Picking System

Abstract

To enable operators to prevent incorrect picking when performing picking operations.SOLUTION: In a picking system 1, a picking cart 5 comprises a cart body 11 provided with a plurality of storage sections 15 that respectively store a plurality of boxes 17 into which a plurality of articles are placed respectively, and wheels 13 supporting the cart body 11, and the cart body 11 comprises a reading device 33 that reads identification information of each article respectively, a lock device 25 that restricts the pick-up of the box 17 stored in the storage section 15, and a control device 31 that controls the operation of the lock device 25. The control device 31 checks identification information attached to a picking candidate article that has been read by the reading device 33 against preset checking information for the article to be picked, and when the check is successfully completed, the lock device 25 corresponding to the article to be picked is set to an unlocked state where the box 17 can be picked up from the storage section 15.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a picking system using a picking cart. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a system has been known in which an ID tag recording information about the product is attached to each product to be picked, an ID tag reading unit using an antenna is installed on the conveyance route to form an inspection line, and an inspection device is configured to read the information on the ID tag via the antenna and compare it with pre-registered inspection information to perform inspection (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2002-104632 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] According to the conventional technology described in Patent Document 1, an inspection device can determine whether or not the specified picking has been performed for each carton by comparing product information obtained by reading the information from the ID tag with pre-registered inspection information.

[0005] On the other hand, in the above conventional technology, even if a worker makes a mistake in picking (for example, if the worker puts products in a carton with the wrong shipping destination), the picking mistake cannot be corrected at that point (i.e., until the carton containing all the products is inspected on the inspection line). Therefore, in order to make picking work more efficient, it is desirable to be able to prevent workers from making mistakes when performing picking work.

[0006] In view of the above background, an object of the present invention is to provide a picking system that can prevent erroneous picking when a worker performs picking work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a picking system using a picking trolley, the picking trolley comprising a trolley body having a plurality of storage sections each housing a plurality of boxes in which a plurality of items can be placed, and wheels for supporting the trolley body so that it can be moved, the trolley body being provided with a reading device for reading identification information attached to each of the items, a plurality of locking devices for restricting the removal of each of the boxes stored in each of the storage sections, and a control device for controlling the operation of each of the locking devices, the control device comparing the identification information attached to the items that are candidates for picking read by the reading device with preset comparison information for the items to be picked, and when the comparison is completed successfully, setting one of the plurality of locking devices that corresponds to the item to be picked to an unlocked state allowing the box to be removed from the storage section.

[0008] According to this aspect, when the matching between the identification information attached to the item candidate for picking and the matching information related to the item to be picked is completed successfully, the locking device corresponding to the item to be picked is set to an unlocked state, making it possible to prevent incorrect picking when a worker performs picking work.

[0009] In the above-mentioned aspect, the trolley body is further provided with a measuring device for measuring the weight of each of the items, and the control device compares the weight of the item candidate for picking measured by the measuring device with the weight of the item to be picked, and if the comparison is completed successfully, sets the locking device among the multiple locking devices corresponding to the item to be picked to the unlocked state.

[0010] According to this aspect, in addition to checking the identification information attached to the item that is a candidate for picking, if the comparison of the weight of the item that is a candidate for picking with the weight of the item to be picked is completed successfully, the locking device corresponding to the item to be picked is unlocked, making it possible to more reliably prevent incorrect picking when a worker performs picking work.

[0011] In the above aspect, the comparison information includes information on the quantity of the items to be picked, and the control device compares the total number of the same type of items that are the picking candidates read by the reading device with the quantity of the same type of items that are the picking targets, and if the comparison is completed successfully, sets the locking device among the multiple locking devices that corresponds to the items to be picked to the unlocked state.

[0012] According to this aspect, when a comparison between the total number of items of the same type that are candidates for picking and the quantity of items of the same type that are to be picked is completed successfully, the locking device corresponding to the item to be picked is unlocked. Therefore, even if the items that are candidates for picking include multiple items of the same type, it is possible to more reliably prevent erroneous picking when a worker performs picking work.

[0013] In the above-mentioned aspect, the trolley body is further provided with lamps arranged corresponding to each of the locking devices, and when the locking device corresponding to the item to be picked is in the unlocked state, the control device turns on, turns off, or flashes the corresponding lamp.

[0014] According to this aspect, the worker can easily recognize the storage section whose locking device is in an unlocked state (that is, the box into which the candidate item to be picked should be placed), thereby improving the efficiency of the picking work.

[0015] In the above-mentioned aspect, the trolley body may further be provided with a display device for displaying information regarding the item to be picked, and the display device may display a picking screen including comparison information regarding the item to be picked.

[0016] According to this aspect, the worker can check information about the item to be picked on the picking screen, thereby improving the efficiency of the picking work.

[0017] In the above aspect, the control device determines whether picking of all of the picking targets has been completed based on the identification information read by the reading device, and the display device displays information regarding the completion of the picking work on the picking screen when picking of all of the picking targets has been completed.

[0018] According to this aspect, the worker performing the picking work can confirm on the picking screen that picking of all picking targets has been completed, thereby improving the efficiency of the picking work. Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to the above aspect, it is possible to prevent an operator from picking an item erroneously when performing a picking operation. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] Overall configuration diagram of a picking system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] Side view of picking trolley [Diagram 3] Front view of picking trolley [Figure 4] Top view of picking trolley [Diagram 5] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the locking device in a locked state. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the locking device in an unlocked state. [Figure 7]FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the operation of inserting a box in a picking cart. [Figure 8] Functional block diagram of the terminal device [Figure 9] Flow diagram showing the flow of picking process using a picking cart [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a picking screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. For convenience of explanation, directions (up and down, front and back, left and right) will follow directions appropriately indicated by arrows in the drawings.

[0022] As shown in Fig. 1, the picking system 1 includes a warehouse management device 3 (hereinafter referred to as the management device 3) and a plurality of picking carts 5. The picking system 1 is used, for example, for picking products stored in a logistics warehouse (not shown) at the time of shipping the products. The management device 3 and each picking cart 5 can communicate with each other via a communication network 7 such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network). The management device 3 and each picking cart 5 may also directly communicate with each other via short-range wireless communication based on Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi, or the like.

[0023] The management device 3 is a computer that may include known hardware such as one or more processors including a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, and a DSP, memory including a ROM and a RAM, storage including an HDD and an SSD, and a communication device including a network card. In this embodiment, the management device 3 is configured by a server that provides various information and programs required for picking work using the picking trolley 5. The management device 3 cooperates with a terminal device 31 for picking work (see, for example, Figs. 2 and 8), which will be described later. The management device 3 and the terminal device 31 may execute part of the functions of one device in place of the other.

[0024] Each of the multiple picking carts 5 is a cart for transporting items taken out from a storage location (e.g., a shelf on which multiple items are placed at a predetermined position) set up in a logistics warehouse or the like. The multiple picking carts 5 have approximately the same configuration. In this embodiment, the items transported by each picking cart 5 (an example of an item to be picked) are products for sale that are to be transported to one or more stores. However, the items transported by each picking cart 5 are not limited to products for sale, and may be, for example, parts for equipment to be assembled in a factory.

[0025] Next, the picking cart 5 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2, 3, and 4. FIG.

[0026] 2 to 4, the picking cart 5 includes a cart body 11 and a plurality of wheels 13 (four in this case: front, rear, left and right) that movably support the cart body 11. The wheels 13 are not limited to circular members that rotate around an axis, but may include any device that movably supports the cart body 11.

[0027] The cart body 11 has a metal shell having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped outer shape. Inside the cart body 11, a plurality of (four in this example) storage sections 15 are provided that define a substantially rectangular parallelepiped storage space.

[0028] Each storage section 15 can store a number of boxes 17 in which a number of products (i.e., items to be picked) to be taken out from a storage location are respectively placed. Each box 17 is pre-associated with one or more items (or groups of items) to be picked that are to be stored therein. The size of the storage space (here, approximately rectangular parallelepiped shaped) defined by each storage section 15 is set to correspond to the size of each box 17. More specifically, the size of these storage spaces is set so as not to create an excessive gap between the outer surface of each box 17 and the wall surface defining the storage space, and thus not to impede the locking function of a locking device 25, which will be described later.

[0029] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the carriage body 11 is provided with two storage sections 15 arranged in the front-rear direction in two upper and lower stages. However, this is not limiting, and the number and arrangement of the storage sections 15 can be changed as appropriate. Note that the carriage body 11 may be provided with a plurality of storage sections 15 having storage spaces of different sizes.

[0030] An opening 19 is formed in each storage section 15 for inserting each box 17 in a predetermined insertion direction (see the left direction in FIG. 3). The opening 19 of each storage section 15 opens in the right wall 11D that constitutes the outer shell of the dolly body 11, as shown in FIG.

[0031] The worker W can insert the box 17 into the storage space of each storage section 15 only through the opening 19. The worker W can also remove the box 17 stored in the storage space of the storage section 15 only through the opening 19. However, as shown in FIG. 3, the front wall 11A constituting the outer shell of the dolly body 11 may be formed with other openings 21 (see FIG. 3) that communicate with the storage spaces of the adjacent storage sections 15. Although not shown, other openings may be formed in the rear wall 11B and left wall 11C constituting the outer shell of the dolly body 11 in a similar manner.

[0032] In this way, by providing other openings 21 (i.e., holes other than openings 19 through which worker W inserts each box 17 into the storage space) communicating with each storage section 15 in the trolley body 11, the worker W can easily check the status (posture, position, etc.) of the box 17 in each storage section 15.

[0033] A pair of left and right handles 22 that can be gripped by the worker W when moving (traveling) the picking cart 5 are provided on the upper portion of the rear wall 11B of the cart body 11, as shown in Figs.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 2, a pair of front and rear guide rails 24 are provided on the bottom of each storage section 15. The pair of guide rails 24 extend in the insertion direction of the box 17 to be inserted into the storage section 15 (see the left-right direction in Fig. 3). When the box 17 is inserted into the storage section 15, the front and rear bottoms (corners) of the box 17 are supported by the pair of guide rails 24, respectively, and the movement of the box 17 in the insertion direction is guided. Each guide rail 24 is formed of, for example, an L-shaped angle.

[0035] Further, at the bottom of each storage section 15 (below the storage space), a locking device 25 is provided to restrict removal of each box 17 stored in each storage section 15 from each opening 19. Each locking device 25 is provided with a lamp 26 indicating its operating state. Each lamp 26 also functions as a work completion button. For example, the work completion button is pressed by the worker W when a product is put into the box 17 stored in the corresponding storage section 15.

[0036] Each storage section 15 is provided with an object detection sensor (not shown) for detecting that a corresponding box 17 has been set therein. As the object detection sensor, for example, a known proximity sensor can be used.

[0037] Each box 17 is made of, for example, cardboard having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped outer shape. The top of each box 17 may be open. In that case, the top of each box 17 is closed at least after the picking operation is completed. Furthermore, each box 17 is not limited to cardboard, and may be, for example, a resin case. After the picking operation, each box 17 is used as a packaging container (transport container) for transporting (shipping) the product.

[0038] Furthermore, a terminal device 31 (an example of a control device and a display device), a reading device 33, a measuring device 35, and a printing device 37 are installed on the upper wall 11E that constitutes the outer shell of the cart body 11. However, these devices may be installed in appropriate locations other than the upper wall 11E of the cart body 11.

[0039] The terminal device 31 is a computer that may include known hardware such as one or more processors including a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, and a DSP, a memory including a ROM and a RAM, a storage including a HDD and an SSD, and a communication device including a network card. In this embodiment, the terminal device 31 is configured by a tablet terminal including a touch panel with a display screen. However, the terminal device 31 is not limited to a tablet, and may be an information processing terminal such as a smartphone carried by the worker W. In addition, the terminal device 31 functions as a control device that controls each device mounted on the picking cart 5. However, the terminal device 31 may function only as a display device, and a control device (another computer) that controls each device may be separately installed in the cart body 11.

[0040] The reading device 33 is a device for reading identification information attached to a product. In this embodiment, a two-dimensional code including the identification information is attached to each product. The reading device 33 is a two-dimensional code reader that reads the identification information from the two-dimensional code. However, the identification information of a product may be stored in something other than the two-dimensional code. For example, instead of the two-dimensional code, an RFID tag including the identification information may be attached to each product. In that case, an RFID reader is used as the reading device 33.

[0041] The product identification information includes, for example, at least one of the product name, product type, product number, distribution code (JAN code), storage location information (for example, the shelf number where the product is stored), and product weight information. However, the product identification information is not limited to these information as long as it is information that can at least identify the corresponding product (distinguish it from other products). The reading device 33 transmits the read identification information to the terminal device 31.

[0042] The measuring device 35 is a weighing scale that measures the weight of the product. The measuring device 35 transmits information related to the measured weight of the product to the terminal device 31. Alternatively, the worker W may input the measurement result (information related to the measured weight of the product) to the terminal device 31.

[0043] The printing device 37 is a printer that prints a shipping label 41 (see FIG. 2) for each box 17. The printing device 37 can print the shipping label 41 based on the shipping information of each box 17 received from the terminal device 31. The shipping label 41 is affixed to the outer surface of the corresponding box 17 after the picking operation is completed. The shipping information includes information (e.g., address and telephone number) indicating the destination (e.g., a store selling the product).

[0044] A battery 45 that supplies power used by the picking cart 5 is installed in a housing 43 attached to the bottom wall 11F of the cart body 11. The battery 45 can supply the necessary power to each device mounted on the picking cart 5 (here, the lock device 25, the terminal device 31, the reading device 33, the measuring device 35, the printing device 37, etc.).

[0045] 2 to 4 omit communication cables for mutual communication among the devices in the picking cart 5, power cables for receiving power from the battery 45, and the like. However, the devices in the picking cart 5 may wirelessly communicate with each other without using communication cables.

[0046] Next, the structure and operation of the locking device 25 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0047] The locking device 25 has a housing 46 attached to the outside (here, the lower surface of the bottom wall 15A) of the bottom wall 15A that defines at least a portion of the bottom surface of the corresponding storage section 15. The housing 46 is generally concave with an open upper portion (i.e., a shape of a generally hexahedron with one side open). The edge of the upper opening of the housing 46 is in contact with the lower surface of the bottom wall 15A.

[0048] The locking device 25 has a locking member 49 that is displaceable so as to appear and disappear from a substantially rectangular opening 47 provided in the bottom wall 15A. As shown in Fig. 5, the locking member 49 displaces (rotates here) upward to enter a state (hereinafter referred to as a "locked state") in which it prevents the box 17 housed in the corresponding housing section 15 from moving in the counter-insertion direction (to the right in Fig. 3). On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 6, the locking member 49 displaces downward to enter a state (hereinafter referred to as an "unlocked state") in which it allows the box 17 housed in the corresponding housing section 15 to move in the counter-insertion direction.

[0049] The locking member 49 has a generally rectangular upper plate 51 (an example of a first plate) that, in the unlocked state, defines, together with the bottom wall 15A, the bottom surface (an example of one surface) of the accommodation section 15. In other words, as shown in FIG. 6, the upper plate 51 is in a state in which it substantially closes the opening 47 of the bottom wall 15A in the locking device 25 in the unlocked state.

[0050] The locking member 49 also has a right plate 53 (an example of a third plate) extending from a side edge 51A (an example of a second side edge) on the right side (the front side in the insertion direction) of the upper plate 51 toward the outside of the storage section 15 (in a direction generally perpendicular to the upper plate 53). The locking member 49 also has a left plate 54 (an example of a second plate) extending from a side edge 51B (an example of a first side edge) on the left side (i.e., the rear side in the insertion direction) of the upper plate 51 on the side where the stored box 17 is located (here, the left side) toward the outside of the storage section 15. The locking member 49 also has a front plate 55 extending from a front side edge of the upper plate 51 toward the outside of the storage section 15 (in a direction generally perpendicular to the upper plate 53) and a rear plate (not shown) extending from a rear side edge of the upper plate 51 toward the outside of the storage section 15 (in a direction generally perpendicular to the upper plate 53).

[0051] The locking device 25 includes a rotation support member 57 (here, a hinge) that rotatably supports the locking member 49. The rotation support member 57 has a rotation shaft 61 extending in the front-rear direction. The rotation support member 57 also has rotating pieces 62, 63 that are supported by the rotation shaft 61 disposed in the middle and thus are relatively rotatable. The rotation support member 57 also has a spring 65 (here, a torsion coil spring) that is attached to the rotation shaft 61 and biases the rotating pieces 62, 63 in a direction separating them from each other. The rotation support member 57 is disposed at a portion of the right plate 53 where a part is cut out (here, the center in the front-rear direction).

[0052] One rotating piece 62 is attached to the lower surface of the upper plate 51. The other rotating piece 63 is attached to the left surface of the right wall 46A of the housing 46. As a result, the locking member 49 is displaced about the rotating shaft 61, thereby switching between a locked state (see FIG. 5) and an unlocked state (see FIG. 6).

[0053] The locking device 25 has an actuator 67 that presses (i.e., displaces) the locking member 49 in a direction to sink it into the bottom wall 15A against the biasing force of the spring 65. The actuator 67 has an actuator body 69 and a rod 70 that is provided so as to be able to expand and contract in the left-right direction from the actuator body 69. The actuator body 69 is fixed to the bottom wall 46B of the housing 46 by a plurality of fixing parts 69A that protrude from the lower part of the actuator body 69.

[0054] A pressing member 73 is attached to the top of the actuator 67 so as to be movable relative to the actuator 67. The pressing member 73 is driven by a rod 70 of the actuator 67. The pressing member 73 has a horizontal piece 75 extending substantially parallel to the top surface of the actuator 67, and a vertical piece 76 connected to the right edge of the horizontal piece 75 and extending substantially parallel to the right plate 53 of the locking member 49 and the right wall 46A of the housing 46. A plurality of elongated holes 79 extending in the left-right direction are formed in the horizontal piece 75. A pin 81 protruding from the top of the actuator body 69 is inserted into each of the elongated holes 79. The relative movement of the pressing member 73 in the left-right direction with respect to the actuator body 69 is restricted by the engagement between the elongated hole 79 and the pin 81.

[0055] The actuator 67 is electrically operated under the control of the terminal device 31. The terminal device 31 can control the ON / OFF of the power supply of the actuator 67 (power supply to the actuator 67).

[0056] When the power supply to the actuator 67 is turned off, the rod 70 is in a retracted state as shown in Fig. 5. At this time, the urging force of the spring 65 urges the rotating pieces 62, 63 in a direction in which they move away from each other. This causes the locking member 49 to rotate clockwise in Fig. 5 about the rotating shaft 61, and the left side of the upper plate 51 is displaced upward. As a result, the left side of the locking member 49 (more specifically, the corner portion which is the connection portion between the upper plate 51 and the left plate 54) is in a state of protruding above the bottom wall 15A of the storage section 15.

[0057] A locking piece 54A protruding to the left is provided at the tip (here, the lower end) of the left plate 54. When the locking member 49 rotates, the locking piece 54A is locked to the left edge of the opening 47 of the bottom wall 15A, thereby restricting excessive rotation of the locking member 49.

[0058] When the power supply of the actuator 67 is turned ON (i.e., the actuator 67 is activated), the rod 70 is in an advanced state as shown in FIG. 6. At this time, the rod 70 presses the inner surface (left surface) of the vertical piece 76 of the pressing member 73. As a result, the pressing member 73 presses the right plate 53 of the locking member 49 rightward (toward the right wall 46A of the housing 46) against the biasing force of the spring 65. Furthermore, the locking member 49 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 6 about the rotation shaft 61, and the left side of the upper plate 51 is displaced downward. As a result, the locking member 49 is recessed into the bottom wall 15A of the storage section 15. At this time, the upper plate 51 is approximately parallel to the bottom wall 15A of the storage section 15.

[0059] In the picking cart 5, even when the actuator 67 of the locking device 25 is powered off (i.e., the locking member 49 is protruding upward), the worker W can set (insert) a box 17 (e.g., a box 17 before the picking operation or a box 17 after a product has been inserted) into the storage section 15, as shown in Figures 7(A)-(C).

[0060] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7(A), when the worker W slides the box 17 on the bottom wall 15A of the storage section 15 and pushes the box 17 in the insertion direction (leftward), the box 17 is placed on the locking member 49 as shown in FIG. 7(B). This allows the locking member 49 to be displaced downward (into the insertion direction) against the biasing force of the spring 65 by the weight of the box 17. After that, when the worker W further pushes the box 17 to the insertion completion position, the locking member 49 is displaced upward again by the biasing force of the spring 65 as shown in FIG. 7(C). At this time, the locking member 49 of the locking device 25 is in a state of locking the right bottom of the box 17 (the lower corner in the counter-insertion direction). This prevents the worker W from taking out the box 17 from the storage section 15 unless the power of the actuator 67 is turned on.

[0061] Next, the functions of the terminal device 31 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0062] The terminal device 31 includes a control unit 91 (an example of a control device), a display unit 92 (an example of a display device), a storage unit 93, and a communication unit 94.

[0063] The control unit 91 includes one or more processors and memories, and performs overall control of each unit of the picking trolley 5. However, some of the functions of the control unit 91 may be executed by the management device 3. The display unit 92 includes a touch panel, and displays necessary information to the worker W. The memory unit 93 includes storage, and stores data and programs necessary for processing by the control unit 91. However, some of the necessary data and programs may be stored in the storage of the management device 3. The communication unit 94 includes a wireless module, and communicates with other devices (e.g., the management device 3).

[0064] The control unit 91 has a lock control unit 95, a display control unit 96, and a communication control unit 97. The lock control unit 95 controls the operation of each locking device 25. More specifically, the control unit 91 can switch the locking device 25 between a locked state and an unlocked state by controlling ON / OFF of the power of the actuator 67 in the locking device 25. In addition, the lock control unit 95 controls the operation of the lamp 26 of the locking device 25. More specifically, when the locking device 25 is in the unlocked state, the control unit 91 can turn on, turn off, or blink the corresponding lamp 26.

[0065] The display control unit 96 controls the operation of the display unit 92. The display control unit 96 can display, on the display screen of the display unit 92, a screen (hereinafter referred to as a "guide screen") including information necessary for the worker W to perform the picking work.

[0066] The communication control unit 97 controls the operation of the communication unit 94. The communication control unit 97 can receive information to be displayed on a guidance screen for the worker W (including, for example, information to be displayed on the picking screen P in FIG. 10 ) from the management device 3. In addition, the communication control unit 97 can transmit information related to the picking work performed by the worker W (including information input by the worker W to the terminal device 31) to the management device 3.

[0067] The functions of each unit in the control unit 91 may be realized by processing of one or more processors based on a predetermined control program. Furthermore, at least a part of the functions of each unit in the control unit 91 may be realized by hardware such as an LSI, an ASIC, or an FPGA, or may be realized by a combination of software and hardware.

[0068] Next, the picking process by the picking cart 5 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0069] 9, when the power supply of the picking cart 5 is turned on (i.e., power supply from the battery 45 to each device is started) (ST101), the worker W inputs information required for the picking work (hereinafter referred to as "work information") to the activated terminal device 31 (ST102). This work information includes, for example, the ID (identification number) of the worker W and a number related to the picking work that the worker W plans to perform.

[0070] When the operator W has completed inputting the work information, the operator W then sets the boxes 17 in the storage units 15 in the picking cart 5 (ST103).

[0071] Therefore, when the worker W has completed setting the boxes 17 in each storage section 15, the terminal device 31 displays location information of the products to be picked (e.g., map information within the distribution warehouse) as a guide screen for the picking work aimed at the worker W (ST104). At this time, the terminal device 31 receives, together with the information to be displayed on the guide screen, collation information on the products to be picked from the management device 3 in order to determine whether the picking work has been performed properly. The collation information includes, for example, information such as the identification information, weight, and quantity (total number) of each product to be picked. It is preferable that at least a part of the collation information is displayed on the guide screen.

[0072] The worker W can move the picking cart 5 to the location where the picking work is to be performed according to the product position information (i.e., work location information) displayed on the terminal device 31. Thereafter, when the worker W starts the picking work, the terminal device 31 can display, as a guide screen, for example, a picking screen P shown in Fig. 10. Note that the display of step ST104 can be repeatedly executed at a necessary timing regardless of the execution of other processes.

[0073] Next, the reading device 33 reads the identification information of the product taken out by the worker W from a storage location (e.g., a predetermined position on a shelf) (ST105). At this time, the worker W brings a portion of the taken out product that holds the identification information (e.g., a two-dimensional code) close to a reading unit of the reading device 33.

[0074] Next, the measuring device 35 measures the weight of the product picked up by the worker W (ST106). At this time, the worker W places the picked up product on the weighing plate of the measuring device 35.

[0075] Thereafter, based on the identification information read in step ST105 and information regarding the weight of the product measured in step ST106, the terminal device 31 determines whether the product (an example of a picking candidate) taken out from the storage location by the worker W is a product to be picked (i.e., whether the picking work was performed properly) (ST107).

[0076] Regarding the identification information in step ST107, the terminal device 31 compares the identification information attached to the product read by the reading device 33 with the matching information (identification information) related to the product to be picked, and if the matching is completed successfully, it can determine (tentatively determine) that the removed product is the product to be picked.

[0077] Furthermore, with regard to the weight of the product in step ST107, the terminal device 31 compares the weight of the product measured by the measuring device 35 with the matching information (weight) regarding the product to be picked, and if the comparison is completed successfully (for example, if the difference between the weights is within a predetermined range), it can determine (tentatively determine) that the removed product is the product to be picked.

[0078] When the collation of the collation information is completed normally and the weight comparison is completed normally, the terminal device 31 can determine (confirm) that the product is a product to be picked. However, the terminal device 31 may execute the determination of step ST107 based only on the identification information read in step ST105.

[0079] Furthermore, in step ST107, the terminal device 31 recognizes the number (total number) of products of the same type extracted from the reading result in step ST105, and can determine whether or not the product is a product to be picked based on the total number of products. More specifically, the terminal device 31 compares the total number of items of the same type read by the reading device 33 with the collation information (the quantity of the products of the same type to be picked), and when the comparison is completed normally (for example, when the numbers match), it can determine (provisionally determine) that the product is a product to be picked.

[0080] When the terminal device 31 determines that the product removed by the worker W is a product to be picked (Yes in ST107), it unlocks only the locking device 25 in the storage section 15 that contains the box 17 in which the product should be placed (ST108). At the same time, the terminal device 31 turns on the lamp 26 of that locking device 25 (ST109). At this time, the lamps 26 of the locked locking devices 25 in the other storage sections 15 are turned off.

[0081] Thereafter, when the identification information of all the products to be put into one box 17 in at least one work area is read, the terminal device 31 determines that the picking work for the box 17 is completed (Yes in ST110). For example, the products to be picked in one work area (usually corresponding to the parking position of the picking trolley 5) are products whose storage positions are within a predetermined area (or distance range) set in advance from the position of the work area. At this time, the terminal device 31 returns the lock device 25 of the storage section 15 corresponding to the relevant box 17 to the locked state (ST111). However, in step ST110, the terminal device 31 may determine that the picking work is completed when the worker W inputs the completion of the picking work in the terminal device 31 (for example, by pressing the completion button displayed on the guidance screen).

[0082] As another embodiment, in step ST110, when the identification information for all of the same type of products to be placed in the multiple boxes 17 is read, the terminal device 31 may determine that the picking work for the same type of products is completed.

[0083] The above-mentioned steps ST105-ST112 are repeatedly executed in the picking cart 5. When the terminal device 31 finally determines that the picking work for all the items to be picked and placed in each box 17 set on the picking cart 5 has been completed (Yes in ST112), it displays that fact on the guidance screen and prompts the worker W to move to the next process.

[0084] When the worker W (picking cart 5) moves to the location where the next process (e.g., transportation of each box 17 by conveyor) is performed (Yes in ST113), the terminal device 31 unlocks the locking devices 25 of all storage units 15. For example, a device that emits a predetermined wireless signal is placed in the location where the next process is performed, and the terminal device 31 can unlock the locking devices 25 of all storage units 15 by receiving that signal. This allows the worker W to remove each box 17 from the picking cart 5 in order to perform the next process.

[0085] Next, the picking screen P will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0086] The picking screen P includes information such as the store code 201 (the number of the store to which the product will be shipped), the shipping store name 202, the area number 203 (the number of the area corresponding to the storage location of the product to be picked), the staging number 204 (the location to which the picked product will be transported by the picking cart 5), and a list 205 of the products to be picked.

[0087] Product list 205 includes information such as product name (e.g., cushion cover), JAN number, product type (category), quantity (the number of products when the same type of products are stored together in a packaging container such as a box or bag (i.e., the number of products included in a product group)), and pick number (the number to be picked). The pick number corresponds to the number of products when the products are stored individually, and on the other hand, when multiple products are stored together in a packaging container (in the case of a product group), it corresponds to the number of products in that product group.

[0088] Furthermore, on the picking screen P, information 205A relating to a product currently being picked is highlighted. In the terminal device 31, such highlighting can be achieved, for example, by displaying the border of the area in which the information on the product currently being picked is displayed in a thicker frame or by applying a different color to other areas. Furthermore, on the picking screen P, information 205B relating to a product for which picking has already been completed is displayed in an inconspicuous manner (for example, grayed out).

[0089] After the worker W has completed picking all the products to be placed in one box 17 on the picking screen P, he or she can press the label output button 209 to print a shipping label 41 (see FIG. 2) for that box 17 using the printer 37. The picking screen P is updated when picking for one box 17 is completed, and the product list 205 displays information about the product to be placed in the next box 17.

[0090] The present invention has been described above with reference to its preferred embodiments. However, as will be easily understood by those skilled in the art, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 1: Picking system 3: Management device 5: Picking cart 7: Communication Network 11: Cart body 11A: Front wall 11B: Back wall 11C: Left wall 11D: Right wall 11E: Upper wall 11F: Lower wall 13: Wheels 15: Storage section 15A: Bottom wall 17: Box 19:Aperture 21 :Aperture 22: Handle 24: Guide rail 25: Locking device 26: Lamp 31: Terminal device 33: Reading device 35: Measuring equipment 37:Printing device 41: Shipping label 43: Housing 45: Battery 46: Housing 46A: Right wall 46B: Lower wall 47 :Aperture 49: Locking member 51: Upper plate 51A: Side edge 51B: Side edge 53: Right plate 54: Left plate 54A: Locking piece 55: Front plate 57: Rotating support member 61: Rotating shaft 62: Rotating piece 63: Rotating piece 65: Spring 67: Actuator 69: Actuator body 69A: Fixed part 70: Rod 73: Pressing member 75: Horizontal piece 76: Vertical strip 79: Long hole 81: Pin 91: Control section 92:Display section 93: Storage section 94: Communications Department 95: Lock control section 96: Display control section 97: Communication control section 201:Store code 202: Shipping store name 203: Area number 204: Staging number 205: Product List 209: Label output button P: Picking screen W: Worker

Claims

1. A picking system using a picking cart, The picking cart includes: A cart body provided with a plurality of storage sections each for storing a plurality of boxes in which a plurality of articles can be placed, wheels that movably support the carriage body; The carriage body includes: A reading device for reading the identification information attached to each of the articles; a plurality of locking devices each restricting removal of each of the boxes housed in each of the housing sections; A control device for controlling the operation of each of the locking devices is provided. The control device includes: The identification information attached to the item that is a picking candidate read by the reading device is compared with preset comparison information related to the item to be picked; A picking system in which, when one of the multiple boxes containing the items to be picked is in an unlocked state, when the reading device reads the identification information attached to all of the items to be picked that are to be placed in that one box, the locking device of the storage unit corresponding to that one box is controlled to be locked.

2. The carriage body is further provided with lamps arranged corresponding to each of the locking devices, The picking system according to claim 1 , wherein the control device turns on, turns off, or blinks the corresponding lamp when the lock device corresponding to the item to be picked is in the unlocked state.

3. The cart body is further provided with a display device that displays information about the item to be picked, The picking system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the display device displays a picking screen including collation information related to the item to be picked.

4. The control device determines whether picking of all of the picking targets has been completed based on the identification information read by the reading device, The picking system according to claim 3 , wherein the display device displays information regarding completion of the picking work on the picking screen when picking of all of the picking targets is completed.

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