Unmanned conveyance device, management system therefor, and management method therefor

Abstract

Provided are an unmanned conveyance device and a management system therefor that increase the degree of freedom in installing each automated device for egg processing, enable a layout that does not interfere with circulation paths of people, and can improve work efficiency.　An unmanned conveyance management system 1A comprises: at least one unmanned conveyance device; a movement management unit for controlling movement of the unmanned conveyance device; and a wireless communication means for transmitting and receiving data between the unmanned conveyance device and the movement management unit. The movement management unit transmits and receives data to and from the unmanned conveyance device, and performs at least one type of action among controlling the movement of the unmanned conveyance device, monitoring the state of charge of the unmanned conveyance device and controlling charging, monitoring the current location of the unmanned conveyance device, and managing an operation of the unmanned conveyance device.

Description

Unmanned transport device and its management system and management method

[0001] The present invention relates to an unmanned transport device, a management system for the same, and a management method for the same.

[0002] At GP centers where eggs are washed, graded, and packaged, further automation is required to speed up processing and alleviate labor shortages. As a result, the number of devices installed is increasing, requiring larger installation spaces, and in some cases, the layout cannot be designed to fit into existing buildings, resulting in the abandonment of the installation of the equipment. Furthermore, connecting multiple devices with conveyors blocks people's movement, and there are increasing cases where responding to small problems and performing maintenance work takes up a lot of time.

[0003] Patent Literature 1 discloses a management device that manages the operation of multiple automated guided vehicles that transport objects within a production facility. Patent Literature 2 discloses an automated guided vehicle system that can transport multiple types of items using a single vehicle and exchange the items with the device that is being replaced. Patent Literature 3 discloses a mobile object management device that can smoothly and consistently transition from an old operation plan to a new operation plan. Patent Literature 4 discloses an automated guided vehicle that can automatically read identifiers attached to objects. Patent Literature 5 discloses a mobile object system that facilitates the operation of multiple autonomously mobile objects.

[0004] JP 2024-86376 A JP 2024-82434 A JP 2024-81384 A JP 2024-76855 A JP 2019-168942 A

[0005] The object of the present disclosure is to provide an unmanned transport device and its management system and management method that can increase the freedom of installation of each automated device for egg processing, have a layout that does not obstruct people's movement lines, and improve work efficiency.

[0006] The unmanned transport management system (100) of the present disclosure includes one or more unmanned transport devices (A ｉ , i=1 to n), a movement management unit (101) that controls the movement of the unmanned transport device, and wireless communication means (102) that transmits and receives data between the unmanned transport device and the movement management unit (101).

[0007] The movement management unit (101) may transmit and receive data to and from the unmanned transport device, and may perform one or more of the following: controlling the movement of the unmanned transport device (movement control), monitoring the power storage state of the unmanned transport device and controlling charging (power storage control), monitoring the current position of the unmanned transport device (current position monitoring), and managing the operation of the unmanned transport device (operation management).

[0008] The unmanned transport device may be equipped with a short conveyor. The unmanned transport device may have a lifting function for moving the conveyor or the like up and down. The unmanned transport device may be equipped with a transfer device. The transfer device may include, for example, a multi-axis robot arm (24) and a gripping unit. The unmanned transport device may be equipped with a mechanism for towing a cart or a mobile rack (for example, a gripping means). The unmanned transport device may be equipped with a mechanism for transporting a pallet (for example, a forklift mechanism).

[0009] The egg processing system (1) of the present disclosure comprises one or more of: a waiting area (E1) for raw egg tray racks loaded with raw egg trays (with raw eggs), a waiting area (E2) for raw egg tray racks not loaded with raw egg trays, a waiting area (E3) for storage tray racks loaded with storage trays (with eggs), a waiting area (E4) for storage tray racks not loaded with storage trays, a transport equipment waiting area (E5) where transport equipment (transport pallets, transport racks, outer boxes, carts, etc.) not loaded with products wait, a product waiting area (E6) where transport equipment (transport pallets, transport racks, outer boxes, carts, etc.) loaded with products wait, a storage and supply waiting area for stacked empty egg containers (trays, packs, etc.), and a use waiting area for stacked empty egg containers, a jth automatic device (j = 1 to m) constituting the egg processing system, an unmanned transport equipment waiting area where one or more unmanned transport equipment waits, The system may include the above-described automated guided transport management system (100). The automated guided transport device waiting area also includes, for example, waiting positions for the container delivery section and the container receiving section of each device.

[0010] Examples of the j-type automatic equipment include conveying equipment that receives raw eggs, egg washing equipment, various inspection equipment, rejection equipment, drying equipment, orientation alignment equipment, weighing equipment, sorting and packaging equipment, palletizers, tray stacking equipment, rack loading equipment, sealing equipment, egg refilling equipment, and conveying equipment that connects each equipment unit. In an egg processing system, downstream equipment changes depending on the shipping form of the final product (containers, racks, boxes, pallets). Furthermore, upstream equipment changes depending on the supply form of raw eggs (trays, racks, raw eggs supplied directly from the poultry farm). Furthermore, weighing equipment, inspection equipment, and rejection equipment are also made up of various devices in the form of a system.

[0011] The product egg transport means (e.g., transport pallets, transport racks, outer boxes, carts), intermediate storage means (e.g., storage tray racks, storage pallets, storage trays), and raw egg transport means (e.g., raw egg tray racks, raw egg racks, raw egg trays) transported by the unmanned transport device may be provided with electronic tags capable of recording and reading various information. The electronic tags have an IC chip and an antenna, and are capable of transmitting, receiving, and recording data. The unmanned transport management system (100) and / or the egg processing system (1) may be provided with one or more data transmitter / receiver units (communication means) that send various information to the electronic tags and receive various information from the electronic tags. The unmanned transport management system (100) and / or the egg processing system (1) may be provided with one or more storage devices that store various information received from the electronic tags and one or more display devices that display various information. Examples of the various information recorded on the electronic tags include raw egg information, product information, and changeover information. The product egg transport means (e.g., transport pallets, transport racks, outer boxes, carts), intermediate storage means (e.g., storage tray racks, storage pallets, storage trays), and raw egg transport means (e.g., raw egg tray racks, raw egg racks, raw egg trays) may be provided with an identifying control number and code (e.g., barcode, QR code, etc.). The display device may be installed on or near a raw egg supplying device, or on or near a sorting and packaging device.

[0012] Raw egg information is stored in an electronic tag or two-dimensional code attached to raw egg transport means (e.g., raw egg tray racks, raw egg racks, raw egg trays). Intermediate egg information is stored in an electronic tag or two-dimensional code attached to intermediate storage means (e.g., storage tray racks, storage pallets, storage trays). Finished egg information is stored in an electronic tag or two-dimensional code attached to finished egg transport means (e.g., transport pallets, transport racks, outer boxes, carts). "Raw egg information" may include one or more types of information, such as the farm, chicken house number, chicken breed, feed type, eggshell color, egg collection date (laying date), arrival date, raw egg tray rack, raw egg pallet, raw egg tray control number, and lot number. "Intermediate egg information" may include one or more types of information, such as raw egg information, egg washing and grading date, egg size, and control number of the storage tray rack, storage pallet, and storage tray. "Product egg information" may include, for example, one or more of the following information: raw egg information, intermediate egg information, packaging date and time, scheduled shipping date and time, shipping destination (delivery destination), product type, size, transport pallet, transport rack, outer box, and cart management number.

[0013] The display device may display material information related to materials. Examples of materials include product containers, in-pack labels, and overlay labels. The "material information" may include, for example, one or more of application information (product type, delivery destination, egg size, etc.), compatible equipment information (available equipment, setup details for use), etc.

[0014] The unmanned transport management method of the present disclosure may include one or more of: a movement control step of transmitting and receiving data to and from one or more unmanned transport devices and controlling the movement of the unmanned transport devices; a power storage control step of monitoring the power storage state of the unmanned transport devices and controlling charging; a current position monitoring step of monitoring the current position of the unmanned transport devices; an operation management step of managing the operation of the unmanned transport devices; and an information display step of displaying various information received from electronic tags provided on one or more of product egg transport means (e.g., transport pallets, transport racks, outer boxes, carts), intermediate storage means (e.g., storage tray racks, storage pallets, storage trays), and raw egg transport means (e.g., raw egg tray racks, raw egg racks, raw egg trays).

[0015] Another disclosed unmanned transport management program is a program that realizes one or more of the following using one or more processors or information processing devices (e.g., computers, servers, mobile terminals): a movement control step that sends and receives data to and from one or more unmanned transport devices and controls the movement of the unmanned transport devices; a power storage control step that monitors the power storage state of the unmanned transport devices and controls charging; a current position monitoring step that monitors the current position of the unmanned transport devices; an operation management step that manages the operation of the unmanned transport devices; and an information display step that displays various types of information received from electronic tags provided on one or more of product egg transport means (e.g., transport pallets, transport racks, outer boxes, carts), intermediate storage means (e.g., storage tray racks, storage pallets, storage trays), and raw egg transport means (e.g., raw egg tray racks, raw egg racks, raw egg trays).

[0016] The mobility management unit (101) may be configured, for example, by an information processing device. The information processing device may be configured, for example, by a computer, a cloud server, an on-premise server, a mobile terminal (smartphone, tablet), etc.

[0017] The automated guided transport management system (100) and the egg processing system may include a storage device, a display device, and a communication device (communication means). The storage device may be, for example, a non-volatile memory such as an EPROM, HDD, SSD, or NAS, or a volatile memory such as a DRAM. If data retention is desired, it is preferable to use a non-volatile memory. The display device is not particularly limited, and examples include an LCD monitor, an organic EL monitor, a CRT monitor, a smartphone, a tablet, a general-purpose PC monitor, and an electronic bulletin board. The communication device (communication means) is composed of wired communication means and wireless communication means, and is configured to be able to communicate data with external devices (servers, external storage devices).

[0018] (Effects) (1) By utilizing automated guided vehicles, the flexibility to install each automated device in the egg processing system is increased, enabling efficient layouts even within existing buildings. (2) By minimizing the use of conveyors and utilizing automated guided vehicles, a layout that does not obstruct people's movement lines can be realized, improving work efficiency. (3) Efficient operation management is possible as the automated guided vehicles automatically transport and charge, and the movement management department sets priorities. (4) By managing information on raw eggs and stored eggs and understanding inventory status in real time, traceability is ensured and inventory management can be made more efficient. (5) By adjusting the operation of the automated guided vehicles based on production and operation plans, changes in orders and delivery dates can be flexibly handled. (6) By reducing the use of conveyors and utilizing automated guided vehicles, a large installation space is not required, allowing for effective use of existing facilities. (7) The automated guided vehicles recognize obstacles and take action to avoid them, ensuring worker safety. (8) Product information, changeover information, etc. are displayed, improving work efficiency and operating efficiency. (9) The above advantages allow for efficient and flexible automation of egg processing.

[0019] It is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions of an unmanned transport management system. It is a diagram showing an example of an egg processing system. It is a diagram showing an example of another egg processing system. It is a diagram showing an example of another egg processing system.

[0020] (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 shows the functions of an unmanned transport management system 100. ｉ (i=1 to n) is provided at least once.

[0021] Unmanned transport device A ｉ Examples of the unmanned transport device include an automated guided vehicle (AGV) and an autonomous mobile transport robot (AMR). The unmanned transport device may be one or a combination of two or more of the following device configurations: laser guidance, image recognition, optical guidance, electromagnetic guidance, and SLAM guidance. The device configuration may be selected depending on the type of transport device or automatic device, the movement method, etc. The unmanned transport device Ai may include a camera, a distance measurement sensor, a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, a laser radar (such as LiDAR), a wireless communication means, a control unit (such as a processor, memory, various control programs), a power storage device (power), wheels, a housing, a loading platform, a loading platform lifting device, a speaker, a microphone, a light, a warning light, etc.

[0022] The movement management unit 101 is ｉ The movement management unit 101 controls the movement of the automatic guided vehicle A. ｉ and data is transmitted and received by the unmanned transport device A. ｉ (various movement controls), unmanned transport device A ｉ The charging status of the automatic guided vehicle A is monitored and charging is controlled (power storage control). ｉ Monitor the current position (current position monitoring, other device A ｉ relative position, absolute coordinate position), unmanned transport device A ｉ The wireless communication means 102 transmits and receives data between the unmanned transport device Ai and the movement management unit 101. The storage device 103 stores various data. The storage device 103 may store, for example, the travel route of the unmanned transport device Ai, waiting time in each area, input / output information with each automatic device, communication information, power storage status information, and information on the difference between the plan and the actual results. The display device 104 displays the unmanned transport device Ai ｉ Displays location, operation information, movement information, battery status information, etc.

[0023] The movement management unit 101 is ｉIn controlling the movement of the automatic transport device A, it may be determined which of the transports between the automatic devices should be given priority based on a preset priority. Priority may be determined based on the preset operation priority of each automatic device, such as receiving from an automatic device with a higher priority and supplying to that automatic device. ｉ The movement management unit 101 may determine the priority of the automated guided vehicle A. ｉ The operation status of the automatic guided vehicle A is recorded as an operation record in a storage device, and the receiving operation time or supply operation time of each automatic device is estimated from the past operation record. ｉ The movement management unit 101 may control the operation sequence so as to increase the operating efficiency of the automated guided vehicle A. ｉ The life of the consumable parts may be estimated based on the driving records, and a message urging replacement may be displayed on the display device 104.

[0024] Figure 2 shows an example of an egg processing system 1A. The egg processing system 1A of this embodiment includes a raw egg transport conveyor 11, a collecting conveyor 12, an egg collection and alignment conveyor 13, a first inspection device 14, an orienting device 15, a second inspection device 16, a transport conveyor 17, a third inspection device 18, a control device 19, a sorting and packaging device 20, a tray supply device 21, a tray push-out device 22, a tray stacking device 23, and a robot arm 24. The first inspection device 14, the second inspection device 16, and the third inspection device 18 may be omitted. The control device 19 controls and monitors the entire egg processing system 1A (monitoring the operating status of each device). The sorting and packaging device 20 may be composed of one or more distribution conveyors and one or more packaging devices, and may further include a rescue device (rerun) that temporarily stores eggs not distributed to the packaging devices.

[0025] The raw egg transport conveyor 11 is composed of a bar conveyor or belt conveyor for transporting raw eggs. The collecting conveyor 12 is a conveyor that collects, for example, multiple raw egg transport conveyors 11 into a single conveyor. The egg collection and alignment conveyor 13 is a transport device for aligning eggs into 12 rows. The first inspection device unit 14 is a device that detects and discharges, for example, broken eggs and heavily soiled eggs. The discharge mechanism may transfer defective eggs to a tray and remove them using a suction means or a gripping means, or may be provided with a gate and discharge them downward. The orientation device 15 is a device that aligns the direction of blunt or sharp ends. The second inspection device 16 is a device that detects and discharges, for example, cracked eggs. The transport conveyor 17 transports eggs in, for example, six rows. The third inspection device 18 is a device that inspects for internal abnormalities and discharges the eggs. The discharge mechanisms of the second and third inspection devices may be included as part of the configuration of sorting and packaging device 20, and defective eggs are transferred to a tray and removed using suction means, gripping means, etc. A weighing device may be provided downstream of either second or third inspection device 16, 18, and measures the weight or size of eggs transported in multiple rows (e.g., six rows) or in a small number of rows (e.g., one or two rows).

[0026] The sorting and packaging device 20 sorts eggs based on the weight or size of the eggs weighed by the weighing device, the inspection results of each inspection device, etc., and places the eggs in containers corresponding to the sorted eggs. Tray types include, for example, MS, M, L, and LL. In this embodiment, the sorting and packaging device 20 is configured as a device that packs eggs into, for example, 6x5 trays. Non-standard or defective eggs are loaded into separate trays. The sorting and packaging device 20 can also pack eggs of different sizes mixed together in one type of tray. The sorting and packaging device 20 may count the containers supplied to and used by each packaging device and send this information to the unmanned transport management system 100 (movement management unit 101).

[0027] The tray supply device 21 receives stacked empty trays and supplies them one by one to the sorting and packaging device 20. The tray supply device 21 may have a function for counting the number of trays supplied. The tray supply device 21 may be equipped with a tray remaining number detection means for detecting when the number of trays remaining in a stock section that stores trays to be supplied falls below a threshold. The tray supply device 21 may output a tray replenishment request signal to the unmanned transport management system 100 indicating that tray replenishment is required based on the number of trays supplied and the status of the tray remaining number detection means. The tray supply device 21 may also transmit information on the number of trays supplied and the status of the tray remaining number detection means to the unmanned transport management system 100 (movement management unit 101), which may then determine the priority of operations. Information related to the tray supply device 21 may be transmitted to the unmanned transport management system 100 (movement management unit 101) via the control device 19.

[0028] The tray push-out device 22 sends a predetermined number of stacked empty trays to a transfer section (for example, a conveyor), and ｉ In this embodiment, the automatic guided vehicle A ｉ A short conveyor device is mounted on the unmanned transport device A, and the conveyor device has a lifting function that can raise and lower the conveyor device. ｉ The unmanned transport device A receives the discharged empty trays by sending them onto the conveyor at the transfer section (for example, conveyor) of the tray extrusion device 22 (also called "rack out"), which is a storage and supply waiting area for egg containers. ｉ The unmanned transport device A moves to the tray supply device 21 of the sorting and packaging device 20, and starts the conveyor device to send the empty tray to the receiving section (e.g., conveyor) of the tray supply device 21, which is a waiting area for egg containers. ｉ is waiting area E_A ｉ or moves to the delivery section of the tray pushing device 22. ｉ Now, the unmanned transport device A ｉ The automatic guided vehicle A may be charged. ｉ However, waiting area E_A ｉ Whether or not to return to the automated guided vehicle A ｉThe next automated guided vehicle A to be used may be determined based on the charge state of the ｉ may be determined based on the charge state. ｉ The stacked empty trays received by the tray push-out device 22 may be sent all to one tray supply device 21, or may be sent separately to multiple tray supply devices. ｉ may predict the timing when trays will be needed based on information such as the number of trays supplied from tray supply device 21, and may load stacked empty trays and wait in the egg container waiting area or nearby before a tray replenishment request signal is output.

[0029] Tray stacking device 23 is a device that stacks trays containing eggs stored in sorting and packaging device 20, for example, in six layers. The eggs are then sent to robot arm 24 by a conveyor device, and are loaded onto a pallet, cart, rack cart, or the like by a gripping means of robot arm 24.

[0030] Unmanned transport device A ｉ The unmanned transport device A may grasp the surrounding situation using an on-board camera, distance measurement sensor, magnetic sensor, optical sensor, laser radar, etc., and may temporarily stop or take evasive action within an allowable range if an obstacle is found in the travel path. ｉ The camera mounted on the tray ejector 22 detects the state of the empty tray (transported object) sent out from the tray ejector 22 and the state of the unmanned transport device A. ｉ The state of the empty trays being loaded and transported may be monitored, or the state of the empty trays being sent to the receiving section of the tray supply device 21 may be monitored. ｉThe system may monitor the operating status of the sorting and packaging device 20 and other devices using an on-board camera. Image data captured by the camera may be transmitted to a monitoring system via wireless communication means and used to provide work instructions based on the processing status of each unit or to avoid shutdowns by providing early warnings of abnormalities. For example, image data may be processed using a learning model to issue an alarm if an empty tray being transported is tilted or stacked out of place. For example, if a large number of undistributed eggs are stored in the rescue device, an operator may be instructed on the timing to process those eggs. In the packaging device, distributed eggs are packed into containers, but empty eggshells or the like may get caught in the transfer section and affect other eggs, causing eggs to spill from the container. By periodically monitoring the packaging device, an alarm may be issued before a serious problem occurs.

[0031] (Embodiment 2) Figure 3 shows an example of an egg processing system 1B of embodiment 2. The egg processing system 1B of this embodiment has a transfer conveyor 31, an egg supply conveyor 32, an egg washing device 33, a drying device 34, an orientation device 15, a dirty egg inspection device 35, a cracked egg inspection device 36, a weighing device 37, a sorting and packaging device 20, a tray supply device 21, a tray stacking device 23, and a rack loading device 38. ｉ (i=1 to n) is provided at least once.

[0032] The transport conveyor 31 is composed of a bar conveyor or belt conveyor for transporting eggs. The egg supply conveyor 32 is a transport device that supplies raw eggs to the downstream egg washing device 33. The egg washing device section 33 washes the eggs. The drying device 34 is a device that dries the eggs after washing. The orientation device 15 is a device that aligns the direction of blunt or sharp ends. The dirty egg inspection device 35 is, for example, a device that detects dirty eggs and ejects them. The cracked egg inspection device 36 is, for example, a device that detects cracked eggs and ejects them. Furthermore, a third inspection device may be further provided to inspect eggs for internal abnormalities and eject them. The ejection mechanisms of each inspection device may be included as part of the sorting and packaging device 20, and defective eggs are transferred to a tray and removed using a suction means or a gripping means. The weighing device 37 weighs the weight of the eggs transported in multiple rows (e.g., six rows).

[0033] The sorting and packaging device 20 can sort eggs according to the weight of the eggs weighed by the weighing device 37 and place them in containers corresponding to the sorted eggs. Tray types include, for example, MS, M, L, and LL. In this embodiment, the sorting and packaging device 20 is configured as a device that packs eggs into, for example, 6x5 trays. Non-standard or defective eggs are loaded onto separate trays. The sorting and packaging device 20 can also pack eggs of different sizes mixed together into one type of tray. The sorting and packaging device 20 may count the number of trays filled with eggs and sent out by each packaging device and send this information to the unmanned transport management system 100 (movement management unit 101).

[0034] The tray supply device 21 is a device for supplying empty trays. ｉ The supply may be automatic or manual.

[0035] The tray stacking device 23 is a device that stacks trays containing eggs in the sorting and packaging device 20, for example, in six layers. ｉ The automatic guided vehicle A is configured to move the object by the following. ｉ A short conveyor device is mounted on the unmanned transport device A, and the conveyor device has a lifting function that can raise and lower the conveyor device. ｉ The tray stacking device 23 receives the stacked trays containing eggs by sending them onto the conveyor device at a transfer section (for example, a conveyor) of the tray stacking device 23. ｉ The unmanned transport device A moves to the receiving section (e.g., conveyor) of the rack loading device 38, and starts the conveyor device to send the group of trays containing eggs that have been stacked on this receiving section (e.g., conveyor). ｉ is waiting area E_A ｉ Alternatively, the tray stacker 23 moves to the delivery section.

[0036] The rack loading device 38 is a device that loads stacked trays containing eggs onto a movable rack. When a plurality of rack loading devices 38 are provided, an unmanned transport device A is provided corresponding to each rack loading device 38. ｉ The rack loading device 38 may be assigned to the unmanned transport device A. ｉ The unmanned transport device A may be shared. ｉ The unmanned transport device A may be capable of stacking a plurality of groups of stacked trays containing eggs at one time. It may receive a plurality of groups of stacked trays containing eggs from one tray stacking device 23, or may receive groups of stacked trays containing eggs in order from a plurality of tray stacking devices 23. ｉ For example, if the sorting and packaging device 20 has a high processing capacity, the unmanned transport device A ｉ When the transport capacity of the automated guided vehicle is insufficient (partial introduction with few units). ｉ In such cases, the automatic guided vehicle A can be controlled by having the movement management unit 101 recognize the transportation by a person. ｉ The transport schedule of the unmanned transport device A is updated, and coordinated transport work becomes possible. When loading is completed on all levels of the rack, the rack loading device 38 changes the rack, but at this time, it may become impossible to accept a group of trays containing eggs that are temporarily stacked. ｉ The unmanned transport device A receives and waits for the stacked trays containing eggs sent out from the tray stacking device 23. ｉ may function as a temporary storage unit. ｉ When the automatic guided vehicle A is activated, the flow lines may cross or overlap. ｉ To prevent collisions and interference between the unmanned transport system A and ｉ The time of passing the automatic guided vehicle A may be adjusted. ｉ uses the mounted camera, distance measurement sensor, magnetic sensor, optical sensor, laser radar, etc. to detect other unmanned transport devices A ｉ If there is a risk of contact, the automated guided vehicle A will stop temporarily. ｉWhether each automated guided vehicle A will temporarily stop depends on the ｉ The priority of the operation of the automatic guided vehicle A may be determined. ｉ The mounted camera is used to check the status of the stacked trays containing eggs sent out from the tray stacking device 23 and the status of the unmanned transport device A. ｉ The camera may monitor the status of stacked trays containing eggs that are being loaded onto the rack and transported, or may monitor the status of feeding of trays containing eggs that are stacked on the rack loading device 38. Image data captured by the camera may be transmitted to the monitoring system via wireless communication means, and work instructions may be issued according to the status of the trays, or feeding to the rack loading device 38 may be stopped if an abnormality is detected. For example, the image data may be processed using a learning model, and an alarm may be sounded if the stacked trays containing eggs that are being transported are tilted or misaligned. For example, if egg leakage is detected, the trays may be transported to another area, or a person may be instructed to check using a speaker or warning light.

[0037] (Embodiment 3) Figure 4 shows an example of an egg processing system 1C of embodiment 3. The egg processing system 1C of this embodiment includes one or more raw egg supply devices 41, a transport conveyor (not shown), a tray separation device that separates stacked raw egg trays one by one, one or more egg loading devices 30, an egg washing device 33 (equipped with an egg supply conveyor), a drying device 34, an orientation device (not shown), a soiled egg inspection device 35, a cracked egg inspection device (not shown), a weighing device 37, a sorting and packaging device 20, one or more tray supply devices 21, one or more tray stacking devices 23, one or more rack loading devices 38, one or more intermediate egg supply devices 42, one or more tray / pack refilling devices 43, one or more case packing devices 44, a first palletizer 45, a case sealing device 48, and a second palletizer 49. ｉ (i=1 to n) is provided one or more times. The components with the same reference numerals as those in the first and second embodiments have the same functions, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0038] Unmanned transport device A ｉThe unmanned transport device A transports raw egg tray racks from a raw egg tray rack standby area E1 where raw egg trays are loaded to the raw egg supply device 41. The raw egg tray racks may be marked with a control number and code (barcode, QR code, etc.) that individually identifies the rack, or may be equipped with a wireless identification method such as an IC tag. ｉ The raw egg tray rack may be transported to a specific raw egg supply device 41 by an instruction from the unmanned transport management system 100 (movement management unit 101) or a direct instruction input by a person. ｉ The raw egg tray racks may be transported from the waiting area E1 to the raw egg supplying device 41 in cooperation with the unmanned transport device A. ｉ The unmanned transport device A may unload the raw egg tray racks from the delivery truck and transport them to the waiting area E1. ｉ When placing raw egg tray racks in the waiting area E1, they may be arranged in the order of arrival or egg collection date for each type to facilitate first-in, first-out processing. On the other hand, to minimize the time that the delivery truck is detained, they may be placed in a temporary storage area near the arrival gate when unloading, and then rearranged to allow for efficient first-in, first-out processing. ｉ In the raw egg tray rack waiting area E1, the raw egg tray racks may be rearranged in the order in which they are to be processed. ｉIt is preferable that aisles are provided on both the receiving side and the discharging side so that raw egg tray racks can be moved by the unmanned transport system. It is also preferable that one or more aisles are provided to allow movement between the receiving side and the discharging side. Furthermore, one or more aisles may be provided for every two rows of raw egg tray racks in the waiting area E1. By providing aisles, the efficiency of rearranging raw egg tray racks in the waiting area E1 is improved. It is preferable that the waiting area E1 for raw egg tray racks is divided into sections and marked so that people can easily understand the storage location of a specific raw egg tray rack. For example, different symbols may be used for each medium section, the floor color may be changed, or numbers may be assigned to each small section (e.g., B012). Alternatively, two sets of numbers indicating the row and column may be used (e.g., 6-15). These marks may be clearly displayed on the floor or may be displayed on signs, etc. When transporting using the unmanned transport device Ai, these marks are not necessary, but it is preferable that they be provided so that people and the unmanned transport device Ai can easily understand the storage location of a specific raw egg tray rack. ｉ When workers work together, it is possible to improve work efficiency and prevent errors. Each small section in the raw egg tray rack waiting area E1 may be equipped with an indicator light that indicates the location of the target raw egg tray rack. This can improve work efficiency and prevent errors when a person carries a raw egg tray rack into the raw egg tray rack waiting area E1 or carries a raw egg tray rack out of the waiting area E1. It is desirable that the raw egg tray rack waiting area E1 is equipped with one or more display devices and one or more reading devices (code readers, cameras, RFID readers, etc.) for recognizing the raw egg tray rack's management number. When a person performs storage work, the raw egg tray rack is identified by the reading device and moved to the small section indicated on the display device. When a person performs shipping work, the raw egg tray rack in the small section indicated on the display device is moved to the raw egg supply device 41 indicated on the display device. At that time, the management number of the target raw egg tray rack is read to confirm that the correct raw egg rack has been selected. Unmanned transport device A ｉ The raw egg tray racks may be identified by individually mounted cameras or the like, or may be identified by a fixed reading device at a specific location (for example, the entrance or exit of the raw egg tray rack waiting area E1).

[0039] The raw egg supply device 41 is a device for transferring raw egg trays (containing raw eggs (unwashed eggs)) from raw egg tray racks onto a conveyor and sending them downstream. The egg loading device 30 is a device for transferring eggs from the raw egg trays that have been sent thereto onto the transport conveyor using a gripping unit such as a suction means. Empty raw egg trays are transported to a raw egg tray storage unit (not shown) for return to the egg farm. Transport may be performed by a person or by an unmanned transport device Ai.

[0040] The sorting and packaging device 20 of this embodiment can perform two types of packaging: packing eggs into storage trays and packing eggs into shipping trays. The sorting and packaging device 20 may further include a packaging device that packs eggs into shipping packs. If the shipping form and required quantity are known at the time of the egg washing and sorting process, direct production of the product can eliminate some of the work of intermediate storage. The packaging device that produces packaged products for shipping is preferably equipped with a pack supply device and a label supply device.

[0041] The intermediate egg supply device 42 is a device for transferring storage trays (trays containing eggs) from the storage tray rack to a conveyor and sending them downstream. The stacked storage trays sent out from the storage tray rack are separated one by one by a tray separator and sent downstream.

[0042] The tray pack refilling device 43 is a device for refilling eggs from delivered storage trays into egg packs using a gripping part such as a suction means. The empty storage trays may be transferred directly to the tray supplying device 21, or may be transferred to the tray supplying device 21 via a tray cleaning device (not shown). The transfer may be performed by a person, or by an unmanned transporting device A. ｉ Since the tray pack refilling device 43 uses a large amount of empty egg cartons, it is necessary to periodically replenish the empty egg cartons. The stacked empty egg cartons are transferred by the unmanned transport device A from the storage standby supply area of ​​the stacked empty egg cartons to the egg carton stock section of the tray pack refilling device 43, which is the standby area for use. ｉThe boxing device 44 is a device that packs the egg cartons processed by the tray pack refilling device 43 into cardboard boxes.

[0043] Between the tray pack refilling device 43 and the boxing device 44, there may be arranged, for example, a packed egg inspection device that inspects whether the eggs in the packs are good or bad, a label insertion device that inserts labels into the packs, a pack sealing device that seals the packs, a label attachment device that attaches product labels to the outside of the packs, a pack appearance inspection device that inspects the sealing state of the packs, the state of the labels and the dates printed on the labels, and a defective pack ejection device.

[0044] A box former that assembles folded cardboard boxes into a box shape may be located upstream of the packing device 44, or a fixture supply device that supplies stacked and stocked empty boxes or containers one by one may be located. A box sealing machine that closes the cardboard boxes may be located downstream of the packing device 44.

[0045] The first palletizer 45 is a device that stacks cardboard boxes or containers sent from the packing device 44 on pallets. A visual inspection device that inspects the condition of the products and a weighing device that checks the weight of the products may be located between the packing device 44 and the first palletizer 45. Final inspection using the visual inspection device or weighing device can prevent defective products from being shipped. In addition, images and weights captured for inspection may be recorded in a recording device.

[0046] Sealing device 48 is a device for sealing cardboard boxes filled with egg trays sent from sorting and packaging device 20 with tape or the like. The process of packing egg trays into cardboard boxes may be performed manually or by an automatic tray packing device (not shown). In addition to 6x5 trays, trays of 5x4, 5x8, 5x9, 6x9, etc. may also be used as egg trays. Second palletizer 49 is a device for stacking cardboard boxes sent from sealing device 48 on pallets.

[0047] (Operation 1 of the unmanned transport device) The raw egg tray rack standby area E1 is an area where raw egg tray racks loaded with raw egg trays (with raw eggs) are on standby. The raw egg tray rack standby area E2 is an area where raw egg tray racks not loaded with raw egg trays are on standby. Unmanned transport device A ｉ The automatic transport device A is provided with a mechanism (for example, a gripping means) for towing the raw egg tray rack, which is a movable rack. ｉ The raw egg tray rack in the waiting area E1 is pulled and moved to a predetermined position of the raw egg supply device 41. The raw egg supply device 41 is equipped with a gripping means and grips the raw egg tray and transfers it to the conveyor. ｉ The unmanned transport device A tows the raw egg tray rack and moves it to the waiting area E2. ｉ is waiting area E_A ｉ Alternatively, the unmanned transport device A may return to the standby area E1, or the movement of the raw egg tray rack in the standby area E2 may be repeated. ｉ The raw egg tray racks may be transported after being identified by a control number or code (barcode, QR code, etc.) that individually identifies the raw egg tray rack, or by a wireless identification method such as an IC tag. The information attached to the acquired raw egg tray rack may be transmitted to an external system such as the raw egg supply device 41, the sorting and packaging device, or a higher-level production management system. The transmitted information is stored together with the time and other information, ensuring egg traceability. It can also be used to grasp raw egg inventory in real time.

[0048] (Operation 2 of the automated guided vehicle) The storage tray rack standby area E3 is an area where storage tray racks loaded with storage trays (containing eggs) wait. The storage tray rack standby area E4 is an area where storage tray racks without storage trays wait. The automated guided vehicle A ｉ The automatic guided transport device A is provided with a mechanism (for example, a gripping means) for towing the storage tray rack, which is a mobile rack. ｉ The storage tray rack loaded with storage trays is towed by the rack loading device 38 and moved to the waiting area E3. ｉThe sorting and packaging device or the rack loading device 38 or the unmanned transport device A ｉ may transmit the identification information of the storage tray rack and the information of the eggs stored in the storage tray rack to the unmanned transport management system 100 (movement management unit 101) or an external system such as a higher-level production management system. This information is recorded together with the time and individual information of the rack loading device that processed it, and may be used for inventory management of intermediate eggs and ensuring traceability.

[0049] (Operation 3 of the automated guided vehicle) Automatic guided vehicle A ｉ The automatic guided vehicle A pulls the storage tray rack in the waiting area E3 and moves it to a predetermined position in the intermediate egg supply device 42. The intermediate egg supply device 42 is equipped with a pushing means and pushes the storage tray onto the conveyor. ｉ The automatic guided vehicle A tows the storage tray rack and moves it to the waiting area E4. ｉ The intermediate egg supply device 42 or the unmanned transport device A may return to the waiting area E_Ai or may repeat the movement of the storage tray rack in the waiting area E3. ｉ The unmanned transport device A may transmit identification information of the storage tray rack and information about the eggs stored in the storage tray rack to an external system such as an unmanned transport control system or a higher-level production control system. This information may be recorded together with the time and individual information of the processed intermediate egg supply device 42, and may be used to manage inventory of intermediate eggs and ensure traceability. ｉ In the waiting area E3, the storage tray racks may be rearranged so that stored eggs of the same type can be efficiently processed on a first-in, first-out basis.

[0050] (Operation 4 of the automated guided vehicle) The transport device standby area E5 is an area where transport devices (transport pallets) that have not been loaded with products are on standby. The product standby area E6 is an area where transport devices (transport pallets) that have been loaded with products are on standby. The automated guided vehicle A ｉ The automated guided vehicle A is equipped with a mechanism (e.g., a fork mechanism) for towing the transport pallet. ｉThe automatic guided vehicle A tows the transport pallet in the transport equipment standby area E5 and moves it to the pallet position of the second palletizer 49. ｉ is waiting area E_A ｉ The automatic guided vehicle A may return to the original position, or the movement of the transport pallet may be repeated. ｉ In the product waiting area E6, the transport pallets loaded with products whose shipping times have been confirmed may be rearranged in the order of shipping. Furthermore, the automated guided vehicle A may cooperate with a higher-level production management system or an external delivery truck management system to determine the order of loading onto trucks based on the order of delivery, and rearrange the transport pallets accordingly. ｉ When the shipping truck arrives, the products may be transported sequentially from the product waiting area E6 to the shipping port. This prevents picking errors and forgetting to load the products during shipping. It also reduces the time it takes to load the truck and unload the products at the delivery destination, which has the effect of reducing the amount of time the truck driver is tied up.

[0051] (Operation of Automated Guided Vehicle 5) Automated Guided Vehicle A ｉ The automated guided vehicle A is equipped with a mechanism (e.g., a fork mechanism) for towing the transport pallet. ｉ The automatic guided vehicle A then tows the transport pallet loaded with the products by the second palletizer 49 and moves it to the product waiting area E6. ｉ is waiting area E_A ｉ or the movement of the transport pallet loaded with the product may be repeated.

[0052] (Reading and Displaying Raw Egg Information) Raw egg information is written to an electronic tag by a supplier, such as a farm, or associated with a code. Alternatively, it may be written or associated at the time of receipt (arrival). Raw egg information is read (received) from an electronic tag or the like by a reading device installed in the waiting area E1 and displayed on a display device. The automated guided transport device identifies and transports raw egg tray racks using wireless identification methods such as individual control numbers, codes, or IC tags. The raw egg supplying device 41 may read raw egg information from the electronic tag or code on the raw egg tray rack and display the raw egg information associated with the code on a display device. This raw egg information may also be displayed on a display device that can be viewed by operators in charge of downstream inspection devices and sorting and packaging devices. Knowing in advance that the type of raw eggs will change allows for preparations such as changing settings and preparing containers, thereby reducing downtime for changeovers. The egg loading device 30 may read raw egg information from the electronic tag or code on the raw egg tray and display the raw egg information associated with the code on a display device. When lot management is required, the timing of switching can be accurately determined, minimizing the time that egg feeding is stopped to distinguish between lots. Information read by the egg loading device can also be displayed to workers in downstream processes.

[0053] (Writing, Reading, and Displaying Intermediate Egg Information) After eggs are placed on trays by the sorting and packaging device 20 of embodiment 2, they can be written to or associated with the storage trays at any time before being transferred to the unmanned transport device Ai via the tray stacking device. The rack loading device 38 may write or associate a group of trays containing eggs to a mobile rack (storage tray rack). The sorting and packaging device, rack loading device 38, or unmanned transport device Ai may transmit identification information for the storage tray rack and information about the eggs stored in the storage tray rack to the unmanned transport management system 100 (movement management unit 101) or an external system such as a higher-level production management system. Furthermore, the egg tray palletizer may stack a group of trays on a pallet (storage pallet), and write or associate information on the storage pallet before being transferred to the unmanned transport device Ai. The intermediate egg supplying device 42 or the automated guided transport device Ai may transmit the identification information of the storage tray rack and the intermediate egg information of the eggs stored in the storage tray rack to an external system, such as an automated guided transport management system or a higher-level production management system. The intermediate egg supplying device 42 may be equipped with a display device that displays the identification information of the storage tray rack and the information of the eggs stored in the storage tray rack. This information may be displayed on a display device that can be checked by personnel in downstream processes, such as the intermediate egg supplying device 42, tray / pack refilling device 43, cartoning device 44, and first palletizer 45. Knowing in advance that the type of intermediate eggs will be changed allows for preparations such as changing settings and preparing containers, thereby reducing downtime for changeovers. The tray / pack refilling device 43 may read information from an electronic tag or code on the storage tray and display the intermediate egg information associated with that code. Displaying the combination of the type of eggs to be used and the corresponding container prevents complaints due to operational errors and accurately determines the timing of changeover, minimizing downtime for changeovers. The information read by the tray / pack refilling device 43 may be displayed to downstream workers.

[0054] (Writing, Reading, and Displaying Product Egg Information) The packing device 44 of embodiment 3 may write or associate information on the cardboard boxes or containers in which the egg cartons are packed. The first palletizer 45 may write or associate information on the pallets on which the product-containing cardboard boxes or containers are stacked. The product waiting area E6 may be equipped with information readers and displays for the transport pallets, transport racks, outer boxes, and carts. Displaying information such as the shipping destination and shipping time for each product can shorten the time required for tasks such as loading onto trucks and prevent shipping errors.

[0055] (Input, Reading, and Display of Material Information) While the automated guided transport management system may store material information, it is preferable that the information be stored in an external system such as a production management system, a production planning support system, or an egg processing system. The automated guided transport management system or other systems may be equipped with a material information input screen for inputting material information, a data file input / output function, or a communication means for sharing data between the systems. The material information stored in either system includes at least a code or image data for linking the material to the material information. Furthermore, the information may include usage information such as the type of product in which the material is used, delivery destination, egg size, and egg container size, as well as corresponding equipment information such as equipment that can use the material (equipment that can process the material), setup items for use, and work procedures. This information may be input on the input screen of either system or in combination with the data file input function. The automated guided transport management system and the automated guided transport device are equipped with a reading device or an imaging device to identify materials by codes (barcodes, QR codes) or image information displayed on the material itself or in its storage location. In relation to the transport of materials and fixtures, by providing a display device in each use area and displaying information on the intended use and the corresponding equipment, the person in charge of the relevant equipment can carry out the necessary changeover in the shortest time. Although not shown, each use area is the location of a pack supply device for packs, a tray supply device for trays, a label insertion device for labels, an overlay device for overlay labels, a boxing device for cardboard boxes or containers, etc.

[0056] (Other Embodiments) (1) Although the egg processing system is exemplified in the first to third embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these, and the processing system may be one in which some of the devices are omitted, or may include other devices. (2) In the egg processing system, a rack loading device that loads egg cartons onto a mobile rack may be provided in place of the packing device 44 and the first palletizer 45, and the empty mobile rack and the mobile rack loaded with egg cartons may be transported by the unmanned transport device A. ｉ (3) Automatic guided transport device A ｉThe range of movement of the automated guided vehicles Ai is not limited to a flat surface, and they may be linked with an elevator or other lifting device to transport objects to different floors of a building. This further increases the degree of freedom in installing automated devices. In this case, one automated guided vehicle Ai may be placed on the lifting device while carrying or towing an object to be transported, or only the object to be transported may be placed on the lifting device, and another automated guided vehicle Ai may be placed on another floor. ｉ (4) In response to a request signal from each automated device, the movement management unit may ｉ The priority order of the operations of the automatic guided vehicle A may be determined based on production plan information and operation plan information from other management systems such as a production management system. ｉ The priority order may be determined based on the distribution settings and distribution information of the egg processing system (particularly the sorting and packaging device), or the priority order may be determined by combining these pieces of information. (5) Regarding the raw egg supply of the third embodiment, assuming that a mobile rack is used for transporting and storing raw egg trays, the unmanned transport device A ｉ Although the operation of the above has been described, a pallet system may be used instead of a mobile rack. A pallet system is configured by placing trays on a pallet, for example, a group of trays stacked six high in each stack in four rows and three columns, sandwiching an insulator called a divider on top of the tray group, and then stacking the tray group further. It is known that by alternately stacking the dividers and tray group, the load capacity per unit area is greater than that of a mobile rack. When a pallet system is used, an egg tray depalletizer is used instead of the raw egg supply device 41, which transfers the raw egg trays loaded on the pallet to a conveyor. Waiting area E1 is an area where raw egg tray pallets loaded with raw egg trays (with raw eggs) wait. Waiting area E2 is an area where empty pallets without raw egg trays and dividers wait. Unmanned transport device A ｉ The automatic guided transport device A is provided with a mechanism (for example, a fork mechanism) for towing the raw egg tray pallet. ｉThe unmanned transport device A pulls raw egg tray pallets in the waiting area E1 and moves them to a predetermined position in the egg tray depalletizer. The egg tray depalletizer is equipped with a gripping means to grip the raw egg trays and transfer them to the conveyor. The egg tray depalletizer also stacks dividers and empty pallets for temporary storage. When a predetermined amount of dividers or empty pallets have accumulated, the unmanned transport device A ｉ The automatic guided vehicle A tows the divider or empty pallet and moves it to the waiting area E2. ｉ is waiting area E_A ｉ Alternatively, the raw egg tray pallet in standby area E1 may be moved repeatedly. (6) For the processing of storage trays in embodiment 3, a pallet system may be used instead of a mobile rack, as with the raw egg trays. When a pallet system is used, an egg tray depalletizer that transfers egg-containing storage trays loaded on a pallet to a conveyor may be used instead of intermediate egg supply device 42, and an egg tray palletizer may be used instead of rack loading device 38. The egg tray palletizer places trays on a pallet, for example, a stack of tray groups of six stacked in four rows and three columns, sandwiches an insulator called a divider on top of the stack, and further stacks the tray groups, alternating between the dividers and the tray groups. Standby area E3 is an area where storage tray pallets loaded with storage trays (containing eggs) wait. Standby area E4 is an area where empty pallets without storage trays and dividers wait. Unmanned transport device A ｉ The automatic guided transport device A is provided with a mechanism (for example, a fork mechanism) for towing the storage tray pallet. ｉ The storage tray pallet loaded with storage trays is towed by the egg tray palletizer and moved to the waiting area E3. ｉ is waiting area E_A ｉ The automatic guided transport device A may return to the storage tray pallet, or the movement of the storage tray pallet may be repeated. ｉThe unmanned transport system 100 may transport materials and fixtures such as labels to be enclosed in egg cartons, empty cardboard boxes used for shipping, and empty containers from a storage area to a use area. The unmanned transport system 100 may manage the quantity of materials consumed, as well as keep track of the number of materials in stock and notify people when an order needs to be placed. (8) Unmanned transport system A ｉ (9) The storage tray rack standby area E3 and the product standby area E6 of the third embodiment may be transported by people and the unmanned transport device A in the same way as the storage area E1 of the raw egg tray rack. ｉ To facilitate cooperative work among the operators and increase the efficiency of rearrangement, the waiting area may be marked with medium and small sections, aisles may be secured, indicator lights may be installed, and display devices and reading devices may be installed. (10) The unmanned transport management system may formulate and update production plans independently or in cooperation with a higher-level management system. The unmanned transport management system can grasp the types and quantities of raw eggs in the waiting area, the types and quantities of stored eggs (intermediate eggs), the types and quantities of products, as well as the stock amount of materials, information on expected arrivals, and information on expected shipments, so that new orders and inquiries about delivery dates can be incorporated into the production plan and delivery dates can be replied to. (11) As embodiments 1, 2, and 3, examples of component devices and unmanned transport system A are shown. ｉ Although examples of places of use have been described, the present invention is not limited to these, and it goes without saying that the present invention may be practiced by combining the embodiments. (12) Information received by the automated guided vehicle from the management system or each device via communication means may be written to the transported object by an IC tag writer provided in the automated guided vehicle. Code information of the transported object may be read by a code reader provided in the automated guided vehicle, and the automated guided vehicle may transmit the code information to the management system or each device via communication means.

[0057] 1A, 1B, 1C Egg processing system 100 Unmanned transport management system 101 Movement management unit 102 Wireless communication means

Claims

1. One or more automated guided vehicles, A movement management unit that controls the movement of the automated guided vehicle, Wireless communication means for transmitting and receiving data between the automated guided vehicle and the movement management unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned movement management unit is configured to transmit and receive data with the automated guided vehicle (AGV), control the movement of the AGV, monitor the current position of the AGV, and manage the operation of the AGV. The aforementioned automated transport device is (i) Equipped with a mechanism for towing a mobile egg tray rack, the mechanism tows an egg tray rack that is in a waiting area where egg trays are loaded and moves it to a predetermined position on the egg supply device, and after moving the egg tray rack, tows the egg tray rack to a waiting area where egg tray racks that are not loaded with egg trays are waiting. (ii) Equipped with a mechanism for towing a storage tray rack, which is a mobile rack, tows the storage tray rack filled with storage trays and moves it to a waiting area where storage tray racks loaded with storage trays (containing eggs) are waiting. (iii) Tow the storage tray rack located in the waiting area where the storage tray racks are waiting, move it to the designated position of the intermediate egg supply device, move the storage trays, then tow the storage tray rack to the waiting area of ​​the storage tray racks that do not have storage trays loaded. (iv) Equipped with a mechanism for towing transport pallets, towing transport pallets that are waiting in a transport equipment waiting area where transport pallets without products loaded are waiting, to the pallet position of the palletizer, towing transport pallets loaded with products by the palletizer to the product waiting area, and (v) In a product waiting area where transport pallets loaded with products are waiting, the system performs two or more of the following: rearranging the transport pallets loaded with products whose shipping time has been determined in order of shipment, or determining the loading order onto trucks based on the delivery order, rearranging the transport pallets accordingly, and transporting them sequentially from the product waiting area to the shipping area when the shipping trucks arrive. Automated transport management system.

2. The system further includes a storage device for storing various information received from electronic tags installed on product egg transport means, intermediate storage means, and raw egg transport means, which are transported by an automated guided vehicle, and a display device for displaying various information. The automated guided vehicle management system according to claim 1.

3. The waiting area for the egg tray racks where egg trays are loaded, The waiting area for egg tray racks that do not have egg trays loaded, The waiting area for the storage tray racks where the storage trays are loaded, A waiting area for storage tray racks that do not have storage trays loaded, A product waiting area where transport equipment loaded with products awaits, A waiting area for transport equipment that is not yet loaded with products, Egg carton storage and supply waiting area, Egg container waiting area, The jth automated device that constitutes the egg processing system, An automated guided vehicle (AGV) waiting area where one or more AGVs are waiting, An automated transport management system according to claim 1 or 2, A chicken egg processing system equipped with the following features.

4. The system further includes a storage device for storing various information received from electronic tags installed on product egg transport means, intermediate storage means, and raw egg transport means, which are transported by an automated guided vehicle, and a display device for displaying various information. The egg processing system according to claim 3.

5. A movement control step that transmits and receives data with one or more automated guided vehicles and controls the movement of the automated guided vehicles, A current position monitoring step for monitoring the current position of the automated guided vehicle, A run management step for managing the operation of the aforementioned automated guided vehicle, An unmanned transport management method, comprising an information display step that displays various information received from electronic tags provided in one or more of the following: product egg transport means, intermediate storage means, and raw egg transport means, According to the above unmanned transport management method, the unmanned transport device is (i) Equipped with a mechanism for towing a mobile egg tray rack, the mechanism tows an egg tray rack that is in a waiting area where egg trays are loaded and moves it to a predetermined position on the egg supply device, and after moving the egg tray rack, tows the egg tray rack to a waiting area where egg tray racks that are not loaded with egg trays are waiting. (ii) Equipped with a mechanism for towing a storage tray rack, which is a mobile rack, tows the storage tray rack filled with storage trays and moves it to a waiting area where storage tray racks loaded with storage trays (containing eggs) are waiting. (iii) Tow the storage tray rack located in the waiting area where the storage tray racks are waiting, move it to the designated position of the intermediate egg supply device, move the storage trays, then tow the storage tray rack to the waiting area of ​​the storage tray racks that do not have storage trays loaded. (iv) Equipped with a mechanism for towing transport pallets, towing transport pallets that are waiting in a transport equipment waiting area where transport pallets without products loaded are waiting, to the pallet position of the palletizer, towing transport pallets loaded with products by the palletizer to the product waiting area, and (v) In a product waiting area where transport pallets loaded with products are waiting, the system performs two or more of the following: rearranging the transport pallets loaded with products whose shipping time has been determined in order of shipment, or determining the loading order onto trucks based on the delivery order, rearranging the transport pallets accordingly, and transporting them sequentially from the product waiting area to the shipping area when the shipping trucks arrive. Unmanned transport management method.

6. An automated transport management program, One or more processors or information processing devices, A movement control step that transmits and receives data with one or more automated guided vehicles and controls the movement of the automated guided vehicles, A current position monitoring step for monitoring the current position of the automated guided vehicle, A run management step for managing the operation of the aforementioned automated guided vehicle, An information display step is implemented which displays various information received from electronic tags provided in one or more of the following: product egg transport means, intermediate storage means, and raw egg transport means. By executing the aforementioned unmanned transport management program, The aforementioned automated transport device is (i) Equipped with a mechanism for towing a mobile egg tray rack, the mechanism tows an egg tray rack that is in a waiting area where egg trays are loaded and moves it to a predetermined position on the egg supply device, and after moving the egg tray rack, tows the egg tray rack to a waiting area where egg tray racks that are not loaded with egg trays are waiting. (ii) Equipped with a mechanism for towing a storage tray rack, which is a mobile rack, tows the storage tray rack filled with storage trays and moves it to a waiting area where storage tray racks loaded with storage trays (containing eggs) are waiting. (iii) Tow the storage tray rack located in the waiting area where the storage tray racks are waiting, move it to the designated position of the intermediate egg supply device, move the storage trays, then tow the storage tray rack to the waiting area of ​​the storage tray racks that do not have storage trays loaded. (iv) Equipped with a mechanism for towing transport pallets, towing transport pallets that are waiting in a transport equipment waiting area where transport pallets without products loaded are waiting, to the pallet position of the palletizer, towing transport pallets loaded with products by the palletizer to the product waiting area, and (v) In a product waiting area where transport pallets loaded with products are waiting, the system performs two or more of the following: rearranging the transport pallets loaded with products whose shipping time has been determined in order of shipment, or determining the loading order onto trucks based on the delivery order, rearranging the transport pallets accordingly, and transporting them sequentially from the product waiting area to the shipping area when the shipping trucks arrive. program.