Sorting equipment, logistics systems

Abstract

To provide a sorting device, a distribution system, and a control device that reduce a burden on an operator.SOLUTION: A sorting device includes: a transport unit that transports multiple packages; and a sorting unit that sorts the multiple packages based on a delivery destination, a size, and a weight so that a first package and a second package are sorted from the multiple packages, in which the sorting unit sorts a package that is lighter and smaller than the second package as the first package.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a sorting device, a logistics system, and a control device. This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 786,247, filed Feb. 10, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art It is known that in logistics centers and the like, sorting devices are used to sort packages. As a sorting device, for example, there is a sorting device as disclosed in Patent Document 1. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 04-112125 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The sorting device disclosed in Patent Document 1 sorts light and heavy items into different dispensing positions. However, the sorted packages must then be sorted for each delivery destination, which places a heavy burden on operators.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, one example of an objective of the present disclosure is to provide a sorting device, a logistics system, and a control device that reduce the burden on an operator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A sorting device according to one example aspect of the present disclosure includes a conveying unit that conveys a plurality of parcels, and a sorting unit that sorts the plurality of parcels based on delivery destination, size, and weight, so as to separate first parcels and second parcels from among the plurality of parcels, and the sorting unit sorts the parcels that are lighter and smaller than the second parcels as the first parcels.

[0007] A control device according to one example aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires the delivery destination, size, and weight of each of a plurality of parcels transported by a transport unit, a sorting destination identification unit that identifies a sorting destination for each of the plurality of parcels based on the delivery destination, the size, and the weight so as to sort first parcels and second parcels from among the plurality of parcels, and a sorting control unit that controls the sorting unit to sort each of the parcels to the identified sorting destination, and the sorting destination identification unit identifies a parcel that is lighter and smaller than the second parcel as the first parcel. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the above aspect, the burden on the operator is reduced. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a sorting device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a perspective view of a main part of a sorting device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a first sorting mechanism according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a detailed plan view of a first sorting mechanism according to one embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the function of a first sorting mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the function of a first sorting mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a plan view of a second sorting mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the function of a second sorting mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the function of a second sorting mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the function of a second sorting mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a sorting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a sorting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart of a control method for a sorting unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of a sorting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the sorting device according to the embodiment of the minimum configuration. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a control device according to a minimum embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a control device according to each embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Various embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0011] <One embodiment> Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0012] The sorting device 2 is a part of a logistics system 1 that is applied to a logistics center or the like. The sorting device 2 sorts the packages PG flowing through the logistics system 1. As shown in FIG. 1, a logistics system 1 includes a sorting device 2 and a plurality of basket cars 3. For example, the logistics system 1 may further include a base station 4 and a control panel 5.

[0013] (Configuration of sorting device) The sorting device 2 includes a conveying section 21 and a sorting section 22 . For example, the sorting device 2 may further include a control device 23, a sensor unit 24, and a holding table 25. In addition, the sorting device 2 may include a first table 26, a second table 27, a first notification unit 28, and a second notification unit 29.

[0014] (Conveyor section configuration) The conveying unit 21 conveys a plurality of packages PG. For example, the transport section 21 may have a transport surface 21s extending in the transport direction Dc. Furthermore, on the conveying surface 21s, the conveying section 21 may sequentially convey a plurality of packages PG flowing within the logistics system 1 in the conveying direction Dc. Moreover, the conveying unit 21 may be a belt conveyor, a roller conveyor, or the like.

[0015] Hereinafter, the direction from the sensor unit 24 toward the holding table 25 is referred to as a conveying direction Dc. In addition, in the conveying surface 21s, a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction Dc is referred to as a conveying width direction Dcw. In addition, the right side of the conveying section 21 when viewed from upstream in the conveying direction Dc is simply referred to as the "right side RS of the conveying section 21", and the left side of the conveying section 21 when viewed from upstream in the conveying direction Dc is simply referred to as the "left side LS of the conveying section 21".

[0016] (Configuration of sorting section) The sorting unit 22 sorts the multiple packages PG based on the delivery destination AD, size SPG, and weight WPG, such as sorting the multiple packages PG into first packages PG1 and second packages PG2. The sorting section 22 sorts out packages PG that are lighter and smaller than the second packages PG2 as first packages PG1. For example, the sorting unit 22 may sort the first packages PG1 according to their delivery destinations AD. In addition, the sorting unit 22 may sort the second packages PG2 according to delivery destinations AD. In addition, the sorting unit 22 may include a first sorting mechanism 221 and a second sorting mechanism 225.

[0017] For example, the sorting unit 22 may sort the first package PG1 to the first table 26. At that time, the control device 23 may control the first sorting mechanism 221 provided on the first table 26 associated with the delivery destination AD of the first package PG1 so as to sort the first package PG1 to the first table 26 associated with the delivery destination AD of the first package PG1 among the multiple first tables 26.

[0018] For example, the sorting unit 22 may sort the second baggage PG2 to the second table 27. At that time, the control device 23 may control the second sorting mechanism 225 provided on the second table 27 associated with the delivery destination AD of the second package PG2 so as to sort the second package PG2 to the second table 27 associated with the delivery destination AD of the second package PG2 among the multiple second tables 27.

[0019] For example, the sorting unit 22 may sort the packages PG into 16 delivery destinations AD, each of which is associated with a basket 3. In this case, the delivery destinations AD may be different from one another, or some of the delivery destinations AD may be the same.

[0020] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first sorting mechanism 221 includes a first arm 222 and a first rotation shaft 223. The first arm 222 kicks the first package PG1 toward the first table 26.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 3, the first arm 222 has a first arm base end 222b and a first arm tip end 222t. The first arm 222 extends from a first arm base end 222b toward a first arm tip 222t. The first arm 222 further has a first action surface 222s between the first arm base end 222b and the first arm tip end 222t. For example, the first arm 222 has a shape extending along a circular arc, and has a first working surface 222s on the inner circumferential side of the circular arc.

[0022] The first rotation shaft 223 is provided on the downstream side of the first table 26 in the transfer direction Dc. The first arm base end 222 b is fixed to a first rotation shaft 223 . The first rotating shaft 223 is driven to rotate around a perpendicular line Lp that extends perpendicular to the transfer surface 21s, in response to a command from the control device 23. For example, the first rotating shaft 223 may be a rotating shaft of a motor or the like. As a result, the first arm 222 is rotationally driven on and along the transfer surface 21s, with the perpendicular line Lp as the center.

[0023] When the first rotating shaft 223 is rotated and driven, the first acting surface 222s rotates in a first rotational direction Dr1 toward the first table 26, and the first acting surface 222s kicks out the first luggage PG1 flowing in the conveying direction Dc on the conveying surface 21s in a kicking direction Dk.

[0024] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the first sorting mechanism 221 may further include a pair of limiter switches 224 that sandwich the first arm 222 in the direction along the conveying surface 21s. When the first arm 222 attempts to rotate beyond the limit of each limiter switch 224 , each limiter switch 224 is turned ON, and the rotational drive of the first arm 222 is stopped. As a result, the first arm 222 is rotationally driven within a range sandwiched between the pair of limiter switches 224 .

[0025] When the first package PG1 to be kicked approaches the first table 26, as shown in FIG. 5, the first arm 222 rotates in the direction opposite to the first rotation direction Dr1 and moves to a first position P1 that blocks the movement of the first package PG1 in the conveying direction Dc, preparing to kick the first package PG1. When the first luggage PG1 to be kicked toward the first table 26 is about to pass through the first table 26, as shown in FIG. 6, the first arm 222 rotates in the first rotation direction Dr1, kicks the first luggage PG1 toward the first table 26, and reaches the second position P2. For example, after kicking the first piece of luggage PG1, the first arm 222 may wait at the second position P2 shown in FIG. At that time, when the next first luggage PG1 to be kicked approaches, the first arm 222 rotates in the direction opposite to the first rotation direction Dr1, and moves to the first position P1 shown in FIG.

[0026] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, the second sorting mechanism 225 includes a second arm 226 and a second rotation shaft 227. The second arm 226 deflects the second load PG2 toward the second table 27.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 7, the second arm 226 has a second arm base end 226b and a second arm tip end 226t. The second arm 226 extends from a second arm base end 226b toward a second arm tip 226t. The second arm 226 further has a second working surface 226s between the second arm base end 226b and the second arm tip end 226t. For example, the second arm 226 may have a shape extending along a circular arc, and may have the second working surface 226s on the inner circumferential side of the circular arc. Due to the second action surface 226s, the second piece of luggage PG2 flowing in the conveying direction Dc moves to the second table 27 while moving in the diverter direction Dd along the second action surface 226s.

[0028] The second rotation shaft 227 is provided on the downstream side of the second table 27 in the transport direction Dc. The second arm base end 226 b is fixed to a second rotation shaft 227 . The second rotation shaft 227 is driven to rotate about a horizontal line Lh that extends horizontally relative to the transfer surface 21s, in response to a command from the control device 23. As a result, the second arm 226 is rotationally driven on the transfer surface 21s along a plane perpendicular to the transfer surface 21s, with the horizontal line Lh as the center.

[0029] For example, the horizontal line Lh may extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the second arm 226 extends. In addition, the second arm 226 may be driven to rotate along a plane that is perpendicular to the transport surface 21s and intersects with the transport direction Dc. Moreover, the second rotating shaft 227 may be a rotating shaft of a motor or the like.

[0030] As the second rotating shaft 227 is driven to rotate, the second action surface 226s blocks the conveying path of the second piece of luggage PG2 flowing in the conveying direction Dc, and diverts the second piece of luggage PG2 in the diverter direction Dd.

[0031] When the second package PG2 to be deflected approaches the second table 27, the second arm 226 rotates from the third position P3 in which it waits while extending vertically as shown in FIG. 8, toward the conveying surface 21s. By this rotation, the second arm 226 moves to a fourth position P4 where it extends horizontally as shown in FIG. 9 and blocks the movement of the second piece of luggage PG2 in the transfer direction Dc. When the second package PG2 flowing in the conveying direction Dc comes into contact with the second arm 226 at the fourth position P4, it moves in the diverter direction Dd along the second acting surface 226s and toward the second table 27 as shown in FIG. For example, after deflecting the second load PG2, the second arm 226 may return to the third position P3 shown in FIG. 8 in preparation for the next load PG to be passed through the second table 27. At that time, when the next second package PG2 to be deflected approaches, the second arm 226 rotates toward the conveying surface 21s and moves to a fourth position P4 shown in FIG.

[0032] (First table configuration) For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the first table 26 may be capable of holding a bag BG. In this case, the first table 26 may be capable of holding the bag BG in an open state. The first table 26 may also include a first housing 261 that holds the bag BG therein so that the opening OP of the bag BG faces upward. The first table 26 may be provided at a position adjacent to the conveying surface 21s in the conveying width direction Dcw. In addition, a plurality of first luggage items PG1 may be stored in the bag BG until the bag BG is full.

[0033] For example, the first arm 222 may distribute the first package PG1 into the bag BG. At this time, the first arm 222 may distribute the first luggage PG1 to be kicked against the first table 26 into the bag BG by kicking the first luggage PG1 toward the opening OP.

[0034] For example, a plurality of first tables 26 may be provided in association with each delivery destination AD. In this case, the multiple first tables 26 may be arranged in the conveying direction Dc on both sides of the conveying width direction Dcw of the conveying section 21 in association with each delivery destination AD.

[0035] (Second table configuration) The second table 27 includes a slide 271 as a tilting table. For example, the second table 27 may include a second housing 272 that holds a slide 271 therein. Furthermore, the slide 271 may have a downward inclination in a direction away from the conveying section 21 in the conveying width direction Dcw. In addition, the second arm 226 may divert the second luggage PG2 to be deflected onto the second table 27 toward the slide 271 and slide it down along the slide 271. In addition, the second luggage PG2 slid along the slide 271 may be stored in the second housing 272 at the bottom of the slide 271. In addition, the second table 27 may be provided at a position adjacent to the transport surface 21s in the transport width direction Dcw.

[0036] For example, a plurality of second tables 27 may be provided in association with each delivery destination AD. In this case, the second tables 27 may be arranged in the conveying direction Dc on both sides of the conveying width direction Dcw of the conveying section 21 in relation to each delivery destination AD. In addition, the second table 27 may be provided between the first tables 26 aligned in the transport direction Dc.

[0037] For example, the second table 27 may be provided at a location shared by adjacent delivery destinations AD. In this case, when the multiple first tables 26 are divided into multiple pairs in sequence from upstream in the conveying direction Dc, with adjacent first tables 26 in the conveying direction Dc forming a pair, a second table 27 may be provided between the first tables 26 of each divided pair. That is, the first table 26 and the second table 27 may be arranged in the conveying direction Dc in the following order: first table 26, second table 27, first table 26, first table 26, second table 27, first table 26, first table 26, second table 27, etc.

[0038] (Control device configuration) As shown in FIG. 11, the control device 23 functionally comprises an acquisition unit 231, a sorting destination specification unit 232, and a sorting control unit 233. For example, the control device 23 may be communicatively connected to the sensor unit 24 and the sorting section 22. In addition, the control device 23 may be provided in the vicinity of the transport unit 21.

[0039] The acquisition unit 231 acquires the delivery destination AD, size SPG, and weight WPG of each of the multiple packages PG transported by the transport unit 21. For example, the acquisition unit 231 may acquire the delivery destination AD of each package PG based on the identification information read by the sensor unit 24. At this time, the acquisition unit 231 may acquire the delivery destination AD of each package PG by identifying the delivery destination AD specified upstream of the sensor unit 24 using the identification information of each package PG read by the sensor unit 24. In addition, the acquisition unit 231 may acquire the size SPG and weight WPG of each piece of luggage PG measured by the sensor unit 24.

[0040] The sorting destination determination unit 232 determines the sorting destination SD of each parcel PG based on the delivery destination AD, size SPG, and weight WPG of each parcel PG acquired by the acquisition unit 231, so as to sort a first parcel PG1 and a second parcel PG2 from among multiple parcels PG. For example, the sorting destination specification unit 232 may be functionally equipped with a sorting unit 2321 .

[0041] The sorting destination specification unit 232 specifies, in the first table 26, the sorting destination SD of the luggage PG classified as the first luggage PG1 among the luggage PG classified by the sorting unit 2321. At this time, the sorting destination identification unit 232 identifies the sorting destination SD of the parcel PG classified as the first parcel PG1 as the first table 26 among the multiple first tables 26 that is related to the delivery destination AD of the parcel PG classified as the first parcel PG1.

[0042] In addition, the sorting destination specification unit 232 specifies in the second table 27 the sorting destination SD of the luggage PG classified as the second luggage PG2 among the luggage PG classified by the sorting unit 2321. At this time, the sorting destination identification unit 232 identifies the sorting destination SD of the parcel PG classified as the second parcel PG2 as a second table 27 among the multiple second tables 27 that is related to the delivery destination AD of the parcel PG classified as the second parcel PG2.

[0043] For example, the sorting unit 2321 may compare a preset size and a preset weight with the size SPG and the weight WPG of each piece of luggage PG. At this time, the sorting unit 2321 may sort the luggage PG that is equal to or smaller than a set size and a set weight into the first luggage PG1. The sorting unit 2321 may also sort packages PG larger than a set size into a second package PG2. The sorting unit 2321 may also sort the luggage PG that is heavier than a set weight into the second luggage PG2.

[0044] For example, the sorting unit 2321 may sort a paper bag containing books, clothes, etc. into the first package PG1. The sorting unit 2321 may also sort a case containing multiple plastic bottles of drinking water, beer bottles, etc., into the second baggage PG2.

[0045] The sorting control unit 233 controls the sorting unit 22 so as to sort each package PG to the specified sorting destination SD. For example, for a parcel PG identified as a first parcel PG1, the sorting control unit 233 may control the first sorting mechanism 221 of the first table 26 associated with the delivery destination AD identified in the sorting destination identification unit 232, among the first sorting mechanisms 221 of the first table 26 provided in association with each delivery destination AD. In addition, for a parcel PG identified as the second parcel PG2, the sorting control unit 233 may control the second sorting mechanism 225 of the second table 27 associated with the delivery destination AD identified in the sorting destination identification unit 232, among the second sorting mechanisms 225 of the second table 27 provided in association with each delivery destination AD.

[0046] (Sensor unit configuration) The sensor unit 24 includes a measurement unit 241 and a reading unit 242 . For example, luggage PG flowing from the upstream of the sorting device 2 on a belt conveyor or the like may pass through the sensor unit 24 and be transported into the sorting device 2.

[0047] The measurement unit 241 measures the size SPG and weight WPG of each piece of luggage PG. For example, the measurement unit 241 may measure the size SPG of each piece of luggage PG using an optical measuring device or an ultrasonic measuring device. The measurement unit 241 may also measure the weight WPG of each piece of luggage PG using a weighing scale.

[0048] The reading unit 242 reads the identification information IRG attached to each piece of luggage PG. For example, the reading unit 242 may read the identification information IRG from a label or the like attached to each piece of luggage PG using a barcode reader or OCR (Optical Character Recognition).

[0049] (Configuration of Retention Table) The holding table 25 is a table for storing luggage PG that cannot be sorted onto the first table 26 and the second table 27. For example, luggage PG that cannot be identified by the sensor unit 24 or luggage PG for which an error has occurred within the sorting device 2 may be accumulated on the holding table 25. In addition, when the bags BG or slides 271 are full of luggage PG, or when the luggage PG cannot be sorted to each sorting destination SD, the luggage PG may be accumulated on the holding table 25. The operator determines the appropriate delivery destination AD for the luggage PG stored on the holding table 25, and loads the luggage PG into a basket cart 3 associated with the appropriate delivery destination AD.

[0050] (Configuration of the first notification unit) The first notification unit 28 notifies that the bag BG is full of the first luggage PG1. For example, the first notification unit 28 may notify that the bag BG is full of the first baggage PG1 by turning on a lamp. Furthermore, the first notification unit 28 may detect the weight of the bag BG including the multiple first luggage pieces PG1 using a weighing scale, etc. In this case, the first notification unit 28 may detect that the bag BG is full of the first luggage pieces PG1 from the weight of the bag BG including the multiple first luggage pieces PG1. Furthermore, the first notification unit 28 may detect the volume of the multiple first luggage PG1 accumulated in the bag BG by an optical sensor or the like. In this case, the first notification unit 28 may detect that the bag BG is full of the first luggage PG1 from the volume of the accumulated multiple first luggage PG1. In addition, the first notification unit 28 may be attached to the first housing 261.

[0051] (Configuration of the second notification unit) The second notification unit 29 notifies the second table 27 that the second package PG2 has been sorted. For example, the second notification unit 29 may notify that the second baggage PG2 has been sorted onto the second table 27 by turning on a lamp. Furthermore, the second notification unit 29 may detect, by an optical sensor or the like, that the second luggage PG2 has slid down along the slide 271. In this case, the second notification unit 29 may detect that the second luggage PG2 has been sorted onto the second table 27 from the second luggage PG2 having slid down.

[0052] For example, the second notification unit 29 may be attached to the second housing 272. Furthermore, when the second table 27 is provided at a position where adjacent delivery destinations AD are shared, the second notification units 29 may be attached to the second casing 272 at positions upstream and downstream in the conveying direction Dc.

[0053] At that time, when a second parcel PG2 to be sorted to an upstream destination AD among the delivery destinations AD shared by the second table 27 is sorted onto the second table 27, the second notification unit 29 installed at a position upstream in the conveying direction Dc among the installed second notification units 29 notifies the user that sorting has been completed. This allows the operator to recognize that the second package PG2 sorted onto the shared second table 27 is the second package PG2 that should be sorted to the upstream delivery destination AD.

[0054] In addition, when a second parcel PG2 to be sorted to a downstream destination AD among the delivery destinations AD shared by the second table 27 has been sorted onto the second table 27, the second notification unit 29 installed at a downstream position in the conveying direction Dc among the installed second notification units 29 notifies the user that sorting has been completed. This allows the operator to recognize that the second package PG2 sorted onto the shared second table 27 is the second package PG2 that should be sorted to the downstream delivery destination AD.

[0055] (Configuration of Basket Car 3) Each of the multiple baskets 3 is associated with one of the delivery destinations AD. For example, a plurality of basket cars 3 may be arranged in the conveying direction Dc on both sides of the conveying width direction Dcw of the conveying section 21 in relation to the delivery destination AD. Additionally, each basket 3 may be provided near the first table 26 and the second table 27 of the associated delivery destination AD. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 1, eight basket cars 3 may be arranged so as to be line-symmetrical with respect to the center of the conveying section 21 in the conveying width direction Dcw. Furthermore, the basket cart 3 may be capable of accommodating a bag BG containing a plurality of first luggage items PG1, and a second luggage item PG2. Furthermore, the basket cart 3 may be capable of accommodating a plurality of bags BG each containing a plurality of first luggage items PG1, and a plurality of second luggage items PG2.

[0056] For example, when a bag BG is filled with a first piece of luggage PG1, an operator may load the sorted first piece of luggage PG1 into a basket cart 3 of an associated delivery destination. Furthermore, once the second parcels PG2 have been sorted, the operator may load the sorted second parcels PG2 into a basket cart 3 of the associated delivery destination. Also, when the basket 3 is full, the operator may transport the bag BG and the second baggage PG2 by pushing the basket 3 in which the bag BG and the second baggage PG2 are stored.

[0057] For example, as shown in FIG. 12, each cart 3 on the right side RS of the conveying section 21 may be associated with delivery destinations AD, such as A1 city, B1 city, C1 city, D1 city, . . . , in order from upstream in the conveying direction Dc. Furthermore, the baskets 3 on the left side LS of the transport section 21 may be associated with delivery destinations AD, such as A2 city, B2 city, C2 city, D2 city, . . . in order from upstream in the transport direction Dc.

[0058] (Other configurations) The base station 4 is a device that allows an operator to monitor the status of and operate the entire logistics system 1 including the sorting device 2. For example, the base station 4 may include a monitor unit 41 that provides an operator with monitoring information on the overall state of the logistics system 1 including the sorting device 2. The base station 4 may further include an operation unit 42 that enables an operator to operate the entire logistics system 1 including the sorting device 2. The control panel 5 is a device for performing an emergency stop of the entire logistics system 1 including the sorting device 2 by operation of an operator. For example, the control panel 5 may include an emergency stop button 51 that enables an operator to perform an emergency stop of the entire logistics system 1 including the sorting device 2.

[0059] (operation) The operation of the control device 23 of this embodiment will be described. The operation of the control device 23 corresponds to an embodiment of a control method for the sorting unit 22.

[0060] When a parcel PG flows from upstream of the sorting device 2 to the conveying section 21, as shown in FIG. 13, the acquisition section 231 acquires the delivery destination AD, size SPG, and weight WPG of the parcel PG being conveyed by the conveying section 21 (ST01: step of acquiring delivery destination, size, and weight).

[0061] Following execution of ST01, the sorting destination identification unit 232 identifies the sorting destination SD of the parcel PG based on the delivery destination AD, size SPG, and weight WPG acquired by the acquisition unit 231, so as to sort the first parcel PG1 and the second parcel PG2 from among the multiple parcels PG (ST02: step of identifying the sorting destination).

[0062] Following execution of ST02, the sorting control unit 233 controls the sorting unit 22 so as to sort each package PG to the specified sorting destination SD (ST03: step of controlling the sorting unit). For example, when each basket cart 3 is associated as shown in Figure 12, for a parcel PG whose sorting destination SD is identified by the sorting destination identification unit 232 as "first parcel PG1 to be delivered to C1 city," the sorting control unit 233 controls the first sorting mechanism 221 of the first table 26 adjacent to the basket cart 3 assigned to C1 city.

[0063] (Action and Effects) According to this embodiment, the sorting device 2 can sort multiple parcels PG based on the delivery destination AD, size SPG, and weight WPG, such as sorting the first parcel PG1 from the second parcel PG2, with the parcel PG being lighter and smaller than the second parcel PG2 as the first parcel PG1. Therefore, the sorting device 2 can sort the packages PG into first packages PG1 and second packages PG2, and also sort the packages PG to each delivery destination AD. Therefore, the burden on the operator is reduced.

[0064] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the sorting device 2 can sort the first luggage PG1 into the first table 26 capable of holding the bag BG. This allows the sorting device 2 to accumulate the multiple first baggage items PG1 sorted on the first table 26 in the bag BG. Therefore, the sorting device 2 can reduce the space for storing the first baggage PG1. In addition, the operator can load a plurality of first luggage items PG1 into the basket cart 3 in bag BG units, which reduces the burden on the operator. Furthermore, the operator can load a plurality of first luggage items PG1 including the bags BG on top of the second luggage items PG2 loaded in the basket cart 3, thereby reducing the burden on the operator.

[0065] In order to pack as many packages as possible into the car, the operator must pack the relatively large and heavy packages PG toward the bottom of the car and the relatively small and light packages toward the top of the car. In contrast, in the sorting device 2 of the present embodiment, a plurality of first luggage pieces PG1 can be loaded into the basket cart 3 together with the bag BG, as described above. Therefore, even if the bag BG containing the first luggage PG1 has already been loaded into the basket car 3 and then the second luggage PG2 is sorted, the bag BG can be removed from the basket car 3, the second luggage PG2 can be loaded into the basket car, and then the bag BG can be loaded back. Therefore, even if it is necessary to reload the baggage PG in the basket cart 3, the operator can handle the situation in a short time.

[0066] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first arm 222 can kick the first package PG1 towards the first table . Therefore, the sorting device 2 can quickly sort the first luggage PG1 onto the first table 26.

[0067] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first arm 222 can distribute the first luggage PG1 into the bag BG. Therefore, the sorting device 2 can drop the first baggage PG1 to be sorted on the first table 26 into the bag BG.

[0068] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the sorting device 2 can notify the operator by the first notification unit 28 that the bag BG is full of the first baggage items PG1. Therefore, the operator can take action as soon as the bag BG becomes full of the first luggage PG1.

[0069] Further, according to this embodiment, the sorting device 2 can sort the second baggage PG2 onto the second table 27 having the slide 271. This allows the sorting device 2 to slide the second baggage PG2 sorted onto the second table 27 down along the slide 271. Therefore, the sorting device 2 can move the second baggage PG2 close to the basket cart 3 by the weight of the second baggage PG2. Therefore, the burden on the operator of loading the second baggage PG2 into the basket cart 3 is reduced.

[0070] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the sorting device 2 can deflect the second baggage item PG2 toward the second table 27. Therefore, the sorting device 2 can sort the second baggage PG2 onto the second table 27 with a small force while utilizing the inertial force of the conveying unit 21.

[0071] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the sorting device 2 can notify the operator by the second notification unit 29 that the second baggage PG2 has been sorted onto the second table 27. Therefore, the operator can deal with the second baggage PG2 as soon as it is sorted onto the second table 27.

[0072] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the sorting device 2 can sort the first luggage PG1 into the bag BG, and sort the second luggage PG2 onto the slide 271, as shown in FIG. For example, in an actual work site, the number of small and light first luggage PG1 may account for approximately 80 to 90 percent. In contrast, according to the sorting device 2 of the present embodiment, the operator can load the first luggage PG1, which is a small and light luggage, into the basket cart 3 together with the bag BG. Furthermore, according to the sorting device 2 of this embodiment, the operator can load large or heavy second baggage items PG2 into the basket car 3 while moving the large or heavy second baggage items PG2 close to the basket car 3. This allows, for example, a task that would normally require four operators to be carried out by a single operator with ample time to spare.

[0073] For example, arm robots cannot handle a wide range of packages, from small and light to large and heavy, and they cannot keep up with the flow rate of packages. Furthermore, when installing an arm robot, the installation floor space must be expanded. In contrast, the sorting device 2 of this embodiment can provide a solution that can be introduced at a reasonable cost by taking an approach that does not involve full automation or unmanned operation but rather reduces the number of operators, for example, from four to one. Furthermore, if there is no need to install an arm robot, the installation floor space can be reduced.

[0074] (Modification) In the above embodiment, the first notification unit 28 notifies by turning on a lamp, but any other method may be used to notify that the bag BG is full of the first baggage PG1. As a modified example, the first notification unit 28 may notify the user that the bag BG is full of the first luggage PG1 by sounding a siren. As another modified example, the first notification unit 28 may notify the user that the bag BG is full of the first luggage PG1 by displaying an indication on a display.

[0075] In the above embodiment, the second notification unit 29 notifies by turning on a lamp, but any other method may be used to notify that the second baggage PG2 has been sorted onto the second table 27. As a modified example, the second notification unit 29 may notify that the second baggage PG2 has been sorted onto the second table 27 by sounding a siren. As another modified example, the second notification unit 29 may notify the user that the second baggage PG2 has been sorted onto the second table 27 by displaying an indication on a display.

[0076] In the above embodiment, the first notification unit 28 detects and notifies that the bag BG is full of the first baggage PG1, but some of the functions may be provided to the control device 23. As a modified example, the control device 23 may determine that the bag BG is full of the first baggage PG1 from the detection information of each sensor, and send a command to the first notification unit 28 to notify the same.

[0077] In the embodiment described above, the second notification unit 29 detects and notifies that the second baggage PG2 has been sorted onto the second table 27, but some of the functions may be provided to the control device 23. As a modified example, the control device 23 may determine that the second baggage PG2 has been sorted onto the second table 27 based on the detection information of each sensor, and send a command to the second notification unit 29 to notify the same.

[0078] In the above embodiment, the acquisition unit 231 acquires the delivery destination AD of each package PG based on the identification information IRG read by the sensor unit 24, but the acquisition may be performed in any manner as long as the delivery destination AD of each package PG can be acquired. As a modified example, the acquisition unit 231 may acquire the delivery destination AD from the sensor unit 24. In this case, the sensor unit 24 may read the delivery destination AD attached to each package PG.

[0079] In the above-described embodiment, the acquisition unit 231 acquires the size SPG and weight WPG of each piece of luggage PG measured by the sensor unit 24, but the acquisition may be performed in any manner as long as the size SPG and weight WPG of each piece of luggage PG can be acquired. As a modified example, the acquisition unit 231 may acquire the delivery destination AD, the size SPG, and the weight WPG based on the identification information IRG read by the sensor unit 24. At this time, the acquisition unit 231 may acquire the size SPG and weight WPG of each piece of luggage PG by identifying the size SPG and weight WPG of each piece of luggage PG that have already been measured upstream of the sensor unit 24 using the identification information IRG of each piece of luggage PG read by the sensor unit 24.

[0080] In the above-described embodiment, the first sorting mechanism 221 sorts the first luggage PG1 onto the first table 26 by kicking it, and the second sorting mechanism 225 sorts the second luggage PG2 by deflecting it, but any sorting method may be used. As a modified example, a roller conveyor may be provided in the transport section 21, and a mechanism for rotating the roller conveyor within the transport surface 21s to switch the transport direction may be provided as the first sorting mechanism 221 and the second sorting mechanism 225.

[0081] In the above embodiment, the packages PG are sorted into 16 delivery destinations AD associated with each basket 3, but the number of delivery destinations AD and baskets 3 may be any number.

[0082] <Embodiment of Minimum Configuration of Processing Device> Hereinafter, an embodiment of a minimum configuration of a sorting device according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. The sorting device 2 includes a conveying section 21 and a sorting section 22 . The conveying unit 21 conveys a plurality of packages. The sorting unit 22 sorts the plurality of parcels based on the delivery destination, size, and weight, such as sorting the plurality of parcels into first parcels and second parcels. The sorting section 22 sorts out packages that are lighter and smaller than the second packages as the first packages.

[0083] According to this embodiment, the sorting device 2 can sort multiple packages based on delivery destination, size, and weight, such as sorting the first package from the second package, with the first package being a package that is lighter and smaller than the second package. Therefore, the sorting device 2 can sort the first packages and the second packages, and also sort the packages to their respective delivery destinations. Therefore, the burden on the operator is reduced.

[0084] <Embodiment of the minimum configuration of the control device> Hereinafter, an embodiment of a minimum configuration of a control device according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. The control device 23 includes an acquisition unit 231 , a sorting destination specification unit 232 , and a sorting control unit 233 . The acquisition unit 231 acquires the delivery destination, size, and weight of each of a plurality of packages transported by the transport unit. The sorting destination specification unit 232 specifies the sorting destination of each parcel based on the delivery destination, size, and weight, so as to sort the parcels into first parcels and second parcels. The sorting destination specification unit 232 specifies a package that is lighter and smaller than the second package as the first package. The sorting control unit 233 controls the sorting unit so as to sort each package to the specified sorting destination.

[0085] According to this embodiment, the control device 23 can sort multiple packages based on delivery destination, size, and weight, such as sorting the first package from the second package, with the first package being a package that is lighter and smaller than the second package. Therefore, the control device 23 can separate the first packages from the second packages and also separate them to their respective delivery destinations. Therefore, the burden on the operator is reduced.

[0086] <Hardware configuration of processing device> An example of a hardware configuration for realizing the control device 23 in each of the above-described embodiments will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 17, the control device 23 is a computer equipped with various hardware components such as a processor 235, a memory 236, a storage / playback device 237, a communication I / F (communication interface) 238, and an IO I / F (Input Output Interface) 239.

[0087] The processor 235 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memory 236 is a storage medium such as a random access memory (RAM) or a read only memory (ROM). The storage / playback device 237 is a device for storing programs, data, etc. in external media such as CD-ROM, DVD, and flash memory, and for playing back programs, data, etc. from external media. The communication I / F 238 is an interface for communicating between the control device 23 and other devices via a communication line such as the Internet or a dedicated communication line. The IO I / F 239 is an interface for inputting a source program and inputting and outputting information between the control device 23 and other devices.

[0088] <Computer Program> In each of the above-described embodiments, a program for realizing all or part of the functions of the control device 23 may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and the program stored in this storage medium may be read into a computer system and executed to process each part. In addition, the "computer system" referred to here includes the OS and hardware such as peripheral devices.

[0089] In addition, if a WWW system is used, the "computer system" also includes the homepage providing environment (or display environment).

[0090] In addition, the term "computer-readable storage medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems.

[0091] In addition, the term "computer-readable storage medium" includes a medium that dynamically stores a program for a short period of time, such as a communication line when transmitting a program via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.

[0092] Furthermore, the term "computer-readable storage medium" includes devices that retain a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory within a computer system that serves as a server or client when transmitting a program via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.

[0093] For example, the above program may be for realizing part of the functions described above, and may further be capable of realizing the functions described above in combination with a program already stored in the computer system.

[0094] Although the embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, this embodiment is shown as an example and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. This embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0095] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but is not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0096] (Appendix 1) A conveying unit that conveys a plurality of packages; a sorting unit that sorts the plurality of packages based on a delivery destination, a size, and a weight so as to sort a first package and a second package from among the plurality of packages; A sorting device in which the sorting section sorts the luggage that is lighter and smaller than the second luggage as the first luggage.

[0097] (Appendix 2) Further comprising a first table capable of holding a bag; A sorting device as described in Appendix 1, wherein the sorting section is provided with a first sorting mechanism that sorts the first luggage onto the first table.

[0098] (Appendix 3) A sorting device as described in Appendix 2, wherein the first sorting mechanism includes a first arm that kicks the first package toward the first table.

[0099] (Appendix 4) A sorting device as described in Appendix 3, wherein the first arm distributes the first luggage into the bag.

[0100] (Appendix 5) The sorting device described in Appendix 2, further comprising a first notification unit that notifies when the bag is full of the first luggage.

[0101] (Appendix 6) Further comprising a second table having a slide; A sorting device as described in Appendix 1, wherein the sorting section is provided with a second sorting mechanism that sorts the second luggage onto the second table.

[0102] (Appendix 7) The sorting apparatus of claim 6, wherein the second sorting mechanism includes a second arm that deflects the second package toward the second table.

[0103] (Appendix 8) The sorting device described in Appendix 6, further comprising a second notification unit that notifies that the second package has been sorted to the second table.

[0104] (Appendix 9) The sorting unit, An acquisition unit that acquires the delivery destination, the size, and the weight of each of the packages; a sorting destination specification unit that specifies a sorting destination of each of the plurality of packages based on the delivery destination, the size, and the weight so as to sort the first package and the second package from among the plurality of packages; A sorting device as described in Appendix 1, which sorts each piece of luggage to the identified sorting destination.

[0105] (Appendix 10) A measuring unit for measuring the size and the weight of each of the packages is further provided, The sorting device according to claim 9, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the measured size and weight.

[0106] (Appendix 11) A reading unit is further provided for reading identification information attached to each piece of luggage, The sorting device described in Appendix 9, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the delivery destination, the size, and the weight based on the identification information read.

[0107] (Appendix 12) A sorting device according to claim 1; A plurality of basket cars, each of which is associated with one of the delivery destinations; A logistics system equipped with:

[0108] (Appendix 13) An acquisition unit that acquires a delivery destination, a size, and a weight of each of a plurality of packages transported by the transport unit; a sorting destination specification unit that specifies a sorting destination of each of the plurality of packages based on the delivery destination, the size, and the weight so as to sort a first package and a second package from among the plurality of packages; A sorting control unit that controls the sorting unit so as to sort each of the packages to the specified sorting destination, A control device in which the sorting destination identification unit identifies the package that is lighter and smaller than the second package as the first package. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1. Logistics System 2 Sorting device 3. Basket cart 4 Base Station 5. Control Panel 21 Conveyor 21s Transport surface 22 Sorting Department 23 Control device 24 Sensor unit 25 Holding Table 26 First Table 27 Second Table 28 First Notification Department 29 Second Notification Department 41 Monitor section 42 Operation section 51 Emergency stop button 221 First sorting mechanism 222 First Arm 222b First arm base end 222s First working surface 222t First arm tip 223 First Rotation Axis 224 Limiter Switch 225 Second sorting mechanism 226 Second Arm 226b Second arm base end 226s Second working surface 226t Second arm tip 227 Second Rotation Axis 231 Acquisition Department 232 Sorting Destination Identification Department 233 Sorting Control Unit 235 processor 236 Memory 237 Storage / playback device 238 Communication I / F 239 IO Interface 241 Measuring section 242 Reading unit 261 First Case 271 Slide 272 Second Case 2321 Classification Department AD Delivery address SD sorting destination BG Bag Dc Transport direction Dcw Transport width direction Dd Divertor direction Dk Kicking direction Dr1 First rotation direction IRG Identification Information Lh horizontal line Lp Perpendicular LS left side OP Opening P1 first position P2 2nd position P3 third position P4 4th position PG Luggage PG1 First Luggage PG2 Second luggage RS right side SPG Size WPG weight

Claims

1. A conveying unit that conveys a plurality of packages; a sorting unit that sorts the plurality of packages based on delivery destination, size, and weight so as to sort a first package and a second package from among the plurality of packages; A first table capable of holding a bag; A second table equipped with a slide; A control device including a sorting destination specifying unit, The sorting unit sorts the luggage that is lighter and smaller than the second luggage as the first luggage, The sorting unit sorts the first package or the second package according to the delivery destination, the sorting unit includes a first sorting mechanism that sorts the first luggage onto the first table, and a second sorting mechanism that sorts the second luggage onto the second table; the sorting destination specification unit is provided with a sorting unit that compares a size and a weight of each piece of parcel with a preset set size and a preset set weight, and classifies, among the plurality of pieces of parcel, pieces that are equal to or smaller than the set size and the set weight, as first pieces of parcel, and classifies, among the plurality of pieces of parcel, pieces that are larger than the set size and the set weight, as second pieces of parcel, A sorting device in which the first sorting mechanism distributes the first luggage into the bag held on the first table.

2. The sorting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first sorting mechanism includes a first arm that rotates toward the first table to kick the first package toward the first table.

3. The sorting apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the second sorting mechanism includes a second arm that blocks a transport path of the second package, thereby deflecting the second package toward the second table.

4. The control device further includes an acquisition unit that acquires the delivery destination, the size, and the weight of each of the packages, The sorting destination specification unit specifies a sorting destination of each of the parcels based on the delivery destination, the size, and the weight so as to sort the first parcel and the second parcel from among the plurality of parcels; The sorting device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the packages is sorted to the specified sorting destination.

5. A measuring unit for measuring the size and the weight of each of the packages is further provided, The sorting apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the acquisition unit acquires the measured size and weight.

6. A reading unit is further provided for reading identification information attached to each piece of luggage, The sorting apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the acquisition unit acquires the delivery destination, the size, and the weight based on the read identification information.

7. The sorting device according to claim 1 ; A plurality of basket cars, each of which is associated with one of the delivery destinations; A logistics system equipped with:

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