[0059] As described above, the WCS 3 detects a candidate storage area capable of storing the items to be stored from the free space within the section S, and outputs second warehousing support information regarding the candidate storage area. The operator can improve the efficiency of the warehousing process by storing the items to be stored while looking at the second warehousing support information.

[0060] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of divided areas within a section. According to the partition information, one partition S is managed as a plurality of divided areas D. For example, as shown in Fig. 14, one partition S is managed as a 3x2x1 divided area D.

[0061] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an image showing items in a section. The processor 31 updates the inventory information based on the confirmation of the storage location. Alternatively, the processor 31 updates the inventory information based on the correction of the storage location. Item A1 shown in FIG. 15 indicates an item that has already been stored, and item A2 indicates an item whose storage location has been confirmed or corrected with the mouse cursor MC via the display 35. For example, the stored item A1 is displayed in a first display format, and item A2 whose storage location has been confirmed or corrected is displayed in a second display format. The first display format is a first color, a highlighted display, or a flashing display. The second display format is a second color different from the first color, a non-highlighted display (normal display), or a non-flashing display (normal display).

[0062] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of warehousing support information according to the embodiment. The second warehousing support information displayed in the first and second warehousing modes has some common parts and some different parts. First, the common parts will be described.

[0063] The second warehousing support information includes information indicating the section positions of sections that include candidate storage areas. For example, the second warehousing support information includes an image of the mobile shelf 41, images of multiple sections S included in the mobile shelf 41, and an image of a section S selected by the operator. For example, among the images of the multiple sections S, a section S that includes a candidate storage area is displayed as a candidate section image in a first display format, and a section S that does not include a candidate storage area is displayed as a non-candidate section image in a second display format. For example, the first display format is a first color, a highlighted display, or a flashing display. The second display format is a second color different from the first color, a non-highlighted display (normal display), or a non-flashing display (normal display).

[0064] In the first warehousing mode, when the operator selects a section S including a candidate storage area via the input unit 34, which is realized by a touch panel or a mouse, the processor 31 updates the second warehousing support information. For example, the updated second warehousing support information includes an enlarged display of the selected section S, and the item IDs and number of items that can be stored in the enlarged display of the section S. The updated second warehousing support information may also include a message asking the operator to confirm that the selection of the section S is correct. When the operator selects another section S including a candidate storage area via the touch panel or mouse, the processor 31 updates the second warehousing support information. The updated second warehousing support information includes an enlarged display of the other selected section S, etc.

[0065] In the second warehousing mode, even if the operator does not select a section S, the display 35 displays second warehousing support information including an enlarged view of the optimal section S. For example, the displayed second warehousing support information includes an enlarged view of the optimal section S and the item IDs and number of items that can be accommodated in the enlarged section S.

[0066] [Outbound Processing] 17 is a flowchart showing an outline of the retrieval process by the processor of the WCS according to the embodiment. The detailed sequence of the retrieval process in the warehouse system S will be described later with reference to FIGS.

[0067] The processor 31 acquires information necessary for the warehousing process using the acquisition unit 311. For example, the processor 31 acquires equipment information (including section information), inventory information, and shipping information via the communication interface 33 using the acquisition unit 311 (ST21). Note that the processor 31 may acquire the information collectively at a predetermined timing using the acquisition unit 311, or may acquire the information individually at separate timings.

[0068] The processor 31 detects the storage location of the item to be shipped based on the equipment information, inventory information, and shipping information using the detection unit 313 (ST22).

[0069] The processor 31 outputs, via the output unit 314, to the display 35, outgoing support information relating to the storage location of the item to be outgoing (ST24). The display 35 displays the outgoing support information. By outputting or displaying the outgoing support information, it is possible to prevent a decrease in work efficiency.

[0070] 18 to 21 are sequence diagrams showing the operation of a system to which the shipping process according to the embodiment is applied. Note that Fig. 19 to Fig. 21 are sequence diagrams showing the details of some of the processes in Fig. 18.

[0071] Processor 31 acquires information necessary for the shipping process using acquisition unit 311. For example, processor 31 acquires equipment information (including section information), inventory information, and shipping information using acquisition unit 311 (ST201). Note that the timing of acquiring the various types of information is not limited to this timing.

[0072] Processor 31 receives a delivery instruction from the operator via input unit 34 (ST202).

[0073] Triggered by the shipping instruction, processor 31 generates first shipping support information based on the equipment information, inventory information, and shipping information. Processor 31 outputs the first shipping support information to display 35 via output unit 314 (ST203). Display 35 displays the first shipping support information. The first shipping support information includes information about the item to be shipped. For example, the first shipping support information includes the item ID, item name, and item image of the item to be shipped.

[0074] Processor 31 requests the item ID and the number of items to be shipped (ST204). Processor 31 receives part of the shipping information via input unit 34. For example, processor 31 receives the item ID and the number of items to be shipped input by the operator via input unit 34 (ST205).

[0075] The processor 31 outputs the DAS allocation instruction through the output unit 314 (ST206). The display of the DAS 5 provides information such as where to place the item to be removed based on the DAS allocation instruction.

[0076] As shown in Figure 19, the processor 31 selects one target mobile shelf 41 based on equipment information, inventory information, and shipping information, generates a call instruction for the selected mobile shelf 41, and sends the call instruction (ST211).

[0077] The processor 31 detects, by the detection unit 313, the storage positions of one or more items to be removed from the selected mobile shelf 41 based on the equipment information, inventory information, and removal information (ST212).

[0078] When a single section S contains multiple items to be handed over, processor 31 sets a retrieval priority for each item to be handed over (ST213). The retrieval priority indicates the priority of retrieval. Processor 31 sets a retrieval priority for each item to be handed over based on the storage location of the item to be handed over included in the inventory information. When the storage location of the item to be handed over is indicated by three-dimensional coordinates, processor 31 sets a retrieval priority for each item to be handed over based on the three-dimensional coordinate values.

[0079] For example, processor 31 sets the highest removal priority to the items to be removed that are located at the front, the leftmost (or the rightmost), and the top, and conversely sets the lowest removal priority to the items to be removed that are located at the back, the rightmost (or the leftmost), and the bottom. In other words, processor 31 sets the highest removal priority to the items to be removed that are located in the easiest to remove positions, and conversely sets the lowest removal priority to the items to be removed that are located in the most difficult to remove positions.

[0080] The processor 31 generates second outgoing support information based on the detection result of the storage location of the item to be outgoing and the priority setting. The processor 31 outputs the second outgoing support information to the display 35 via the output unit 314 (ST214). The display 35 displays the second outgoing support information.

[0081] Processor 31 also transmits the delivery waiting status (ST215). Input unit 34 displays the delivery waiting status.

[0082] The processor 31 receives a shipping instruction from the operator via the input unit 34 (ST216). For example, the shipping instruction includes the item ID and the number of items to be shipped.

[0083] The operator selects the item to be shipped while visually checking the second outgoing support information displayed on display 35, and retrieves the selected item to be shipped. For example, the operator selects the item to be shipped with the highest priority for retrieval indicated by the second outgoing support information, and retrieves the selected item to be shipped. Processor 31 analyzes the image output from camera 6, detects that the item to be shipped with the highest priority for retrieval has been retrieved, and updates the inventory information. In other words, processor 31 updates the inventory information so that the item to be shipped with the highest priority for retrieval has been retrieved.

[0084] 20, if processor 31 does not detect that the item to be removed with the highest removal priority has been removed, but detects that another item has been removed, it requests the location of the selected item (ST221). Based on the request, input unit 34 prompts input of the location of the selected item. Input unit 34 receives location information of the selected item and inputs the received location information of the selected item (ST222). Processor 31 updates the inventory information based on the input location information. That is, processor 31 updates the inventory information so that the item with the input location information has been removed.

[0085] Furthermore, when processor 31 detects that an item has been removed and is out of stock, it updates the inventory information so that the item is out of stock (ST231). For example, processor 31 analyzes the output image from camera 6 and detects whether or not the item is in stock at a predetermined position based on the presence or absence of a mass of the item (such as a rectangular parallelepiped) at the predetermined position.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 19, the processor 31 updates the second shipping support information in accordance with the shipping situation (ST241), and the display 35 displays the updated second shipping support information.

[0087] 21, when processor 31 detects completion of the selection of items allocated to DAS5 based on the shipping information and inventory information, it transmits an intra-DAS replacement request (ST251). Input unit 34 notifies the operator of the intra-DAS replacement request, and the operator empties the items from DAS5 in accordance with the intra-DAS replacement request. Input unit 34 accepts empty item information for DAS5 and transmits the empty item information for DAS5 to processor 31 (ST252). Processor 31 outputs a replacement notification indicating completion of intra-DAS replacement based on the empty item information for DAS5 (ST253), and display 35 displays the replacement notification.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 18, the processor 31 outputs the delivery completion information (ST261) (ST262), and the input unit 34 and the display 35 display the delivery completion information.

[0089] As described above, the WCS 3 outputs second outgoing support information regarding the storage location of the item to be shipped based on the inventory information updated through the warehousing process. The operator can improve the efficiency of the outgoing process by shipping the item to be shipped while viewing the second outgoing support information. For example, the time required by the operator to ship the item to be shipped can be reduced.

[0090] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a first example of a section image included in the delivery support information according to the embodiment. The display 35 displays the second outgoing support information. As shown in Fig. 22, the second outgoing support information includes a section image corresponding to the section S included in the mobile shelf 41. The section image includes a first item image B1 corresponding to the item to be outgoing, and a second item image B0 corresponding to the item not to be outgoing. In addition, the first item image B1 corresponding to the item to be outgoing includes information P1 regarding the priority of the item to be outgoing.

[0091] Furthermore, the first item image B1 is in a first display format, and the second item image B0 is in a second display format different from the first display format. For example, the first display format is a first color, a highlighted display, or a flashing display. The second display format is a second color different from the first color, a non-highlighted display (normal display), or a non-flashing display (normal display).

[0092] The operator can recognize the first item image B1 as the item to be shipped by looking at the section image included in the second shipping support information shown in Fig. 22, and select the actual item corresponding to the first item image B1 to ship it out. By displaying the second shipping support information on the display 35, even items that have been stored through the warehousing process can be shipped out efficiently without placing a burden on the operator.

[0093] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a second example of a section image included in the delivery support information according to the embodiment. The display 35 displays the second outgoing support information. As shown in FIG. 23, the second outgoing support information includes section images corresponding to section S included in the mobile shelf 41. The section images include first item images C1 and C2 corresponding to items to be outgoing, and a second item image C0 corresponding to items not to be outgoing. Furthermore, the first item image C1 corresponding to the items to be outgoing includes information P1 regarding the priority of the items to be outgoing, and the first item image C2 corresponding to the items to be outgoing includes information P2 regarding the priority of the items to be outgoing. The information P1 regarding the priority indicates the highest priority, and the information P2 regarding the priority indicates the second highest priority.

[0094] Furthermore, the first item images C1 and C2 are in a first display format, and the second item image C0 is in a second display format different from the first display format. For example, the first display format is a first color, a highlighted display, or a blinking display. The second display format is a second color different from the first color, a non-highlighted display (normal display), or a non-blinking display (normal display). The display formats of the first item images C1 and C2 may be distinguished as different display formats.

[0095] 23, the operator can recognize the first item images C1 and C2 as items to be removed from the warehouse, and can further recognize that the first item image C1 has the highest removal priority and the second item image C2 has the second highest removal priority, and select the actual item corresponding to the first item image B1, then select the actual item corresponding to the first item image B2, and remove them from the warehouse. By displaying the second removal support information on the display 35, even items that have been stored through the storage process can be removed efficiently without placing a burden on the operator.

[0096] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of shipping support information according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 24, the display 35 displays the second retrieval support information. The second retrieval support information includes the section image described with reference to Fig. 22 or Fig. 23.

[0097] As shown in Figure 24, the second outbound delivery support information includes an equipment image including multiple compartments. The equipment image includes multiple compartment images. Furthermore, the second outbound delivery support information includes an enlarged compartment image including the items to be delivered from the multiple compartment images. This enlarged compartment image is the compartment image described in Figure 22 or Figure 23. Furthermore, the second outbound delivery support information includes an input field for the number of items to be delivered and the reading result of the item ID read from the items to be delivered. Furthermore, the second outbound delivery support information includes an image of the DAS5 that receives the items to be delivered. The image of the DAS5 includes multiple compartment images, and the compartment image that receives the items to be delivered is in a first display format, and the other compartment images are in a second display format.

[0098] By displaying the second retrieval support information on the display 35, even an article that has been stored through a warehousing process can be efficiently retrieved without placing a burden on the operator. The program according to this embodiment may be transferred in a state where it is stored in each electronic device constituting the warehouse system, or may be transferred in a state where it is not stored in the electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or may be transferred in a state where it is stored in a storage medium. The storage medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The storage medium is a computer-readable medium. The storage medium may be any medium, such as an optical disk or a memory card, that can store a program and is readable by a computer, and its form is not important. The electronic device downloads the program transferred (provided) via the network and installs it in its memory, or reads the program from the storage medium and installs it in its memory.

[0099] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1. WMS 2…WES 3…WCS 4...AGV 5…DAS 6. Camera 31...Processor 32...Memory 33...Communication interface 34...Input section 35...Display 41...Mobile shelf 51…Fixed shelf 311…Acquisition Department 312...Estimation part 313...Detection unit 314...Output section

Claims

1. an interface for receiving item information including item identification information and item size of each item, compartment information including compartment identification information, compartment size and compartment position of each compartment of equipment that stores items, inventory information including item identification information of a specified item, compartment identification information of a compartment in which the specified item is stored and a storage position within the compartment in which the specified item is stored, and inventory information including item identification information of an item to be stored; a processor that estimates an empty space within the section based on the section information and the inventory information, detects a candidate storage area capable of storing the item to be stored from the empty space within the section based on the item information and the warehousing information, and outputs warehousing support information regarding the candidate storage area; An article processing support device comprising:

2. 2. The article processing support device according to claim 1, wherein the processor detects the candidate storage area from the empty space in each section of the selected item in response to the designation of the first storage mode.

3. 2. The item processing support device of claim 1, wherein the processor, in response to the specification of the second storage mode, detects the candidate storage area from the free space in each section of the selected equipment that will have the smallest free space after the item to be stored is stored.

4. The article processing support device according to claim 1 , wherein the storage support information includes information indicating a section location of a section including the storage candidate area.

5. The warehousing support information includes an image of equipment including a plurality of sections, 2. The article processing support device according to claim 1, wherein the equipment images include candidate section images that include the candidate storage area and non-candidate section images that do not include the candidate storage area.

6. The item processing support device of claim 1, wherein the processor determines whether the item to be stored has been stored in the storage candidate area based on the section information and the inventory information, and if the item to be stored has not been stored in the storage candidate area, obtains section identification information of the section in which the item to be stored has been stored and information regarding the storage position within the section.

7. an interface for receiving compartment information including compartment identification information and compartment location of each compartment of equipment storing items, inventory information including item identification information of a specified item, compartment identification information of a compartment in which the specified item is stored, and a storage location within the compartment in which the specified item is stored, and shipping information including item identification information of an item to be shipped; Detecting a storage location of the item to be shipped based on the section information, the inventory information, and the shipping information; a processor that outputs retrieval support information relating to the storage location of the retrieval target item; An article processing support device comprising:

8. The retrieval support information includes an image of equipment including a plurality of sections, 8. The article processing support device according to claim 7, wherein the equipment image includes a first article image corresponding to the article to be released from storage.

9. The article processing support device according to claim 8 , wherein the equipment images include a second article image corresponding to an article not to be shipped.

10. the first product image is in a first display format; 10. The article processing support device according to claim 9, wherein the second article image is in a second display format.

11. 8. The article processing support device according to claim 7, wherein the outgoing support information includes information regarding the priority of the article to be outgoing.

12. receiving item information including item identification information and item size of each item, compartment information including compartment identification information, compartment size and compartment position of each compartment of equipment storing the items, inventory information including item identification information of a specified item, compartment identification information of a compartment in which the specified item is stored and a storage position within the compartment in which the specified item is stored, and inventory information including item identification information of an item to be stored; Estimating free space within the partition based on the partition information and the inventory information; detecting a candidate storage area capable of storing the storage target item from an empty area within the section based on the item information and the storage information; outputting warehousing support information relating to the storage candidate area; Method for supporting material processing.

13. receiving compartment information including compartment identification information and compartment location of each compartment of equipment storing items, inventory information including item identification information of a specified item, compartment identification information of a compartment in which the specified item is stored, and a storage location within the compartment in which the specified item is stored, and shipping information including item identification information of an item to be shipped out; Detecting a storage location of the item to be shipped based on the section information, the inventory information, and the shipping information; outputting retrieval support information relating to the storage location of the retrieval target item; Method for supporting material processing.

14. On the computer, receiving item information including item identification information and item size of each item, compartment information including compartment identification information, compartment size and compartment position of each compartment of equipment storing the items, inventory information including item identification information of a specified item, compartment identification information of a compartment in which the specified item is stored and a storage position within the compartment in which the specified item is stored, and inventory information including item identification information of an item to be stored; estimating an available space within the partition based on the partition information and the inventory information; detecting a candidate storage area capable of storing the storage target item from an empty area within the section based on the item information and the storage information; outputting warehousing support information relating to the storage candidate area; An item processing support program for carrying out the above.

15. On the computer, receiving compartment information including compartment identification information and compartment location of each compartment of equipment storing items, inventory information including item identification information of a specified item, compartment identification information of a compartment in which the specified item is stored, and a storage location within the compartment in which the specified item is stored, and shipping information including item identification information of an item to be shipped; Detecting a storage location of the item to be shipped based on the section information, the inventory information, and the shipping information; outputting retrieval support information relating to the storage location of the retrieval target item; An item processing support program for carrying out the above.

16. An article processing support system including an article processing support device and a display, The article processing support device an interface for receiving item information including item identification information and item size of each item, compartment information including compartment identification information, compartment size and compartment position of each compartment of equipment that stores items, inventory information including item identification information of a specified item, compartment identification information of a compartment in which the specified item is stored and a storage position within the compartment in which the specified item is stored, and inventory information including item identification information of an item to be stored; Estimating free space within the partition based on the partition information and the inventory information; detecting a candidate storage area capable of storing the storage target item from an empty area within the section based on the item information and the storage information; a processor that outputs warehousing support information regarding the storage candidate area; Equipped with The display displays the warehousing support information.

17. An article processing support system including an article processing support device and a display, The article processing support device an interface for receiving compartment information including compartment identification information and compartment location of each compartment of equipment storing items, inventory information including item identification information of a specified item, compartment identification information of a compartment in which the specified item is stored, and a storage location within the compartment in which the specified item is stored, and shipping information including item identification information of an item to be shipped; Detecting a storage location of the item to be shipped based on the section information, the inventory information, and the shipping information; a processor that outputs retrieval support information relating to the storage location of the retrieval target item; Equipped with The display displays the shipping support information.

Images