Picking system, picking method, and picking program

Abstract

This invention provides a picking system, picking method, and picking program that enable efficient picking even when the items to be picked are stored in locations that are difficult for workers to see. [Solution] The management server 1 is equipped with an output processing unit 112 that, when the second item to be picked after the first item to be picked stored in the first storage shelf 3 is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf 3, causes the display unit 2 provided on the first storage shelf 3 to notify the display unit 2 of information regarding the storage location of the second item.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technology that supports the work of picking articles stored in storage racks.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technology is known that notifies a worker who picks articles stored in a storage rack of the position of the relevant articles. For example, a system that turns on a block light and a rack light corresponding to the storage rack that is the picking target is known (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 technology, for example, when the storage rack storing the article to be picked is located in a position that is difficult for the worker to see, even if the rack light of the storage rack is lit, it is difficult for the worker to visually recognize it, which leads to unnecessary time spent before arriving at the storage rack, causing a problem that the work efficiency of the picking operation decreases.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a picking system, a picking method, and a picking program that are capable of efficiently performing a picking operation even when an article to be picked is stored in a position that is difficult for a worker to visually recognize.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A picking system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a system that causes picking information to be displayed on a display device provided on a storage shelf for storing items to be picked. The picking system includes a notification processing unit that causes a first display device provided on the first storage shelf to notify a first display device provided on the first storage shelf of information regarding the storage location of a second item, when the second item to be picked, which is the next item to be picked after a first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf, is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a picking method that causes picking information to be displayed on a display device provided on a storage shelf where items to be picked are stored. In this picking method, one or more processors notify a first display device provided on the first storage shelf of information regarding the storage location of a second item, which is the next item to be picked after a first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf, when the second item is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf.

[0008] A picking program according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a program that causes a display device provided on a storage shelf for storing items to be picked to display picking information. The picking program causes one or more processors to notify a first display device provided on the first storage shelf of information regarding the storage location of a second item, which is the next item to be picked after a first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf, when the second item is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a picking system, a picking method, and a picking program that enable efficient picking even when the items to be picked are stored in a location that is difficult for workers to see. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1]Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a picking system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a layout diagram of a storage shelf according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an external view of a storage rack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the configuration of a display unit installed in a storage shelf according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a picking item list stored in the storage unit of a management server according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of inventory information stored in the storage unit of the management server according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of a picking shelf list stored in the storage unit of a management server according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of a picking shelf list stored in the storage unit of a management server according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a picking order list stored in the storage unit of a management server according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 10A] Figure 10A shows an example of the operation of a display according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 10B] Figure 10B shows an example of the operation of a display according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 10C] Figure 10C shows an example of the operation of a display according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 11A] Figure 11A shows an example of the operation of a display according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 11B] Figure 11B shows an example of the operation of a display according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 11C] Figure 11C shows an example of the operation of a display according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 11D] Figure 11D shows an example of the operation of a display according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12D] FIG. 12D is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of shelf position flag information stored in a storage unit of a management server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a picking order list stored in a storage unit of a management server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining an example of a procedure of picking processing executed in the picking system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16A] FIG. 16A is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16B is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 16C] FIG. 16C is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] FIG. 17A is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 17C] FIG. 17C is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [Figure 17D] FIG. 17D is a diagram illustrating an operation example of a display device according to a modified example of the present disclosure. [Description of Embodiments]

[0011] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples of the embodiments of this disclosure and do not limit the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0012] The display device described herein is, for example, installed on a storage shelf for storing goods and displays picking information in accordance with commands (picking instructions) from a management server. For example, the management server is configured to communicate with multiple display devices and can control the display and illumination (lighting) of each display device. Each display device is equipped with a solar cell and is powered by the power charged in the solar cell. Each display device may also be equipped with a primary battery in addition to the solar cell. In this case, the display device is powered by both the power from the solar cell and the power from the primary battery. The display device is an example of the display device described herein.

[0013] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of a picking system 10 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The picking system 10 includes a management server 1 and a display unit 2. The picking system 10 is introduced, for example, to a work site (factory, warehouse, etc.) where workers pick items (items to be picked) from storage shelves 3 (see Figure 3) that store items. The items are not particularly limited and include items from various fields such as parts, retail goods, pharmaceuticals, books, documents, and miscellaneous goods. In this embodiment, the picking system 10 is introduced to a facility K1 (factory, etc.) where workers pick items from storage shelves 3 that store items. Figure 2 shows a specific example of facility K1. Facility K1 consists of a first floor (1F) and a second floor (2F), with 12 storage shelves 3 arranged on each floor. Each storage shelf 3 is assigned a shelf number, which is displayed (posted) on the storage shelf 3. In front of storage shelf 3, a passageway is formed that allows workers to pass through or perform picking operations.

[0014] The management server 1 and the display unit 2 are connected to each other via network N1. Network N1 is a communication network capable of communication using radio waves. Network N1 may be the Internet, LAN, WAN, or a public telephone line. The display unit 2 is installed in each opening 31 (see Figure 3) of the storage shelf 3. If the storage shelf 3 has one opening 31, one display unit 2 is installed in that storage shelf 3.

[0015] As shown in Figure 4, the display unit 2 includes a display unit 21 (LCD) capable of displaying the name and quantity of items to be picked, LED buttons 22 that light up, blink, and turn off in multiple colors, a solar cell 23 that supplies power to the display unit 21 and LED buttons 22, and a communication unit (not shown) that communicates with the management server 1. The solar cell 23 is located in a position (e.g., the top surface) within the display unit 2 where it can be charged by ambient light (sunlight, illumination from facility K1, etc.). The LED buttons 22 have a light-emitting unit (LED) that emits light and an operation button that accepts a press operation by the worker. In this embodiment, the LED and the operation button are integrated into the LED button 22, but they may be configured as separate components. The display unit 2 can display predetermined information on the display unit 21 or light up, blink, or turn off the LED buttons 22 according to commands (picking instructions) from the management server 1. For example, a worker picks an item from a storage shelf 3 where a display unit 2 with an illuminated LED button 22 is installed, and presses the LED button 22 when picking is complete. The display unit 2 notifies the management server 1 that the LED button 22 has been pressed (indicating that picking is complete). When the management server 1 obtains the picking completion information from the display unit 2 that receives the picking instructions, it outputs a picking instruction to the display unit 2 corresponding to the next item to be picked. Figure 3 shows the upper left display unit 2 illuminated. The LED button 22 is an example of a light-emitting unit in this disclosure.

[0016] [Management Server 1] As shown in Figure 1, the management server 1 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an operation display unit 13, and a communication unit 14, etc. The management server 1 may be an information processing device such as a personal computer. Alternatively, the management server 1 may be configured as a cloud server.

[0017] The communication unit 14 connects the management server 1 to the network N1 by wire or wireless connection and performs data communication (radio wave communication) with the display unit 2 via the network N1 in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0018] 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 touch panel, mouse, or keyboard that accepts operations.

[0019] 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. The storage unit 12 stores data such as the picking item list D1, inventory information D2, picking shelf list D3, and picking sequence list D4.

[0020] Figure 5 shows an example of a picking item list D1. The picking item list D1 registers information about the items to be picked. Specifically, the picking item list D1 includes information such as order, part number, item name, and quantity. The part number is the number (identification number) of the item to be picked, and the item name is the name of the item. The quantity is the quantity to be picked from the storage shelf 3. The order is the order when the items are sorted by part number (from smallest to largest part number). The control unit 11 generates the picking item list D1 according to picking requests such as orders and work plans obtained from external sources.

[0021] Figure 6 shows an example of inventory information D2. Inventory information D2 registers information about the inventory of items managed at facility K1. Specifically, inventory information D2 includes information such as product number, product name, door number, shelf number, and inventory quantity. The shelf number is the number (identification number) of the storage shelf 3 where the item is stored. The door number is the number (identification number) of the door 31 of the storage shelf 3 where the item is stored. The inventory quantity is the inventory quantity of the item stored at facility K1. The control unit 11 has, for example, an inventory management function and updates inventory information D2 based on information about the shipment and arrival of items. Note that an area number (storage area number) may be registered instead of the shelf number.

[0022] Figure 7 shows an example of a picking shelf list D3. The picking shelf list D3 registers information about the items to be picked (see Figure 5) and information about the storage location of those items. Specifically, the picking shelf list D3 includes information such as order, part number, item name, quantity, door number, and shelf number. The shelf number is the number of the storage shelf 3 in which the items to be picked are stored, and the door number is the number of the door 31 in the storage shelf 3 in which the items to be picked are stored. The control unit 11 generates the picking shelf list D3 based on the information registered in the picking item list D1 and the inventory information D2.

[0023] Furthermore, the control unit 11 sorts the information of each item in the picking shelf list D3 based on the shelf number (see Figure 8). For example, in Figure 2, the order of each storage shelf 3 is predetermined based on the distance from the display unit 2s (see Figure 2) that accepts the start operation when picking work begins, the movement path, the direction of travel, etc. Here, it is assumed that storage shelf A1 is number 1, and the order is predetermined as follows: storage shelves A1-A3, B1-B3, C1-C3, D1-D3, E1-E3, F1-F3, G1-G3, H1-H3. The control unit 11 sorts the information of the items in the picking shelf list D3 according to the predetermined order.

[0024] Figure 9 shows an example of a picking sequence list D4. The picking sequence list D4 registers information regarding the order of picking operations. The information corresponding to sequence "0" is information related to the display unit 2s (see Figure 2). The picking sequence list D4 registers the shelf number and doorway number of the storage shelf 3 where the next item to be picked is stored, associated with each item to be picked.

[0025] Although not shown in the diagram, the memory unit 12 stores information related to the display unit 2. For example, the identification information of the display unit 2, the shelf number of the storage shelf 3 on which the display unit 2 is installed, and the opening number of the opening 31 are registered in association with each other. This makes it possible to identify the display unit 2 corresponding to the opening 31 where an item is stored. It also makes it possible to identify the display unit 2 corresponding to an item. For example, the control unit 11 can identify the display unit 2 installed at opening "1221" of storage shelf A1 as a picking instruction for item "X23", and output a display instruction and a lighting instruction to the identified display unit 2.

[0026] The control unit 11 controls the display and illumination of the display unit 2 of the storage shelf 3 where the items to be picked are stored, based on the picking order list D4. For example, when a worker presses the LED button 22 of the display unit 2s (start operation), the control unit 11 displays the shelf number "A1" of the storage shelf 3 where the first item to be picked is stored on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2s. Also, when a worker picks item "X23" from storage shelf A1 and presses the LED button 22 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf A1 (picking completion operation) (see Figures 11A and 11B), the control unit 11 displays the shelf number "B3" of the storage shelf 3 where the next (second) item to be picked is stored on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf A1 (see Figure 11C). Furthermore, when a worker picks item "X12" from storage shelf B3 and presses the LED button 22 on the display unit 2 of storage shelf B3 (picking completion operation) (see Figures 12A and 12B), the control unit 11 displays the shelf number "F1" of storage shelf 3 where the next (third) item to be picked is stored on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf B3 (see Figure 12C). Also, when a worker picks item "X59" from storage shelf F1 and presses the LED button 22 on the display unit 2 of storage shelf F1 (picking completion operation), the control unit 11 displays the shelf number "G2" of storage shelf 3 where the next (fourth) item to be picked is stored on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf F1. Furthermore, when an operator picks item "X72" from storage shelf G2 and presses the LED button 22 on the display unit 2 of storage shelf G2 (picking completion operation), the control unit 11 displays "END" on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf G2 to indicate that the picking operation has been completed.

[0027] Furthermore, the storage unit 12 stores control programs, such as a picking program, which causes the control unit 11 to execute the picking process described later (see Figure 15). 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, which is electrically connected to the management server 1, and stored in the storage unit 12.

[0028] The control unit 11 includes control equipment such as a CPU. The CPU is a processor that performs various arithmetic operations. The control unit 11 controls the management server 1 by executing various control programs pre-stored in the storage unit 12 using the CPU.

[0029] Specifically, the control unit 11 includes various processing units such as a generation processing unit 111 and an output processing unit 112. 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 the processing units included in the control unit 11 may be composed of electronic circuits. The picking program may be a program that causes multiple processors to function as these various processing units.

[0030] The generation processing unit 111 generates picking instructions according to picking requests such as orders and work plans obtained from external sources. Specifically, based on the picking requests, the generation processing unit 111 generates a picking item list D1 (see Figure 5) which registers information about the items to be picked (item number, item name, quantity). The generation processing unit 111 also checks the inventory of the items to be picked by referring to the inventory information D2 (see Figure 6) and identifies the shelf number and entrance number of the storage shelf 3 where the items are stored. The generation processing unit 111 generates a picking shelf list D3 (see Figure 7) which associates the identified shelf number and entrance number with the items to be picked. Furthermore, the generation processing unit 111 rearranges the information of each item in the picking shelf list D3 in the order of the picking operation (see Figure 8). Specifically, the generation processing unit 111 rearranges the information of each item based on the positional relationship between the display unit 2s (see Figure 2), which accepts the start operation when the picking operation begins, and each storage shelf 3.

[0031] Furthermore, the generation processing unit 111 generates a picking sequence list D4 (see Figure 9) that defines the order of the picking work based on the picking shelf list D3 (see Figure 8). Specifically, after the start operation is performed on the display unit 2s, the generation processing unit 111 registers information on the picking order from the first item ("X23") to the last item ("X72") in the picking sequence list D4. The information for each item registered in the picking sequence list D4 corresponds to the picking instruction.

[0032] The output processing unit 112 outputs the picking instruction to the display unit 2, causing the display unit 2 to perform display processing and lighting processing. The output processing unit 112 is an example of the notification processing unit of this disclosure. Specific examples of display processing and lighting processing are described below. In the following, the cases of one item to be picked and multiple items will be described separately.

[0033] <Case where there is only one item to be picked> For example, consider the case where the only item to be picked is item "X23" stored in storage shelf A1, aisle number "1221" (see Figure 10).

[0034] The output processing unit 112 outputs a picking instruction, including a display instruction and an illumination instruction for a quantity of "3", to the display unit 2 corresponding to the opening number "1221" of storage shelf A1. The output processing unit 112 outputs the picking instruction when the operator performs a start operation (presses the LED button 22) on the display unit 2s and receives a picking start instruction from the display unit 2s. When the display unit 2 corresponding to the opening number "1221" of storage shelf A1 receives the picking instruction, it displays a quantity of "3" on the display unit 21 and illuminates the LED button 22, as shown in Figure 10A. The picking instruction may also include the name and part number of the item. In this case, the display unit 2 also displays the name and part number on the display unit 21.

[0035] The worker picks the item "X23" from the opening 31 of the storage shelf 3 where the LED button 22 is lit. When the worker completes picking and presses the LED button 22 (see Figure 10B), the display unit 2 sends picking completion information to the management server 1. When the output processing unit 112 receives the picking completion information from the display unit 2, it outputs a picking completion instruction to the display unit 2, including an instruction to delete the display and an instruction to turn off the LED. When the display unit 2 receives the picking completion instruction, it deletes the quantity "3" from the display unit 21 and turns off the LED button 22, as shown in Figure 10C. This completes the picking of item "X23". The output processing unit 112 may also display completion information (for example, "END") on the display unit 21 when all picking operations are completed.

[0036] <Cases where there are multiple items to be picked> For example, let's consider the case where the items to be picked are the four items registered in the picking item list D1 (see Figure 5).

[0037] First, the output processing unit 112 refers to the picking sequence list D4 (see Figure 9) and displays the shelf number "A1" of the storage shelf A1 where the first item to be picked, "X23," is stored, on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2s, and also lights up the LED button 22 of the display unit 2s. The worker presses the LED button 22 of the display unit 2s when starting the picking operation. At this time, the worker can check the display unit 21 and identify the storage shelf A1 where the first item to be picked, "X23," is stored, and after pressing the LED button 22, moves to storage shelf A1.

[0038] When the display unit 2s receives a press operation (start operation) of the LED button 22, it sends a picking start instruction to the management server 1. When the output processing unit 112 receives the picking start instruction from the display unit 2s, it outputs a picking instruction, including a display instruction and an illumination instruction for the quantity "3", to the display unit 2 corresponding to the opening number "1221" of storage shelf A1 where the first item to be picked, "X23", is stored. When the display unit 2 corresponding to the opening number "1221" of storage shelf A1 receives the picking instruction, it displays the quantity "3" on the display unit 21 and illuminates the LED button 22, as shown in Figure 11A.

[0039] The worker picks the item to be picked, "X23," from the opening "1221" of storage shelf A1, where the LED button 22 is lit. When the worker completes picking and presses the LED button 22 (see Figure 11B), the display unit 2 sends picking completion information to the management server 1. When the output processing unit 112 receives the picking completion information from the display unit 2, it refers to the picking sequence list D4 and deletes the display of quantity "3" on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2, displays the shelf number "B3" of storage shelf B3 where the next (second) item to be picked, "X12," is stored, and also makes the LED button 22 of the display unit 2 blink (see Figure 11C). The output processing unit 112 may also make the LED button 22 blink in a color different from the lit color. When the worker confirms the location (storage shelf B3) where the next item to be picked, "X12," is stored, they press the blinking LED button 22 (see Figure 11C). When the display unit 2 receives a press operation, it sends confirmation completion information to the management server 1. When the output processing unit 112 receives the confirmation completion information from the display unit 2, it outputs a display deletion instruction and an LED off instruction to the display unit 2. When the display unit 2 receives the display deletion instruction and the LED off instruction, it deletes the storage shelf "B3" on the display unit 21 and turns off the LED button 22, as shown in Figure 11D. This completes the picking operation for item "X23".

[0040] Furthermore, when the worker presses the blinking LED button 22 (see Figure 11C) and obtains the confirmation completion information from the display unit 2, the output processing unit 112 outputs a picking instruction, including a display instruction for quantity "1" and a lighting instruction, to the display unit 2 corresponding to the opening number "1660" of storage shelf B3 where the next (second) item to be picked, "X12", is stored. When the display unit 2 corresponding to the opening number "1660" of storage shelf B3 obtains the picking instruction, it displays quantity "1" on the display unit 21 and lights up the LED button 22, as shown in Figure 12A.

[0041] The worker picks the item "X12" from the opening 31 of storage shelf B3 where the LED button 22 is lit. When the worker completes picking and presses the LED button 22 (see Figure 12B), the display unit 2 sends picking completion information to the management server 1. When the output processing unit 112 receives the picking completion information from the display unit 2, it refers to the picking order list D4 and deletes the display of quantity "1" on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2, displays the shelf number "F1" of storage shelf F1 where the next (third) item to be picked, "X59", is stored, and also makes the LED button 22 of the display unit 2 blink (see Figure 12C). When the worker confirms the location (storage shelf F1) where the next item to be picked, "X59", is stored, they press the blinking LED button 22 (see Figure 12C). When the display unit 2 receives the press operation, it sends confirmation completion information to the management server 1. When the output processing unit 112 obtains confirmation completion information from the display unit 2, it outputs a display deletion instruction and an LED off instruction to the display unit 2. When the display unit 2 receives the display deletion instruction and the LED off instruction, it deletes the storage shelf "F1" on the display unit 21 and turns off the LED button 22, as shown in Figure 12D. This completes the picking operation for item "X59".

[0042] Subsequently, the picking operation for items registered in the picking sequence list D4 is performed in the same manner. As described above, the output processing unit 112 displays the identification information (shelf number) of the storage shelf 3 where the next item to be picked is stored on the display unit 2, according to the picking sequence list D4. The output processing unit 112 also illuminates the LED button 22 according to the information of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation. Specifically, when the output processing unit 112 receives a picking instruction for the first item, it illuminates the LED button 22 using the first method (e.g., steady on) (see Figure 11A), and when the picking operation for the first item is completed, it illuminates the LED button 22 using the second method (e.g., blinking) (see Figure 11C).

[0043] For example, if a worker can see the storage shelf 3 containing the next item to be picked from the location where they are currently picking, they can easily identify the location and move to that shelf by illuminating the indicator 2 of the storage shelf 3 containing the next item to be picked. Therefore, it is not necessary to display information (shelf number) of the storage shelf 3 containing the next item to be picked on the indicator 2 of the storage shelf 3 where the worker is currently picking, or to flash the LED button 22.

[0044] Therefore, the output processing unit 112 may be configured to notify the display unit 2 of the information of the next storage shelf 3 to be picked when it is difficult to see the next storage shelf 3 to be picked from the current picking location, and not to notify the display unit 2 of the information of the next storage shelf 3 to be picked when it is visible from the current picking location. Specifically, when the second item to be picked, which is the next item to be picked after the first item to be picked stored in the first storage shelf 3, is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf 3, the output processing unit 112 will display information regarding the storage location of the second item (second storage shelf 3) on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 provided on the first storage shelf 3 when the picking work for the first item is completed. In contrast, when the second item is located within a predetermined range, the output processing unit 112 will not display information regarding the storage location of the second item (second storage shelf 3) on the display unit 21 when the picking work for the first item is completed.

[0045] Furthermore, the output processing unit 112 flashes the LED button 22 on the display unit 2 provided on the first storage shelf 3 when the picking operation for the first item is completed, if the second item is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf 3. Conversely, if the second item is located within the predetermined range, the output processing unit 112 turns off the LED button 22 without flashing it when the picking operation for the first item is completed.

[0046] For example, in facility K1 shown in Figure 2, if the next item to be picked after the item in storage shelf A1 is stored in one of the storage shelves B1-B3, C1-C3, D1-D3, E1-E3, F1-F3, G1-G3, or H1-H3, the output processing unit 112 will, upon completion of picking the item in storage shelf A1, display the shelf number of the next storage shelf on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf A1 and blink the LED button 22. Conversely, if the next item to be picked after the item in storage shelf A1 is stored in storage shelf A2 or A3, the output processing unit 112 will, upon completion of picking the item in storage shelf A1, delete the display on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf A1 and turn off the LED button 22.

[0047] Thus, the output processing unit 112 does not broadcast information about the next picking operation's storage shelf 3 at the currently being picked storage shelf 3 if the aisle where the picking work surface of the next picking operation's storage shelf 3 is located coincides with the aisle where the picking work surface of the next picking operation's storage shelf 3 is located. This is because the worker can see the next picking operation's storage shelf 3 from that aisle. Conversely, the output processing unit 112 broadcasts information about the next picking operation's storage shelf 3 at the currently being picked storage shelf 3 if the aisle where the picking work surface of the currently being picked storage shelf 3 is located does not coincide with the aisle where the picking work surface of the next picking operation's storage shelf 3 is located. This is because it becomes difficult for the worker to see the next picking operation's storage shelf 3 from the aisle where the currently being picked storage shelf 3 is located.

[0048] For example, if the next item to be picked after the item currently being picked from storage shelf B1 is stored in one of the storage shelves A1-A3, D1-D3, E1-E3, F1-F3, G1-G3, or H1-H3, the output processing unit 112 will display the shelf number of the next storage shelf on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf B1 and blink the LED button 22 once the picking of the item from storage shelf B1 is complete. Conversely, if the next item to be picked after the item from storage shelf B1 is stored in one of the storage shelves B1-B3 or C1-C3, the output processing unit 112 will delete the display on the display unit 21 of the display unit 2 of storage shelf B1 and turn off the LED button 22 once the picking of the item from storage shelf B1 is complete. In this case, the worker can see the storage location of the next item to be picked within the same aisle.

[0049] According to the above configuration, information about the storage location of an item to be picked is only provided when the item is in a location that is difficult for the worker to see. Therefore, power consumption can be reduced by omitting unnecessary display and lighting processes while maintaining the efficiency of the picking operation.

[0050] [Other embodiments] In another embodiment, the output processing unit 112 may illuminate the LED button 22 of the display unit 2 in a manner corresponding to the positional relationship between the storage shelf 3 currently being picked and the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation. For example, the output processing unit 112 illuminates the LED button 22 using the first method (e.g., flashing red) when the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is located is different from the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked is located. Also, the output processing unit 112 illuminates the LED button 22 using the second method (e.g., flashing blue) when the floor on which the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is located is different from the floor on which the storage shelf 3 currently being picked is located. In another embodiment, the output processing unit 112 may flash the LED in the first cycle in the first method and in the second cycle in the second method. Furthermore, the output processing unit 112 may perform sound emission processing (output processing such as alarm sounds, alarms, or voices) instead of light emission processing.

[0051] Specifically, the storage unit 12 stores shelf position flag information D5 as shown in Figure 13. The shelf position flag information D5 registers identification information (shelf position flag) corresponding to the positional relationship between the storage shelf 3 that is the target of the current picking operation and the storage shelf 3 that is the target of the next picking operation. For example, shelf position flag "0" indicates that the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked is located is the same as the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is located. Shelf position flag "1" indicates that the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked is located is the same as the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is located, and that both storage shelves 3 are installed on the same floor. Shelf position flag "2" indicates that the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked is located is the same as the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is located, and that both storage shelves 3 are installed on different floors.

[0052] For example, if the storage shelves 3 targeted for the current picking operation are shelves A1 to A3, then if the storage shelves 3 targeted for the next picking operation are shelves A1 to A3, the aisles match so "0" is registered. If the storage shelves 3 targeted for the next picking operation are shelves B1 to B3, C1 to C3, and D1 to D3, the installation floor is the same but the aisles do not match so "1" is registered. If the storage shelves 3 targeted for the next picking operation are shelves E1 to E3, F1 to F3, G1 to G3, and H1 to H3, the installation floor is different and the aisles do not match so "2" is registered. For example, if the storage shelves 3 targeted for the current picking operation are shelves F1 to F3, then if the storage shelves 3 targeted for the next picking operation are shelves F1 to F3 and G1 to G3, the aisles match so "0" is registered. If the storage shelves 3 targeted for the next picking operation are shelves E1 to E3 and H1 to H3, the installation floor is the same but the aisles do not match so "1" is registered. If the storage shelves 3 targeted for the next picking operation are shelves A1 to A3, B1 to B3, C1 to C3 and D1 to D3, the installation floor is different and the aisles do not match so "2" is registered. The control unit 11 generates shelf position flag information D5 in advance based on the positional relationship between the storage shelves 3 targeted for the current picking operation and the storage shelves 3 targeted for the next picking operation.

[0053] The generation processing unit 111 generates a picking sequence list D4 (see Figure 14) that defines the order of picking operations based on the picking shelf list D3 (see Figure 8) and shelf position flag information D5 (see Figure 13). Specifically, the generation processing unit 111 refers to the shelf position flag information D5 to identify shelf position flags corresponding to the positional relationship between the storage shelf 3 targeted for picking and the storage shelf 3 targeted for the next picking operation, and registers the identified shelf position flags in the picking sequence list D4. For example, the generation processing unit 111 registers shelf position flag "1" corresponding to the storage shelf A1 targeted for picking and the storage shelf B3 targeted for the next picking operation, registers shelf position flag "2" corresponding to the storage shelf B3 targeted for picking and the storage shelf F1 targeted for the next picking operation, and registers shelf position flag "0" corresponding to the storage shelf F1 targeted for picking and the storage shelf G2 targeted for the next picking operation.

[0054] The output processing unit 112 outputs a lighting instruction to the display unit 2 according to the shelf position flag. For example, the output processing unit 112 outputs a light-off instruction when the shelf position flag is "0", a red blinking instruction when the shelf position flag is "1", and a blue blinking instruction when the shelf position flag is "2".

[0055] According to the above configuration, for example, if the storage shelf 3 targeted for the current picking operation is one of storage shelves A1 to A3, then when the storage shelf 3 targeted for the next picking operation is one of storage shelves A1 to A3, the LED button 22 turns off ("0") when picking is completed. When the storage shelf 3 targeted for the next picking operation is one of storage shelves B1 to B3, C1 to C3, or D1 to D3, the LED button 22 blinks red ("1") when picking is completed. When the storage shelf 3 targeted for the next picking operation is one of storage shelves E1 to E3, F1 to F3, G1 to G3, or H1 to H3, the LED button 22 blinks blue ("2") when picking is completed. For example, if the storage shelf 3 targeted for the current picking operation is storage shelf F1 to F3, then when the next storage shelf 3 targeted for picking operation is any of storage shelves F1 to F3 or G1 to G3, the LED button 22 will turn off ("0") when picking is complete. When the next storage shelf 3 targeted for picking operation is any of storage shelves E1 to E3 or H1 to H3, the LED button 22 will blink red ("1") when picking is complete. When the next storage shelf 3 targeted for picking operation is any of storage shelves A1 to A3, B1 to B3, C1 to C3, or D1 to D3, the LED button 22 will blink blue ("2") when picking is complete.

[0056] In this way, by changing the lighting pattern of the LED button 22 according to the positional relationship between the storage shelf 3 currently being picked and the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation, it becomes easier for the worker to understand the location of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation.

[0057] [Picking process] Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 15, an example of the procedure for the picking process performed in the picking system 10 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0058] This disclosure can be understood as an invention of a picking method that performs one or more steps included in the picking process, and the one or more steps included in the picking process described herein may be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, the execution order of each step in the picking process may differ to the extent that similar effects are produced. In addition, although this description uses the case in which each step in the picking process is executed by the management server 1 as an example, it may also be a picking method in which multiple processors distribute and execute each step in the picking process.

[0059] <Step S1> In step S1, the control unit 11 generates picking instructions according to picking requests such as orders and work plans obtained from external sources. Specifically, based on the picking requests, the control unit 11 generates a picking sequence list D4 (see Figure 9) which arranges information about the items to be picked (item number, item name, quantity) and information about the storage shelves 3 where the items are stored (shelf number, door number) in the order of the picking operation. The control unit 11 also associates and registers the shelf number of the storage shelf 3 where the next item to be picked is stored in the picking sequence list D4 for each item (see Figure 9).

[0060] <Step S2> In step S2, the control unit 11 outputs the picking instruction to the display unit 2 installed on the storage shelf 3 that is the target of the picking operation. Specifically, the control unit 11 outputs the picking instruction, which includes an instruction to display the quantity to be picked and an instruction to light up the LED button 22, to the display unit 2 associated with the opening number of the opening 31 of the storage shelf 3 where the items to be picked are stored. When the display unit 2 receives the picking instruction, it displays the quantity of items to be picked on the display unit 21 and lights up the LED button 22 (see Figure 11A).

[0061] <Step S3> In step S3, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the LED button 22 has been pressed. For example, when a worker moves to the storage shelf 3 where the indicator 2 is lit and picks the desired item, they press the LED button 22 on the indicator 2 (see Figure 11B). When the worker presses the LED button 22, the control unit 11 obtains picking completion information from the indicator 2. If the control unit 11 determines that the LED button 22 has been pressed (and picking completion information has been obtained) (S3: Yes), it proceeds to step S4. The control unit 11 continues the determination process in step S3 until the LED button 22 is pressed again (until picking completion information is obtained) (S3: No).

[0062] <Step S4> In step S4, the control unit 11 determines whether or not there is an item to be picked next. Specifically, the control unit 11 refers to the picking order list D4 (see Figure 9) to determine whether or not an item to be picked next is registered. If an item to be picked next exists (S4: Yes), the control unit 11 moves the process to step S5. On the other hand, if there is no item to be picked next (S4: No), the control unit 11 moves the process to step S9. For example, once the picking of all items registered in the picking order list D4 is completed, the control unit 11 moves the process to step S9.

[0063] <Step S5> In step S5, the control unit 11 determines whether the storage shelf 3 containing the next item to be picked is located outside a predetermined range from the position of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked. For example, the control unit 11 determines that the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is within the predetermined range if the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked is located coincides with the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is located. If the two aisles are different, the control unit 11 determines that the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is outside the predetermined range. If the control unit 11 determines that the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is outside the predetermined range (S5: Yes), it proceeds to step S6. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is within the predetermined range (S5: No), it proceeds to step S8.

[0064] <Step S6> In step S6, the control unit 11 outputs an instruction to display the shelf number of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation and an instruction to flash the LED button 22 to the display unit 2 of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked. The display unit 21 of the display unit 21 deletes the display of the quantity to be picked in the current picking operation, displays the shelf number of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation, and also flashes the LED button 22 (see Figure 11C).

[0065] <Step S7> In step S7, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the LED button 22 has been pressed. For example, when a worker confirms the shelf number of the storage shelf 3 where the item to be picked next is stored, they press the LED button 22 on the display unit 2 (see Figure 11C). When the worker presses the LED button 22, the control unit 11 obtains confirmation completion information from the display unit 2. If the control unit 11 determines that the LED button 22 has been pressed (and confirmation completion information has been obtained) (S7: Yes), it proceeds to step S8. The control unit 11 continues the determination process in step S7 until the LED button 22 is pressed again (until confirmation completion information has been obtained) (S7: No).

[0066] <Step S8> In step S8, the control unit 11 outputs a display deletion instruction and an LED button 22 light-off instruction to the display unit 2 of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked. The display unit 2 deletes the display information of the display unit 21 and stops the blinking of the LED button 22, turning it off (see Figure 11D).

[0067] In another embodiment, the control unit 11 may delete the display on the display unit 2 of storage shelf A1 and turn off the LED button 22 when the next item ("X12") is picked from storage shelf B3 for the next item to be picked and the LED button 22 of the display unit 2 corresponding to that item is pressed (see Figure 12B) (see Figure 11D).

[0068] In another embodiment, the control unit 11 may, after a predetermined time has elapsed (timeout) since the display unit 2 notified the shelf number and flashing of the next picking target storage shelf 3, delete the display of the shelf number and turn off the LED button 22 (see Figure 11D).

[0069] In another embodiment, the control unit 11 may, after notifying the shelf number and flashing of the next picking target storage shelf 3 on the display unit 2, delete the display of the shelf number and turn off the LED button 22 when a new picking request is received (see Figure 11D).

[0070] After step S8, the control unit 11 moves the process to step S2. Returning to step S2, the control unit 11 outputs the picking instruction to the display unit 2, which is associated with the opening number of the opening 31 of the storage shelf 3 where the item to be picked next is stored. When the display unit 2 receives the picking instruction, it displays the quantity of the item to be picked on the display unit 21 and lights up the LED button 22 (see Figure 12A). After that, the control unit 11 repeats the above process.

[0071] <Step S9> In step S9, the control unit 11 outputs a display deletion instruction and an LED button 22 deactivation instruction to the display unit 2 of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked. The display unit 2 deletes the display information of the display unit 21 and deactivates the LED button 22 (see Figure 11D). After step S9, the control unit 11 terminates the picking process. That is, the control unit 11 terminates the picking process when it has completed picking all items registered in the picking order list D4 (see Figure 9). The control unit 11 repeats the above process (steps S2 to S8) until it has completed picking all items registered in the picking order list D4.

[0072] As described above, the picking system 10 according to this embodiment is a system that displays picking information on a display unit 2 provided on a storage shelf 3 where items to be picked are stored. Furthermore, when the second item to be picked, which follows the first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf 3, is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf 3, the picking system 10 causes the first display unit 2 provided on the first storage shelf 3 to notify information regarding the storage location of the second item.

[0073] With the above configuration, it becomes possible to perform picking work efficiently even when the items to be picked are stored in a location that is difficult for the worker to see.

[0074] Furthermore, the picking system 10 causes the first display unit 2 to notify (display) identification information (e.g., shelf number) of the second storage shelf 3 where the second item is stored.

[0075] Furthermore, when the picking system 10 receives a picking instruction for the first item, it displays information about the first item (e.g., quantity) on the display unit 21, and when the picking of the first item is completed, it displays the shelf number of the second storage shelf 3 on the display unit 21. Also, when the second item is located within a predetermined range and the picking of the first item is completed, the picking system 10 does not display the shelf number of the second storage shelf 3 on the display unit 21.

[0076] Furthermore, when the picking system 10 receives a picking instruction for the first item, it illuminates the LED button 22 using a first method (e.g., by keeping it lit), and when the picking of the first item is completed, it illuminates the LED button 22 using a second method (e.g., by flashing a color different from the lit color). Also, if the second item is located within a predetermined range, the picking system 10 turns off the LED button 22 when the picking of the first item is completed.

[0077] Furthermore, the picking system 10 may illuminate the LED button 22 in a manner corresponding to the positional relationship between the first storage shelf 3 and the second storage shelf 3. Specifically, the picking system 10 illuminates the LED button 22 using a first method (e.g., flashing red) when the aisle where the picking work surface of the second storage shelf 3 is located is different from the aisle where the picking work surface of the first storage shelf 3 is located, and illuminates the LED button 22 using a second method (e.g., flashing blue) when the floor on which the second storage shelf 3 is installed is different from the floor on which the first storage shelf 3 is installed.

[0078] [Differentiation] Modifications of the present disclosure will now be described. As shown in Figure 16A, the display unit 2 may be equipped with a shelf change LED 24. The shelf change LED 24 is an LED that lights up (or blinks) when there is an item to be picked next. For example, if there is one case of items to be picked, the output processing unit 112 keeps the shelf change LED 24 off, displays the quantity on the display unit 21 in the same manner as shown in Figures 10A to 10C, lights up the LED button 22, and deletes the display and turns off the LED when picking is complete (see Figures 16A to 16C).

[0079] In contrast, if there are multiple items to be picked, the display unit 21 displays the quantity of the items to be picked, the LED button 22 is lit, and the shelf change LED 24 is lit to indicate the presence of the next item to be picked. When the worker completes picking and presses the LED button 22 (see Figure 17B), the output processing unit 112 acquires the picking completion information from the display unit 2, deletes the display of the quantity "3", turns off the LED button 22, and displays the shelf number "B3" of the storage shelf B3 where the next (second) item to be picked, "X12", is stored (see Figure 17C). The shelf change LED 28 remains lit. The illumination of the shelf change LED 24 allows the worker to confirm the location (storage shelf 3) where the next item to be picked is stored.

[0080] The control unit 11 may turn off the shelf change LED 24 when a predetermined time has elapsed (timeout) since the shelf change LED 24 was turned on (see Figure 17D), or when the picking of the next item to be picked is completed, or when a new picking request is received.

[0081] Furthermore, the control unit 11 may illuminate the shelf change LED 24 of the display unit 2 in a manner corresponding to the positional relationship between the storage shelf 3 currently being picked and the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation, similar to the embodiment described above. For example, the output processing unit 112 illuminates the shelf change LED 24 using the first method (e.g., red illumination) when the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is located is different from the aisle where the picking surface of the storage shelf 3 currently being picked is located. Also, the output processing unit 112 illuminates the shelf change LED 24 using the second method (e.g., blue illumination) when the floor on which the storage shelf 3 for the next picking operation is located is different from the floor on which the storage shelf 3 currently being picked is located.

[0082] According to the above modification, the shelf change LED 24 lights up when information about the item to be picked is notified (displayed and illuminated) (see Figure 17A), allowing the worker to quickly recognize that the next item to be picked is available. Furthermore, the confirmation operation of pressing the LED button 22 when the shelf number is displayed (see Figure 11C) is unnecessary, thus improving the efficiency of the picking operation. The shelf change LED 24 is an example of the light-emitting unit of this disclosure. Note that the shape of the shelf change LED 28 is not limited to the shape shown in Figure 17, and other shapes may be used. Instead of the shelf change LED 28, a display unit that indicates the presence of the next item to be picked may be provided.

[0083] In another modification of this disclosure, one display device may be placed for each storage shelf 3. For example, one display device may be provided on top of each of the storage shelves A1-A3, B1-B3, C1-C3, D1-D3, E1-E3, F1-F3, G1-G3, and H1-H3. The display device will, for example, display information (shelf number) related to the next storage shelf 3 to be picked. The display device may also display the shelf number with identification information for each worker. For example, if workers X and Y perform picking work separately, worker X may be assigned yellow and worker Y may be assigned green. In this case, the display device on each storage shelf 3 will display the shelf number of the next storage shelf 3 to be picked next to a yellow lamp for worker X, and the shelf number of the next storage shelf 3 to be picked next to a green lamp for worker Y. This allows each worker to be appropriately notified of the next shelf number to be picked, even when multiple workers are performing picking work. Display unit 2 and the aforementioned display device are examples of the display devices of this disclosure.

[0084] The control unit 11 of the management server 1 controls the entire management server 1. The control unit 11 implements 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 implemented by one or more control devices / arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), SoC (System on a Chip)). The control unit 11 may also be composed of one or more control circuits (electronic circuits).

[0085] [Note on disclosure] The following is an overview of the disclosures extracted from the embodiments. Note that each configuration and processing function described below can be selected and combined as desired.

[0086] <Note 1> A picking system that displays picking information on a display device installed on a storage shelf where items to be picked are stored, A picking system comprising a notification processing unit that causes a first display device provided on the first storage shelf to notify a first display device of information regarding the storage location of a second item when the second item to be picked, which is the next item to be picked after the first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf, is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf.

[0087] <Note 2> The notification processing unit causes the first display device to notify the identification information of the second storage shelf in which the second article is stored. The picking system described in Appendix 1.

[0088] <Note 3> The first display device includes a display unit for displaying information, The notification processing unit causes the identification information to be displayed on the display unit. The picking system described in Appendix 2.

[0089] <Note 4> The notification processing unit, upon receiving a picking instruction for the first item, causes the display unit to display information related to the first item, and upon completion of the picking operation for the first item, causes the display unit to display the identification information. The picking system described in Appendix 3.

[0090] <Note 5> The notification processing unit, when the second item is located within the predetermined range, will not display the identification information on the display unit when the picking operation for the first item is completed. The picking system described in Appendix 4.

[0091] <Note 6> The first display device includes a light-emitting section that emits light, The notification processing unit causes the light-emitting unit to emit light according to the identification information. The picking system described in any of the appendices 2-5.

[0092] <Note 7> The notification processing unit illuminates the light-emitting unit by a first method when it receives a picking instruction for the first item, and illuminates the light-emitting unit by a second method different from the first method when the picking operation for the first item is completed. The picking system described in Appendix 6.

[0093] <Note 8> The notification processing unit turns off the light-emitting unit when the picking operation of the first item is completed, while the second item is located within the predetermined range. The picking system described in Appendix 7.

[0094] <Note 9> The notification processing unit illuminates the light-emitting unit in a manner corresponding to the positional relationship between the first storage shelf and the second storage shelf. The picking system described in any of the appendices 6-8.

[0095] <Note 10> The notification processing unit illuminates the light-emitting unit by the first method when the passage where the picking work surface of the second storage shelf is located is different from the passage where the picking work surface of the first storage shelf is located, and illuminates the light-emitting unit by a second method different from the first method when the floor on which the second storage shelf is installed is different from the floor on which the first storage shelf is installed. The picking system described in Appendix 9.

[0096] <Note 11> A picking method that displays picking information on a display device installed on a storage shelf where items to be picked are stored, A picking method in which one or more processors notify a first display device provided on the first storage shelf of information regarding the storage location of a second item when the second item to be picked, which is the next item to be picked after the first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf, is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf.

[0097] <Note 12> A picking program that displays picking information on a display device installed on a storage shelf where items to be picked are stored, A picking program for one or more processors, which causes a second item to be picked after a first item to be picked stored in the first storage shelf to be located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf, to notify a first display device provided on the first storage shelf of information regarding the storage location of the second item, or a non-temporary computer-readable recording medium on which the picking program is recorded. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1: Management Server 2, 2s: Display 3: Storage shelves 10: Picking System 11: Control Unit 12: Storage section 13: Operation display section 14: Communications Department 21:Display section 22: LED button 23: Solar cells 24: Shelf change LED 31: Frontage 111: Generation Processing Unit 112: Output Processing Unit D1: Picking list D2: Inventory Information D3: Picking shelf list D4: Picking Order List D5: Shelf position flag information

Claims

1. A picking system that displays picking information on a display device installed on a storage shelf where items to be picked are stored, A picking system comprising a notification processing unit that causes a first display device provided on the first storage shelf to notify a first display device provided on the first storage shelf of information regarding the storage location of the second item when the second item to be picked, which is the next item to be picked after the first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf, is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf.

2. The notification processing unit causes the first display device to notify the identification information of the second storage shelf in which the second article is stored. The picking system according to claim 1.

3. The first display device includes a display unit for displaying information, The notification processing unit causes the identification information to be displayed on the display unit. The picking system according to claim 2.

4. The notification processing unit, upon receiving a picking instruction for the first item, causes the display unit to display information related to the first item, and upon completion of the picking operation for the first item, causes the display unit to display the identification information. The picking system according to claim 3.

5. The notification processing unit, when the second item is located within the predetermined range, will not display the identification information on the display unit when the picking operation for the first item is completed. The picking system according to claim 4.

6. The first display device includes a light-emitting section that emits light, The notification processing unit causes the light-emitting unit to emit light according to the identification information. A picking system according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. The notification processing unit, upon receiving a picking instruction for the first item, causes the light-emitting unit to illuminate using a first method, and upon completion of the picking operation for the first item, causes the light-emitting unit to illuminate using a second method different from the first method. The picking system according to claim 6.

8. The notification processing unit turns off the light-emitting unit when the second item is located within the predetermined range and the picking operation of the first item is completed. The picking system according to claim 7.

9. The notification processing unit illuminates the light-emitting unit in a manner corresponding to the positional relationship between the first storage shelf and the second storage shelf. The picking system according to claim 6.

10. The notification processing unit illuminates the light-emitting unit by the first method when the passage where the picking work surface of the second storage shelf is located is different from the passage where the picking work surface of the first storage shelf is located, and illuminates the light-emitting unit by a second method different from the first method when the floor on which the second storage shelf is installed is different from the floor on which the first storage shelf is installed. The picking system according to claim 9.

11. A picking method that displays picking information on a display device installed on a storage shelf where items to be picked are stored, A picking method in which one or more processors notify a first display device provided on the first storage shelf of information regarding the storage location of a second item when the second item to be picked, which is the next item to be picked after the first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf, is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf.

12. A picking program that displays picking information on a display device installed on a storage shelf where items to be picked are stored, A picking program that causes one or more processors to notify a first display device provided on the first storage shelf of information regarding the storage location of a second item when the second item to be picked, which is the next item to be picked after the first item to be picked stored on the first storage shelf, is located outside a predetermined range relative to the first storage shelf.

Images