"Live Streaming" Warehouse Management System Based on UHF RFID Technology

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to provide a "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology. 【Solution means】 The present invention relates to a "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology and belongs to the technical field of warehouse management. The system includes a data processing center, an RFID automatic picking cart, an RFID tunnel gate, and an automatic sorting line. The RFID automatic picking cart is configured with a picking processor, the RFID tunnel gate is configured with a first inspection processor, and a DWS device is also provided on the automatic sorting line, and a second inspection processor is provided in the DWS device. The data processing center integrates each order according to a preset multi-dimensional order integration strategy to generate a multi-picking task. The RFID automatic picking cart simultaneously completes all processes from multi-picking of multiple orders to packing and sealing based on the multi-picking plan, not only saving the space required for subsequent processes, but also improving the multi-picking efficiency. The picking processor completes the first inspection during the multi-picking process, and the first and second inspection processors complete the second and third inspections respectively, ensuring that the shipping accuracy can reach 100% through the three inspections.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology and belongs to the technical field of warehouse management.

Background Art

[0002] In the technical field of warehouse management, the two most basic methods of warehouse picking operations are "pick-and-place" picking and "sowing" picking. The so-called "pick-and-place" picking means picking for each order, and the picking worker or equipment walks around each cargo location, takes out the items on the order to be processed, packs them, and is named "pick-and-place" picking by analogy with the posture of picking fruits. "Sowing" picking is also called "pick first, then sow" picking. It collects multiple orders into one batch, first takes out the quantities of various products together, and is named by analogy with the posture of picking fruits. Next, it sorts and packs the products for each type for multiple orders, and is named "pick first, then sow" picking by analogy with the posture of sowing seeds.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Among the above two methods, the "seeding" picking can simultaneously perform picking and seeding for multiple, even dozens or hundreds of orders, and is much more efficient than the "picking" picking, so it is widely used. However, the disadvantages are as follows. First, the requirements for the proficiency of the picking workers are high, and the dependence on manual work is high. Second, the picking route is long, and it is necessary to pick first and then seed. Third, a relatively large working place is required. In particular, after "picking", when sorting the goods by type for multiple orders, an even larger space is needed. Fourth, the business process is long, the processing procedures are numerous, and processes such as such picking, seeding, inspection, packing, and case code printing need to be completed in different places, and there is a strict order between each process. One process cannot start until another process is completed. If a mistake occurs in any process, the subsequent other processes have to stop.

[0004] In the above problems, in the actual picking work in application, high skills are not required, and the replacement of picking workers is intense. Therefore, picking workers generally cannot have a high level of proficiency. Regarding the multi-picking needs of a warehouse handling a large number of items, on the one hand, it takes time for the picking personnel to know the storage locations of the goods, and on the other hand, the intense replacement of the picking workers is disadvantageous for the picking workers to have a high level of proficiency. Due to this contradiction between the two, the picking error rate becomes high. Also, because the picking route is long and the working place is large, the cost is high for the enterprise and the floor efficiency is low. The most important thing is that there is still room for improvement in the picking efficiency.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] To solve the problems of the prior art, the present invention provides a "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology, comprising a data processing center, an RFID automatic picking cart 1, an RFID tunnel gate 2, and an automatic sorting line 3. The RFID automatic picking cart 1 is configured to include a picking processor 11. The RFID tunnel gate 2 is configured to include a first inspection processor, and the RFID tunnel gate 2 is provided at the container inlet of the automatic sorting line 3. A DWS device 4 is also provided on the automatic sorting line 3. The DWS device 4 is provided with a second inspection processor and is arranged in front of each sorting chute of the automatic sorting line 3. The picking processor 11 is connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN. The first inspection processor and the second inspection processor are connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The data processing center can complete the processing and tracking of corresponding orders based on the information fed back from the picking processor 11, the first inspection processor, and the second inspection processor, and realizes the upload and download of data through the network. The picking processor 11 completes the first inspection of each order during the picking process. The first inspection processor completes the second inspection of each order. The second inspection processor completes the third inspection of each order.

[0006] Alternatively, the RFID automatic picking cart is also configured to include an RFID reader and a corresponding RFID scanning area 12, and a printer 13. The RFID reader is used to read the RFID tag information of the products placed in the RFID scanning area 12. The RFID reader and the printer 13 are connected to the picking processor 11 via a wireless LAN or a data transfer cable. S container placement positions are provided on the RFID automatic picking cart 1. The data processing center integrates each N orders according to a preset multi-dimensional order integration strategy to generate one multi-picking task and a corresponding multi-picking plan. The picking processor 11 receives the multi-picking task from the data processing center, generates a corresponding multi-picking instruction based on the multi-picking plan, so that the picking worker can complete the multi-picking task according to the multi-picking instruction. The multi-picking plan includes the specifications and quantities of the containers required for each order in the multi-picking task, and the corresponding multi-picking route. During the multi-picking process, the picking processor 11 performs multi-picking and the first inspection on the N orders by each component of the RFID automatic picking cart 1, and completes the packaging process. The packaging process includes sealing, printing and pasting the case code. Here, S≥N.

[0007] Alternatively, the multi-dimensional order integration strategy includes dimensions such as the delivery time of the order, the delivery destination, the products in the order, the duplication rate of the picking positions of the products in the order, the order scale, the weather and road conditions of the delivery destination, etc. The specific order integration process is determined by the recombination between each dimension.

[0008] Alternatively, the picking processor 11 is also configured to include an interactive display unit and a voice dialogue system. The picking worker realizes information interaction with the picking processor 11 through the interactive display unit and the voice dialogue system.

[0009] Alternatively, the system further comprises an inventory replenishment processor connected to the data processing center via a wired LAN or a wireless LAN.

[0010] Alternatively, a display mark 16 is also provided at each container placement position of the RFID automatic picking cart 1, and the display mark 16 is electrically connected to the picking processor 11 and is used to inform the picking worker of the corresponding container placement position according to the multi-picking instruction.

[0011] Alternatively, the RFID tunnel gate 2 is configured to include a case code scanning device and an RFID reader / writer. The case code scanning device and the RFID reader / writer are connected to the first inspection processor via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The case code scanning device reads the case code information on the container when the container passes through the RFID tunnel gate 2 and is used to obtain the product information in the container based on the case code information. The RFID reader / writer directly reads the RFID tag of the product in the container when the container passes through the RFID tunnel gate 2 and is used to obtain the corresponding product information. The first inspection processor collates the product information in the container obtained by the case code scanning device with the product information in the container read by the RFID reader / writer to complete the second inspection of the order.

[0012] Alternatively, the DWS device 4 is used to measure the weight and / or volume of the container before the container enters the sorting chute and scan the case code information. The second inspection processor calculates the theoretical weight and / or volume of the corresponding container based on the case code information and compares it with the measured weight and / or volume of the container to complete the third inspection of the order.

[0013] Alternatively, each sorting chute of the automatic sorting line is set based on the receiving addresses of all orders in the order pool, and the positional order of each sorting chute of the automatic sorting line is set according to the total number of sorting chutes based on all orders in the order pool.

[0014] Alternatively, a driving device and a robotic arm are provided on the RFID automatic picking cart, and all the tasks completed by the picking workers in the system are completed by the driving device and the robotic arm.

Advantages of the Invention

[0015] As an advantageous effect of the present invention, the present invention provides a "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology. By integrating each order using a multi-dimensional order integration strategy before multi-picking to generate a multi-picking task including multiple orders, the picking efficiency of picking workers is then improved. During the multi-picking process, an RFID automatic picking cart equipped with a picking processor, an RFID reader, a printer, a display mark, an interactive display unit, and earphones is provided. After receiving the multi-picking task, the picking processor only needs to generate a corresponding multi-picking instruction and prompt the picking worker to execute the corresponding operation, and the accuracy of multi-picking is guaranteed from multiple aspects by the display mark, the interactive display unit, and the earphones, eliminating the dependence on the experience and proficiency of the picking worker. Moreover, since the in-vehicle printer can print at any time for the picking worker to use for sealing, the subsequent packing process is omitted, and the continuity of multi-picking, boxing, and packing also minimizes intermediate process errors. At the same time, the picking processor is responsible for the closed-loop confirmation of the instructions during the multi-picking process, realizing the first inspection during the multi-picking process. The first inspection processor performs a second inspection on the container before the container enters the automatic sorting line, and the second inspection processor completes the third inspection of each order before the container exits the automatic sorting line and enters each sorting chute, ensuring that the accuracy of shipping reaches 100% through three inspections. Furthermore, the locations required for the system of the present application are only used for the installation of the warehouse and the automatic sorting line. Compared with the conventional "pick first, sow later" picking warehouse management system, the locations required for the sorting area, packing area, and inspection area are saved, significantly reducing the warehouse cost of the enterprise and improving the floor efficiency.

[0016] Hereinafter, in order to clearly explain the technical means within the embodiments of the present invention, the attached drawings necessary for describing the embodiments will be briefly described. The attached drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention, and based on these attached drawings, other attached drawings can be obtained on the premise that those skilled in the art do not perform creative activities.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] As is well known, the storage of goods is generally divided into areas according to the categories of goods. For example, the apparel industry is usually classified into three levels. The categories of goods include large categories, medium categories, and small categories. The large categories include children's clothing, women's clothing, and men's clothing. The medium category means a further subdivided category within each large category. For example, the range of women's clothing is further subdivided into medium categories including shirts, T-shirts, skirts, etc. The small class means a further subdivided category within the medium category. For example, women's clothing - skirts is further subdivided into small categories including dresses and skirts.

[0019] According to the classification of the apparel industry, the clothing storage warehouse is divided into multiple areas. Each area stores all the goods in a large category or a medium category. Each area installs multiple commodity shelves based on the subdivided medium categories and small categories under the category. It is further subdivided from a more specific small category to SKU (Stock Keeping Unit, minimum inventory unit) and stored in the corresponding commodity shelves.

[0020] The basic modules of the conventional Warehouse Management System (WMS) include a purchasing management module, a warehouse management module, a sales management module, and a report generation module, and have an inquiry function. The warehouse center can select the corresponding functional module according to its actual needs (in this application, "warehouse" means a storage warehouse and a distribution center). Generally, the warehouse center receives orders from the head office or each store and completes multi-picking and shipping according to the orders. However, when the conventional WMS performs multi-picking and shipping according to orders, it uses the conventional "pick-and-place" picking or "live streaming" picking, so there are problems such as low efficiency, long picking routes, and the need for a large working space. Therefore, this application provides a "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology, which optimizes the entire process from order processing to multi-picking, re-checking, packing, shipping, etc., reduces the dependence on picking workers, minimizes the error occurrence rate, improves the efficiency of order processing, reduces the need for working space, and significantly improves the floor efficiency. Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0021] (The first embodiment) This embodiment provides a "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology, which includes a data processing center, an RFID automatic picking cart 1, an RFID tunnel gate 2, and an automatic sorting line 3. The RFID automatic picking cart 1 is configured with a picking processor 11. The RFID tunnel gate 2 is configured with a first inspection processor, and the RFID tunnel gate 2 is provided at the container inlet of the automatic sorting line 3. A DWS (Dimension - volume, Weight - weighing, scanning - code scanning) device 4 is also provided on the automatic sorting line 3. The DWS device 4 is equipped with a second inspection processor and is arranged in front of each sorting chute of the automatic sorting line 3. The picking processor 11 is connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN. The first inspection processor and the second inspection processor are connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The data processing center can complete the processing and tracking of corresponding orders based on the information fed back from the picking processor 11, the first inspection processor, and the second inspection processor, and realizes the upload and download of data through the network.

[0022] The system further includes an inventory replenishment processor connected to the data processing center via a wired LAN or a wireless LAN.

[0023] The RFID tunnel gate 2 is configured with a case code scanning device and an RFID reader / writer. The case code scanning device and the RFID reader / writer are connected to the first inspection processor via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The picking processor 11 completes the first inspection of each order during the picking process. The first inspection processor completes the second inspection of each order, and the second inspection processor completes the third inspection of each order.

[0024] In this application, as shown in FIG. 1, the data processing center can obtain order data and warehouse data through a conventional WMS system. The inspection processor in FIG. 1 includes a first inspection processor and a second inspection processor.

[0025] (Second Embodiment) This embodiment provides a "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology, which includes a data processing center, an RFID automatic picking cart 1, an RFID tunnel gate 2, and an automatic sorting line 3. The RFID automatic picking cart 1 is configured with a picking processor 11. The RFID tunnel gate 2 is configured with a first inspection processor. The RFID tunnel gate 2 is provided at the container inlet of the automatic sorting line 3. A DWS device 4 is also provided on the automatic sorting line 3. The DWS device 4 is arranged in front of each sorting chute and includes a second inspection processor.

[0026] The picking processor 11 is connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN. The first inspection processor and the second inspection processor are connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. Through the network, data upload and download are realized so that the data processing center can complete the processing and tracking of the corresponding order based on the information fed back from the picking processor 11, the first inspection processor and the weight, and the second inspection processor.

[0027] As shown in Figure 2, the "live streaming" warehouse management system based on the UHF RFID technology provided by this application only requires a working place for installing the warehouse 5 and the automatic sorting line 3. In the warehouse, the commodity shelves 6 are arranged in rows. Loading and unloading areas 7 can be provided at both ends of the commodity shelves 6 according to actual needs. The loading and unloading areas 7 are used to temporarily store the packaged containers or empty boxes (which can be placed on the corresponding pallets for transportation). Each RFID automatic picking cart 1 executes packaging processes such as picking multiple orders, first inspection, sealing, printing and pasting case codes while shuttling through the aisles of the commodity shelves. The case code contains the commodity information in the container and the corresponding order information. After the packaging is completed, the picking worker directly stores the packaged container in the loading and unloading area 7, and the transporter responsible for transporting the container transports it to the container inlet of the automatic sorting line 3 (in actual applications, it is also possible to provide an automatic conveying line. The picking worker directly places the packaged container on the automatic conveying line, and the automatic conveying line transports the container to the container inlet of the automatic sorting line 3). The container enters the automatic sorting line 3 after passing through the RFID tunnel gate 2. When the container passes through the RFID tunnel gate 2, the case code scanning device reads the case code pasted on the container to obtain the commodity information in the container. The RFID reader / writer reads the commodity information in the container, and the first inspection processor collates the two pieces of information to complete the second inspection. If an error is found during the inspection, the container enters the defective product removal port and flows out, and after being processed manually, it is put into the container inlet of the automatic sorting line 3.If the inspection is correct, the container enters the automatic sorting line 3. A plurality of sorting shoots are provided on the automatic sorting line 3. Before the second inspection processor container reaches each sorting shoot, the theoretical value of the weight / volume of the container is calculated based on the product information obtained by scanning the container code information via the DWS device 4, and compared with the measured actual value of the weight / volume to complete the third inspection. Through this third inspection, on the one hand, it is possible to confirm whether the products in the container are correct, and on the other hand, it is also possible to check whether the picking operator is using an inappropriate container. For example, in the case of an order containing only 12 items, an A-type container can be used, but the picking operator uses a larger-sized C-type container. Based on the volume comparison by the second inspection processor, this problem can be discovered, and the picking operator can be prompted to use a more appropriate container later. After passing the third inspection, the container enters the corresponding sorting shoot set according to the delivery destination, is sorted, and then loaded onto the vehicle.

[0028] As described above, compared with the conventional warehouse management system based on the "pick first, sow later" picking, the "live streaming" warehouse management system based on the UHF RFID technology provided by this application saves the space required in the sorting area, packing area and inspection area, and shortens the picking operation flow. Moreover, the RFID automatic picking cart 1 in the "live streaming" warehouse management system based on the UHF RFID technology provided by this application uses the "live streaming" picking, which is a new picking method, that is, while picking, for multiple orders, "sowing" is directly realized. While realizing this picking method, it is considered to improve the picking efficiency as much as possible. The operating principle of the "live streaming" warehouse management system based on the UHF RFID technology provided by this application is as follows.

[0029] (1) Data processing center: After receiving an order, the data processing center integrates it according to a preset order integration strategy, generates corresponding multi-picking tasks and corresponding multi-picking plans accordingly, and then each RFID automatic picking cart 1 receives the multi-picking tasks and corresponding multi-picking plans from the data processing center via the picking processor.

[0030] Each multi-picking task consists of N orders, where 1 ≤ N ≤ S, and S is determined according to the number of container placement positions equipped on the RFID automatic picking cart 1. The corresponding multi-picking plan includes the container specifications and corresponding quantities required for each order in the multi-picking task, and the corresponding multi-picking route.

[0031] The scheme of this application designs a multi-dimensional order integration strategy considering picking efficiency and subsequent packing and shipping efficiency, and specifically integrates considering the following several dimensions: 1. The delivery time required by the order, 2. The delivery destination, 3. The duplication rate of the picking positions of the goods in the order, 4. The order scale, 5. The goods in the order, 6. The weather conditions, 7. Information on the status of transport vehicles and road conditions, etc.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, this embodiment takes a certain warehouse center as an example. The warehouse center receives orders from stores in each city across the country. As a specific order integration strategy used, step S1: Obtain the order information required for processing according to preset conditions, and classify the orders that meet the preset conditions into one batch. The preset conditions include time, region, goods, and others.

[0033] For example, all orders received within a predetermined time range can be classified into one batch based on the order receiving time, orders belonging to the same region as the order receiving address can be classified into one batch, orders containing specific goods can be classified into one batch, or other preset conditions can be used according to the actual application scenario.

[0034] In actual applications, orders selected according to specific situations are classified into one batch. For example, when a weather forecast predicts heavy rain in Wuhan three days later, before integrating the orders, the data processing center can select all orders destined for Wuhan and process them preferentially. For example, if the transportation department notifies the warehouse center to repair a certain section of the highway in Guangzhou three days later, the data processing center can also select all orders destined for Guangzhou and process them preferentially.

[0035] As another example, when the national temperature drops sharply and it is necessary to preferentially process orders including specific products such as down jackets, the data processing center selects orders including down jackets as one batch and processes them preferentially.

[0036] Order information includes delivery time, product type, size and quantity, receiving information (including recipient, contact phone number, and receiving address), etc.

[0037] Step S2: Based on the receiving address of the order, delivery time, and location information of the products included in the order, pre-integrate the orders and pre-save the location information of the products in the data processing center.

[0038] Step S2.1: In actual applications, considering that there are multiple dispersed orders from the same store in a short period, orders that simultaneously meet the following three conditions can be pre-integrated. Condition 1: The delivery time is within the same time period (such as the same day), Condition 2: The receiving address is the same store, Condition 3: The products included are stored in the same area.

[0039] After pre-integration, if there are multiple dispersed orders from the same store within a short period and the picking locations of the products included are in the same area, they can be combined into one order.

[0040] Step S2.2: In actual applications, after screening orders that meet the above three conditions simultaneously, the order size can be used as a secondary pre-screening condition. Orders with an order size exceeding a preset second threshold are not pre-integrated. The second threshold is a manually set threshold. Considering that there may be large-scale orders due to multiple dispersed orders from the same store in a short period, the second threshold is set empirically, and orders with a size exceeding the second threshold are not pre-integrated.

[0041] After performing the above steps S2.1 and S2.2, the pre-integrated orders and the orders that are not pre-merged as one order are put into the order pool together, and the following steps are executed.

[0042] Step S3: Determine whether the size of each order in the order pool exceeds a first threshold. If it exceeds the first threshold, generate the order as a separate multi-picking task. If it does not exceed the first threshold, proceed to step S4. The first threshold is determined by the maximum order size that the RFID automatic picking cart can carry. The first threshold is larger than the second threshold.

[0043] In this step, the first threshold is determined by the maximum order size that the RFID picking cart can carry. For example, the first threshold can be set to 800 pieces, and the second threshold in the above step S2.2 can be set to 300 pieces.

[0044] Step S4: Classify orders with an order size not exceeding the first threshold based on the region to which the delivery address of the order belongs, the delivery time, and the product location information. The region to which the delivery address belongs means a region divided by administrative regions or the sales method of the retail format.

[0045] For example, the administrative regions include the same city, the same province, or other administrative regions such as the East China region and the North China region. The area divided according to the sales method of the retail business format means the area divided by the enterprise according to its sales method. For example, if there are two stores in a certain city, the city is divided into two sales areas.

[0046] For example, orders that simultaneously meet the following three conditions are classified into one category. Condition 1: The delivery address belongs to the same province. Condition 2: The delivery time is in the same time period, for example, on the same day. Condition 3: The goods included are stored in the same area.

[0047] Step S5: For each order within the same category, generate a multi-picking task for every N orders according to the duplication rate of the picking locations, and define the picking location as the aisle where the goods location is located, or a specific location on the aisle corresponding to the goods location.

[0048] When the picking location is defined as the aisle where the goods location is located, the picking locations of all the goods on the shelves on both sides within the same aisle are the same.

[0049] When the picking location is defined as a specific location on the aisle corresponding to the goods location, the picking locations of the goods at the opposite locations on the shelves on both sides of the same aisle are the same.

[0050] In actual applications, considering preferentially multi-picking for orders with a large order scale, the specific method for generating the multi-picking task can be Method 1 or Method 2.

[0051] Method 1: Select the order with the largest scale within the same category, calculate the overlap rate of the picking positions between the remaining orders and the order with the largest scale, and generate one multi-picking task with the order with the largest scale and the N-1 orders with the highest overlap rate of the picking positions with the order with the largest scale. Then, select the order with the largest scale among the remaining orders, recalculate the overlap rate of the picking positions between each of the remaining orders and the order with the largest scale... Repeat this step until all orders are integrated and multi-picking tasks are generated. The overlap rate of the picking positions refers to the ratio of the number of products with the same picking position in any order to the total number of all products in the order with the largest order scale.

[0052] Method 2: Select the order with the largest order scale within the same category, sequentially calculate the overlap rate of the picking positions between the remaining orders and the order with the largest scale, integrate the order with the highest overlap rate of the picking positions with the order with the largest scale to form a dummy order, calculate the overlap rate of the picking positions between the remaining orders and the dummy order, integrate the order with the highest overlap rate of the picking positions of the dummy order with the dummy order to form a larger dummy order, integrate N orders into one dummy order, and repeat the above steps until all orders in the dummy order are generated as one multi-picking task. Then, select the order with the largest scale from the remaining orders and repeat this step until all orders are integrated and multi-picking tasks are generated.

[0053] Step S6: Generate the priority of each multi-picking task. In actual applications, the priority can be set according to the total number of products included in the multi-picking task, or the priority can also be set according to the delivery time, the receiving address and its attribution, or other factors.

[0054] For example, calculate the total number of products included in each multi-picking task, and preferentially process the multi-picking task with a large total number of products.

[0055] For example, according to the delivery time considered in step S4, prioritize the processing of multi-picking tasks with earlier delivery times.

[0056] For example, customize the priorities of each province, city, or region according to the recipient address considered in step S4.

[0057] For example, considering the inventory levels of each product in the warehouse center, prioritize the processing of multi-picking tasks for products with large inventory levels.

[0058] In the subsequent multi-picking process, multi-picking can be performed by distributing to the RFID picking cart according to the set priorities.

[0059] In the above steps, some steps can be adaptively adjusted according to the actual situation. For example, when the preset condition in step S1 is the region, that is, orders belonging to the same region are classified and processed in one batch, and step S4 classifies orders whose order scale does not exceed the first threshold based on the region to which the recipient address of the order belongs, the delivery time, and the location information of the products included in the order, considering that the region to which the recipient address of the order belongs can be the next-level area. For example, after step S1 classifies orders belonging to the same province into one batch, when step S4 classifies according to the area to which the recipient address of the order belongs, it can be classified by the same city or other-level areas.

[0060] (2) RFID automatic picking cart: The RFID automatic picking cart 1 receives the multi-picking task and the corresponding multi-picking plan from the data processing center via the configured picking processor.

[0061] After integrating and processing orders, the data processing center generates a plurality of multi-picking tasks. Each multi-picking task consists of N orders. Each RFID automatic picking cart 1 receives the multi-picking task and the corresponding multi-picking plan from the data processing center via the configured picking processor. The picking processor generates the corresponding multi-picking instruction based on the multi-picking plan, and the picking worker can complete the multi-picking task according to the multi-picking instruction.

[0062] The configuration of the RFID automatic picking cart 1 is shown in Figure 4. To ensure 100% picking accuracy of the "live streaming" picking method and greatly improve the picking efficiency, the RFID automatic picking cart 1 provided by this application comprises a picking processor 11, an RFID reader and the corresponding RFID scanning area 12 (the RFID reader is not shown in Figure 4), a printer 13, a display mark 16, and earphones (considering that the earphones can be provided as Bluetooth (registered trademark) wireless earphones, they are not shown in Figure 4). The picking processor 11 is provided with a display unit that can be an interactive display unit (considering actual applications, an input keyboard can also be provided). By controlling the reading distance of the RFID reader with an improved RFID antenna, only the products placed within the RFID scanning area 12 can be read without misreading the products on the product shelves, and multiple products can be scanned simultaneously. The RFID reader and the printer 13 can be connected to the picking processor 11 via a wireless LAN or a data transfer cable. The earphones can be connected to the picking processor 11 via Bluetooth (registered trademark) or a data transfer cable. The display mark 16 is electrically connected to the picking processor 11. The RFID automatic picking cart 1 is also provided with a voice dialogue system, and the picking worker can conduct simple voice dialogue with the picking processor 11 via Bluetooth (registered trademark) earphones.

[0063] In actual applications, the picking processor 11 can be a mobile handheld terminal such as a tablet, that is, a device in which the processor and the display are integrated, or it can also be a stationary computer provided on an RFID automatic picking cart. An input keyboard and a display are provided according to actual needs, and the display can be a movable interactive display.

[0064] The RFID automatic picking cart 1 further includes a frame body 15 provided in a one-stage or multi-stage structure according to the requirements of the actual application scenario. In FIG. 4, as an example, it is provided in a two-stage structure, has S container placement positions, and display marks 16 are provided at each container placement position. The display marks 16 can be display lights or electronic bulletin boards, and inform the picking worker of the corresponding product input position according to the multi-picking instruction issued by the picking processor 11. The RFID automatic picking cart 1 further includes a replaceable rechargeable battery 14.

[0065] In actual applications, after the picking worker receives the RFID automatic picking cart 1, enters his employee number ID, and clicks "Start Multi-Picking" on the interactive display, after the data processing center receives the click information, it sends the multi-picking task with the highest current priority to the RFID picking cart, and the data processing center changes the status of the N orders included in the multi-picking task to "in multi-picking", and associates the RFID automatic picking cart ID with the picking worker ID.

[0066] After receiving a multi-picking task, the picking processor 11 generates corresponding multi-picking instructions according to the corresponding multi-picking plan, and prompts the picking worker to execute corresponding operations through the interactive display unit and the earphone. The corresponding multi-picking plan includes the specifications and quantities of the containers required for each order within the multi-picking task, and the corresponding multi-picking route (when generating the multi-picking task, the data processing center determines the multi-picking route of the multi-picking task in order to consider the optimal multi-picking route when generating the multi-picking task).

[0067] Since the RFID automatic picking cart 1 shown in FIG. 4 has, as an example, S = 6 container placement positions, when a multi-picking task received by a certain RFID automatic picking cart 1 includes six orders called order 1 to order 6, the specifications and quantities of the containers required for each of the six orders are displayed on the interactive display unit.

[0068] When starting multi-picking, the multi-picking instructions prompt the picking worker to pick the containers of the corresponding specifications for orders 1 to 6 respectively and place them at the corresponding container placement positions. For example, when there is a multi-picking instruction such as "Please place the type A container at the first position in the upper row", the indicator light at the first position in the upper row of the RFID automatic picking cart lights up, instructing the picking worker to place the type A container at this location.

[0069] During the multi-picking process, according to the multi-picking route, the picking processor 11 gives a multi-picking instruction to the picking operator, such as "Please drive to the Pth location on the first row of the merchandise shelves", and after the picking operator arrives at the location, he / she can respond "Arrived" via the voice dialogue system. At this time, the picking processor 11 gives a multi-picking instruction "Please pick up 3 pieces of Product B". The picking operator places 3 pieces of Product B from this location into the RFID scanning area 12. At this time, the RFID reader reads the product information, displays the result on the screen and announces the corresponding voice instruction. If the product information is incorrect, it will notify specific errors such as insufficient quantity, excessive quantity or mis-picking. For example, if the picking operator only picks up 2 pieces, after the RFID reader reads the product information, the picking processor 11 gives an instruction after verification, such as "2 pieces of Product B have been picked up, but please pick up 1 more piece". If the product information is correct, it gives a multi-picking instruction "Please place 3 pieces of Product B3 at the first position on the upper layer", and at the same time, the indicator light at the first position on the upper layer of the RFID automatic picking cart 1 lights up. If the picking operator does not place it at the corresponding position, the RFID automatic picking cart can also issue a notification. This function can be realized by using weight detection or AI image recognition. When realized by using weight detection, a weighing instrument is provided under the S container placement positions, and the picking processor can judge whether the weight corresponding to the position has increased based on the weight change information. For example, if the weighing instrument provided under the first position on the upper layer does not detect an increase in weight, the picking processor 11 gives an instruction of "mis-placement" after comparison. When realized by using AI image recognition, it is necessary to install a camera on the RFID automatic picking cart, and it can be arranged at a place where the S container placement positions on the RFID automatic picking cart can be simultaneously photographed according to the actual scenario, and judge whether it is correctly placed according to the AI image recognition result.

[0070] During the above multi-picking process, the picking processor realizes the first inspection through the RFID reader, multi-picking instructions, display marks, weight detection or AI image recognition, ensuring the accuracy of multi-picking to the greatest extent. Also, with the installation of the interactive display unit, the progress of multi-picking is displayed in real time, and there are corresponding voice instructions. Even if the picking operator leaves and returns during multi-picking, they can still complete the multi-picking. The picking processor uploads the progress of multi-picking to the data processing center in real time. When the picking operator has something to do, or the cart breaks down, or other emergencies occur, the data processing center can transfer the multi-picking task to another picking operator or another RFID automatic picking cart to continue the multi-picking.

[0071] When the picking processor 11 detects that a container at a specific position is full (which can be judged based on the container's specifications and the information of the goods placed in it), it notifies the picking operator with the message "The container is full. Do you need to print the case code?", and the picking operator can select "Print case code" through the interactive display unit or the voice dialogue system. The picking processor 11 issues a printing command for the case code to the printer 13. The case code includes all the product information and corresponding order information in the container, and at the same time, it is noted on the case code which container of the corresponding order this is.

[0072] After the printing of the case code is completed, the picking processor 11 attaches the case code to the container at the corresponding position (informing the picking worker of the corresponding position through the display mark 16), packs and seals it, and stores it in the nearest shipping yard 7. In the shipping yard 7, empty boxes are also stored so that after the picking worker places the sealed container at this location, they can pick up an empty box and continue multi-picking. After the printing of the case code is completed, the picking processor 11 sends the case code information to the data processing center so that the data processing center can associate the case code with the corresponding order.

[0073] Regardless of whether the last container is full (in the multi-picking plan, usually, a container of an appropriate specification is determined based on the order size, but there may be cases where the container is not exactly full), if the picking processor 11 detects that all the picking of the items for a certain order (assumed to be order 1) is completed, it notifies the picking worker with a message saying "The multi-picking of the order is completed. Please print the case code." The picking worker prints the case code according to the notification, attaches the case code to the container at the corresponding position, packs and seals it, and stores it in the nearest shipping yard 7. After receiving the last case code information of a certain order, the data processing center changes the status of the order to "Multi-picking completed."

[0074] After the picking worker arrives at the last picking item of the multi-picking task and completes the multi-picking at the picking position, the picking processor 11 checks whether the ordered item is out of stock. If there is no out-of-stock situation, the picking processor 1 returns to the initial state until the picking worker clicks "Start Multi-picking" on the interactive display unit to enable a new multi-picking task.

[0075] During the multi-picking process, if the picking operator notices that the stock of a product required for an order is out of stock, the picking processor 11 sends "stock replenishment required information" to the data processing center of the warehouse center through the picking processor 11. The stock replenishment information includes the number of out-of-stock items and the order information corresponding to the out-of-stock product. The data processing center immediately notifies the warehouse manager of the stock replenishment through the stock replenishment processor. After the warehouse manager replenishes the stock, the stock replenishment processor sends the stock replenishment completion information to the data processing center through the stock replenishment processor. After receiving the stock replenishment completion information, the data processing center changes the status of the above "stock replenishment required information" to the "completed" status. The replenishment processor can be a handheld scanner or other device.

[0076] After sending the stock replenishment required information, the picking processor 11 continues to prompt the picking operator to pick up the remaining products included in the order. After all order multi-picking tasks in the multi-picking task are completed, the picking operator can click "multi-picking completed" on the interactive display unit. After the picking processor 11 receives the click information, it checks whether there is an order in an out-of-stock state. If so, it reads the status of the "stock replenishment required information" sent by the data processing center. If it is the "completed" status, the picking processor 11 goes to the corresponding location to complete operations such as multi-picking the out-of-stock product, subsequent case code printing, and sealing, and prompts the picking operator to store it in the nearest shipping area 7. If the status of the "stock replenishment required information" is "pending processing", the picking processor 11 records the out-of-stock information. Then, for the stock replenishment staff to process together, it prompts the picking operator to place the container in the corresponding area (an out-of-stock area can be set near the shipping area 7 for placing incomplete containers due to out-of-stock), and at the same time uploads the out-of-stock information to the data processing center. The data processing center changes the order information corresponding to the out-of-stock information to the out-of-stock state.

[0077] In actual applications, the data processing center periodically calculates the quantity information of all the products on the current product shelves. When the quantity of a certain product falls below the minimum inventory level, it timely notifies the warehouse manager of the need for inventory replenishment.

[0078] In addition to completing the above multi-picking tasks, the picking processor 11 immediately monitors the remaining battery level, the status of the printer paper, and the presence or absence of faults in the indicator lights. When an abnormality occurs, it displays the abnormality information on the interactive display unit.

[0079] (3) RFID tunnel gate: After the picking worker places the sealed container at the unloading area 7, the transporter in charge of transporting the container transports it to the container inlet of the automatic sorting line 3. As shown in Figure 1, the automatic sorting line 3 can be provided with a plurality of container inlets, and one RFID tunnel gate 2 is provided at each container inlet. The RFID tunnel gate 2 is equipped with a first inspection processor. When the container enters the automatic sorting line 3 through the RFID tunnel gate 2, the first inspection processor obtains the product information in the container based on the case code information on the container read by the case code scanning device, reads the RFID tags of the products in the container by the RFID reader to obtain product information, and the first inspection processor collates the two pieces of information to complete the second inspection. When an abnormality occurs, it flows to the defective product removal port and triggers an alarm to notify.

[0080] (4) DWS device: The sealed container is transported on the automatic sorting line 3 and passes through the DWS device 4 before reaching each sorting chute. The DWS device 4 measures the weight and / or volume of the container, scans the case code information, calculates the theoretical values of the weight and / or volume of the corresponding container based on the case code information, compares with the measured weight and / or volume of the container, completes the third inspection of the container. When there is a difference, it flows to the defective product removal port and notifies the corresponding difference information.

[0081] On the one hand, it is possible to confirm whether the specified container type is strictly used through measurement and comparison of weight and volume. When using a volume measuring device, it can be measured using a volumetric measuring instrument or directly calculated based on the specification information in the case code. Considering the situation where the container is not full, some errors may occur.

[0082] After passing through the DWS device 4, the container arrives at each corresponding sorting chute according to the purpose, and is loaded onto the shipping vehicle.

[0083] (5) Automatic sorting line: The automatic sorting line is provided with a plurality of sorting chutes. Each sorting chute is arranged according to the receiving addresses of all orders in the order pool. For example, according to statistics, if the orders for multi-picking in the morning mainly consist of items to be shipped to five cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Wuhan, and Shenzhen, the sorting chutes of the automatic sorting line can be arranged accordingly. At the same time, the data processing center aggregates the number of products to be shipped to the five cities, adjusts the position order of each sorting chute according to the quantity of products to be shipped to each city, and considering the wear and life of the machines on the automatic sorting line, sets the packing location for the city with the largest number of products at the nearest sorting chute.

[0084] Some steps in the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented by software, and the corresponding software program can be stored in a readable storage medium such as an optical disk or a hard disk.

[0085] Regarding the above, although various preferred embodiments have been shown and described in detail, it is not limited. Modifications, substitutions by equivalents, and improvements made within the scope of not departing from the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0086] (Supplementary Note) (Supplementary Note 1) A "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology, comprising a data processing center, an RFID automatic picking cart (1), an RFID tunnel gate (2), and an automatic sorting line (3). The RFID automatic picking cart (1) is configured to include a picking processor (11). The RFID tunnel gate (2) is configured to include a first inspection processor, and the RFID tunnel gate (2) is provided at the container inlet of the automatic sorting line (3). A DWS device (4) is also provided on the automatic sorting line (3). The DWS device (4) is arranged in front of each sorting chute of the automatic sorting line (3) and is equipped with a second inspection processor. The picking processor (11) is connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN. The first inspection processor and the second inspection processor are connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The data processing center can complete the processing and tracking of corresponding orders based on the information fed back from the picking processor (11), the first inspection processor, and the second inspection processor, and realizes the upload and download of data through the network. The picking processor (11) completes the first inspection of each order during the picking process. The first inspection processor completes the second inspection of each order, and the second inspection processor completes the third inspection of each order. A system characterized by this.

[0087] (Appendix 2) The RFID automatic picking cart is also configured to include an RFID reader and a corresponding RFID scanning area (12), and a printer (13). The RFID reader is used to read the RFID tag information of the goods placed in the RFID scanning area (12). The RFID reader and the printer (13) are connected to the picking processor (11) via a wireless LAN or a data transfer cable. S container placement positions are provided on the RFID automatic picking cart (1). The data processing center integrates each N orders according to a preset multi-dimensional order integration strategy to generate one multi-picking task and a corresponding multi-picking plan. The picking processor (11) receives the multi-picking task from the data processing center, generates a corresponding multi-picking instruction based on the multi-picking plan, so that the picking worker can complete the multi-picking task according to the multi-picking instruction. The multi-picking plan includes the specifications and quantities of the containers required for each order in the multi-picking task, and the corresponding multi-picking route. During the multi-picking process, the picking processor (11) performs multi-picking and the first inspection on N orders by each component of the RFID automatic picking cart (1), and completes the packing process. The packing process includes sealing, printing and pasting of case codes. Here, it is characterized in that S≥N. The system according to Supplementary Note 1.

[0088] (Supplementary Note 3) The multi-dimensional order integration strategy includes dimensions such as the delivery time of the order, the delivery destination, the goods in the order, the duplication rate of the picking positions of the goods in the order, the order scale, the weather and road conditions of the delivery destination, etc. The specific order integration process is determined by the recombination between each dimension. The system according to Supplementary Note 1.

[0089] (Supplementary Note 4) The picking processor (11) is configured to also include an interactive display unit and a voice dialogue system, and the picking worker realizes information interaction with the picking processor (11) through the interactive display unit and the voice dialogue system. The system according to supplementary note 1 is characterized in that.

[0090] (Supplementary note 5) The system according to supplementary note 1 is characterized in that it further includes an inventory replenishment processor connected to the data processing center via a wired LAN or a wireless LAN.

[0091] (Supplementary note 6) A display mark (16) is also provided at each container placement position of the RFID automatic picking cart (1). The display mark (16) is electrically connected to the picking processor (11) and is used to inform the picking worker of the corresponding container placement position in accordance with a multi-picking instruction. The system according to supplementary note 2 is characterized in that.

[0092] (Supplementary note 7) The RFID tunnel gate (2) is configured to include a case code scanning device and an RFID reader / writer. The case code scanning device and the RFID reader / writer are connected to the first inspection processor via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The case code scanning device reads the case code information on the container when the container passes through the RFID tunnel gate (2) and is used to obtain the product information in the container based on the case code information. The RFID reader / writer directly reads the RFID tag of the product in the container when the container passes through the RFID tunnel gate (2) and is used to obtain the corresponding product information. The first inspection processor collates the product information in the container obtained by the case code scanning device with the product information in the container read by the RFID reader / writer and is used to complete the second inspection of the order. The system according to supplementary note 6 is characterized in that.

[0093] (Appendix 8) The DWS device (4) is used to measure the weight and / or volume of the container before the container enters the sorting chute and to scan case code information. The second inspection processor calculates the theoretical weight and / or volume of the corresponding container based on the case code information, compares it with the measured weight and / or volume of the container, and completes the third inspection of the order. The system according to Appendix 7, characterized in that it is completed.

[0094] (Appendix 9) Each sorting chute of the automatic sorting line is set based on the delivery addresses of all orders in the order pool. The positional order of each sorting chute of the automatic sorting line is set according to the total number of each sorting chute based on all orders in the order pool. The system according to Appendix 8, characterized in that it is so set.

[0095] (Appendix 10) The RFID automatic picking cart is provided with a driving device and a robotic arm. All the tasks completed by the picking workers in the system are completed by the driving device and the robotic arm. The system according to Appendix 9, characterized in that it is so completed.

Claims

1. A "live streaming" warehouse management system based on UHF RFID technology, comprising a data processing center, an RFID automatic picking cart (1), an RFID tunnel gate (2), and an automatic sorting line (3). The RFID automatic picking cart (1) is configured with a picking processor (11). The RFID tunnel gate (2) is configured with a first inspection processor, and the RFID tunnel gate (2) is provided at the container inlet of the automatic sorting line (3). A DWS device (4) is also provided on the automatic sorting line (3). The DWS device (4) is arranged in front of each sorting chute of the automatic sorting line (3) and is equipped with a second inspection processor. The picking processor (11) is connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN. The first inspection processor and the second inspection processor are connected to the data processing center via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The data processing center can complete the processing and tracking of corresponding orders based on the information fed back from the picking processor (11), the first inspection processor, and the second inspection processor, and realizes the upload and download of data through the network. The picking processor (11) completes the first inspection of each order during the picking process. The first inspection processor completes the second inspection of each order, and the second inspection processor completes the third inspection of each order. A system characterized by this.

2. The RFID automatic picking cart is also configured to include an RFID reader and a corresponding RFID scanning area (12), and a printer (13). The RFID reader is used to read the RFID tag information of the goods placed in the RFID scanning area (12). The RFID reader and the printer (13) are connected to the picking processor (11) via a wireless LAN or a data transfer cable. The RFID automatic picking cart (1) is provided with S container placement positions. The data processing center integrates each N orders according to a preset multi-dimensional order integration strategy to generate one multi-picking task and a corresponding multi-picking plan. The picking processor (11) receives the multi-picking task from the data processing center, generates a corresponding multi-picking instruction based on the multi-picking plan, so that the picking worker can complete the multi-picking task according to the multi-picking instruction. The multi-picking plan includes the specifications and quantities of the containers required for each order in the multi-picking task, and the corresponding multi-picking route. During the multi-picking process, the picking processor (11) performs multi-picking and the first inspection on N orders by each component of the RFID automatic picking cart (1), and completes the packaging process. The packaging process includes sealing, printing and pasting of case codes, where S≥N. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that.

3. The multi-dimensional order integration strategy includes dimensions such as the delivery time of the order, the delivery destination, the goods in the order, the duplication rate of the picking positions of the goods in the order, the order scale, the weather and road conditions of the delivery destination, etc. The specific order integration process is determined by the recombination between each dimension. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that.

4. The picking processor (11) is also configured to include an interactive display unit and a voice dialogue system. The picking worker realizes information interaction with the picking processor (11) through the interactive display unit and the voice dialogue system. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that.

5. The system according to claim 1, further comprising an inventory replenishment processor connected to the data processing center via a wired LAN or a wireless LAN.

6. A display mark (16) is also provided at each container placement position of the RFID automatic picking cart (1), and the display mark (16) is electrically connected to the picking processor (11) and is used to inform the picking worker of the corresponding container placement position in accordance with a multi-picking instruction. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that.

7. The RFID tunnel gate (2) is configured to include a case code scanning device and an RFID reader / writer. The case code scanning device and the RFID reader / writer are connected to the first inspection processor via a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The case code scanning device reads the case code information on the container when the container passes through the RFID tunnel gate (2), and is used to obtain the product information in the container based on the case code information. The RFID reader / writer directly reads the RFID tag of the product in the container when the container passes through the RFID tunnel gate (2) and is used to obtain the corresponding product information. The first inspection processor collates the product information in the container obtained by the case code scanning device with the product information in the container read by the RFID reader / writer to complete the second inspection of the order. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that.

8. The DWS device (4) measures the weight and / or volume of the container before the container enters the sorting chute and is used to scan the case code information. The second inspection processor calculates the theoretical weight and / or volume of the corresponding container based on the case code information and compares it with the measured weight and / or volume of the container to complete the third inspection of the order. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that.

9. Each of the sorting chutes of the automatic sorting line is set based on the delivery addresses of all the orders in the order pool, and the positional order of each of the sorting chutes of the automatic sorting line is set according to the total number of each of the sorting chutes based on all the orders in the order pool. The system according to claim 8, characterized in that.

10. A driving device and a robotic arm are provided on the RFID automatic picking cart, and all the contents completed by the picking workers in the system are completed by the driving device and the robotic arm. The system according to claim 9, characterized in that.

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