Picking station unit

Abstract

This invention provides a picking station unit that can improve the safety of workers performing picking operations. [Solution] The picking station unit ST comprises a stage 51 on which an operator sits, a support column 52 located at the end of the stage 51 and extending upward from the stage 51, and an arm 53 extending laterally from the support column 52 along the boundary between the area of ​​the stage 51 and the area outside the stage 51.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technology for picking items stored in a storage shelf.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a warehouse for storing items, a system is known in which an operator moves a storage shelf to a picking station where the picking operation is performed according to an order. For example, a system has been proposed for determining a picking station to which a storage shelf will be moved among a plurality of picking stations according to the work-in-process amount calculated based on the quantity of items picked at the picking station (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional system, since a plurality of storage shelves are conveyed to the picking station, there arises a problem that the safety of the operator performing the picking operation at the picking station is reduced.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a picking station unit capable of improving the safety of an operator performing a picking operation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A picking station unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a device on which an operator rides to perform the picking of goods. The picking station unit comprises a stage on which the operator rides, a support column located at the end of the stage and extending upward from the stage, and an arm extending laterally from the support column along the boundary between the area of ​​the stage and the area outside the stage. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a picking station unit that can improve the safety of workers performing picking operations. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a picking system according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a facility to which the picking system according to the embodiment of this disclosure is applied. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of storage shelves in a facility to which the picking system according to the embodiment of this disclosure is applied. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the state in which the automated transport device according to the embodiment of this disclosure is transporting storage shelves. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a side view showing the configuration of a picking station unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a picking station unit according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a top view showing the configuration of a picking station unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the state change (posture change) of the arm of the picking station unit according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 9]Figure 9 is a side view showing a second state of the picking station unit according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the specific configuration of the arm and communication tag of a picking station unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of tag status information used in a picking system according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of AGV status information used in a picking system according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 13A] Figure 13A shows an example of a connection pattern of a picking station unit according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 13B] Figure 13B shows an example of a connection pattern of a picking station unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13C] Figure 13C shows an example of a connection pattern of a picking station unit according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 13D] Figure 13D shows an example of a connection pattern for a picking station unit according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a specific example of a first arrangement combination pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows a specific example of a second arrangement combination pattern according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows a specific example of a third arrangement combination pattern according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows a specific example of a fourth arrangement combination pattern according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a picking process procedure performed in a picking system according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings below to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure. Note that the following embodiments are an example of embodying the present disclosure and do not limit the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0010] [Picking System 10] As shown in FIG. 1, the picking system 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a management server 1, an automatic transfer device 2 (also referred to as an AGV or an unmanned transfer device), a storage shelf T for storing items to be picked, a picking station unit ST where an operator performs picking operations on the items, and a shipping shelf H for storing the picked items. The management server 1 and the automatic transfer device 2 can communicate with each other via a communication network N1 such as a wireless LAN.

[0011] The picking system 10 includes a traveling system capable of detecting a plurality of tags arranged on the floor surface and guiding the automatic transfer device 2. For example, the automatic transfer device 2 travels along a preset traveling route while detecting a two-dimensional code (or a marker, etc.) arranged (stuck) on the floor surface. The picking system 10 includes one or more automatic transfer devices 2.

[0012] Furthermore, in a travel area where multiple passages are set up that the automated transport device 2 can travel, the picking system 10 designates one of the multiple passages to be traveled as the travel route to the automated transport device 2, and transports the item to be transported from the storage location to the destination location. The picking system 10 is applied to facilities such as factories and warehouses that store goods. For example, when the picking system 10 receives an order for goods from a customer (customer terminal), it outputs a travel instruction (transportation request) to the automated transport device 2. When the automated transport device 2 receives the travel instruction, it moves to the storage location of the goods (storage shelf T), connects the storage shelf T, and transports the storage shelf T to the picking station unit ST in the picking area. In the picking area, an operator on board the picking station unit ST takes the target goods (ordered goods) from the storage shelf T and stores them in the shipping shelf H waiting in the picking area. The automated transport device 2 connects the shipping shelf H and transports the shipping shelf H to the shipping area. Customers can place orders for products by accessing a website (order page) operated by an order server (not shown) using information processing devices (customer terminals) such as personal computers and smartphones.

[0013] The order server can accept orders for the products from each of the multiple customer terminals and aggregates the received order information and outputs it to the management server 1. The management server 1 manages the operation of each of the multiple automated transport devices 2 and outputs travel instructions to each automated transport device 2 based on the order information. Based on the travel instructions, the automated transport device 2 automatically travels along a predetermined route and moves the storage shelf T containing the products included in the order information to the picking area. The automated transport device 2 also moves the shipping shelf H to the picking area based on the travel instructions. Furthermore, the automated transport device 2 moves the picking station unit ST to a predetermined position (placement position) within the picking area based on the travel instructions.

[0014] Figure 2 shows an example of a facility W1 to which the picking system 10 is applied. In facility W1 shown in Figure 2, the storage area AR1 has multiple storage shelves T for storing goods, the picking area AR2 has multiple picking station units ST for performing picking work, and the shipping area AR3 has multiple shipping shelves H for receiving goods during picking work. Facility W1 also has designated waiting areas for automated guided vehicles (AGVs) 2. For example, facility W1 has designated waiting area A1 for AGV1 (AGV 2), waiting area A2 for AGV2 (AGV 2), and waiting area A3 for AGV3 (AGV 2). Each automated guided vehicle 2 waits in a designated waiting area when it has not received a travel instruction from the management server 1.

[0015] Furthermore, tags tg are placed on the floor surface of the area where the automated guided vehicle 2 can travel within facility W1. Tags tg consist of a two-dimensional code, a marker, RFID, etc. The area where tags tg are placed becomes the area where the automated guided vehicle 2 can travel. Also, as shown in Figure 2, tags tg are placed at equal intervals in the locations where storage shelves T, picking station units ST, and shipping shelves H are located, and in the passages between storage shelves T, picking station units ST, and shipping shelves H. In addition, multiple tags tg are placed at equal intervals in areas where storage shelves T, picking station units ST, and shipping shelves H are not located (passage areas).

[0016] For example, as shown in Figure 3, the tag tg is positioned at the center of the storage shelf T (below the storage shelf T) and at the center of the space between adjacent storage shelves T (passageway). The storage shelf T has multiple storage shelves for placing products (three storage shelves in Figure 3), and the bottom shelf has a space (entry area) into which the automatic transport device 2 can enter. As shown in Figure 4, when the automatic transport device 2 arrives at the storage shelf T where the target product is stored, it can move under the storage shelf T, connect to (lift) the storage shelf T using the connecting part, and move together with the storage shelf T. In this embodiment, the automatic transport device 2 has a configuration that lifts and moves the storage shelf T, but in other embodiments, if the storage shelf T is equipped with wheels, the automatic transport device 2 may be configured to tow the storage shelf T.

[0017] Furthermore, since the space is formed at the bottom of the storage shelf T, the automatic transport device 2 can pass under the storage shelf T. In other words, in this embodiment, not only the area where storage shelves T are not placed (the area between storage shelves T) but also the area where storage shelves T are placed (the area below the storage shelves T) can be used as a passage that the automatic transport device 2 can travel through. The shipping shelf H has the same configuration as the storage shelf T, and when the automatic transport device 2 arrives at the shipping shelf H, it can slip under the shipping shelf H, connect to (lift) the shipping shelf H with the connecting part, and move together with the shipping shelf H.

[0018] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the picking station unit ST has the same configuration as the storage shelf T, and when the automatic transport device 2 arrives at the picking station unit ST, it can slip under the picking station unit ST (entry section As2), connect to the picking station unit ST with the connecting section (lift it up), and move together with the picking station unit ST.

[0019] When each automated transport device 2 receives a travel instruction from the management server 1, it moves the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H to their respective predetermined positions. For example, when an automated transport device 2 receives a travel instruction including order information from the management server 1, it moves to the location of the picking station unit ST according to a travel path generated according to its current position, connects (loads) the picking station unit ST, and moves (transports) it to its predetermined placement position within the picking area AR2. Also, when an automated transport device 2 receives the aforementioned travel instruction from the management server 1, it moves to the location of the storage shelf T according to a travel path generated according to its current position, connects (loads) the storage shelf T, and moves (transports) it to the location of the picking station unit ST (the aforementioned placement position) within the picking area AR2. The automated guided vehicles (AGVs) 2 that move the storage shelves T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelves H may be the same AGV or different AGVs.

[0020] The picking system 10 sequentially detects multiple tags tg placed on the floor and controls the movement of an automated transport device 2 that can transport objects (storage shelves T, picking station unit ST, and shipping shelves H) located at positions corresponding to some of the multiple tags tg to a specified position. Each object can move within the facility W1 by the automated transport device 2. In the example shown in Figure 2, the area is divided into storage area AR1, picking area AR2, and shipping area AR3, but each area may be set as a single area. For example, the picking station unit ST may move to storage area AR1 of storage shelf T and perform picking work, or the picking station unit ST may move to shipping area AR3 of shipping shelf H and perform picking work.

[0021] In addition, in storage shelves T and shipping shelves H, goods (products) may be stored in containers (storage boxes) placed on the shelves of each level, or they may be placed directly on the shelves of each level.

[0022] In this embodiment, the picking system 10 corresponds to the picking system according to the present disclosure. However, the picking system according to the present disclosure may consist of the management server 1 alone, or it may include one or more components from the management server 1 and the automated transport device 2.

[0023] [Picking Station Unit ST] The specific configuration of the picking station unit ST will now be described. Figure 5 shows a side view of the picking station unit ST, Figure 6 shows an external perspective view of the picking station unit ST, and Figure 7 shows a top view of the picking station unit ST.

[0024] The picking station unit ST is a device on which an operator rides to perform the picking of items. Specifically, the picking station unit ST comprises a stage 51 on which the operator rides, a support column 52 located at the end of the stage 51 and extending upward from the stage 51, and an arm 53 extending laterally from the support column 52 along the boundary 54 between the area of ​​the stage 51 and the area outside the stage 51. The stage 51 has a polygonal shape when viewed from above, and the support columns 52 are positioned at each of the multiple corners of the polygon on the stage 51. The boundary 54 is formed between each of the multiple adjacent support columns 52.

[0025] For example, the support column 52 includes a first support column 52 located at the first end of the stage 51 and a second support column 52 located at the second end of the stage 51, and the arm 53 includes a first arm 53 extending laterally from the first support column 52 along a first boundary 54 located between the first support column 52 and the second support column 52, and a second arm 53 extending laterally from the second support column 52 along the first boundary 54.

[0026] Specifically, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, for example, when considering one side of the picking station unit ST, the left arm 53 provided on the left support column 52 extends to the right along the boundary 54 located between the left support column 52 and the right support column 52, and the right arm 53 provided on the right support column 52 extends to the left along the boundary 54. In other words, the arms 53 extend from both the left and right ends toward the center, along the boundary 54 on each side of the picking station unit ST. In addition, a predetermined gap is formed between the left and right arms 53 on each side. The gap may be wide enough for a worker to pass through.

[0027] Furthermore, in the vertical direction of the picking station unit ST, multiple arms 53 are provided at predetermined intervals. In the example shown in Figure 6, four arms 53 are provided. The number of arms 53 is set to match, for example, the number of shelves T. Therefore, if there are three shelves T (see Figure 3), three arms 53 are provided.

[0028] Furthermore, the arm 53 is changeable between a first state (first posture) in which it extends laterally from the support column 52 along the boundary portion 54, and a second state (second posture) in which it extends vertically along the support column 52. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the arm 53 is mounted on the support column 52 so that the arm body 531 can rotate vertically by a predetermined angle (e.g., 90 degrees) with the rotation axis 53A as the pivot point, and is changeable between a first state in which it extends laterally from the support column 52 (the state shown in Figures 5 and 8) and a second state in which it extends vertically (upward) from the support column 52 (the state shown in Figure 9). For example, if an operator grasps the arm 53 and rotates it with the rotation axis 53A as the pivot point, it can be changed to the first or second state. Alternatively, four stages of arms 53 arranged vertically may be connected, and when an operator rotates one arm (one stage) 53, all arms 53 may rotate in conjunction.

[0029] When arm 53 is in the second state (see Figure 9), the opening on the side of the picking station unit ST widens, allowing the worker to easily move between the area of ​​stage 51 and the area outside of stage 51 by crossing the boundary 54.

[0030] Above the stage 51 inside the picking station unit ST, a space is formed where a worker can stand. Specifically, as shown in Figures 5 to 7, a space for a person to enter is formed inside the picking station unit ST (the area enclosed by each boundary 54), and this space becomes the work space As1 for picking work. When a worker performs picking work, they step over the boundary 54 to enter the work space As1, and when they finish picking work, they step over the boundary 54 to exit the work space As1.

[0031] Figure 10 shows an enlarged view of part X1 shown in Figure 6. As shown in Figure 10, each arm 53 is provided with a display unit 532 that displays information related to the picking operation, a notification unit (LED 533) that notifies the location of the item to be picked, and a power supply unit (solar cell 534) that supplies power to the display unit 532 and the LED 533. The display unit 532, LED 533, and solar cell 534 constitute an integrated communication tag 55, which is attached to the arm body 531. The communication tag 55 has a communication function and can communicate data with the management server 1. For example, in response to instructions received from the management server 1, it displays information such as the name of the item to be picked, the shelf number of the storage shelf T where the item is stored, and the shelf number of the shipping shelf H where the item should be stored on the display unit 532, and also lights up the LED 533. Furthermore, when the worker finishes picking the item to be picked and presses the button on LED 533, the communication tag 55 sends information to the management server 1 indicating that the picking of the item has been completed, and resets the display content of the display unit 532, turning off LED 533. In this way, the arm 53 has the function of forming a workspace As1 to prevent the worker from falling out of the workspace As1, and the function of displaying picking information.

[0032] Furthermore, the picking station unit ST is equipped with an access section As2 between the stage 51 and the floor surface on which the picking station unit ST is located, allowing the automatic transport device 2 to enter, and is configured to be movable on the floor surface by the automatic transport device 2. Specifically, as shown in Figure 5, an access section As2 into which the automatic transport device 2 can enter is formed at the bottom of the picking station unit ST. When the automatic transport device 2 arrives at the picking station unit ST, it slips into the access section As2, connects (lifts) the picking station unit ST with the connecting section, and moves together with the picking station unit ST. The automatic transport device 2 may move the picking station unit ST with an operator on board, or it may move the picking station unit ST on the condition that no operator is on board.

[0033] The picking station unit ST having the above configuration is placed in the picking area AR2 within facility W1. There may be one picking station unit ST or multiple units. Furthermore, the picking station unit ST may be movable only within the picking area AR2, or it may be movable within the storage area AR1, or it may be movable within the shipping area AR3.

[0034] As described above, the picking station unit ST is capable of moving to a predetermined location by the travel processing of the automatic transport device 2 in response to the travel instruction from the management server 1, and is configured to allow workers to perform picking operations within the picking station unit ST. Specific examples of picking operations will be described later.

[0035] [Management Server 1] As shown in Figure 1, the management server 1 is a server comprising a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an operation display unit 13, and a communication unit 14, etc. Note that the management server 1 is not limited to a single computer, but may be a computer system in which multiple computers operate collaboratively. Furthermore, the various processes performed by the management server 1 may be distributed and executed by one or more processors.

[0036] The communication unit 14 is a communication interface that connects the management server 1 to the communication network N1 by wire or wireless connection and performs data communication in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol with the communication tag 55 (see Figure 10) installed on the automatic transport device 2 and the picking station unit ST via the communication network N1.

[0037] The operation display unit 13 is a user interface comprising a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display that displays various types of information, and an operation unit such as a mouse, keyboard, or touch panel that accepts input.

[0038] The storage unit 12 is a non-volatile storage unit such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory that stores various types of information. Specifically, the storage unit 12 stores data such as tag status information D1 (see Figure 11) and AGV status information D2 (see Figure 12). Tag status information D1 registers current status information indicating whether or not a shelf (storage shelf T, picking station unit ST, shipping shelf H) exists at the location of each tag tg, and whether or not an automated guided vehicle (AGV) 2 exists. AGV status information D2 registers current status information indicating the current location of each AGV and whether or not it is moving along a shelf.

[0039] As shown in Figure 11, the tag status information D1 includes information such as the corresponding "tag ID," "presence or absence of AGV," "presence or absence of shelf," and "shelf ID" for each tag tg. The tag ID is the identification information for tag tg. The presence or absence of AGV indicates whether or not an AGV exists at the location of tag tg; "0" indicates that an AGV does not exist at the location of tag tg, and "1" indicates that an AGV exists at the location of tag tg.

[0040] The presence or absence of the shelf indicates whether or not a shelf exists at the location of tag tg. "0" indicates that no shelf exists at the location of tag tg, "1" indicates that storage shelf T exists at the location of tag tg, "2" indicates that picking station unit ST exists at the location of tag tg, and "3" indicates that shipping shelf H exists at the location of tag tg. The shelf ID is the identification information for the shelf and indicates the identification information for storage shelf T, picking station unit ST, and shipping shelf H.

[0041] The control unit 11 acquires information from each AGV, such as its travel position and the presence or absence of shelves (storage shelves T, picking station units ST, shipping shelves H) (whether or not it is being transported), and updates the tag status information D1 in real time.

[0042] As shown in Figure 12, the AGV status information D2 includes information such as the corresponding "AGV_ID", "location information", "presence or absence of shelf", and "shelf ID" for each AGV. The AGV_ID is the identification information of the AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle 2), and AGV_IDs "01" to "03" correspond to AGV1 to AGV3, respectively. The location information indicates the current location of the AGV, and is, for example, coordinate information (X coordinate and Y coordinate) on the coordinate plane of the map corresponding to facility W1. For example, location information "P1" indicates the current location of AGV1 and corresponds to the location (coordinate) of tag tg6. Also, location information "P2" indicates the current location of AGV2 and corresponds to the location (coordinate) of tag tg10, and location information "P3" indicates the current location of AGV3 and corresponds to the location (coordinate) of tag tg13.

[0043] The presence or absence of the shelves indicates whether the AGV is transporting shelves (storage shelf T, picking station unit ST, shipping shelf H). "0" indicates that the AGV is not transporting shelves (the AGV is not carrying or towing shelves), "1" indicates that the AGV is transporting storage shelf T (the AGV is carrying or towing storage shelf T1), "2" indicates that the AGV is transporting picking station unit ST (the AGV is carrying or towing picking station unit ST), and "3" indicates that the AGV is transporting shipping shelf H (the AGV is carrying or towing shipping shelf H).

[0044] The aforementioned shelf ID is the identification information for the shelf, and represents the identification information for storage shelf T, picking station unit ST, and shipping shelf H.

[0045] The control unit 11 acquires information such as the travel position and the presence or absence of shelves (whether or not it is being transported) from each AGV, and updates the AGV status information D2 in real time.

[0046] The storage unit 12 may store data such as product information, order information, transport information, and map data. The product information includes information about products stored in facility W1 (for example, product name, product code, shipping frequency, sales performance, arrival information, etc.). The order information includes information about customer orders. The transport information includes information about the storage location of products for customer orders. The map data includes placement information (coordinate information) of tags tg placed on the floor surface of facility W1.

[0047] In addition, in other embodiments, some or all of the tag status information D1, AGV status information D2, product information, order information, transport information, and map data may be stored on another server accessible from the management server 1 via the communication network N1. In this case, the control unit 11 of the management server 1 may acquire the information from the other server and execute various processes such as the picking process (see Figure 18) described later.

[0048] Furthermore, the storage unit 12 stores control programs, such as picking programs, that cause the control unit 11 to execute the picking process described later. For example, the picking program is non-temporarily recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD or DVD, and is read by a reading device (not shown), such as a CD drive or DVD drive, provided by the management server 1 and stored in the storage unit 12.

[0049] The control unit 11 includes control devices such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM. The CPU is a processor that performs various arithmetic operations. The ROM is a non-volatile memory unit that stores control programs such as a BIOS and OS in advance to allow the CPU to perform various arithmetic operations. The RAM is a volatile or non-volatile memory unit that stores various information and is used as a temporary memory (work area) for the various processes performed by the CPU. The control unit 11 controls the management server 1 by executing various control programs stored in advance in the ROM or memory unit 12 using the CPU.

[0050] Specifically, as shown in Figure 1, the control unit 11 includes various processing units such as a registration processing unit 111, an acceptance processing unit 112, a decision processing unit 113, and a movement processing unit 114. The control unit 11 functions as these various processing units by executing various processes according to the picking program using the CPU. Some or all of these processing units may be composed of electronic circuits. The picking program may be a program that causes multiple processors to function as processing units.

[0051] The registration processing unit 111 registers tag status information D1 (see Figure 11) for each of the multiple tags tg, associating the presence or absence of an AGV and the presence or absence of a shelf (storage shelf T, picking station unit ST, shipping shelf H) with the tag ID. In addition, the registration processing unit 111 registers AGV status information D2 (see Figure 12) for each AGV, associating the current location (location information) of the AGV and the presence or absence of a shelf with the AGV_ID.

[0052] The registration processing unit 111 determines whether an AGV and a shelf exist at the location of each tag tg based on the pre-registered tag tg placement information (coordinate information) and shelf placement information (coordinate information), as well as the current location (location information) and shelf presence information obtained in real time from each AGV, and registers this information in the tag status information D1. It also determines the current location of each AGV and whether it is transporting a shelf, and registers this information in the AGV status information D2. The registration processing unit 111 updates the tag status information D1 and AGV status information D2 in real time while each AGV is in motion.

[0053] The reception processing unit 112 receives product shipment requests. Specifically, the reception processing unit 112 receives order information corresponding to the customer's order. Upon receiving the order information, the reception processing unit 112 generates delivery information.

[0054] The decision processing unit 113 determines the placement position of the picking station unit ST based on the order information. Specifically, the decision processing unit 113 selects one connection pattern from a plurality of pre-registered connection patterns based on the attribute information of the items to be picked included in the order information. Here, for example, two picking station units ST can be connected to each other via their respective boundary portions 54. In addition, a single space (workspace) where an operator can move is formed inside the two connected picking station units ST.

[0055] The aforementioned multiple connection patterns include multiple connection patterns with different numbers of connected picking station units ST. For example, the multiple connection patterns include a first connection pattern with one picking station unit ST (see Figure 13A), a second connection pattern with two picking station units ST1 and ST2 placed adjacent to each other, where their respective workspaces As1 are connected to form one workspace As11 (see Figure 13B), a third connection pattern with three picking station units ST1 to ST3 arranged in the same direction, where their respective workspaces As1 are connected to form one workspace As11 (see Figure 13C), and a fourth connection pattern with four picking station units ST1 to ST4 placed adjacent to each other in the vertical and horizontal directions, where their respective workspaces As1 are connected to form one workspace As11 (see Figure 13D). The aforementioned connection patterns are not limited to these, and include various connection patterns depending on the number of picking station units ST. When multiple workspaces As1 are connected to form a single workspace As11, workers can move within multiple picking station units ST, i.e., they can move within workspace As11.

[0056] Furthermore, when multiple workspaces As1 are connected to form a single workspace As11, it is preferable to change the arms 53 located at the boundary 54 between adjacent picking station units ST to a second state (see Figure 9) that extends vertically (upward) to facilitate movement of workers within the workspace As11.

[0057] The decision processing unit 113 selects a connection pattern from among the multiple connection patterns that have been registered in advance, based on attribute information of the items to be picked, such as the shipping frequency and sales performance of the items to be picked. Specifically, the decision processing unit 113 selects a connection pattern with a larger number of picking station units ST the higher the shipping frequency (higher sales performance) of the items to be picked, and selects a connection pattern with a smaller number of picking station units ST the lower the shipping frequency (lower sales performance) of the items to be picked.

[0058] In this way, the decision processing unit 113 decides whether to arrange the picking station unit ST as a single unit (see Figure 13A) or by connecting multiple units together. Furthermore, if multiple units are to be connected together, it decides what kind of connection pattern (for example, the connection patterns in Figures 13B to 13C) to use.

[0059] In this disclosure, "connection" of picking station units ST may refer to the combination of their respective workspaces As1 to form a single workspace As11 by arranging multiple picking station units ST in close proximity (see Figures 13B to 13D), or it may refer to the combination of their respective workspaces As1 to form a single workspace As11 by physically connecting each of the multiple picking station units ST. In other words, the multiple picking station units ST corresponding to the connection pattern may be arranged at predetermined intervals, or they may be arranged in contact with (connected to) each other.

[0060] Furthermore, in this embodiment, at least one of the storage shelves T and the shipping shelves H can be placed adjacent to the boundary 54 with respect to the picking station unit ST. The control unit 11 places at least one of the storage shelves T and the shipping shelves H in a predetermined combination pattern (the "arrangement combination pattern" shown below) with respect to the picking station unit ST which is placed at the arrangement position according to the connection pattern.

[0061] Specifically, the decision processing unit 113 selects one arrangement combination pattern from among a plurality of pre-registered arrangement combination patterns for each shelf (storage shelf T, picking station unit ST, shipping shelf H). Specifically, the decision processing unit 113 selects one arrangement combination pattern from among a plurality of pre-registered arrangement combination patterns based on the attribute information of the items to be picked included in the order information.

[0062] The aforementioned multiple arrangement combination patterns include multiple arrangement combination patterns with different ratios of the number of storage shelves T and the number of shipping shelves H. Furthermore, the aforementioned multiple arrangement combination patterns include multiple arrangement combination patterns with different ratios of the number of storage shelves T and the number of shipping shelves H, depending on the connection pattern of the picking station unit ST.

[0063] Figure 14 shows a specific example of the first arrangement combination pattern. In the first arrangement combination pattern, a storage shelf T1 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the first side (top side in Figure 14) of a single picking station unit ST, a shipping shelf H1 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the second side (left side in Figure 14), a shipping shelf H2 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the third side (bottom side in Figure 14), and a shipping shelf H3 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the fourth side (right side in Figure 14). In the first arrangement combination pattern, workers in the picking station unit ST pick products from storage shelf T1 and store them in the respective shipping shelves H1 to H3. In the first arrangement combination pattern, if multiple orders for the same product are received, the product can be stored simultaneously in multiple shipping shelves H corresponding to each order. Therefore, the decision processing unit 113 selects the first arrangement combination pattern, for example, when it obtains order information for a product with a high shipping frequency (high sales rate). In the second connection pattern (see Figure 13B) in which two picking station units ST are connected, one storage shelf T and five shipping shelves H may be arranged around the two picking station units ST, or two storage shelves T and four shipping shelves H may be arranged.

[0064] Figure 15 shows a specific example of the second arrangement combination pattern. In the second arrangement combination pattern, a storage shelf T1 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the first side (top side in Figure 15) of a single picking station unit ST, a storage shelf T2 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the second side (left side in Figure 15), a shipping shelf H1 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the third side (bottom side in Figure 15), and a shipping shelf H2 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the fourth side (right side in Figure 15). In the second arrangement combination pattern, workers in the picking station unit ST pick items from storage shelves T1 and T2 and store them in shipping shelves H1 and H2, respectively. The second arrangement combination pattern allows for the simultaneous storage of multiple shipping shelves corresponding to each order when multiple orders for different products are received. Therefore, the decision processing unit 113 selects the second arrangement combination pattern, for example, when multiple orders containing multiple products are received, or when the shipping frequency is moderate (the sales rate is moderate). In the case of the second connection pattern in which two picking station units ST are connected (see Figure 13B), three storage shelves T and three shipping shelves H may be arranged around the two picking station units ST.

[0065] Figure 16 shows a specific example of the third arrangement combination pattern. In the third arrangement combination pattern, a storage shelf T1 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the first side (top side in Figure 16) of a single picking station unit ST, a storage shelf T2 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the second side (left side in Figure 16), a storage shelf T3 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the fourth side (right side in Figure 16), and a shipping shelf H1 is placed adjacent to the boundary 54 of the third side (bottom side in Figure 16). In the third arrangement combination pattern, workers in the picking station unit ST pick products from storage shelves T1, T2, and T3 and store them in the shipping shelf H1. In the third arrangement combination pattern, when an order for multiple different products is received, multiple products picked from multiple product shelves corresponding to that order can be stored in a single shipping shelf H1. Therefore, the decision processing unit 113 selects the third arrangement combination pattern, for example, when it receives order information for products with low shipping frequency (niche products). In the second connection pattern (see Figure 13B) in which two picking station units ST are connected, five storage shelves T and one shipping shelf H may be arranged around the two picking station units ST, or four storage shelves T and two shipping shelves H may be arranged.

[0066] Figure 17 shows a specific example of the fourth arrangement combination pattern. The fourth arrangement combination pattern is a linked pattern in which storage shelves T1 to T3 are arranged adjacent to the boundary 54 of the first side (upper side in Figure 17) for three picking station units ST1 to ST3, and shipping shelves H1 to H3 are arranged adjacent to the boundary 54 of the second side (lower side in Figure 17). In the fourth arrangement combination pattern, workers in picking station units ST1 to ST3 pick products from storage shelves T1, T2, and T3 and store them in shipping shelves H1, H2, and H3, respectively. The fourth arrangement combination pattern allows for the simultaneous storage of products in multiple shipping shelves corresponding to each order when multiple orders for different products are received. Therefore, the decision processing unit 113 selects the fourth arrangement combination pattern, for example, when it receives many orders containing many products.

[0067] The above-mentioned arrangement combination patterns are examples only and are not limited to these; multiple arrangement combination patterns corresponding to each of the aforementioned connection patterns of the picking station unit ST are pre-registered.

[0068] As described above, the decision processing unit 113 selects a connection pattern for the picking station unit ST and a combination of arrangement patterns for the storage shelves T and shipping shelves H. Based on the selected connection pattern and combination of arrangement patterns, it determines the placement positions of the picking station unit ST, storage shelves T, and shipping shelves H.

[0069] The movement processing unit 114 moves the picking station unit ST to the aforementioned placement position. Specifically, the movement processing unit 114 generates a travel path for moving the picking station unit ST to the aforementioned placement position and outputs a travel instruction to the automatic transport device 2. For example, the movement processing unit 114 outputs a travel instruction to one or more automatic transport devices 2 that includes the information of the aforementioned placement position and the travel path determined by the determination processing unit 113, causing the automatic transport device 2 to move multiple picking station units ST to the aforementioned placement position. Upon receiving the travel instruction, the automatic transport device 2 moves each of the multiple picking station units ST in the picking area AR2 according to the travel path so that they are arranged in the configuration shown in the connection pattern (see Figures 13A to 13D).

[0070] Furthermore, the movement processing unit 114 moves the storage shelf T and the shipping shelf H to positions corresponding to the arrangement combination pattern selected by the determination processing unit 113. Specifically, the movement processing unit 114 generates a travel path to move each of the storage shelf T and the shipping shelf H to the positions corresponding to the arrangement combination pattern and outputs a travel instruction to the automatic transport device 2. For example, the movement processing unit 114 outputs a travel instruction to one or more automatic transport devices 2 that includes information on the arrangement position and travel path corresponding to the arrangement combination pattern determined by the determination processing unit 113, causing the automatic transport device 2 to move the storage shelf T and the shipping shelf H to the arrangement positions of the arrangement combination pattern. When the automatic transport device 2 receives the travel instruction, it moves the storage shelf T, which stores the items to be picked, from the storage area AR1 to the picking area AR2 according to the travel path and places it adjacent to the picking station unit ST arranged in the linked pattern (see Figure 2). Furthermore, when the automated transport device 2 receives the travel instruction, it moves the shipping shelf H from the shipping area AR3 to the picking area AR2 according to the travel path and places it adjacent to the picking station unit ST arranged in the linked pattern (see Figure 2).

[0071] When storage shelves T and shipping shelves H are arranged around the picking station unit ST according to the aforementioned arrangement combination pattern, the worker performs picking operations in the workspace within the picking station unit ST (workspace As1 of one picking station unit ST, or workspace As11 of multiple picking station units ST) by taking the items to be picked (ordered items) from the storage shelves T and transferring them to the shipping shelves H. During the picking operation, the control unit 11 of the management server 1 lights up the LED 533 of the communication tag 55 (see Figure 10) installed on the arm 53 of the picking station unit ST that corresponds to the storage location of the items to be picked in the storage shelves T, and also displays information such as the product name on the display unit 532. For example, if the items to be picked are stored on the third shelf of the storage shelf T, the control unit 11 lights up the LED 533 of the communication tag 55 on the third shelf of the picking station unit ST and displays the product name on the display unit 532. This improves work efficiency because the worker can easily find the items to be picked in the workspace. The display unit 532 may also display identification information (such as the number of the shipping shelf H) of the shipping shelf H where the item to be picked should be stored. When the worker stores the item in the shipping shelf H and presses the button on the LED 533, the control unit 11 displays the information of the next item to be picked on the communication tag 55.

[0072] During the picking operation, the automated transport device 2 moves other picking station units ST, storage shelves T, and shipping shelves H in accordance with other travel instructions received from the control unit 11.

[0073] When the worker finishes picking, the control unit 11 outputs a completion instruction to the automatic transport device 2. Upon receiving the completion instruction, the automatic transport device 2 moves the storage shelf T to the storage area AR1 and the shipping shelf H to the shipping area AR3.

[0074] As described above, the control unit 11 dynamically generates a workspace for picking by moving the picking station unit ST to a predetermined position and moving the storage shelves T and shipping shelves H according to the position of the picking station unit ST. The control unit 11 may move only one of the storage shelves T or shipping shelves H relative to the picking station unit ST. For example, the control unit 11 may move the picking station unit ST to the position of the storage shelf T that stores the items to be picked, and then move the shipping shelf H to that position. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may move the picking station unit ST to the position of the shipping shelf H, and then move the storage shelf T that stores the items to be picked to that position.

[0075] [Picking process] The picking process performed in the picking system 10 according to this embodiment will now be described with reference to Figure 18. Specifically, in this embodiment, the picking process is performed by the control unit 11 of the management server 1. Furthermore, the control unit 11 is capable of executing multiple picking processes in parallel in response to multiple shipping requests to multiple automated transport devices 2.

[0076] This disclosure can be understood as a disclosure of a picking method that performs one or more steps included in the picking process. Furthermore, the one or more steps included in the picking process described herein may be omitted as appropriate. In addition, the execution order of each step in the picking process may differ to the extent that similar effects are produced. Furthermore, although this description uses the case in which the control unit 11 executes each step in the picking process as an example, a picking method in which one or more processors distribute and execute each step in the picking process can also be considered as another embodiment. Moreover, the picking method is a method for supporting the picking work in a picking system 10 that includes an automatic transport device 2 and a picking station unit ST.

[0077] <Step S1> First, in step S1, the control unit 11 acquires order information. For example, the control unit 11 acquires order information (shipping information) for goods (products) from the order server. The control unit 11 may acquire multiple order information items at a time interval (period) set in advance.

[0078] <Step S2> Next, in step S2, the control unit 11 selects a connection pattern for the picking station units ST. Specifically, the control unit 11 checks the current shipping frequency and sales performance of the products included in the order information and selects a connection pattern for the picking station units ST. For example, the control unit 11 selects a connection pattern with a larger number of picking station units ST (for example, the connection pattern in Figure 13C or Figure 13D) the higher the shipping frequency of the ordered products, and selects a connection pattern with a smaller number of picking station units ST (for example, the connection pattern in Figure 13A or Figure 13B) the lower the shipping frequency of the ordered products.

[0079] <Step S3> Next, in step S3, the control unit 11 selects an arrangement combination pattern for the storage shelves T, picking station unit ST, and shipping shelves H. Specifically, the control unit 11 selects the arrangement combination pattern after checking the shipping frequency, sales performance, etc. For example, the control unit 11 selects an arrangement combination pattern in which the ratio of the number of shipping shelves H to the number of storage shelves T is higher the higher the shipping frequency of the product (for example, the first arrangement combination pattern in Figure 14), and an arrangement combination pattern in which the ratio of the number of storage shelves T to the number of shipping shelves H is higher the lower the shipping frequency (for example, the third arrangement combination pattern in Figure 16).

[0080] <Step S4> Next, in step S4, the control unit 11 generates travel paths for the automated transport device 2 to move the storage shelves T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelves H, respectively. One automated transport device 2 may move the storage shelves T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelves H, or multiple automated transport devices 2 may share the task of moving the storage shelves T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelves H, respectively. The control unit 11 generates each travel path based on the current position of the automated transport device 2, the current positions of the storage shelves T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelves H to be moved, and the positional positions corresponding to the connection pattern and the arrangement combination pattern.

[0081] <Step S5> Next, in step S5, the control unit 11 outputs a travel instruction to the automated transport device 2. Specifically, the control unit 11 outputs a travel instruction to one or more automated transport devices 2 that includes the travel path information generated in step S4. When the automated transport device 2 receives the travel instruction from the management server 1, it moves the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H to their respective positions according to the travel path, corresponding to the connection pattern and the arrangement combination pattern (see Figure 2).

[0082] <Step S6> Next, in step S6, the control unit 11 determines whether the movement of the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H has been completed. If the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H each arrive at their respective placement positions (S6: Yes), the control unit 11 proceeds to step S7. The control unit 11 instructs the automatic transport device 2 to continue transporting until the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H each arrive at their respective placement positions (S6: No).

[0083] <Step S7> Next, in step S7, the control unit 11 starts the picking operation. Specifically, the control unit 11 lights up the LED 533 of the communication tag 55 (see Figure 10) corresponding to the storage location of the product to be picked on the storage shelf T, and displays product information such as the product name on the display unit 532. The worker takes the product from the storage shelf T at the location where the LED 533 is lit and stores it on the shipping shelf H. When the worker presses the button on the LED 533, the communication tag 55 transmits information that the picking operation for that product has been completed. Upon receiving this completion information, the control unit 11 displays the product information for the next product to be picked on the display unit 532 and lights up the LED 533.

[0084] <Step S8> Next, in step S8, the control unit 11 determines whether the picking operation is complete or not. Specifically, when all the items included in the order information are stored from storage shelf T to shipping shelf H, the control unit 11 determines that the picking operation is complete (S8: Yes) and proceeds to step S9. The control unit 11 continues processing until the picking operation is complete (S8: No).

[0085] <Step S9> Next, in step S9, the control unit 11 generates travel paths for the automatic transport device 2 to move the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H, respectively. For example, the control unit 11 generates a travel path to move the shipping shelf H to a predetermined position (shipping location) in the shipping area AR3. The control unit 11 also generates a travel path to move the storage shelf T to a predetermined position (e.g., any empty space) in the storage area AR1. The control unit 11 also generates a travel path to move the picking station unit ST to a predetermined position (e.g., any empty space) in the picking area AR2. The control unit 11 may also determine the destinations of the storage shelf T and the picking station unit ST and generate travel paths based on the following order information.

[0086] <Step S10> Next, in step S10, the control unit 11 outputs a travel instruction to the automated transport device 2. Specifically, the control unit 11 outputs a travel instruction to one or more automated transport devices 2 that includes the travel path information generated in step S9. When the automated transport device 2 receives the travel instruction from the management server 1, it moves the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H to their respective predetermined positions according to the travel path.

[0087] <Step S11> Next, in step S11, the control unit 11 determines whether the movement of the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H has been completed. If the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H each arrive at the predetermined position (S11: Yes), the control unit 11 proceeds to step S1. The control unit 11 causes the automatic transport device 2 to continue transporting until the storage shelf T, the picking station unit ST, and the shipping shelf H each arrive at the predetermined position (S11: No).

[0088] The control unit 11 repeatedly executes the above-described process each time it acquires the order information. Furthermore, if the control unit 11 acquires multiple order information simultaneously, it controls multiple automated transport devices 2 to execute the above-described process in parallel.

[0089] As described above, the picking system 10 according to this embodiment is a picking system that includes an automatic transport device 2 for transporting goods and a picking station unit ST on which an operator rides to perform the picking work of goods. The picking system 10 also includes a determination processing unit 113 for determining the placement position of the picking station unit ST and a movement processing unit 114 for moving the picking station unit ST to the placement position. The determination processing unit 113 and the movement processing unit 114 are included, for example, in the management server 1.

[0090] Furthermore, the picking station unit ST (see Figure 6) includes a stage 51 on which the worker stands, a support column 52 located at the end of the stage 51 and extending upward from the stage 51, and an arm 53 extending laterally from the support column 52 along the boundary 54 between the area of ​​the stage 51 and the area outside the stage 51.

[0091] Furthermore, multiple adjacent picking station units ST can be connected to each other, and a single workspace As11 is formed inside multiple connected picking station units ST (see Figures 13B to 13D).

[0092] Furthermore, the decision processing unit 113 selects one connection pattern from among a plurality of pre-registered connection patterns for the picking station unit ST and determines the placement position of each of the multiple picking station units ST. The decision processing unit 113 also selects one arrangement combination pattern from among a plurality of pre-registered arrangement combination patterns for the storage shelf T and the shipping shelf H. Then, the movement processing unit 114 moves the storage shelf T and the shipping shelf H to the automatic transport device 2 to the positions corresponding to the arrangement combination pattern.

[0093] According to the above configuration, the location of the workspace where workers perform picking operations can be dynamically changed. For example, the picking station unit ST can be moved closer to the storage shelf T for picking operations. Furthermore, the placement of the picking station unit ST can be determined according to factors such as the shipping frequency and sales rate of the products to be picked. In addition, the storage shelf T and shipping shelf H can be moved according to the placement of the picking station unit ST. This prevents long waiting times for storage shelf T to reach the picking station unit ST. It also reduces the time required to replace storage shelf T. Therefore, it is possible to improve the efficiency of picking operations.

[0094] Furthermore, with the above configuration, the space enclosed by the stage 51, support column 52, and arm 53 of the picking station unit ST can be secured as a workspace for picking operations, thereby improving the safety of workers performing picking operations.

[0095] In another embodiment of the picking system 10, each picking station unit ST may be equipped with a traveling device for moving the picking station unit ST on the floor surface. That is, the picking station unit ST may be equipped with a function for automatic travel.

[0096] The control unit 11 of the management server 1 controls the entire management server 1. The control unit 11 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 12 (for example, storage or ROM). The control unit 11 may be realized by one or more control devices / arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), SoC (System on a Chip)). In addition, the control unit 11 may be composed of one or more control circuits (electronic circuits).

[0097] [Disclosure Note 1] The following is an overview of the disclosures extracted from the picking system 10 according to the above embodiment. Note that each configuration and processing function described in the following notes can be selected and combined as desired.

[0098] <Note 1> An automated transport system for transporting goods, A picking station unit on which an operator boards to perform the picking of the aforementioned items, A determination processing unit for determining the placement position of the picking station unit, A moving processing unit for moving the picking station unit to the aforementioned placement position, A picking system equipped with [specific features / equipment].

[0099] <Note 2> Multiple picking station units arranged adjacent to each other can be connected to one another. The determination processing unit selects one connection pattern from a plurality of pre-registered connection patterns of the picking station units and determines the respective placement positions of the plurality of picking station units. The picking system described in Appendix 1.

[0100] <Note 3> The decision processing unit selects one linking pattern from among the multiple linking patterns that have been registered in advance, based on the attribute information of the item to be picked. The picking system described in Appendix 2.

[0101] <Note 4> The pre-registered plurality of connection patterns include plurality of connection patterns with different numbers of the picking station units to be connected. The picking system described in Appendix 2 or 3.

[0102] <Note 5> Within the multiple connected picking station units, a space is formed in which the worker can move. The picking system described in Appendix 2 or 3.

[0103] <Note 6> The picking station unit is configured to allow at least one of the following shelves to be placed adjacent to each other: a storage shelf for storing the items and a shipping shelf for storing the items picked from the storage shelf. The picking system described in any of the appendices 1-5.

[0104] <Note 7> The decision processing unit selects one arrangement combination pattern from among a plurality of pre-registered arrangement combination patterns of the shelves, The moving processing unit instructs the automatic transport device to move the shelf to a position corresponding to the arrangement combination pattern selected by the determination processing unit. The picking system described in Appendix 6.

[0105] <Note 8> The pre-registered plurality of arrangement combination patterns include a plurality of arrangement combination patterns with different ratios of the number of storage shelves and the number of shipping shelves. The picking system described in Appendix 7.

[0106] <Note 9> The decision processing unit selects one arrangement combination pattern from the plurality of arrangement combination patterns based on the attribute information of the article. The picking system described in Appendix 7 or 8.

[0107] <Note 10> The moving processing unit instructs the automatic transport device to move the picking station unit to the placement position. The picking system described in any of the appendices 1-9.

[0108] <Note 11> The picking station unit is equipped with a traveling device for moving the picking station unit to the aforementioned placement position. The picking system described in any of the appendices 1-10.

[0109] <Note 12> A system including an automated transport device for transporting goods and a picking station unit on which an operator rides to perform picking work on the goods, wherein a picking method for assisting the picking work, Determining the placement location of the picking station unit, Moving the picking station unit to the aforementioned placement position, A picking method performed by one or more processors.

[0110] <Note 13> A system including an automated transport device for transporting goods and a picking station unit on which an operator boards to perform picking work on the goods, wherein a picking program assists the picking work, Determining the placement location of the picking station unit, Moving the picking station unit to the aforementioned placement position, A picking program for causing one or more processors to execute, or a non-temporary computer-readable recording medium on which the picking program is recorded.

[0111] [Disclosure Note 2] The following is an overview of the disclosures extracted from the picking station unit ST according to the above embodiment. Note that each configuration and processing function described below can be selected and combined as desired.

[0112] <Note 1> A picking station unit in which an operator boards and performs the picking of items, The stage on which the worker boards, A support column located at the end of the aforementioned stage and extending upward from the stage, An arm extending laterally from the support column along the boundary between the area of ​​the stage and the area outside the stage, A picking station unit equipped with the following features.

[0113] <Note 2> The support column includes a first support column located at the first end of the stage and a second support column located at the second end of the stage. The arm includes a first arm extending laterally from the first support column along a first boundary located between the first support column and the second support column, and a second arm extending laterally from the second support column along the first boundary portion. The picking station unit described in Appendix 1.

[0114] <Note 3> The aforementioned stage has a polygonal shape when viewed from above. The support columns are positioned at each of the multiple corners of the polygon in the stage, The boundary portion is formed between each of the adjacent columns. The picking station unit described in Appendix 1 or 2.

[0115] <Note 4> The arm is changeable between a first state in which it extends laterally from the support column along the boundary and a second state in which it extends vertically along the support column. A picking station unit as described in any of the appendices 1 to 3.

[0116] <Note 5> When the arm is in the second state, the worker can move across the boundary between the area of ​​the stage and the area outside the stage. The picking station unit described in Appendix 4.

[0117] <Note 6> The first picking station unit and the second picking station unit are connectable via the boundary portion of the first picking station unit and the boundary portion of the second picking station unit. A picking station unit as described in any of the appendices 1 to 5.

[0118] <Note 7> A space is formed inside the connected first picking station unit and the second picking station unit in which the worker can move. The picking station unit described in Appendix 6.

[0119] <Note 8> At least one of the storage shelves for storing the aforementioned articles and the shipping shelves for storing the articles picked from the storage shelves can be arranged adjacent to the boundary. A picking station unit as described in any of the appendices 1 to 7.

[0120] <Note 9> The arm is provided with a display unit that displays information related to the picking operation. A picking station unit as described in any of the appendices 1 to 8.

[0121] <Note 10> The picking station unit is provided with an access section between the stage and the floor surface on which the picking station unit is located, allowing an automated transport device to enter. The picking station unit is movable on the floor surface by the movement of the automatic transport device that has entered the entry area. A picking station unit as described in any of the appendices 1 to 9.

[0122] <Note 11> The picking station unit is equipped with a traveling device for moving the picking station unit on the floor surface. The picking station unit described in any of the appendices 1 to 10. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 1: Management Server 2: Automated transport device 10: Picking System 11: Control Unit 12: Storage section 13: Operation display section 14: Communications Department 111: Registration Processing Unit 112: Reception Processing Section 113: Decision Processing Unit 114: Movement Processing Unit AR1: Storage area AR2: Picking Area AR3: Shipping Area W1: Facility T: Storage shelf H: Shipping shelf ST: Picking Station Unit 51: Stage 52: Strut 53: Arm 54: Boundary 55: Communication Tag 531: Arm body 532:Display section 533: LED 534: Solar cell As1: Workspace As11:Work space As2:Entry section

Claims

1. A picking station unit in which an operator boards and performs the picking of items, The stage on which the worker boards, A support column located at the end of the aforementioned stage and extending upward from the stage, An arm extending laterally from the support column along the boundary between the area of ​​the stage and the area outside the stage, A picking station unit equipped with the following features.

2. The support column includes a first support column located at the first end of the stage and a second support column located at the second end of the stage. The arm includes a first arm extending laterally from the first support column along a first boundary located between the first support column and the second support column, and a second arm extending laterally from the second support column along the first boundary portion. The picking station unit according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned stage has a polygonal shape when viewed from above. The support columns are positioned at each of the multiple corners of the polygon in the stage, The boundary portion is formed between each of the adjacent columns. The picking station unit according to claim 1.

4. The arm is changeable between a first state in which it extends laterally from the support column along the boundary and a second state in which it extends vertically along the support column. The picking station unit according to claim 1.

5. When the arm is in the second state, the worker can move across the boundary between the area of ​​the stage and the area outside the stage. The picking station unit according to claim 4.

6. The first picking station unit and the second picking station unit are connectable via the boundary portion of the first picking station unit and the boundary portion of the second picking station unit. The picking station unit according to claim 1.

7. A space is formed inside the first picking station unit and the second picking station unit, which are connected, that allows the worker to move around. The picking station unit according to claim 6.

8. At least one of the storage shelves for storing the aforementioned articles and the shipping shelves for storing the articles picked from the storage shelves can be arranged adjacent to the boundary. The picking station unit according to claim 1.

9. The arm is provided with a display unit that displays information related to the picking operation. The picking station unit according to claim 1.

10. The picking station unit is provided with an access point between the stage and the floor surface on which the picking station unit is located, allowing an automated transport device to enter. The picking station unit is movable on the floor surface by the movement of the automatic transport device that has entered the entry area. A picking station unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The picking station unit is equipped with a traveling device for moving the picking station unit on the floor surface. A picking station unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images