Information processing device, information processing method, and program
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- KK TOSHIBA
- Filing Date
- 2022-05-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-03
Smart Images
Figure 0007898939000001 
Figure 0007898939000002 
Figure 0007898939000003
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.
Background Art
[0002] A system for storing (or picking) articles according to an order is provided. Such a system includes logistics equipment such as an automated guided vehicle that transports shelves, a loading machine that performs loading or unloading, and a conveyor that transports articles.
[0003] The system acquires equipment information regarding the operation of the logistics equipment from each logistics equipment. The system displays the acquired equipment information.
[0004] Conventionally, when the vendors of the logistics equipment are different, the system has a problem that it cannot handle the equipment information from each logistics equipment in a unified manner.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0005]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0006] In order to solve the above problems, there is provided an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that can effectively present equipment information from logistics equipment with different vendors.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0007] According to one embodiment, the information processing device comprises a first interface, a second interface, and a processor. The first interface is connected to a first logistics facility supplied by a first vendor and used to process inbound orders for storing articles in a storage mechanism or outbound orders for picking articles from the storage mechanism. The second interface is connected to a second logistics facility supplied by a second vendor different from the first vendor and used to process the inbound orders or outbound orders. The processor acquires first equipment information relating to the operation of the first logistics facility through the first interface and converts the format of the first equipment information to a common format, acquires second equipment information relating to the operation of the second logistics facility through the second interface and converts the format of the second equipment information to the common format, and displays the first equipment information and the second equipment information on a monitor. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cargo handling system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control system of a cargo handling system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of WES according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of items displayed by the WES according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the WES display according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the WES display according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the WES display according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of a cargo handling system according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0009] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. The cargo handling system according to this embodiment unloads goods from pallets or the like using a loading machine consisting of a robot or the like. The cargo handling system places the unloaded goods onto a conveyor belt. The cargo handling system transports the goods to a station using the conveyor belt. At the station, the cargo handling system stores the goods on shelves or in a Digital Assort System (DAS). When the cargo handling system has stored goods on shelves, it transports the shelves back to the station using an automated guided vehicle (AGV), and returns the shelves when storage is complete.
[0010] Furthermore, the material handling system uses AGVs to transport shelves containing goods to the station. At the station, the material handling system picks goods from the shelves. Alternatively, the material handling system may pick goods from the DAS (Data Handling System). The material handling system uses a conveyor to load the picked goods into the loading machine. The material handling system uses the loading machine to stack the loaded goods onto pallets or other containers.
[0011] Furthermore, the cargo handling system includes logistics equipment supplied by different vendors. In this case, the cargo handling system includes a shelf conveying system supplied by Company A (Vendor 1 and Vendor 2), a shelf conveying system supplied by Company B (Vendor 1 and Vendor 2), a conveyor supplied by Company C (Vendor 1 and Vendor 2), and a loading machine supplied by Company D (Vendor 1 and Vendor 2). For example, cargo handling systems are used in logistics centers or warehouses.
[0012] Figure 1 shows an example configuration of the cargo handling system 1. As shown in Figure 1, the cargo handling system 1 includes a station P, a DAS 3, an AGV 7, multiple AGV racks 8, and a charging station 9, among other things.
[0013] Each station P is equipped with either an operator or a robot. At each station P, the cargo handling system 1 uses the operator or robot to store items in the DAS3 or AGV rack 8. The cargo handling system 1 also uses the operator or robot at each station P to pick items from the DAS3 or the transported AGV rack 8.
[0014] Furthermore, the cargo handling system 1 can also stop the robot's operation and allow an operator to store or pick the items. The operator can process the items by visually confirming the item processing schedule and other information displayed on the display device installed at station P. The display device may also be a wireless communication terminal assigned to the operator.
[0015] Alternatively, display devices may be installed at some stations P, and robots may be installed at some stations. In this case, stations P without robots will be used as operator stations. Stations P with robots can be used as either robot or operator stations.
[0016] The cargo handling system may be equipped with multiple cameras. Furthermore, one or more of the cameras may be fixed, with the rest being mobile. Fixed cameras are, for example, cameras fixed to the ceiling, walls, and the top and sides of station P, and they photograph the entire warehouse and the items being processed within the warehouse, outputting the captured data in real time. The captured data includes shooting date and time data (including the time of shooting) and captured image data. The captured image data includes still image data and video data. Fixed cameras may also rotate up, down, left, and right. By rotating the fixed cameras up, down, left, and right, a wide area of the warehouse can be monitored.
[0017] DAS3 (Storage mechanism) is installed at station P. DAS3 stores a plurality of cases 4 for storing articles. Case 4 has a structure with an open top. Articles are put into or taken out of case 4 from the top.
[0018] Also, DAS3 may be equipped with a terminal for reading a code or the like from an article. Further, DAS3 may be equipped with a display device for displaying case 4 into which an article is put or the number of articles.
[0019] AGV7 (First logistics equipment, second logistics equipment) is logistics equipment provided by Company A or Company B. AGV7 operates based on a control signal from the shelf transfer system 20 manufactured by Company A or the shelf transfer system 30 manufactured by Company B, which will be described later. For example, AGV7 travels toward a designated loading position and lifts the AGV shelf 8 at the designated loading position. AGV7 travels toward a designated loading / unloading position and lowers the AGV shelf 8 at the designated loading / unloading position.
[0020] AGV shelf 8 (Storage mechanism) is a shelf for storing articles. For example, AGV shelf 8 is composed of a plurality of shelf levels. Each shelf level has a frontage 5 formed thereon. Each frontage 5 stores an article. Also, frontage 5 may store a case for storing an article. Further, a plurality of frontages 5 may be formed on one case stored on each shelf level.
[0021] Also, AGV shelf 8 stands upright on four columns. The height under the shelf of AGV shelf 8 (the height from the floor surface to the bottom of the shelf) is higher than the height of AGV7. Thereby, AGV7 can dive under AGV shelf 8. AGV7 that has dived under the shelf lifts AGV shelf 8 by a pusher so that the tip of the column is several centimeters away from the floor surface and travels in a state where AGV shelf 8 is lifted. In this way, AGV7 transports AGV shelf 8.
[0022] Furthermore, shelf identification information that can be read by a fixed camera or a mobile camera may be attached to the AGV shelf 8. Item identification information that can be read by a fixed camera or a mobile camera may also be attached to the item. For example, the shelf identification information and item identification information may be barcodes or two-dimensional codes. The material handling system may also be equipped with multiple readers to read this shelf identification information and item identification information, in addition to the fixed or mobile cameras.
[0023] The charging station 9 charges the AGV 7. The charging station 9 is equipped with a power output unit. The AGV 7 is equipped with a power input unit and a battery. The charging station 9 supplies power output from the power output unit to the AGV 7. The AGV 7 supplies power received via the power input unit to its battery. For example, the height of the power output unit from the floor is the same as the height of the power input unit of the AGV 7 from the floor. The AGV 7 travels to a position corresponding to the power output unit of the charging station 9 based on control from either the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A or the shelf transport system 30 manufactured by Company B, connects its power input unit to the power output unit, and receives power. The connection between the power input unit and the power output unit may be either contact or non-contact.
[0024] Furthermore, the cargo handling system 1 may also include a charging station 9 compatible with AGV7 provided by Company A and a charging station 9 compatible with AGV7 provided by Company B.
[0025] Next, we will describe the control system of the cargo handling system 100. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control system of the cargo handling system 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the cargo handling system 100 includes WMS2 (2A and 2B), AGV7, WES10, shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A, shelf transport system 30 manufactured by Company B, conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C, and loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D.
[0026] WES10 connects to WMS2, A Company's shelf conveying system 20, B Company's shelf conveying system 30, C Company's conveyor 40, and D Company's loading machine 50. A Company's shelf conveying system 20 connects to AGV7 provided by A Company. B Company's shelf conveying system 30 connects to AGV7 provided by B Company.
[0027] WMS2 (Warehouse Management System) is a warehouse management system that can be implemented with one or more computers. WMS2 sends an inbound order to WES10 instructing it to store goods in AGV rack 8. WMS2 also sends an outbound order to WES10 instructing it to pick goods from AGV rack 8.
[0028] Here, the cargo handling system 100 includes WMS2A and 2B as WMS2. Each WMS2 corresponds to a shipper. That is, each WMS2 transmits the incoming and outgoing orders of a specified shipper to WES10.
[0029] WES10 (Warehouse Execution System) (information processing device) is a warehouse operation management system that can be implemented with one or more computers. Based on incoming and outgoing orders from WMS2, WES10 controls DAS3, A-company's shelf conveying system 20, B-company's shelf conveying system 30, C-company's conveyor 40, and D-company's loading machine 50, etc. WES10 will be described in detail later.
[0030] The A Company shelf transport system 20 (first logistics equipment, second logistics equipment) is logistics equipment provided by A Company. The A Company shelf transport system 20 controls the AGV7 provided by A Company according to the control from WES10. For example, the A Company shelf transport system 20 uses the AGV7 to transport the AGV shelf 8 to station P. The A Company shelf transport system 20 also uses the AGV7 to return the AGV shelf 8 from station P.
[0031] The shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A pre-stores inventory information indicating the items stored in each opening 5 of each AGV shelf 8 or in the cases 4 of the DAS 3. For example, the inventory information stores the identifier of the AGV shelf 8, the identifier of the opening 5 formed on the AGV shelf 8, and the identifier indicating the items stored in the opening 5 in association with each other. The inventory information also stores the identifier of the DAS 3, the identifier of the case 4 that the DAS 3 stores, and the identifier indicating the items stored in the case 4 in association with each other.
[0032] When the A Company shelf transport system 20 receives a dispatch order from the WES 10 for dispatching a specified item, it refers to the inventory information to identify the DAS 3 or AGV shelf 8 in which the item will be stored.
[0033] When AGV shelf 8 is identified, the A Company shelf transport system 20 uses AGV 7 to transport the identified AGV shelf 8 to one of the stations P. The A Company shelf transport system 20 then uses an operator or robot to pick the item from the opening 5 of the transported AGV shelf 8.
[0034] Furthermore, if DAS3 is identified, the A Company shelf transport system 20 will have an operator or robot pick the item from the case 4 of DAS3 at station P where DAS3 is installed.
[0035] Furthermore, when the A Company shelf transport system 20 receives an incoming order for a specified item from the WES 10, it determines the opening 5 of the case 4 of the DAS 3 or the AGV shelf 8 in which the item will be stored, based on inventory information and other factors.
[0036] Once the opening 5 of the AGV shelf 8 is determined, the A Company shelf transport system 20 uses the AGV 7 to transport the AGV shelf 8 to one of the stations P. The A Company shelf transport system 20 uses an operator or robot to place the items into the opening 5 of the transported AGV shelf 8.
[0037] Furthermore, once case 4 of DAS3 is determined, the A Company shelf transport system 20 will use an operator or robot at station P where DAS3 is installed to store the item from case 4 of DAS3.
[0038] Furthermore, the A Company shelf transport system 20 transmits equipment information (first equipment information, second equipment information) regarding the operation of the A Company shelf transport system 20 to the WES 10 in accordance with A Company's format (format A1). For example, the A Company shelf transport system 20 may transmit equipment information to the WES 10 in response to a request from the WES 10.
[0039] For example, the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A transmits equipment information indicating the status of the AGV7 (stopped, running, presence or absence of abnormalities, charging, etc.) to the WES 10 at predetermined intervals as information related to the operation of the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A. The equipment information may also indicate the status of the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A (started, stopped, presence or absence of abnormalities, etc.).
[0040] Furthermore, the A Company shelf transport system 20 transmits equipment information related to the processing of incoming and outgoing orders to the WES 10 as information related to the operation of the A Company shelf transport system 20. For example, each time the A Company shelf transport system 20 receives an incoming or outgoing order, it transmits equipment information to the WES 10 indicating the success or failure of the incoming or outgoing order and the completion time.
[0041] Furthermore, the configuration of the equipment information is not limited to a specific configuration. Furthermore, the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A may transmit inventory information to WES10 in accordance with requests from WES10.
[0042] The B Company shelf transport system 30 (first logistics equipment, second logistics equipment) is logistics equipment provided by B Company. The B Company shelf transport system 30 controls the AGV7 provided by B Company according to the control from WES10.
[0043] Furthermore, the B Company shelf transport system 30 transmits equipment information (first equipment information, second equipment information) related to the operation of the B Company shelf transport system 30 to the WES 10 in accordance with B Company's format (format B1), which is different from format A1.
[0044] The operation and configuration of the equipment information for the shelf transport system 30 manufactured by Company B are the same as those for the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A, so the explanation will be omitted.
[0045] The conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C (first logistics equipment, second logistics equipment) is logistics equipment provided by Company C. The conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C transports goods loaded by the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D to station P in accordance with the control of WES 10. The conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C may also sort the goods while transporting them. For example, the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C sorts the goods according to their delivery destination based on documents attached to the goods.
[0046] For example, the C Company's conveyor 40 consists of an endless belt on which goods are loaded, rollers that support the endless belt from the inside, and a motor that rotates the rollers.
[0047] The conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C transmits equipment information (first equipment information, second equipment information) regarding the operation of the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C, according to Company C's format (format C1), which is different from formats A1 and B1. For example, the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C transmits equipment information to WES10 at predetermined intervals or in response to a request from WES10.
[0048] For example, the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C transmits equipment information to the WES 10 indicating the number of items to be transported per unit time (for example, one hour).
[0049] For example, the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C includes a processor that controls the conveyor 40 and a sensor that detects the passage of items. For example, the sensor is one that uses infrared light to detect the passage of items.
[0050] The processor uses sensors and other devices to count the items passing through. Based on the counted values, the processor generates equipment information and transmits it to WES10.
[0051] Furthermore, the equipment information may also indicate the status of the C Company conveyor 40 (operating mode (such as low-speed mode or high-speed mode), or whether there are any abnormalities)). The configuration of the equipment information generated by the C Company conveyor 40 is not limited to a specific configuration. Furthermore, the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C may be used to transport goods from station P to the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D.
[0052] The loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D (first logistics equipment, second logistics equipment) is logistics equipment provided by Company D. The loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D performs unloading. The loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D unloads goods from pallets, etc., according to the control of WES10. The loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D loads the unloaded goods onto the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C. Furthermore, For example, the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D consists of a gripping mechanism for gripping goods and an arm for moving the gripping mechanism.
[0053] Furthermore, the D Company loading machine 50 transmits equipment information (first equipment information, second equipment information) regarding the operation of the D Company loading machine 50 to the WES 10 according to D Company's format (format D1), which is different from formats A1, B1, and C1. For example, the D Company loading machine 50 transmits equipment information to the WES 10 at predetermined intervals or in response to a request from the WES 10.
[0054] For example, the equipment information indicates the status of the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D (whether there is a malfunction (normal, sensor malfunction, or loading is not possible, etc.)).
[0055] Furthermore, the equipment information may also indicate the operating mode of the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D (such as low-speed mode or high-speed mode). Additionally, the equipment information may indicate the number of items unloaded per unit time.
[0056] The configuration of the equipment information generated by the D Company loading machine 50 is not limited to a specific configuration. Furthermore, the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D may also be used for unloading. That is, the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D may load the goods transported by the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C onto pallets or the like, in accordance with the control of the WES 10.
[0057] Next, I will explain WES10. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of WES10. As shown in Figure 3, WES10 includes a processor 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, NVM 14, communication unit 15, operation unit 16, display unit 17, first equipment interface 18, second equipment interface 19, third equipment interface 111, and fourth equipment interface 112, among others.
[0058] The processor 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, NVM 14, communication unit 15, operation unit 16, display unit 17, first equipment interface 18, second equipment interface 19, third equipment interface 111, and fourth equipment interface 112 are connected to each other via a data bus or the like. In addition to the configuration shown in Figure 3, WES10 may have other configurations as needed, or certain configurations may be excluded from WES10.
[0059] The processor 11 has the function of controlling the overall operation of WES 10. The processor 11 may also be equipped with an internal cache and various interfaces. The processor 11 performs various processes by executing programs pre-stored in the internal memory, ROM 12, or NVM 14.
[0060] Furthermore, some of the various functions realized by the execution of a program by the processor 11 may be realized by hardware circuits. In this case, the processor 11 controls the functions executed by the hardware circuits.
[0061] ROM12 is a non-volatile memory in which control programs and control data are pre-stored. The control programs and control data stored in ROM12 are pre-loaded according to the WES10 specifications.
[0062] RAM13 is volatile memory. RAM13 temporarily stores data being processed by processor 11. RAM13 stores various application programs based on instructions from processor 11. RAM13 may also store data necessary for the execution of application programs and the execution results of application programs.
[0063] NVM14 is a non-volatile memory that allows data to be written to and rewritten. For example, NVM14 can be composed of HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. NVM14 stores control programs, applications, and various data depending on the operational use of WES10.
[0064] The communication unit 15 is an interface for sending and receiving data with WMS2 and other devices. For example, the communication unit 15 supports wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) connections.
[0065] The control unit 16 receives various operation inputs from the operator. The control unit 16 transmits a signal indicating the input operation to the processor 11. For example, the control unit 16 is composed of a mouse, keyboard, or touch panel.
[0066] The display unit 17 displays image data from the processor 11. For example, the display unit 17 is composed of a liquid crystal monitor. If the operation unit 16 is composed of a touch panel, the display unit 17 may be formed integrally with the touch panel of the operation unit 16.
[0067] The first equipment interface 18 (first interface, second interface) is an interface for sending and receiving data with the A Company's shelf transport system 20. The first equipment interface 18 connects to the A Company's shelf transport system 20 via a network or the like. For example, the first equipment interface 18 supports wired or wireless LAN connections.
[0068] The second equipment interface 19 (the first interface and the second interface) is an interface for sending and receiving data with the B Company shelf transport system 30. The second equipment interface 19 connects to the B Company shelf transport system 30 via a network or the like. For example, the second equipment interface 19 supports wired or wireless LAN connections.
[0069] The third equipment interface 111 (the first interface and the second interface) is an interface for sending and receiving data with the C Company conveyor 40. The third equipment interface 111 connects to the C Company conveyor 40 via a network or the like. For example, the third equipment interface 111 supports wired or wireless LAN connections.
[0070] The fourth equipment interface 112 (the first interface and the second interface) is an interface for sending and receiving data with the D Company loading machine 50. The fourth equipment interface 112 connects to the D Company loading machine 50 via a network or the like. For example, the fourth equipment interface 112 supports wired or wireless LAN connections.
[0071] The communication unit 15, the first equipment interface 18, the second equipment interface 19, the third equipment interface 111, and the fourth equipment interface 112 (or parts thereof) may be configured as a single unit.
[0072] Next, we will explain the functions that WES10 provides. The functions that WES10 provides are achieved when the processor 11 executes a program stored in ROM 12 or NVM 14, etc.
[0073] First, the processor 11 has the function of controlling the A Company shelf transport system 20, the B Company shelf transport system 30, the C Company conveyor 40, and the D Company loading machine 50 based on an inbound or outbound order from the WMS2.
[0074] When processor 11 receives an incoming order or an outgoing order, it transmits the incoming order or outgoing order to the A-company shelf transport system 20 or the B-company shelf transport system 30, etc. Processor 11 may also process the incoming order or outgoing order before transmitting it.
[0075] Furthermore, the processor 11 drives the C company's conveyor 40 and the D company's loading machine 50 based on an incoming order or an outgoing order.
[0076] When an inbound or outbound order is processed, the processor 11 sends a notification regarding the processing of the inbound or outbound order (success or failure, processing completion date and time, operator information, item identification information, etc.) to the WMS2 via the communication unit 15.
[0077] Furthermore, the processor 11 has the function of acquiring equipment information from each piece of logistics equipment. For example, the processor 11 sends a request for equipment information to the A Company's shelf transport system 20 at a predetermined timing via the first equipment interface 18. The processor 11 obtains the equipment information from the A Company's shelf transport system 20 as a response to the request via the first equipment interface 18.
[0078] Furthermore, the processor 11 may acquire equipment information from the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A via push notifications through the first equipment interface 18.
[0079] Furthermore, the processor 11 may acquire equipment information from the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A using a queuing function.
[0080] Upon acquiring equipment information, the processor 11 converts the format of the equipment information to a predetermined format (common format). That is, the processor 11 converts the equipment information from format A1 to the common format. The processor 11 stores the equipment information converted to the common format in the NVM 14.
[0081] The processor 11 may also assign an ID to the A Company shelf transport system 20 for identifying the logistics equipment. For example, the processor 11 may assign the ID of the A Company shelf transport system 20 to the equipment information from the A Company shelf transport system 20 and manage it accordingly.
[0082] Similarly, the processor 11 acquires equipment information from the B Company shelf transport system 30, the C Company conveyor 40, and the D Company loading machine 50, respectively, through the second equipment interface 19, the third equipment interface 111, and the fourth equipment interface 112. The processor 11 converts the information of each piece of equipment into a common format and stores it in the NVM 14.
[0083] Furthermore, the processor 11 may acquire inventory information from either the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A or the shelf transport system 30 manufactured by Company B.
[0084] Furthermore, the processor 11 has a function to display equipment information on the display unit 17. The processor 11 displays equipment information or information obtained by processing equipment information on the display unit 17.
[0085] Figure 4 shows an example of items that the processor 11 displays based on equipment information. As shown in Figure 4, the processor 11 displays items such as "equipment status," "work status," "equipment utilization rate," "order processing rate," "performance evaluation," "shelf / DAS utilization status," and "frontage availability information."
[0086] "Equipment Status" indicates the status of each piece of logistics equipment. For example, "Equipment Status" indicates the status of each AGV7, the status of the A-company shelf conveying system 20, the status of the B-company shelf conveying system 30, the C-company conveyor 40, and the D-company loader 50.
[0087] The "work status" indicates the progress of an incoming or outgoing order. For example, the "work status" may indicate unprocessed incoming or outgoing orders, incoming or outgoing orders being processed, processed incoming or outgoing orders, and incoming or outgoing orders that failed to process. The "work status" may also include the date and time when the processing of the incoming or outgoing order was completed. For example, the processor 11 determines the progress of incoming and outgoing orders based on equipment information from the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A and the shelf transport system 30 manufactured by Company B.
[0088] "Equipment utilization rate" indicates the utilization rate of each piece of logistics equipment. For example, "equipment utilization rate" indicates the ratio of the number of AGV7 units in operation to the total number of AGV7 units. Alternatively, "equipment utilization rate" may show the utilization rate of AGV7 units provided by Company A and the utilization rate of AGV7 units provided by Company B separately. Furthermore, "equipment utilization rate" may indicate the ratio of the operating time of the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C or the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D to the operating time of the cargo handling system 1.
[0089] Furthermore, the processor 11 may estimate the surplus or shortage of each logistics facility, age-related deterioration, number of abnormalities, throughput of each logistics facility, etc., based on the utilization rate. The processor 11 may also include the estimated information as "facility utilization rate".
[0090] The "order processing rate" relates to the inbound and outbound orders processed at each station. For example, the "order processing rate" indicates the number of inbound and outbound orders processed at each station. Alternatively, the "order processing rate" may indicate the number of inbound and outbound orders processed per unit time at each station (throughput). Furthermore, the "order processing rate" may also indicate the time (lead time) from when WES10 receives an inbound or outbound order until the order is completed.
[0091] "Performance evaluation" refers to the performance of each piece of logistics equipment. For example, "performance evaluation" may show the waiting time for AGV rack 8 (waiting time at station P), work time (time taken for storage or picking at station P), or hit rate (number of items stored or picked simultaneously by AGV rack 8, or the number of different types of items).
[0092] "Shelf / DAS Usage Status" indicates the status of goods stored in AGV shelves 8 and DAS 3. For example, "Shelf / DAS Usage Status" shows which location or type of opening 5 or case 4 is being used. "Shelf / DAS Usage Status" may also show the most recent status, or it may show the statistical frequency of use of the location or type of opening 5 or case 4. "Shelf / DAS Usage Status" may also be based on inventory information.
[0093] "Frontage availability" indicates the availability of each of the five types of frontages. "Frontage availability" may also be based on inventory information. Note that the items displayed by processor 11 are not limited to a specific configuration.
[0094] For example, processor 11 accepts the selection of items to display by tapping or clicking on an icon or the like. Processor 11 may also accept the selection of more detailed items within the above items.
[0095] Upon receiving an item selection, the processor 11 displays the selected item on the display unit 17. The processor 11 may also display multiple items.
[0096] Next, we will describe another example of how the processor 11 displays equipment information. Figure 5 shows an example of a display screen (comparative analysis screen) shown by the processor 11. The comparative analysis screen is used to compare changes in the parameters of logistics equipment.
[0097] Here, the processor 11 displays a comparative analysis screen showing the changes in parameters over time in the same logistics facility. For example, the processor 11 inputs an operation to display a comparative analysis screen through the operation unit 16. Upon inputting this operation, the processor 11 inputs logistics equipment, parameters, and multiple time periods through the operation unit 16. After inputting the logistics equipment, parameters, and multiple time periods, the processor 11 displays a comparative analysis screen on the display unit 17 showing the changes in the parameters of the logistics equipment during each input time period.
[0098] In the example shown in Figure 5, the processor 11 is configured to use an AGV7 manufactured by Company A as the logistics equipment, throughput as the parameter, and the periods from 2022 / 1 / 1 to 2022 / 1 / 31 (first period) and from 2022 / 2 / 2 to 2022 / 2 / 28 (second period) as inputs.
[0099] As shown in Figure 5, the comparative analysis screen includes display areas 61a to 64a and display areas 61b to 64b. Display areas 61a and 61b display the target logistics equipment. In this case, display areas 61a and 61b display the AGV manufactured by Company A (AGV7 provided by Company A).
[0100] Display areas 62a and 62b display the target parameters. In this case, display areas 62a and 62b display throughput. Display areas 63a and 63b display the target period. Here, display area 63a displays the first period, and display area 63b displays the second period.
[0101] Display areas 64a and 64b display graphs showing the changes in parameters over the target period. The horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the parameter values. Display area 64a shows the changes in the parameter (in this case, throughput) over the first period. Display area 64b shows the changes in the parameter (in this case, throughput) over the second period.
[0102] The comparative analysis screen may also display changes in parameters of different logistics equipment over the same period. Alternatively, the comparative analysis screen may display changes in different parameters of the same logistics equipment over the same period. For example, the comparative analysis screen may display changes in the inbound throughput and outbound throughput of Company A's shelf transport system 20 over a predetermined period. The configuration of the comparative analysis screen is not limited to a specific configuration.
[0103] Next, we will describe yet another example in which the processor 11 displays equipment information. Figure 6 shows an example of a screen (overview screen) displayed by the processor 11. The overview screen is used to display the status of each piece of logistics equipment.
[0104] For example, the processor 11 receives input from the operation unit 16 to display an overview screen. Upon receiving this input, the processor 11 displays the overview screen on the display unit 17.
[0105] As shown in Figure 6, the overview screen displays window 70, and schematic diagrams 7P, 73, 74, 75, 77, 78, and 79, etc.
[0106] Window 70 displays the status of each piece of logistics equipment. For example, Window 70 displays the status of each AGV7, the C-company conveyor 40, and the D-company loading machine 50. The processor 11 also updates Window 70 as needed based on equipment information from each piece of logistics equipment.
[0107] Schematic diagram 7P is a schematic representation of Station P. Schematic diagram 7P shows the general appearance and location of Station P.
[0108] Schematic Figure 73 is a schematic diagram of DAS3. Schematic Figure 73 shows the general appearance and location of DAS3.
[0109] Schematic diagram 74 is a schematic representation of the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C. Schematic diagram 74 shows the general appearance and location of the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C. Furthermore, schematic diagram 74 may include arrows indicating the direction in which the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C transports goods.
[0110] Schematic diagram 75 is a schematic representation of the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D. Schematic diagram 75 shows the general appearance and location of the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D.
[0111] Schematic diagram 77 is a schematic representation of AGV7. Schematic diagram 77 shows the general appearance and location of AGV7. Alternatively, schematic diagram 77 may display the current location of AGV7 while it is in motion.
[0112] Schematic diagram 78 is a schematic representation of the AGV shelf 8. Schematic diagram 78 shows the general appearance and location of the AGV shelf 8. Schematic diagram 79 is a schematic representation of the charging station 9. Schematic diagram 79 shows the general appearance and location of the charging station 9. Furthermore, the configuration of the overhead view is not limited to a specific configuration.
[0113] Next, I will explain the overview screen that appears when an error occurs. The processor 11 determines that an error has occurred if the status of the equipment information indicates an abnormality (including sensor malfunctions). The processor 11 also determines that an error has occurred if predetermined conditions are met. For example, the processor 11 determines that an error has occurred if the period during which the C Company conveyor 40 does not transport goods exceeds a predetermined threshold.
[0114] Figure 7 shows an example of an overview screen when an error occurs. As shown in Figure 7, the overview screen displays window 70, icons 71 and 72, and schematic diagrams 7P, 73, 74, 75, 77, 78 and 79, etc.
[0115] Window 70, and schematic diagrams 7P, 73, 74, 75, 77, 78, and 79 are as described above. Icons 71 and 72 display the error details.
[0116] Here, icon 71 displays the error related to the conveyor belt 40 manufactured by Company C. Icon 71 refers to schematic diagram 74. In the example in Figure 7, icon 71 displays "No items for a certain period of time" as the error.
[0117] Icon 72 displays the error related to the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D. Icon 72 refers to schematic diagram 75. In the example in Figure 7, icon 72 displays "sensor malfunction" as the error. Note that the configuration of the overview screen in the event of an error is not limited to a specific configuration.
[0118] Next, we will describe an example of how the cargo handling system 1 stores status information. Figure 8 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of how the cargo handling system 1 stores status information.
[0119] First, logistics equipment such as the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A transmits equipment information, including its status, to WES10 (S11).
[0120] The WES10 processor 11 receives equipment information from each logistics piece of equipment through the first equipment interface 18, etc. Upon receiving the equipment information, the processor 11 stores the received equipment information in the NVM 14 (S12). The cargo handling system 1 repeats steps S11 and S12 at predetermined intervals.
[0121] Here, WMS2 (2A or 2B) sends an incoming order or outgoing order (order information) to WES10 (S13).
[0122] The WES10 processor 11 receives order information from the WMS2 via the communication unit 15. Upon receiving the order information, the processor 11 stores the received order information in the NVM 14 (S14). Once the received order information is stored, the processor 11 transmits the order information to logistics equipment such as the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A via the first equipment interface 18 or the like (S15). Here, the processor 11 may process the order information for each piece of logistics equipment before transmitting it.
[0123] Logistics equipment such as the shelf transport system 20 manufactured by Company A receives order information from WES10. Upon receiving the order information, the logistics equipment processes the incoming order or outgoing order according to the order information. After processing the incoming order or outgoing order, the logistics equipment transmits equipment information related to the processing of the incoming order or outgoing order to WES10 (S16).
[0124] The WES10 processor 11 receives equipment information from each logistics piece of equipment through the first equipment interface 18, etc. Upon receiving the equipment information, the processor 11 stores the received equipment information in the NVM 14 (S17).
[0125] Once the received equipment information is stored, the processor 11 sends a notification to the WMS2 via the communication unit 15 indicating the processing result of the incoming order or outgoing order (S18). WMS2 receives the notification. Upon receiving the notification, the cargo handling system 1 returns to S11.
[0126] Furthermore, the cargo handling system 1 may include a robot for storing or picking goods as part of its logistics equipment. In this case, the cargo handling system 1 may also display equipment information from the robot.
[0127] Furthermore, the WES10 processor 11 may propose the arrangement of logistics equipment and other related items based on equipment information according to a predetermined algorithm. For example, if the utilization rate of AGV7 is lower than a predetermined threshold (or if a predetermined period of time has elapsed while it remains at a low level), the processor 11 will suggest reducing the number of AGV7 units. Conversely, if the utilization rate of AGV7 is higher than a predetermined threshold (or if a predetermined period of time has elapsed while it remains at a high level), the processor 11 will suggest increasing the number of AGV7 units.
[0128] Furthermore, if the waiting time of the AGV rack 8 over a predetermined period exceeds a predetermined threshold, the processor 11 suggests increasing the number of stations P. Also, if the total time that stations P are not working over a predetermined period exceeds a predetermined threshold, the processor 11 suggests decreasing the number of stations P. The proposed content and algorithms of processor 11 are not limited to any particular configuration.
[0129] Furthermore, the processor 11 may estimate the true cause of an anomaly based on the status of each piece of equipment information. For example, the processor 11 might estimate a "sensor malfunction" in the loading machine 50 manufactured by Company D as the true cause of the status of the conveyor 40 manufactured by Company C being "no items for a certain period of time".
[0130] The cargo handling system configured as described above receives equipment information from logistics equipment supplied by different vendors. The cargo handling system integrates and displays information from multiple pieces of equipment. As a result, the cargo handling system can effectively present the status of each piece of logistics equipment to the operator.
[0131] Furthermore, the cargo handling system displays any abnormalities in the equipment information for the operator on a single screen. As a result, the cargo handling system can assist the operator in estimating the true cause of the abnormality.
[0132] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [Note 1] A first interface connected to a first logistics facility used to process inbound orders, which are supplied by a first vendor and used to store goods in a storage mechanism, or outbound orders, which are used to pick goods from the storage mechanism, A second interface connected to a second logistics facility supplied by a second vendor different from the first vendor and used to process the incoming order or the outgoing order, Through the first interface, first equipment information relating to the operation of the first logistics equipment is acquired. Convert the aforementioned first equipment information format into a common format, Through the second interface, second equipment information relating to the operation of the second logistics equipment is acquired. Convert the second equipment information format to the common format, The first equipment information and the second equipment information are displayed on a monitor. Processor and An information processing device equipped with the following features. [Note 2] The processor displays the status of the first logistics equipment and the status of the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing device described in Appendix 1. [Note 3] The processor displays the operating rate of the first logistics equipment and the operating rate of the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing device described in Appendix 1. [Note 4] The processor displays the throughput of the first logistics equipment and the throughput of the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing device described in Appendix 3. [Note 5] The processor displays the performance evaluation of the first logistics equipment and the performance evaluation of the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing device described in Appendix 1. [Note 6] The processor displays changes in the parameters of the first logistics equipment or the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing device described in Appendix 1. [Note 7] The processor displays on the monitor the changes in the parameters of the first logistics equipment during a first period and a second period different from the first period. The information processing device described in Appendix 6. [Note 8] The aforementioned parameter is throughput. The information processing device described in Appendix 7. [Note 9] The processor displays a schematic diagram and status of the first logistics equipment and a schematic diagram and status of the second logistics equipment on the monitor. The information processing device described in Appendix 1. [Note 10] The first equipment information described above relates to the processing of the receiving order or the shipping order, The information processing device described in Appendix 1. [Note 11] The processor displays the progress of the incoming order or outgoing order on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing device described in Appendix 10. [Note 12] The storage mechanism stores or picks items at one of the stations. The information processing device according to Appendix 10, wherein the processor displays on the monitor information regarding the processing of incoming or outgoing orders for each station based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. [Note 13] The first logistics equipment is a system that controls an automated guided vehicle that transports the storage mechanism. An information processing device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 12. [Note 14] The first logistics equipment is a conveyor for transporting the aforementioned goods. An information processing device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 12. [Note 15] The first piece of logistics equipment is a loading machine used for loading or unloading goods. An information processing device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 12. [Note 16] An information processing method performed by a processor, First equipment information relating to the operation of first logistics equipment used to process inbound orders for goods supplied by a first vendor and stored in a storage mechanism, or outbound orders for picking the goods from the storage mechanism, Convert the aforementioned first equipment information format into a common format, Acquire second equipment information relating to the operation of a second logistics facility supplied by a second vendor different from the first vendor and connected to a second logistics facility used to process the incoming order or the outgoing order, Convert the second equipment information format to the common format, The first equipment information and the second equipment information are displayed on a monitor. Information processing methods. [Note 17] A program executed by a processor, The aforementioned processor, A function to acquire first equipment information relating to the operation of first logistics equipment used to process inbound orders for goods supplied by a first vendor and stored in a storage mechanism, or outbound orders for picking the goods from the storage mechanism, A function to convert the aforementioned first equipment information format into a common format, A function to acquire second equipment information relating to the operation of a second logistics facility supplied by a second vendor different from the first vendor and connected to a second logistics facility used to process the incoming order or outgoing order, A function to convert the second equipment information format to the common format, A function to display the first equipment information and the second equipment information on a monitor, A program that executes the command. [Explanation of symbols]
[0133] 1...Cargo handling system, 2...WMS, 2A...WMS, 2B...WMS, 3...DAS, 4...Case, 5...Opening, 7...AGV, 7P...Schematic diagram, 8...AGV shelf, 9...Charging station, 10...WES, 11...Processor, 12...ROM, 13...RAM, 14...NVM, 15...Communication unit, 16...Operation unit, 17...Display unit, 18...First equipment interface, 19...Second equipment interface, 20...Shelf transport system manufactured by Company A, 30...Shelf transport system manufactured by Company B, 40...Company C 50...Conveyor manufactured by Company D, 61a...Display area, 61b...Display area, 62a...Display area, 62b...Display area, 63a...Display area, 63b...Display area, 64a...Display area, 64b...Display area, 70...Window, 71...Icon, 72...Icon, 73...Schematic diagram, 74...Schematic diagram, 75...Schematic diagram, 77...Schematic diagram, 78...Schematic diagram, 79...Schematic diagram, 100...Cargo handling system, 111...Third equipment interface, 112...Fourth equipment interface.
Claims
1. A first interface connected to a first logistics facility used to process inbound orders for goods supplied by a first vendor and stored in a storage mechanism, or outbound orders for picking the goods from the storage mechanism, A second interface connected to a second logistics facility supplied by a second vendor different from the first vendor and used to process the incoming order or outgoing order, Through the first interface, first equipment information relating to the operation of the first logistics equipment is acquired. Convert the format of the first equipment information described above into a common format, Through the second interface, second equipment information relating to the operation of the second logistics equipment is acquired. Convert the second equipment information format to the common format, The first equipment information and the second equipment information are displayed on a monitor. Processor and Equipped with, The processor displays the changes in the parameters of the first logistics equipment or the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. Furthermore, the processor displays on the monitor the changes in the parameters of the first logistics equipment during the first period and a second period different from the first period. Information processing device.
2. The processor displays the status of the first logistics equipment and the status of the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.
3. The processor displays the operating rate of the first logistics equipment and the operating rate of the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.
4. The processor displays the throughput of the first logistics equipment and the throughput of the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.
5. The processor displays the performance evaluation of the first logistics equipment and the performance evaluation of the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.
6. The aforementioned parameter is throughput. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.
7. The processor displays a schematic diagram and status of the first logistics equipment and a schematic diagram and status of the second logistics equipment on the monitor. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.
8. The first equipment information relates to the processing of the receiving order or the shipping order. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.
9. The processor displays the progress of the incoming order or outgoing order on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8.
10. The storage mechanism stores or picks items at one of the stations. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the processor displays on the monitor information relating to the processing of incoming orders or outgoing orders for each station based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information.
11. The first logistics equipment is a system that controls an automated guided vehicle that transports the storage mechanism. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.
12. The first logistics equipment is a conveyor for transporting the aforementioned goods. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.
13. The first piece of logistics equipment is a loading machine used for loading or unloading goods. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.
14. An information processing method performed by a processor, First equipment information relating to the operation of first logistics equipment used to process inbound orders for goods supplied by a first vendor and stored in a storage mechanism, or outbound orders for picking the goods from the storage mechanism, Convert the format of the first equipment information described above into a common format, Acquire second equipment information relating to the operation of a second logistics facility supplied by a second vendor different from the first vendor and connected to a second logistics facility used to process the incoming order or the outgoing order, Convert the second equipment information format to the common format, The first equipment information and the second equipment information are displayed on the monitor. Displaying on the aforementioned monitor is, This includes displaying changes in the parameters of the first logistics equipment or the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information, Furthermore, the system includes displaying on the monitor the changes in the parameters of the first logistics equipment during the first period and a second period different from the first period. Information processing methods.
15. A program executed by a processor, The aforementioned processor, A function to acquire first equipment information relating to the operation of first logistics equipment used to process inbound orders for goods supplied by a first vendor and stored in a storage mechanism, or outbound orders for picking the goods from the storage mechanism, A function to convert the above-mentioned first equipment information format into a common format, A function to acquire second equipment information relating to the operation of a second logistics facility supplied by a second vendor different from the first vendor and connected to a second logistics facility used to process the incoming order or outgoing order, A function to convert the second equipment information format to the common format, A function to display the first equipment information and the second equipment information on a monitor, Make it run, The functions displayed on the aforementioned monitor are: A function to display changes in the parameters of the first logistics equipment or the second logistics equipment on the monitor based on the first equipment information and the second equipment information, Furthermore, the system includes a function to display on the monitor the changes in the parameters of the first logistics equipment during a first period and a second period different from the first period. program.