Method for retrieving products in storage and storage facility

Abstract

A method for retrieving products (A) to a storage location (100) includes the steps of providing a product storage unit (1) having an identifier (4) for each container (3) held in each container (3) and a support system (5) that supports the movable containers (3) relative to a frame (2) according to a closed-loop path with a retrieval zone (50c), providing a means of movement (6) for the support system (5), and providing a transport means for transporting the frame of at least one product storage unit (1), recognizing the product (A), placing the recognized product (A) in the container (3), placing at most one product in each container (3), associating an identifier (4) with the placed product (A), receiving a request for the placed product (A), retrieving the associated identifier (4), and activating the transport means (6) to transport the container (3) holding the retrieved identifier (4) to a product retrieval point or area (50c).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of logistics, and in particular to product management in stores. The term "stores" encompasses various contexts, such as stores serving industrial facilities, stores serving points of sale, and stores serving distribution centers.

[0002] More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for retrieving products in a storehouse and a storehouse capable of satisfying multiple functional needs, such as those related to known processes known as "Inbound Logistics, Dynamic Storage Solutions, Automated Feeding, Downstream Logistics, and Sorting," according to terminology commonly used in the art. [Background technology]

[0003] For example, European Patent Application Publication No. 1920396 discloses the use of self-propelled or portable shelving units for temporarily storing various products, for example, in a logistics center where the stored products are retrieved, packed, and shipped. In a typical approach, products from various suppliers are identified and classified, for example, by reading their barcodes, and temporarily stored in the shelving units. The locations assigned to the products are then stored by a storage management system. The products are then retrieved based on their stored locations, placed in containers, and then prepared for shipment. The product locations are often defined by an identification code, for example, a barcode carried by the shelving unit. The containers can be used according to multiple logics, for example, to retrieve products related to the same order or to retrieve products related to different orders. Several methods and systems for storing products and managing products within a storage facility are known, many of which are described in patent applications.

[0004] Generally, upon entry, products are separated and classified by the assignment of an identification code, often associated with other data such as their mass and dimensions.

[0005] Although depositories that include automated retrieval of products are widely known, in the case of self-propelled or portable shelving units, retrieval is done manually, limiting the level of automation or requiring expensive types of automation, such as, for example, articulated robots.

[0006] Currently available self-propelled or portable shelving units can reach various stations, but each time a product is retrieved or unloaded, a new identification of the product is accommodated. Also, some identification is achieved when the transport of the products between the various stations is performed using a transport device such as a belt conveyor. Furthermore, the presence of a belt conveyor limits the space available for logistics.

[0007] In other words, any stored locations become obsolete once the product is retrieved from the shelving unit, causing a loss of tracking and the need to assign and store a new location with each transfer of product following identification.

[0008] EP 3256290 B1 describes a self-propelled or portable product storage unit, particularly with reference to Figures 3B and 3C. The storage unit includes a frame, product containers arranged to form first and second columns, and a system for moving the containers between a first position, inclined to prevent the products from falling, and a second position, inclined toward the ground, to facilitate collection by a collection system. While the solution in EP 3256290 B1 facilitates collection, it does not, as a whole, facilitate the loading and unloading of products. Furthermore, the system described above has a considerable size relative to the volume of stored products.

[0009] A solution for transporting products using stackable product storage modules is described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2018201445. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 1920396 [Patent Document 2] European Patent No. 3256290 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018201445 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] The present invention aims to overcome one or more of the drawbacks of the prior art solutions.

[0012] The first purpose is to simplify the management of products temporarily stored in a warehouse.

[0013] A second objective is to limit or avoid product recognition actions after each product transfer.

[0014] A further object of some embodiments is to simplify automatic retrieval. These and other objects will be apparent to those skilled in the art from reading the following text and are achieved by means of a method for retrieving products in a repository and a repository according to the claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] In accordance with the teachings of the present description, the method comprises: - providing at least one product storage unit comprising a frame, containers for the products, identifiers for each container carried by each container, and a container support system for supporting the containers, the containers being movable relative to the frame according to a closed loop path having at least one collection point or collection area for the products; - providing movement means for moving the support system so as to move the container relative to the frame; - providing transport means for transporting frames of at least one product storage unit; - providing a product; - recognizing the product; - placing the recognized products in containers, with at most one product in each container; - associating the container identifier with the installed product; receiving a request regarding an installed product; - recovering an identifier associated with the requested product; -activating a means of transport to transport the container bearing the read identifier to a collection point or area for the product; Includes.

[0016] In accordance with the teachings of the present description, the storage facility comprises at least one product storage unit comprising a frame, containers for products, and an identifier for each container carried by each container; a loading means for loading products into the containers; a transport means for transporting the at least one product storage unit; a storage management system comprising a recognition means for recognizing products; and a reading means for reading identifiers.

[0017] The storage management system is configured to associate each product with an identifier for the container that holds the product.

[0018] To be advantageous, at least one product storage unit comprises a container support system for supporting a container, the container being movable relative to the frame according to a closed loop path; the storage facility comprises means for moving the support system so as to move the container relative to the frame; The storage management system controls the loading and / or transport means and is configured so that each container contains at most one product.

[0019] Specific embodiments of the present invention are described below in the description of the invention in accordance with the appended drawings and in accordance with the claimed subject matter. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a product storage unit in accordance with the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 shows a detail of the embodiment of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 illustrates an automatic loading sequence for the embodiment of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 illustrates an automatic loading sequence for the embodiment of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] 2 illustrates an automatic loading sequence for the embodiment of FIG. 1. [Figure 6]2 shows an automatic collection sequence for the embodiment of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 2 shows an automatic collection sequence for the embodiment of FIG. 1. [Figure 8] 2 shows an automatic collection sequence for the embodiment of FIG. 1. [Figure 9] 10 shows a perspective view of two units or modules of a further embodiment of a product storage unit according to the present invention; [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the unit of the embodiment of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of the embodiment of FIG. 9, with some elements omitted to facilitate understanding of functional and structural features. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of the embodiment of FIG. 9, with some elements omitted to facilitate understanding of functional and structural features. [Figure 13] 10 shows a section (without background) of the container of the embodiment of FIG. 9, taken along a vertical plane cutting through the entire container. [Figure 14] 10 is a perspective view of the unit of the embodiment of FIG. 9 at a first station. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a detailed view of FIG. 14 from a different perspective. [Figure 16] 1 shows a first station of an embodiment of a repository according to the present invention. [Figure 17] 1 shows a perspective view from above of an embodiment of a repository according to the present invention; [Figure 18] 18 shows a side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] 1 shows a schematic view from above of a further embodiment of a depository according to the invention; [Figure 20] 1A-1D are schematic side views of several embodiments of product storage units according to the present invention. [Figure 21] 1A-1D are schematic side views of several embodiments of product storage units according to the present invention. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of a self-propelled base of a product storage unit. [Figure 23]23 shows details of a product storage unit generally similar to the storage unit of FIG. 1 with a self-propelled base of FIG. 22. [Figure 24] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the self-propelled base of FIG. 22 from a different perspective. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the reference numeral 100 denotes a repository.

[0022] The symbols are included to facilitate understanding of the invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0023] An embodiment of the method for collecting product (A) in storage (100) according to the present invention comprises: - providing at least one product storage unit (1) comprising a frame (2), containers (3) for the products (A), identifiers (4) for each container (3) carried by each container (3), and a support system (5) for the containers (3) that supports the containers (3), the containers (3) being movable relative to the frame (2) along a closed-loop path having at least one collection point or collection area (50c) for the products; - providing movement means (6) for moving the support system (5) so as to move the container (3) relative to the frame (2); - providing transport means for transporting the frames of at least one product storage unit (1); - providing a product (A); - recognizing a product (A); - placing the recognized products (A) in containers (3), with at most one product in each container (3); - associating the identifier (4) of the container (3) with the installed product (A); receiving a request regarding an installed product (A); - retrieving an identifier (4) associated with the requested product (A); - activating the transport means (6) to transport the container (3) carrying the read identifier (4) to a collection point or area (50c) of the product; Includes.

[0024] The association of the identifier (4) of the container (3) with the product (A) facilitates management of the repository (100) by uniquely tracking the product (A), thus limiting or avoiding the need for further identification of the product (A).

[0025] Furthermore, automated retrieval of products (A) from at least one product storage unit (1) is facilitated while maintaining tracking of the retrieved products (A).

[0026] The identifier (4) may, for example, be a barcode (including a two-dimensional barcode or a data matrix), or a radio frequency label or a string of characters. The identifier (4) may preferably be a barcode. The embodiment of Figure 9 is a radio frequency label (not visible), but may have a barcode as illustrated in Figure 1.

[0027] The closed loop path typically allows for a smaller footprint on the ground and includes an upper portion (50a), a lower portion (50b), a vertically extending first portion (50d), and a vertically extending second portion (50e), both of which are interposed between the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e).

[0028] The product storage unit (1) facilitates automation of the operation of the storage (100) and can be advantageously used in several steps of the processes and / or areas of the storage (100).

[0029] The product (A) is stored at a constant height, with a structure that allows for a reduced ground footprint and good flexibility when both loading and retrieving, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0030] The at least one product storage unit (1) may be self-propelled or, more preferably, transportable by means of transport means external thereto, in both cases using known devices.

[0031] In the case of a portable product storage unit (1), the frame (2) preferably includes pedestals (200) for resting on the ground (G). These are particularly useful as they provide a volume beneath the container (3) for transport means.

[0032] The transport means preferably comprises at least one automated guided vehicle or autonomous vehicle 71. As known to those skilled in the art, a group of automated guided vehicles or autonomous vehicles 71 can move multiple interchangeable product storage units 1 and / or allow product storage units 1 to remain unassociated with any one automated guided vehicle or autonomous vehicle 71 for a period of time.

[0033] The transport means moves the frame (2) at least between a first spatial location and a second spatial location, and typically moves the frame (2) between various points in the repository (100).

[0034] In the case of a self-propelled product storage unit (1), it preferably comprises a drive wheel (73a).

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the product storage unit (1) comprises a self-propelled base (73) comprising a drive wheel (73a), a control unit (73d) for controlling the drive wheel (73a), a battery unit (73c) for powering the control unit (73d), and the drive wheel (73a). In Figures 22, 23, and 24, the self-propelled base (73) also comprises a swivel wheel (73b), a navigation device (73e) operatively associated with the control unit (73d), a command panel (73f) with a safety switch, and an anti-collision sensor (73g).

[0036] Generally, the steps of recognizing the product (A) and placing the recognized product (A) are performed at least partly simultaneously, as shown by way of example in FIGS.

[0037] Once the product (A) is at the product collection point or area (50c), a step of collecting the product (A) is included. The product (A) can fall by gravity or can be collected by, for example, an articulated robot. By "by gravity," it is meant that the transport towards the ground (G) is caused by gravity acting on the product (A).

[0038] The method preferably includes the steps of providing a storage management system (1000) configured to associate an identifier (4) of a container (3) with an installed product (A), receiving a request for the installed product (A), retrieving the identifier (4) associated with the requested product (A), and controlling activation of a moving means (6).

[0039] The storage management system (1000) is of a known type and can be physical, virtual, or a hybrid, e.g., cloud-based. By way of example, the storage management system (1000) can comprise an application server and a data store. The server typically comprises one or more processing units or processors and at least one memory, and is configured to execute instructions. Typically, the server also comprises a communication channel, a network interface, a graphics controller, and an input / output interface. The method preferably includes the steps of providing a reading means for reading the identifier (4) and reading the identifier (4), both of which are performed before the step of associating the identifier (4) of the container (3) with the installed product (A).

[0040] For example, the reading means can read the identifier (4) before, during or after the product (A) is placed in the container (3), taking into account a movement (planned or already carried out) of the container (3).

[0041] The method preferably comprises: - providing receptacles (104, 105) for receiving products (A) from at least one product storage unit (1), respectively; - receiving an instruction to place the placed product (A) in a second container (105); - reading an identifier (4) associated with the requested product (A) in the second container (105); - transferring at least one product storage unit (1) with an identifier (4) associated with a first container (104) to a second container (105); - activating the transport means (6) to transport the container (3) carrying the read identifier (4) to a collection point or area (50c) of the product; Includes.

[0042] The method of the invention is advantageously applicable to the case of multiple containers (104, 105), such as in sorting.

[0043] When the product (A) is near the second container (105), a step of retrieving the product (A) is included, where the product (A) can fall by gravity into the second container (105) or can be placed by, for example, an articulated robot.

[0044] The method preferably comprises: - providing loading means for loading the products (A) into a container (3) having an unloading area for the products (90).

[0045] In the step of placing the recognized product (A) in the container (3), the moving means (6) is activated to transport the empty container (3) to the product (90) unloading area.

[0046] At least one product storage unit (1) allows for easy and fast loading of products (A).

[0047] Various approaches are possible. For example, according to a first approach, using a moving means (6) for moving the container, loading is carried out when the container (3) is at a point or area of ​​the first section (50d), so that the loaded container (3) faces the second section (50e) and is then unloaded at a point or area of ​​the lower section (50b) directly below the second section (50e).

[0048] In the first embodiment, after loading of the container (3), the moving means (6) moves the container (3) in the opposite direction for unloading at a point or area of ​​the lower part (50b) directly below the first part (50d).

[0049] The two variants can be combined to have two collection points or areas (50c) for the product.

[0050] In many cases, following the step of placing the product in the container (3), the steps can be carried out as follows: - moving the product storage unit (1) to at least one product storage unit (1) storage area (103);

[0051] Depending on the application, the at least one product storage unit (1) may remain idle in the storage area (103) for a few minutes or for a few days.

[0052] In the typical case of multiple storage units (1) of products, the method comprises: - identifying a product storage unit (1) that stores the requested product (A); - transferring the identified product storage unit (1); may include:

[0053] Preferably, during the step of transferring the identified product storage units (1), the units are removed from at least one product storage unit (1) storage area (103).

[0054] The method is preferably implemented using the device detailed below.

[0055] The present invention also relates to a repository (100) for a product (A).

[0056] An embodiment of the repository (100) includes: - at least one product storage unit (1) comprising a frame (2), containers (3) for products (A), and an identifier (4) for each container (3) supported by each container (3); - loading means for loading the products (A) into the container (3); - transport means for transporting at least one product storage unit (1); a storage management system (1000) comprising recognition means for recognizing the product (A) and / or reading means for reading the identifier (4); Equipped with.

[0057] The storage management system (1000) is configured to associate each product (A) with the identifier (4) of the container (3) that contains the product (A), said system being of the known type already indicated above.

[0058] At least one product storage unit (1) advantageously comprises a support system (5) for the containers (3) that supports the containers (3), so that the containers (3) are movable relative to the frame (2) along a closed-loop path. The store (100) comprises movement means (6) for moving the support system (5) so as to move the containers (3) relative to the frame (2). The storage management system (1000) controls the loading means and / or the movement means (6), and is configured so that each container (3) contains at most one product (A).

[0059] In the storage facility (100) of the present invention, the management of the products (A) is facilitated by the direct relationship between the containers (3) and the products (A) contained therein, resulting in the advantages set forth above. The positioning of the products (A) in the containers (3) can be performed according to various logic systems. The storage management system (1000) can manage the movement of the products (A) toward the containers (3) and / or the movement of the containers (3). In Figures 3-5, the loading means operates at a constant speed, for example, for an operator to load the moving products (A), and the storage management system (1000) controls the movement of the containers (3). In other versions, the loading means may also be controlled based on the availability of one or more empty containers (3).

[0060] The transport means transports at least one product storage unit (1) between at least a first station (101) and a second station (102) or at least one product storage unit (1) storage area (103).

[0061] There are several known devices that can perform the function of the recognition means. For example, the recognition means can comprise a data input device or input device, a first barcode reader (92), a recognition system with a camera and / or video camera, etc. The recognition means often comprises multiple devices integrated into the portal or station (101, 102). The recognition means preferably comprises a first optical barcode reader (92). The recognition means more preferably comprises a mass detector and / or a size detector of the product (A).

[0062] The closed-loop path typically allows for a small footprint on the ground and includes an upper portion (50a), a lower portion (50b), a vertically extending first portion (50d), and a vertically extending second portion (50e), with both the upper portion (50a) and the lower portion (50b) interposed between the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e). Preferably, the container (3) has an opening (33) for the product (A) to enter and exit, and the support system (5) of the container (3) supports the container (3) so that the opening (33) faces the ground (G) at at least one collection point or collection area (50c) for the product, thereby allowing the product (A) to exit the container (3) by gravity. More preferably, the at least one collection point or collection area (50c) for the product is in the lower portion (50b).

[0063] It is therefore possible to simply automatically retrieve the products stored in at least one product storage unit (1).

[0064] At least one collection point or area (50c) of the products will preferably be lower than the point or area in the path where the loading means loads the products (A) into the container (3).

[0065] This makes automatic collection easier and simplifies storage.

[0066] The storage location preferably includes a door (10) for the passage of the product (A), the door (10) being located at at least one collection point or area (50c) for the product, the door (10) being movable between a closed position that prevents passage and an open position that allows passage. A storage management system (1000) controls the movement of the door (10).

[0067] The presence of a door (10), e.g., mounted on at least one product storage unit (1), makes it possible to determine which of one or more containers (3) is to be unloaded, which provides application advantages, e.g., in sorting.

[0068] The storage location (100) preferably comprises a first station (101) of at least one product storage unit (1). the moving means (6) comprises a motion transmission means and is located at the first station (101) and configured to transmit motion to the support system (5) when the product storage unit (1) is at the first station (101); and / or The reading means comprise a barcode reader (81) containing a two-dimensional barcode or a reader (81) of radio frequency tags installed in the first station (101).

[0069] The first station (101) is typically used for the transfer of product (A). The availability of stations (101, 102) such as those shown by way of example in Figure 14 reduces the cost, mass, and feasibility and management complexity of the product storage unit (1), minimizing the impact on the implementation of the storehouse (100).

[0070] The storage (100) preferably comprises a guide (107) installed at the first station (101), which guide (107) ensures correct positioning of the product storage unit (1) and, optionally, of the motion transmission means. The movement means (6) preferably comprises at least one motor (61), which drives the motion transmission means and is installed at the first station (101).

[0071] The motion transmission means preferably comprises a gear (62) configured to couple with a coupling means, specifically a coupleable gearing (56) visible in Figure 15. The motion transmission means also preferably comprises planetary gears.

[0072] The storage location (100) preferably includes a transport device or conveyor (106) for the product (A) and a plurality of stations (101, 102) for at least one product storage unit (1). The stations are arranged consecutively on the transport device or conveyor (106), such that the at least one self-propelled product storage unit (1) places the product (A) on the transport device or conveyor (106) when it is at one of the plurality of stations (101, 102).

[0073] Thus, it is possible to rapidly and / or automatically transport the product (A), as shown by way of example in Figures 17, 18, and 19. In Figures 17 and 18, the belt conveyor can transport the product (A) to other areas in the product (A) storage area (100), or to several discharge points with different destinations or activities.

[0074] Figure 19 shows a particularly complete embodiment of the storage facility (100), which comprises a first station (101), a second station (102) with a transport device or conveyor (106), a storage area (103) for at least one product storage unit (1), a storage management system (1000), a first container (104) and a second container (105).

[0075] 17, 18 and 19 are exemplary illustrations of the invention in the case of multiple storage units (1) of products according to the invention.

[0076] Preferred embodiments of the at least one product storage unit (1) are those presented above in a manner that is expressly applicable inside the storehouse (100).

[0077] Each container (3) preferably comprises a first section (31) and a second section (32), and also comprises an opening (33) between the first section (31) and the second section (32) for the entry and exit of the product (A).

[0078] The support system (5) preferably supports or is configured for the container (3) as follows. - a plurality of containers (3) overlapping each other in the first section (50d) and a plurality of containers (3) overlapping each other in the second section (50e); Each container has a first section (31) above the second section (32) in the first section (50d), a second section (32) above the first section (31) in the second section (50e), and an opening (33) facing away from the container (3) in the second section (50e) in the first section (50d), the opening (33) facing the ground (G) at the lower section (50b) so as to allow the product (A) to fall by gravity.

[0079] Furthermore, the container (3) and the pathway are configured such that the second section (32) in the first section (50d) and the first section (31) in the second section (50e) are horizontal or inclined relative to the horizontal plane (H) to prevent the product (A) from falling.

[0080] Those skilled in the art will understand that there are several possible variations of the support system 5 that allow the support of the containers 3 as described above, i.e., using different movable members relative to the frame 2 and / or different connectors between the containers 3 and the same movable member. By way of example only, each of the single containers 3 may be moved independently by a device following a guide, or the containers 3 may be coupled to the same member, or the containers 3 may be fixed relative to a device or member or movable relative to one of the above. Also, Figures 20 and 21 schematically illustrate how falling of the product A can be prevented by acting on the shape and / or path of the container 3. In these figures, various lines are used to identify the first and second sections 31 and 32 and to indicate the angle of inclination relative to the horizontal plane H and / or relative to the container 3, where the first and second sections 31 and 32 are perpendicular to the path. Figure 20 shows how the cross section of the container (3) can be reduced towards the opening (34) to prevent the product (A) from falling out. Figure 21 shows how a slope of the path can serve the same purpose.

[0081] Some preferred features are described below: Figures 1 and 9 show preferred embodiments that simplify implementation and / or provide additional advantages.

[0082] As clearly shown in the accompanying drawings, the pathway is designed to stack the products (A) vertically, i.e., to have multiple containers (3) in a first section (50d) and a second section (50e).

[0083] In the present description, the phrase "in the portion" is stated to be equivalent to "at the position of the portion," i.e., it indicates a portion of the intersecting path.

[0084] The openings (33) facing away from each other facilitate horizontal loading, and more preferably the support system (5) supports the containers (3) so that each container (3) in the second section (50e) has an opening (33) facing away from the containers in the first section (50d).

[0085] This feature is preferably achieved by rigidly restraining the container (3) to some of the flexible members (51, 52) of the support system (5) with the opening (33) facing away from the path.

[0086] For example, the openings (33) visible on both sides allow for more precise control of the product storage unit (1) when the storage unit is paused in the storage area (103).

[0087] Preferably, as shown schematically in Figure 20, at least one, and more preferably both, of the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e) are perpendicular to the horizontal plane (H), thereby reducing the footprint on the ground.

[0088] At least one, preferably both, of the first section (50d) and the second section (50e) are preferably inclined with respect to the vertical plane (V) so as to widen the path towards the lower section (50b), which reduces the chances of the product (A) falling, in particular as is the case with containers (3) restrained by parts of the flexible members (51, 52), which can be seen in Figure 21.

[0089] In theory, the configurations of Figures 20 and 21 can be combined, for example with a first section (50d) that is vertical and a second section (50e) that is inclined.

[0090] The slope makes it more difficult to eject the product (A) and / or allows the use of a container (3) with a section that widens towards the opening (33). This configuration allows for easier realization of the container (3) by molding and / or limits the transfer of the product (A) when a container (3) with a uniform opening (33) is moved.

[0091] The support system (5) preferably comprises at least one flexible member (51, 52) to which the container (3) is fixed so as to simply realise a closed loop path.

[0092] More preferably, at least one flexible member (51, 52) is a chain or band or belt, which has the broadest definition, i.e. a mesh belt, e.g., metal, slats, net, etc. As shown diagrammatically in Figure 1, the container (3) may be directly fastened to the flexible member (51), which may be a belt, as is the case in Figure 1.

[0093] However, other versions are possible which are particularly effective and / or simple. As can be seen in the example of Figure 9, the support system (5) preferably comprises a first flexible member (51) with a mounting (51a), a second flexible member (52) with a mounting (52a) arranged at a distance from the first flexible member (51), and the container (3) is fixed directly or indirectly to the mountings (51a, 52b) of the first flexible member (51) and the second flexible member (52).

[0094] The support system (5) more preferably comprises connecting elements (53), each connecting element (53) being fixed to at least the attachment (51a) of the first flexible member (51) and at least the attachment (52a) of the second flexible member (52) of each container (3).

[0095] Each connecting element (53) is preferably fixed to the container (3) opposite the opening (33).

[0096] The at least one flexible member (51, 52) with attachment can be, for example, a flexible member with wings, preferably, but not necessarily, a chain with wings, as shown in Figures 11 and 12.

[0097] Each container 3 preferably comprises a base 34 opposite an opening 33 from which the first and second parts 31, 32 extend, facing each other across the base 34. In this case, a connecting element 53 is preferably fixed to the base 34. For example, in the case of Figure 12, the connecting element 53 is housed in the base 34 between the protrusions visible in Figure 13.

[0098] In other versions, the connecting element (53) and / or at least one flexible member (51, 52) may be used facing the outlet of the product (A).

[0099] The container (3) is preferably shaped as a pouch or basket.

[0100] The container (3) is preferably formed by molding and has a first section (31) and a second section (32) which diverge from a base (34) towards an opening (33) to facilitate molding.

[0101] The foregoing considers the advantages that can be obtained, regardless of the particular embodiment, from first portion (31) and second portion (32) diverging toward opening (33), as indicated by the lines on the inside of the container shown diagrammatically in Figure 21.

[0102] The support system (5) preferably comprises a pulley or upper roller (54) and a pulley or lower roller (55), both of which are rotatable relative to the frame (2) and are coupled to at least one flexible member (51, 52).

[0103] Typically, the upper portion (50) corresponds to the engagement between a pulley or upper roller (54) and at least one flexible member (51, 52), and the lower portion (50b) corresponds to the engagement between a pulley or lower roller (55) and at least one flexible member (51, 52).

[0104] The pulleys or upper rollers (54) and the pulleys or lower rollers (55) preferably have their axes of rotation lying in the same vertical plane (V), i.e. they overlap each other and the pulleys or upper rollers (54) have a smaller diameter than the pulleys or lower rollers (55). As a result, both the first part (50d) and the second part (50e) are inclined with respect to the vertical plane (V) so that their paths widen towards the lower part (50b), similar to Figure 21.

[0105] The support system (5) preferably comprises coupling means for coupling the pulleys or lower rollers (55) or the pulleys or upper rollers (54), more preferably the pulleys or lower rollers (55), to a further separate movement means (6) of the product storage unit (1) (i.e., an external movement means) for moving the containers (3) relative to the frame (2). Furthermore, the coupling means comprises a coupling gearing (56). The coupling gearing (56) is preferably mounted on the axle of the pulleys or lower rollers (55), or the coupling means comprises a connecting shaft therebetween.

[0106] The moving means (6) may be held by the frame (2), and for example, they may comprise pulleys or lower rollers (55), or motors coupled to or integrated with gear reducers. These configurations have a series of negative consequences, in particular an increase in the empty mass of the product storage unit (1), increased costs, and limitations on the usage time of the motor or gear reducer.

[0107] Motors may also be carried by the automated guided vehicle or autonomous vehicle (71), affecting its mass, transportable mass, and energy storage.

[0108] The coupling gear device (56) can be configured to engage with a motion transmission means installed at the station (101, 102), for example, for loading and / or retrieving the product (A), or to engage with another motion transmission means carried by a transport means for transporting the product storage unit (1), for example, by an automated guided vehicle or autonomous vehicle (71).

[0109] The combined gearing (56) can be a gear, as can be seen in figures 15 and 16. In these figures the motor (61) of the further movement means (6) can be seen.

[0110] The product storage unit (1) preferably comprises a storage means (11) in the lower part (50b) configured to face the exit of the product (A) from the opening (33).

[0111] The storage means (11) makes it possible to determine more precisely at least one collection point or collection area (50c) of the product.

[0112] The containment means (11) is preferably rigidly constrained to the frame (2). For example, the containment means (11) may include portions that conform similarly to the passages that prevent the product (A) from being discharged.

[0113] The containment means (11) may contain or be coated with a friction reducing material for the container (3).

[0114] The containment means (11) preferably comprises one or more walls, for example realised using steel plates or by moulding.

[0115] The product storage unit (1) preferably includes a door (10) located in the lower portion (50b).

[0116] As can be seen in Figure 6, the door (10) is preferably made into a storage means (11).

[0117] The transport means preferably comprises a device (72) configured to open or close the door (10), which may be, for example, an actuator of known type for vehicles with automatic drive (71).

[0118] In combination or alternatively, the door (10) may be activated by an actuator on the product storage unit (1), or the actuator may be located at the first station (101).

[0119] As can be seen in Figure 3, the loading means preferably comprises a transport device or conveyor, for example a belt conveyor (91).

[0120] It should be understood that the above content is described using non-limiting examples, and any structural variations are considered to fall within the protection scope of the technical solution of the present invention as claimed below.

Claims

1. A method for collecting a product (A) into a repository (100), comprising the steps of: - providing at least one product storage unit (1) comprising a frame (2), containers (3) for products (A), an identifier (4) for each container (3) carried by each said container (3), and a support system (5) for said containers (3) that supports said containers (3), said containers (3) being movable relative to said frame (2) according to a closed-loop path having at least one collection point or collection area (50c) for said products; - providing means (6) for moving said support system (5) so as to move said container (3) relative to said frame (2); - providing transport means for transporting said at least one product storage unit (1); - providing a product (A); - recognizing a product (A), - placing said identified products (A) in said containers (3), with at most one product (A) in each container (3); - associating said identifier (4) of said container (3) with said installed product (A); - receiving a request for an installed product (A); - retrieving said identifier (4) associated with said requested product (A); - activating said transport means (6) to transport said container (3) carrying said read identifier (4) to a collection point or collection area (50c) of said product; A method comprising:

2. 2. The method of claim 1, comprising the steps of: providing a storage management system (1000) configured to associate the identifier (4) of the container (3) with the installed product (A); receiving a request for the installed product (A); retrieving the identifier (4) associated with the requested product (A); and controlling activation of the moving means (6).

3. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the steps of providing a reading means for reading the identifier (4) and reading the identifier (4), both of which are performed before the step of associating the identifier (4) of the container (3) with the installed product (A).

4. - providing receptacles (104, 105) for receiving products (A) from said at least one product storage unit (1), respectively; - receiving a command to place the placed product (A) in a second container (105); - reading the identifier (4) associated with the requested product (A) in the second container (105); - transferring said at least one product storage unit (1) with said associated identifier (4) from a first container (104) to said second container (105); - activating said transport means (6) to transport said container (3) carrying said read identifier (4) to a collection point or collection area (50c) of said product; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising:

5. - providing loading means for loading products (A) into said container (3) having an unloading area for said products (90), The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein in the step of placing the recognized product (A) in the container (3), the moving means (6) is activated to transport an empty container (3) to the unloading area of ​​the product (90).

6. A storage facility (100) for a product (A), at least one product storage unit (1) comprising a frame (2), containers (3) for products (A) and an identifier (4) for each container (3) carried by each said container (3); - loading means for loading the products (A) into said container (3); - transport means for transporting at least one product storage unit (1); a storage management system (1000) comprising recognition means for recognizing the product (A) and reading means for reading said identifier (4), The storage management system (1000) is configured to associate each product (A) with the identifier (4) of the container (3) that contains the product (A), and the storage facility (100) - said at least one product storage unit (1) comprises a support system (5) for said container (3) that supports said container (3), so that said container (3) is movable relative to said frame (2) according to a closed-loop path; - said depository (100) comprises means (6) for moving said support system (5) so as to move said containers (3) relative to said frame (2); - a storage facility (100) characterized in that the storage management system (1000) controls the loading means and / or the moving means (6) and is configured so that each container (3) contains at most one product (A).

7. 7. The storage facility (100) of claim 6, wherein the container (3) has an opening (33) for the product (A) to enter and exit, and the support system (5) of the container (3) supports the container (3) so that the opening (33) faces the ground (G) at at least one collection point or collection area (50c) for the product, whereby the product (A) leaves the container (3) by gravity.

8. 8. The storage facility (100) of claim 7, wherein the at least one collection point or collection area (50c) of the product is lower than the point or area of ​​the path where the loading means loads the product (A) into the container (3).

9. 9. The storage facility (100) of claim 7 or 8, comprising a door (10) for the passage of the product (A), the door (10) being located at the at least one collection point or collection area (50c) of the product, the door (10) being movable between a closed position that prevents passage and an open position that allows passage, and the storage management system (1000) controlling the movement of the door (10).

10. a first station (101) of said at least one product storage unit (1); - the moving means (6) comprises drive transmission means, which are installed at the first station (101) and are configured to transmit movement to the support system (5) when the product storage unit (1) is at the first station (101), and / or A depository (100) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the reading means comprise a reader (81) of barcodes including two-dimensional barcodes or a reader (81) of radio frequency tags installed in the first station (101).

11. The storage facility (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a transport device or conveyor (106) for a product (A) and a plurality of stations (101, 102) for the at least one product storage unit (1) arranged successively on the transport device or conveyor (106), such that the at least one product storage unit (1) places the product (A) on the transport device or conveyor (106) when it is at one of the plurality of stations (101, 102).

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