Work planning methods, work planning systems, and programs

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a work planning method, a work planning system, and a program for achieving an operation in which a work area of a forklift is limited and human intervention is minimized in work of lifting up and down an article from a storage rack and work of transporting the article. [Solution] Provided is a work planning method for creating a picking work plan on the basis of delivery information, the work planning method comprising: a step of determining an article to be loaded onto an AGV and creating an article list; a step of identifying a storage rack corresponding to the article in the article list; a step of assigning a forklift to the article on the basis of information relating to the identified storage rack; and a step of creating a work plan including article information, a work time, and a work place for each forklift and each AGV.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology effective for supporting goods conveyance operations in commercial warehouses and the like.

Background Art

[0002] In commercial warehouses, forklifts are used for goods storage and retrieval operations. In particular, forklifts are used for operations of storing goods on racks installed in the warehouse in pallet units, and for taking out the goods and conveying them to a shipping location. Regarding the operation of forklifts, from the viewpoint of work safety, it is necessary to prevent collision accidents between vehicles and workers. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a moving body detection system that improves warning reliability by selectively detecting the approach of a worker or a forklift according to their positional relationship. This technology only issues warnings according to the positional relationship of the worker or the forklift, and does not change the travel route of the forklift. Meanwhile, Patent Document 2 discloses a work planning system that optimizes the entirety of operations corresponding to shipping orders, including the assignment of operations to a wide variety of resources.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In consideration of worker safety, it is conceivable to convey goods by AGV. However, forklifts have to be used for loading and unloading operations onto and from storage racks. The technology of Patent Document 2 optimizes the entire warehouse work plan, but does not mention the work plan for forklifts.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a work planning method, work planning system, and program that limit the working area of ​​a forklift and enable operations that minimize human intervention in the lifting and lowering of goods from storage shelves and the transportation of said goods. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention is a work planning method for creating a picking work plan based on shipping information, Based on the aforementioned shipping information, The steps include determining the products to be loaded onto the AGV and creating a product list, and identifying the storage shelves corresponding to the products on the product list. The steps include: creating a travel route for the AGV to transport the goods based on the identified storage shelf information; and calculating the estimated arrival time of the AGV at the storage shelf based on the AGV's travel route, the AGV's travel speed, and the worker information of the worker picking the goods. Information of the identified storage shelf , and based on the estimated arrival time of the AGV, the goods are raised and lowered from the storage shelves. forklift by work location The steps to assign, The steps include determining the start time for unloading the forklift so that the unloading of the goods is completed at the time of arrival of the AGV, based on the estimated arrival time of the AGV, and assigning the AGV to each of the goods based on the unloading start time, the estimated arrival time, and the work location. For each forklift and each AGV, product information, work time, and The present invention provides a work planning method comprising the step of creating a work plan that includes the work location.

[0007] According to the present invention, since the operation involves a forklift loading and unloading goods and an AGV transporting the goods, picking operations can be performed without requiring the forklift to transport the goods. Therefore, the movement area of ​​the forklift is restricted, and operations can be carried out in a way that reduces unsafe situations where workers come into contact with the forklift.

[0008] Although this invention falls under the category of methods, systems and programs can also achieve similar actions and effects specific to their respective categories. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the working area of ​​the forklift can be limited, and operations that minimize human intervention in the process of picking and transporting goods from storage shelves can be realized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates the overview of the work planning system 1, with (1a) being an overview of the entire system and (1b) being a diagram showing the computer component. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the instruction configuration of work planning system 1. [Figure 3] This diagram shows a flowchart of the planning instruction process executed by the work planning system 1. [Figure 4] This diagram shows a flowchart of the picking work plan executed by the work planning system 1. [Figure 5] This figure shows examples of inventory and resource information stored in the WMS and work planning system, respectively. [Figure 6] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the workspace in a warehouse according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates a picking operation according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This diagram schematically shows the content of the work instructions given to each resource according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is an example of a picking work plan according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram schematically showing the work instructions given to each resource. [Figure 10] This figure shows a flowchart of a picking work plan according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is an example of a picking work plan according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram schematically showing the work instructions given to each resource. [Figure 12] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the warehouse workspace in a third embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the subsequent drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same numbers or reference numerals throughout the entire description of the embodiments.

[0012] [Overview of Work Planning System 1] FIG. 1a is a block diagram illustrating an overview of the work planning system 1, and FIG. 1b is a diagram illustrating a computer 10. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an overview of the work planning system 1. FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a work area of a warehouse, and FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating warehouse operations. The components of the work planning system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 6. The work planning system 1 is a system that plans operations such as picking in accordance with shipping information, and includes a computer 10. This computer 10 includes, for example, a processor 11, a reception unit 12 that cooperates with a communication unit 14 via data communication to receive data, an output unit 13 that outputs signals, data and the like, the communication unit 14, and a recording unit 15 that stores resource information and the like. The system may be implemented by a single computer, or may be implemented by a plurality of computers such as a cloud computer. The cloud computer in the present specification may be any of those that use any computer in a scalable manner when performing a specific function, or those that include a plurality of functional modules to implement a certain system and allow the functions to be freely combined for use.

[0013] This computer 10 executes each process performed by the work planning system 1. The computer 10 includes, as the recording unit 15, a data storage unit using a hard disk, a semiconductor memory, a recording medium, a memory card, or the like. The computer 10 includes, as the processor 11, various devices that execute various processes. The computer 10 is connected to a WMS (Warehouse Management System) 2 and resource control devices (4, 5, 7) via a network 8.

[0014] WMS2 is a system that provides functions such as general warehouse receiving and shipping management and inventory management.

[0015] The resources consist of 41 forklifts, 51 AGVs (Automatic Guided Vehicles), and 6 workers. Furthermore, the work planning system 1 may be connected to other resources. These other resources include, for example, loading equipment such as a container loading / unloading system, sorting equipment such as an arm robot, conveyor or sorter, storage equipment such as an automated warehouse, and shipping equipment such as a digital picking system or an automated box-making machine. In this embodiment, the work planning system 1 controls, in particular, a forklift 4, an AGV 5, and a worker 6 (worker terminal 7).

[0016] Forklift 41 is responsible for storing goods in storage shelf C or retrieving goods from storage shelf C. Forklift 41 may be either a manned or unmanned forklift. In the case of an unmanned forklift, it may be an autonomously controlled type, a remotely controlled type, or any other type of control.

[0017] AGV5 is an automated guided vehicle that transports products retrieved from storage shelf C. AGV5 is an automated guided vehicle that, for example, transports goods taken from storage shelves by a forklift 41 to a designated location (berth U).

[0018] There may be multiple forklifts 4 and AGVs 5, and there is no limit to their number.

[0019] The worker terminal 7 is a terminal device such as a mobile phone, smartphone, or tablet that is carried by the worker 6 performing the picking work.

[0020] Worker 6, based on instructions for transshipment from computer 10 (described later), picks a predetermined number of items taken out by forklift 4 and places them on AGV 5, and affixes identification code labels printed from the worker terminal to the items.

[0021] [Device configuration] As shown in Figure 1, the work planning system 1 is a system that plans the picking work of goods based on the shipping information of the shipping order, and is connected to at least the WMS2, forklift control device 4, AGV control device, and worker terminal 7 via a network 8 such as a public telephone network or intranet, enabling data communication. Please note that the components of the work planning system 1 are merely an example, and the number, types, and functions of terminals, devices, and other automated guided vehicles not shown in the diagram can be changed as appropriate.

[0022] The computer 10 includes a processor 11 comprising a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc., and a communication unit 14 comprising a device for communicating with other terminals and devices, as well as an output unit for outputting work instructions.

[0023] The worker terminal 7 is a terminal device such as a mobile phone, smartphone, or tablet held by the worker 6 performing the product transfer work. The worker terminal 7 includes a terminal control unit with a CPU, GPU, RAM, ROM, etc., a communication unit with devices that enable communication with other terminals and devices, and an input / output unit with devices that input and output various types of data. The types and functions of the worker terminals 7 are not limited to the examples described above.

[0024] As shown in Figure 6, the storage area S has multiple rows of numerous storage shelves C, each containing goods scheduled for shipment. Each storage shelf C is uniquely assigned location information within the storage area S, and is also uniquely assigned information regarding its frontage. In the inventory information held by WMS2, each product is linked to the identification code and frontage information of the storage shelf C, and when an instruction to ship any product is received, the location information of the storage shelf is automatically determined.

[0025] When WMS2 receives a shipping order, it picks the specified product G1 from storage area S based on the shipping information (e.g., product information, shipping address, delivery date (time), and tracking number). One or more forklifts 41a, 41b, etc. are located in the storage area S. The forklifts 41a, 41b, etc. are resources that are solely responsible for lifting and lowering goods in the storage area S, and may be manned or unmanned. If they are unmanned forklifts, they may be program-controlled, autonomously controlled, remotely operated, etc. In this invention, if unmanned forklifts are used, workers guided from other work areas perform the picking work. If manned forklifts are used, the forklift operators may be responsible for the picking work. Forklifts 41a, 41b, etc., perform the operation of retrieving pallets stacked with goods from storage shelves C where designated goods are stored.

[0026] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the picking operation according to this embodiment. In Figure 7(a1), the first forklift 41a unloads the first product G1. The unloading completion time is planned in advance, and the AGV 51a arrives at the scheduled time. Worker 6a, who is the operator of the first forklift 41a, picks a predetermined number of first product G1 from the group of products unloaded by the first forklift and places them on the platform of the AGV 51a, following the instructions displayed on his own terminal. He then prints a label from his portable terminal (not shown) and attaches it to the product G1, and presses the work completion button (not shown) on the terminal screen. This completes the picking of the first product G1. After picking the first item G1 is complete, AGV51a begins moving to storage shelf C for the next item to be picked. At approximately the same time, as shown in Figure 7(a2), the second forklift 41b retrieves the second product G2 from storage shelf C2 for the second product G2. Meanwhile, as shown in Figure 7(b1), the first forklift 41a stores the pallet of goods that was previously removed back into the original storage shelf C1.

[0027] AGV51a moves to storage shelf C2, which holds the second item to be picked. As shown in Figure 7(b2), AGV 51a arrives at the same time that the second forklift 41b picks up the goods and pallet. Worker 6b, who is the operator of the second forklift 41b, picks the second goods G2 and places them on the platform of the arriving AGV 51a. Following the work instructions, once the predetermined number of goods have been placed on AGV 51a, the worker prints a label from a portable terminal (not shown) and attaches it to the goods G2, and presses the work completion button (not shown) on the terminal screen. This completes the picking of the second goods G2. From this point onward, the same tasks and operations will be performed until the picking operation, for which AGV51a is responsible for collection, is completed.

[0028] Once AGV51a has completed picking all the scheduled items, it transports the picked items from storage area S to the next area, for example, shipping berth U (see Figure 6).

[0029] Thus, the operation of the forklift 41 is largely limited to lifting and lowering pallets, and lateral movement is limited to only a short distance. Since the collected goods are transported by the AGV 51, the work area of ​​the forklift 41 is limited to the storage area, reducing opportunities for contact with workers and enabling safer warehouse operations. The AGV51 offers more agile and smoother operation compared to forklifts, and its superior emergency stop function allows AGVs to handle the transport of goods (lateral movement), significantly improving warehouse safety. Furthermore, if the amount of goods to be picked exceeds the amount that can be loaded onto one AGV51, multiple AGV51s, not just AGV51a, will move to storage shelf C, and the picked goods will be loaded onto each AGV51. In other words, during the planning stage of the work, the amount of goods that can fit on one AGV51 is estimated, but when goods are actually loaded, there may be cases where they cannot all fit on one AGV due to the shape of the packages or other circumstances. In such cases, the worker will issue instructions from a terminal, assign an available AGV51, and transport the goods using multiple AGV51s. Of course, it is also acceptable to assign multiple AGV51s from the beginning and use a relay method in which a second AGV51 is guided to the necessary location when the first AGV51a is unable to accommodate all the goods.

[0030] The outline of the processing steps when the work planning system 1 manages the transshipment of goods will be explained with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Computer 10 obtains shipping information (shipping order) (step S0). Shipping information is information about products shipped from the warehouse, and includes, for example, product identifiers (name, type, management ID, etc.), quantity, shipping date and time, storage location identifiers (storage shelf management number, etc.), and destination store identifiers (store code, store name, etc.) (see Figure 5). Computer 10 obtains this shipping information from WMS2.

[0031] Computer 10 creates a work plan schedule for the resources. (Step S1) The resources are the forklift 41, AGV 51, and worker 6 (worker terminal 7) mentioned above.

[0032] Computer 10 outputs picking work instructions to the control devices (including worker terminals) for each resource (step S2). The computer outputs the work plan schedule created in step S1 to the forklift (FL) control unit 4, the AGV control unit 5, and the worker control unit 7. The forklift (FL) control unit 4 outputs work instructions to the forklift 41. The AGV control unit 5 outputs work instructions to the AGV 51. The worker control unit 7 outputs work instructions to the worker terminal 71. After work begins, the FL control unit 4, AGV control unit 5, and worker control unit 7 each acquire the performance data for their respective resources and transmit it to the work planning system 1 (step S3). Specifically, the FL control unit 4 acquires performance data from each forklift 41, the AGV control unit 5 acquires performance data from each AGV 51, and the worker control unit 7 acquires performance data from each worker terminal 7, etc. The computer 10 receives data from each of the FL control unit 4, AGV control unit 5, and worker control unit 7 and acquires the respective performance data. If there is a discrepancy in the work progress, the subsequent work plan is revised and the work plan schedule is output again to the FL control unit 4, AGV control unit 5, and worker control unit 7. After acquiring all the actual data for the picking work scheduled for shipment on the same day, computer 10 will shut down.

[0033] The outline of the processing steps when the work planning system 1 creates a picking work plan in step S1 will be explained with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

[0034] Computer 10 sorts the goods according to their shipping destination (delivery destination) (step S11). Computer 10 extracts shipping information from the shipping order and sets the order in which to pick the items by working backward from the shipping time. If there are multiple destinations for the items, the berth area U may be divided, so a product list in picking order is created to consolidate items for the same destination and allow for simultaneous picking.

[0035] Computer 10 calculates the amount of goods to be loaded onto one AGV and determines the transport unit (step S12). Computer 10 extracts items that can be loaded onto one AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) based on the picking order of the product list, resource information stored in memory, and product information stored in the WMS (product ID, storage unit (case, loose, etc.), weight, volume data, arrival date, and consignor information), and creates a product list for each picking unit. The resource information includes forklift information, AGV information, and worker information (see Figure 5). This determines the list of items to be picked for each AGV.

[0036] Computer 10 identifies the storage shelf for the target product and creates a travel route for the AGV (step S13). Computer 10 creates an AGV travel route based on the product list for each picking unit, using storage shelf information (location information, frontage information, storage information, spatial access information, etc.) from the product data stored in the WMS. The picking route should ideally follow the shortest route (distance), but it should be optimized to avoid interference with other resources.

[0037] Computer 10 estimates the number of forklifts required for the unloading operation (step S14). Computer 10 calculates the estimated time of arrival at the storage shelves based on the AGV's travel route, AGV's travel speed, and worker information. It also estimates which work area each forklift will work at and for how long, and calculates how many forklifts will be needed.

[0038] Computer 10 creates a forklift allocation plan (step S15). Computer 10 determines the optimal time to retrieve each item from the storage shelf and assigns a forklift capable of retrieving the item at each time. In other words, computer 10 assigns a forklift to each item (storage shelf) to be picked. At this time, it is best to plan in a way that minimizes the total distance traveled by the forklifts (the sum of the distances traveled by all forklifts).

[0039] Computer 10 calculates the start time for the unloading operation using the forklift (step S16). Here, computer 10 calculates the start time of the work so that the unloading of goods is completed at the time of the AGV's arrival.

[0040] Computer 10 stores the product list, picking time, and location information (step S17). Computer 10 stores the product list for each picking operation to be performed by one AGV, as planned in the above process, along with the picking time and location for each product.

[0041] Computer 10 assigns AGVs, determines and creates a movement plan (step S18). Computer 10 assigns an AGV to perform each picking task and instructs it on the movement plan.

[0042] Figure 8 schematically shows the work instruction status given to each resource. In this figure, the horizontal axis represents time (duration). For example, anticipating the time t1 when AGV 51a will arrive at storage shelf C1, forklift 41a will begin unloading. Worker 6a, who is the forklift operator, picks the goods according to the work instructions received on his terminal (71a) and places them on AGV 51a.

[0043] AGV51a then moves to storage shelf C2. Forklift 41b arrives at storage shelf C2 before AGV51a arrives at time t2 and begins unloading. Unloading at time t2 Once that is complete and AGV51a arrives, the forklift 41b operator, acting as worker 6b, picks the designated goods and loads them onto AGV51a according to the work instructions received on their terminal. After picking is complete, the pilot stores the remaining items in storage shelf C2.

[0044] Meanwhile, AGV51a moves to storage shelf C3. Forklift 41c begins unloading from storage shelf C3 before AGV51a arrives, so that it is ready for picking at time t3 when AGV51a arrives. The operator of forklift 41c, acting as worker 6c, picks the designated items according to the work instructions received on their terminal. Once picking is complete, AGV51a transports the picked items to the loading dock. Forklift 41c stores any remaining items that were not picked in the storage shelf. When AGV51a arrives at berth U, the transport completion flag is raised automatically or manually, and processor 11 receives this. This completes all planning for picking and transporting the goods to be shipped. Here, we have described the work performed by one AGV, but similar tasks will be carried out in parallel. Work planning system 1 plans the operations of forklifts and AGVs to ensure that picking of all goods is completed based on shipping information.

[0045] The above is an overview of the work planning system 1. According to this work planning system 1, the scope of forklift use in picking operations can be limited to the storage area, specializing in the function of lifting and lowering goods, and it is possible to distinguish between the work area / traffic area for people and the work area for forklifts.

[0046] Figure 9 illustrates an example of a work plan when using an unmanned forklift, schematically showing the work instruction status given to each resource. In this figure, the horizontal axis represents time (duration). Forklifts 41a, 41b, 41c, and 41d will each perform unloading operations from their designated shelves at their respective assigned times. Forklift 41a is assigned to storage shelf C11, forklift 41b to storage shelf C23, and forklift 41c to storage shelf C32. Forklift 41d starts later than the other forklifts and begins unloading from storage shelf C33.

[0047] AGVs 51a, 51b, and 51c each move to their respective locations and pick the goods. In this embodiment, workers 6a, 6b, and 6c are assigned picking tasks and are not forklift operators. That is, location information of the storage shelf, time information, and product information (product ID, storage unit, quantity, etc.) are output to the worker terminals held by workers 6a, 6b, and 6c. Workers 6a, 6b, and 6c pick a predetermined number of products from the group of products unloaded by the forklift according to their assigned tasks and load them onto the designated AGVs 51a, 51b, and 51c. They also print identification labels from their worker terminals, attach them to the picked products, and press the work completion button on their worker terminals. In this embodiment, the storage shelves assigned to each worker are generally located close to each other. Specifically, worker 6a is responsible for the upper area of ​​the storage area S on the paper, and performs picking operations in the order of storage shelves C11, C12, and C13. The unmanned forklift that unloads the goods is 41a, but the AGVs that load the goods change in the order of AGV51a → AGV51c → AGV51b, and each one is different. This minimizes the amount of movement for worker 6a, but the system is not limited to this configuration.

[0048] Each of the AGVs 51a, 51b, and 51c will pick all the items and then transport them to berth U according to instructions. When AGVs 51a, 51b, and 51c arrive at berth U, the transport completion flag is raised automatically or manually, and all planning for picking and transporting the goods is completed.

[0049] As described above, even when using unmanned forklifts, it is possible to create a work plan that allows for forklifts, AGVs, and workers to start picking in coordination by assigning workers according to the picking start time.

[0050] Figures 10 to 12 illustrate yet another example of a work plan. In this embodiment, an example of an unmanned forklift is used, but a manned forklift may also be used. This embodiment, as shown in Figure 12, is an example in which a picking area is separated and provided within a section of the storage area S. The work area P is where picking operations are performed and is a different area from the loading dock.

[0051] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the picking work plan executed by the work planning system 1. Computer 10 sorts the goods according to their destination (step S31). The number of items that can be loaded onto one AGV is estimated, and the unit of goods that the AGV will transport in one trip (picking unit) is determined (step S32). Determine the picking order for the products and the allocation order for storage shelf C (Step S33). Assign a forklift 41 to unload the goods from storage shelf C (product) (step S34). Calculate the time it takes for forklift 41 to move from unloading to the picking area P (step S35). The start time for unloading the goods by forklift 41 is calculated, taking into account the time it takes for AGV 51 to complete picking and transport the goods to berth S (step S36). A work plan is determined and created in which all items are picked, and the item list and picking time and location information are stored (Step S37). Assign AGV51 and create a movement plan (step S38).

[0052] Figure 11 schematically shows the work instruction status given to each resource. In this figure, the horizontal axis represents time (duration). For forklifts 41a to 41d, the time for unloading and moving to the work area is taken into account as a pre-process of the picking operation, and the time for moving from the work area to the original storage shelf C and storing the goods is taken into account as a post-process of the picking operation. After that, they move to the next storage shelf, retrieve the specified goods, and move back to the work area. Since the AGV to be worked on differs for each product, a waiting area is set up in detail for each AGV, and the forklift will transport the goods to the target AGV. For example, in this example, forklift 41a will be assigned to AGV 51a, AGV 51b, and AGV 51c, all of which are different AGV 51s.

[0053] In this example, two workers, 6a and 6b, who are not the forklift operator, handle the picking operation. However, if it is a manned forklift, the operator may also perform the operation. Within the work area P, once the forklift 41 has transported the goods and lowered its lift to a working-ready state, the workers take a predetermined number of target items from the pallet held by the forklift and place them on the platform of the AGV 51. The picking operation is completed when the workers finish the predetermined actions, such as printing labels from their terminals and attaching them to the items.

[0054] The means and functions described above are realized by a computer (including the CPU, information processing unit, and various terminals) reading and executing a predetermined program. The program may be provided, for example, via a network from the computer (SaaS: Software as a Service) or as a cloud service. Alternatively, the program may be provided in a form recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. In this case, the computer reads the program from the recording medium, transfers it to an internal or external recording device, records it, and executes it. Alternatively, the program may be pre-recorded on a recording device (recording medium) and provided to the computer from that recording device via a communication line.

[0055] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Furthermore, the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are merely a list of the most preferred effects arising from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0056] According to the present invention, the operation of a forklift can be specialized to the function of lifting and lowering goods, and picked goods can be quickly transported to the shipping area (berth).

[0057] Embodiments of the present invention are briefly described below. (1) A work planning method for creating a picking work plan based on shipping information, The steps include determining the products to be loaded onto the AGV and creating a product list, The steps include identifying the storage shelf corresponding to the product in the aforementioned product list, The steps include assigning a forklift to the product based on the information of the identified storage shelf, A work planning method comprising the step of creating a work plan for each forklift and AGV, including product information, work time, and work location.

[0058] (2) The work area is near the storage shelf where the product in question is stored, The AGV further comprises a step of calculating the estimated time of arrival at each storage shelf, The work planning method described in (1) for creating a work plan for a forklift based on the estimated arrival time.

[0059] (3) A step of creating a movement plan to move to the storage shelf identified by the AGV, The work planning method according to (1), further comprising the step of transmitting the aforementioned movement plan to an AGV control unit.

[0060] (4) The work planning method according to (1), further comprising the step of assigning a worker to pick up the goods taken out by the forklift to the AGV.

[0061] (5) A work planning system comprising a reception unit that receives shipping information, Based on the aforementioned shipping information, Work plan for unloading goods using forklifts in the warehouse storage area, A plan for the movement of the AGV to arrive when the forklift completes its work, A work plan for loading the target product onto the aforementioned AGV, A processor to create, A work planning system comprising: an output unit that transmits at least one of the unloading work plan, the movement plan, and the loading work plan to all or at least one of the forklift control unit, AGV control unit, and worker terminal.

[0062] (6) The computer that creates the picking work plan, The steps include determining the products to be loaded onto the AGV and creating a product list, The steps include identifying the storage shelves for the aforementioned product list and creating a travel route for the AGV, The steps include assigning a forklift to each of the aforementioned storage shelves, For each forklift and AGV, a work plan is created that includes product information, work time, and work location. A computer-readable program for executing a command. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0063] 1. Work Planning System 10 Computers 11 processors 12 Reception Department 13 Output section 14 Communications Department 15 Records Section 2 WMS 4. Forklift control unit 41 Forklift 5 AGV Control Unit 51 AGV 6 Workers 7. Operator Control Unit 71 Worker terminal 8 Networks S Storage Area U-berth (shipping location) C storage shelf P aisle G1,G2 products

Claims

1. A work planning method for creating a picking work plan based on shipping information, Based on the aforementioned shipping information, the steps include determining the goods to be loaded onto the AGV and creating a product list, The steps include identifying the storage shelf corresponding to the product in the aforementioned product list, The steps include creating a travel route for the AGV to transport the goods based on the information of the identified storage shelves, A step of calculating the estimated arrival time of the AGV at the storage shelf based on the AGV's travel route, the AGV's travel speed, and the worker information of the worker picking the goods. The steps include assigning a forklift to each work area to lift and lower the goods from the storage shelves based on the identified storage shelf information and the estimated arrival time of the AGV, Based on the estimated arrival time of the AGV, the step of determining the start time of unloading the goods by the forklift so that the unloading operation of the goods is completed at the arrival time of the AGV, A work planning method comprising the steps of: assigning an AGV to each of the aforementioned products based on the unloading start time, the estimated arrival time, and the work location; and creating a work plan for each forklift and each AGV, including product information, work time, and work location.

2. The steps of creating a movement plan for the AGV to move to the storage shelf identified, The work planning method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of transmitting the aforementioned movement plan to an AGV control unit.

3. The work planning method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of assigning workers to pick up the goods taken out by the forklift to the AGV.

4. A work planning system, The reception desk that receives shipping information, Based on the aforementioned shipping information, Based on the aforementioned shipping information, the goods to be loaded onto the AGV are determined, and a product list is created. Identify the storage shelves corresponding to the products in the aforementioned product list, Based on the information of the identified storage shelves, a travel route for the AGV to transport the goods is created. Based on the AGV's travel route, the AGV's travel speed, and the worker information of the worker picking the goods, the estimated arrival time of the AGV at the storage shelf is calculated. Based on the identified storage shelf information and the estimated arrival time of the AGV, a forklift for lifting and lowering the goods from the storage shelf is assigned to each work area. Based on the estimated arrival time of the AGV, the start time for unloading the goods by the forklift is determined so that the unloading operation is completed by the arrival time of the AGV. A processor that, for each of the aforementioned products, assigns the AGV based on the unloading start time, the estimated arrival time, and the work location, and creates a work plan for each forklift and each AGV that includes product information, work time, and work location. An output unit that transmits at least one of the aforementioned work plans to all or at least one of the forklift control unit, AGV control unit, and worker terminal, A work planning system equipped with the following features.

5. A computer that creates a picking work plan, Based on the shipping information, the steps include determining the goods to be loaded onto the AGV and creating a product list, The steps include identifying the storage shelves for the aforementioned product list and creating a travel route for the AGV, A step of calculating the estimated arrival time of the AGV at the storage shelf based on the AGV's travel route, the AGV's travel speed, and the worker information of the worker picking the goods. The steps include assigning a forklift to each work area to lift and lower the goods from the storage shelves based on the identified storage shelf information and the estimated arrival time of the AGV, Based on the estimated arrival time of the AGV, the step of determining the start time of unloading the goods by the forklift so that the unloading operation of the goods is completed at the arrival time of the AGV, For each of the aforementioned products, assign the AGV based on the unloading start time, the estimated arrival time, and the work location, and create a work plan for each forklift and each AGV that includes product information, work time, and work location. A computer-readable program for executing a command.

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