Unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information and driving method thereof

Abstract

An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a store control server for generating and providing carry-in / out operation information for taking-in or taking-out of an item corresponding to order information for the taking in / out of the item; and a logistics automation facility operating to cause the item corresponding to the order information to be carried out or carried in according to the carry-in / out operation information, wherein: the logistics automation facility includes an item integration device including a plurality of sections; and the item integration device is a structure in which a plurality of compartments (block trays) for storing and carrying in / out different items, respectively, are connected while having an empty space (a central passage) positioned in the center thereof, includes a central passage tray ascending and descending through the central passage, and processes at least one item to be carried in or carried out through the central passage tray.

Description

Unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information and its operation method

[0001] The present invention relates to an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information and a method for operating the same.

[0002] As the 5G era progresses beyond commercialization and into advanced technology, traditional logistics warehouses are transforming into smart warehouses by incorporating IT convergence technologies and platforms. Smart warehouses are powered by 5G, leveraging AI, deep learning, and robotics to accurately forecast product demand and inventory, and provide real-time information on inventory and shipping status.

[0003] As the e-commerce market grows, the smart logistics sector is also experiencing rapid growth.

[0004] Meanwhile, with the advancement of AI, mechanization, and automation, space and time are being optimized in all areas of human life.

[0005] In the case of retail stores, Amazon's Amazon Store, which introduced an unmanned payment system, is effective in reducing the user's usage time, but it is having difficulty expanding the number of stores due to limitations such as low innovation, such as the increased process of using the Amazon Store due to the addition of an entry system that was not present in existing stores, the increased cost of building a system that automatically pays by identifying user behavior, which has led to an increase in product prices, and the fact that users walk around and select products like in existing stores.

[0006] Furthermore, the fulfillment logistics system represented by Pastor is optimized for handling large quantities of logistics, but has limitations in that it is inefficient in handling small quantities of logistics, which is characteristic of retail stores located throughout the neighborhood.

[0007] [Prior Art Literature]

[0008] [Patent Document]

[0009] KR1020130131179 A

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is to provide an unmanned automated store system and a method for operating the same for processing computerized order information to solve conventional problems.

[0011] In order to solve the above problem, an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a store control server that generates and provides input / output operation information for inputting or outputting goods corresponding to order information on input / output of goods; and a logistics automation facility that operates to input or output goods corresponding to the order information according to the input / output operation information, wherein the logistics automation facility includes a product integration device composed of a plurality of sections, and the product integration device is a structure in which a plurality of compartments (block trays) for storing and inputting / outputting different goods are connected with an empty space (central passage) in the center, and includes a central passage tray that operates to ascend and descend through the central passage, and is characterized in that at least one product is input or output through the central passage tray.

[0012] In one embodiment, the product integration device is a structure having a cube-shaped, cylindrical, or polygonal structure, and the cube-shaped structure is characterized in that when goods are brought in or taken out, a block tray placed on a square moves in the X and Z-axis directions based on a central passage, and among the polygonal structures, a hexagonal structure is characterized in that when goods are brought in or taken out, a central passage is used as a base, but when goods are brought in, a tray loaded with goods moves up and down along the outer wall of the product integration device.

[0013] In one embodiment, the central passage tray is characterized by being a fixed or floating structure that is permanently mounted on the central passage and is loaded and unloaded through an external robot or conveyor.

[0014] In one embodiment, the plurality of compartments (block trays) and the central passage tray are characterized in that they can apply a tray device for sequentially loading and unloading items according to the number of items in the order information.

[0015] In one embodiment, the product integration device is characterized in that it links products brought in and out through the central passage tray with an external tray and a robot or conveyor.

[0016] In one embodiment, the above-described product integration device is configured as one or more according to the volume of the unmanned automated store, and the plurality of product integration devices are characterized in that they are classified into sections according to the stored products, and each section can be divided into compartments, columns, and levels.

[0017] In one embodiment, the product integration device is characterized in that, when exporting products corresponding to the order information, it operates to maximize time and energy efficiency by first exporting products from the corresponding cell at the highest level and then sequentially exporting products from lower cells.

[0018] In one embodiment, the product integration device is characterized in that, when exporting products corresponding to the order information, products from each compartment (block tray) in one stage can be exported at once.

[0019] In one embodiment, the store control server is characterized in that it reads the order information and provides an operation signal to operate multiple trays and robots when it is calculated that the corresponding items fill one tray volume and remain.

[0020] In one embodiment, the store control server is characterized in that it designates a tray suitable for the total quantity or size or shape of the ordered information item.

[0021] In one embodiment, the logistics automation equipment is characterized in that it controls the position and number of trays and robots according to the position and number of items for removing items of the order information.

[0022] In one embodiment, the logistics automation equipment includes an error detection table, and the error detection table is characterized in that it detects an error item when a plurality of items loaded on the tray and robot differ from order information.

[0023] In one embodiment, the error checking table is characterized in that the tray or robot recognizes the weight or tag (including QR code) or image of the product among the operation information provided by the store control server to determine whether it matches the order information, and if there is a mismatch, the robot arm or product sorter operates to process the defective product.

[0024] In one embodiment, the store control server further includes a location information system that identifies the current location of a registered electronic device of a purchaser in real time, and provides control information for moving a corresponding storage block of a storage box to be placed closer to a shipping window according to the distance between the electronic device and the unmanned automated store or the expected arrival time.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problem, a method for operating an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information includes the steps of: receiving product order information (incoming or outgoing) from an external terminal or server at a store control server; and generating, at the store control server, input / output operation information for incoming or outgoing products based on product order information (product code, quantity, packaging presence / absence, designated time for outgoing delivery) and providing an operation signal to a logistics automation facility; and in the logistics automation facility, a product integration device operates in accordance with the input / outgoing operation signal to load products from each section onto a section conveyor, and then collecting products from each section at the center of the section conveyor and determining whether they match the order information by weight measurement or camera recognition, moving them to an error inspection table if they do not match, and moving them to a packaging device or storing them in a storage unit depending on whether they are packaged.

[0026] Another embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problem provides a method for operating an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information, comprising: receiving product order information (incoming or outgoing) from an external terminal or server in a store control server; generating, in the store control server, input / output operation information for incoming or outgoing products based on the product order information (product code, quantity, packaging presence / absence, designated time for outgoing delivery) and providing an operation signal to a logistics automation facility; operating a product integration device in the logistics automation facility according to the input / output operation signal to load products in the corresponding compartments in each section onto a partial conveyor, gathering products from each section at the center of the partial conveyor, and determining whether they match the order information by weight measurement or camera recognition, moving them to an error inspection table if they do not match, and moving them to a packaging device or storing them in a storage unit if they match, depending on whether they are packaged.

[0027] By using an unmanned automated store system and its operating method for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention, there is an advantage in that small quantities of logistics, which are characteristic of unmanned retail stores located throughout neighborhoods, can be processed economically.

[0028] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the logistics processing device of the logistics automation equipment illustrated in Figure 1.

[0030] Figure 3 is a first example diagram showing the logistics movement means of the logistics automation equipment illustrated in Figure 1.

[0031] Figure 4 is a second example diagram showing the logistics movement means of the logistics automation equipment illustrated in Figure 1.

[0032] Figure 5 is a third example diagram showing the logistics movement means of the logistics automation equipment illustrated in Figure 1.

[0033] Figure 6 is a fourth example diagram showing the logistics movement means of the logistics automation equipment illustrated in Figure 1.

[0034] Figures 7 and 8 are first exemplary drawings of the product integration device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0035] Figure 9 is a second example of the product integration device illustrated in Figure 1,

[0036] Figure 10 is an example diagram for explaining the movement process of the compartment (block tray) of the product integration device illustrated in Figure 7.

[0037] Figures 11 to 13 are examples of diagrams illustrating the process of bringing in and taking out goods in an integrated goods device.

[0038] Fig. 14 is an example diagram of the error checking table shown in Fig. 1, and Fig. 15 is a front view of the storage box.

[0039] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating an unmanned automated store for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating an unmanned automated store for processing computerized order information according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In addition, in the drawings, parts that are not related to the description are omitted for clarity of description of the present invention, and similar parts are designated with similar reference numerals throughout the specification. Throughout the specification, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly connected," but also the case where it is "electrically connected" or "indirectly connected" with another element in between. Throughout the specification, when a member is said to be located "on," "above," "upper," "below," "lower," or "below" another member, this includes not only the case where the member is in contact with the other member, but also the case where another member exists between the two members.

[0042] Throughout this specification, whenever a part is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0043] Hereinafter, an unmanned automated store system and its operating method for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail based on the attached drawings.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a logistics processing device of the logistics automation facility illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is a first exemplary diagram showing a logistics movement means of the logistics automation facility illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 4 is a second exemplary diagram showing a logistics movement means of the logistics automation facility illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 5 is a third exemplary diagram showing a logistics movement means of the logistics automation facility illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 6 is a fourth exemplary diagram showing a logistics movement means of the logistics automation facility illustrated in FIG. 1, FIGS. 7 and 8 are first exemplary diagrams of an article integration device illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 9 is a second exemplary diagram of an article integration device illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram explaining a movement process of a compartment (block tray) of the article integration device illustrated in FIG. 7, and FIGS. 11 to 13 are diagrams for explaining an operation of an article in an article integration device. This is an example diagram illustrating the import / export process, FIG. 14 is an example diagram of the error inspection table illustrated in FIG. 1, and FIG. 15 is a front view of a storage box.

[0045] First, as illustrated in FIG. 1, an unmanned automated store system (3000) for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a store control server (2000) and logistics automation equipment (1000).

[0046] When each configuration communicates as a network, the network means a connection structure that enables information exchange between each node, such as multiple terminals and servers. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, RF, 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) network, LTE (Long Term Evolution) network, 5GPP (5th Generation Partnership Project) network, WIMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access) network, Internet, LAN (Local Area Network), Wireless LAN (Wireless Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), PAN (Personal Area Network), Bluetooth network, NFC network, satellite broadcasting network, analog broadcasting network, DMB (Digital Multimedia Broadcasting) network, 5G network, 6G network, etc.

[0047] In the following, the term "at least one" is defined as a term including both singular and plural, and it will be clear that even if the term "at least one" does not exist, each component can exist in the singular or plural and can mean either the singular or plural. Furthermore, whether each component is provided in the singular or plural may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0048] In the following, the term "item integration device" is defined as a general term for a structure including a compartment (block tray) for storing and loading / unloading items and a central passage tray that moves up and down through a central passage. When there are multiple item integration devices, it can also be used as a section term to classify each item integration device.

[0049] In the following, the term "block tray" can be used to refer to a device that sequentially loads and unloads goods according to the number of goods stored and ordered.

[0050] In the following, the term center aisle tray can be divided into fixed or floating types, but can be referred to collectively when it operates as part of an item integration device, so it can be expressed as center aisle tray or tray.

[0051] The above store control server (2000) may be configured to generate import / export operation information for receiving or shipping goods corresponding to the order information when receiving order information from an external on / offline server and provide an operation signal to the logistics automation equipment (1000).

[0052] The above store control server (2000) reads the product code and quantity recorded in the order information, and then provides a series of operation signals to cause the product with the corresponding product code to be brought into the logistics automation facility (1000) where the product is stored.

[0053] The above store control server (2000) reads the product code and quantity recorded in the order information, and then provides a series of operation signals to cause the product with the corresponding product code to be removed from the logistics automation facility (100) where the product is stored.

[0054] The above logistics automation equipment (1000) may be configured to operate so that goods corresponding to the order information are imported or exported according to the import / export operation signal.

[0055] Next, the logistics automation equipment (1000) is configured to process the loading of goods corresponding to order information so that they are loaded or removed according to an import or export operation signal, and includes a logistics processing device such as Fig. 2 and a logistics movement means such as Figs. 3, 4, 5, and 6.

[0056] The above logistics processing device may be composed of a product integration device (100), a robot and tray (200), an error inspection table (300), a warehouse (400), a storage box (500), a packaging device (600), a receiving window (700), a shipping window (800), and a return window (900).

[0057] The above logistics transportation means may be one of the autonomous driving method of FIG. 3, the rail or line method of FIG. 4, the conveyor method of FIG. 5, and the mixed method of robot and conveyor method of FIG. 6.

[0058] For example, the autonomous driving of FIG. 3 and the rail or line of FIG. 4 include a robot (250) as a means of moving goods and a tray (230) as a means of loading goods.

[0059] The above tray (230) and robot (250) may be combined as an integrated unit or as a separate, detachable unit.

[0060] The movement method of the above tray (230) and robot (250) may be an autonomous driving method in which robots (250) equipped with the tray (230) move along an optimized path while avoiding mutual collisions, as shown in FIG. 3, or a fixed method in which the robots move along a set path, such as a rail or line, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0061] Additionally, the tray (230) or robot (250) may include an item identification member that recognizes the weight or tag (including QR code) or image of the item to determine whether it matches the order information.

[0062] Next, the conveyor of Fig. 5 minimizes power consumption by operating in each section under the control of the operation signal generated by the store control server (2000).

[0063] For example, when only section A items are loaded, conveyor 1 may operate outward, and when multiple sections (A and B) items are loaded, conveyors 1 and 2 may operate inward (center).

[0064] Furthermore, when the items in the above sections A and B are gathered together in the center, the matching or non-matching of the ordered items is determined through item weight measurement or tag (including QR code) or image recognition, and if they match, the items are moved to conveyor 6, and if they do not match, the items are moved to conveyor 8, and after excluding the items on conveyor 8 through an error inspection table, the items on conveyor 6 are stored in the storage block of the storage box after passing through the packaging machine depending on whether the order information is packaged or not, or are stored in the storage block of the storage box without passing through the packaging machine.

[0065] Next, a mixed method of the above tray (230), robot (250), and conveyor may be applied.

[0066] The product integration device (100) of Fig. 7 is a structure in which a plurality of compartments (block trays) for storing and loading / unloading different products are connected with an empty space (central passage) in the center, and is configured to include a central passage tray (152) that moves up and down through the central passage (150), and at least one product is loaded or unloaded through the central passage tray (152).

[0067] In addition, the plurality of compartments (102) and the central passage tray (152) may be equipped with a tray device for sequentially loading and unloading items according to the number of items in the order information.

[0068] The above tray devices include pushback, sled rail, roller tray, gravity feeder, pivot feeder, spring loader, belt conveyor, cross belt sorter, pop-up sorter, slide show sorter, swing arm sorter, tilt tray sorter, chute sorter, rotary sorter, bucket sorter, flip sorter, spinner sorter, push tray sorter, flex sorter, full tray sorter, split sorter, stack sorter, and robot arm, and a tray device suitable for the type and characteristics of the product to which it is applied can be applied.

[0069] The above-mentioned product integration device (100) includes a central passage tray (152) that moves up and down through the central passage (150), and the central passage tray (152) may be a fixed type that is permanently mounted on the central passage (150) or a mobile type that is loaded and unloaded through an external robot (250) or conveyor.

[0070] The above-mentioned product integration device (100) can be configured as one or more devices according to the volume of the unmanned automated store (3000), and when the above-mentioned product integration device (100) is configured as multiple devices, each device is classified into sections according to the stored products.

[0071] For example, sections can be organized by product type, such as beverages in Section A, snacks in Section B, ramen in Section C, and convenience food in Section D, or by product weight, product size, or mix.

[0072] Next, the above-mentioned product integration device (100) can divide each section into sections (block trays), columns, and stages as shown in FIG. 8.

[0073] For example, by applying a compartment (102) of a size that is different for each section, the product integration device (100) can accommodate products of various sizes.

[0074] Additionally, the assembly and separation of each section, column, and unit can reduce installation and disassembly, replacement, and repair time.

[0075] However, depending on the shape of the above-mentioned product integration device (100) (Fig. 9), assembly and separation of each section, column, and unit may be limited.

[0076] In addition, when the above-mentioned product integration device (100) removes the product corresponding to the above-mentioned order information, it removes the product in the corresponding cell at the highest level first and then sequentially removes the products in the cells below, thereby increasing time and energy efficiency.

[0077] In addition, when exporting goods corresponding to the order information, the above-mentioned product integration device (100) can export goods from each compartment (block tray) in one stage at a time.

[0078] For example, if loading is performed through the central aisle tray (152) in section A20 corresponding to the above order information, items in each compartment from A21 to A28 surrounding the central aisle tray (152) can be processed at once.

[0079] The above-mentioned product integration device (100) can be manufactured in a cube-shaped, cylindrical, or polygonal structure as shown in FIG. 9.

[0080] The above-mentioned product integration device (100) moves the central passage tray (152) starting from the central passage (150) regardless of the shape of the structure, and the loading and unloading of products is performed. However, when the polygonal structure is manufactured with an angled structure between the outer walls, such as a hexagon, the outer tray (230) can additionally move up and down between the outer walls of the product integration device (100).

[0081] The above cube shape may be in the form of each cell (block tray) moving from the central passage (150) as shown in Fig. 10.

[0082] For example, when bringing in or taking out goods, a square space (block tray) may be formed to be movable in the X and Z axes directions based on the central passage (150).

[0083] Fig. 10 is only one example for activating the square compartment (102) to enable the loading and unloading of goods through the central aisle tray. Each compartment may move in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction without going through the central aisle, but is not limited thereto.

[0084] The above-mentioned product integration device (100) may be equipped with a means and method for connecting products brought in and out through the central passage tray (152) with an external tray (230) and a robot (250) or conveyor, as shown in FIGS. 11, 12, and 13.

[0085] For example, as shown in FIGS. 11, 12, and 13, the method of sliding the loaded items with the incline of the central aisle tray, the method of freely falling using a tilting member, the method of conveying using a gripper, the method of conveying using an elevating member, the method of conveying using an elevator and a pusher, the method of operating a robot arm, the method of having a robot push up and down a floating tray and a method applying the same, or the method of having a corresponding conveyor push up and down a floating tray and a method applying the same, can be linked with an external robot or conveyor.

[0086] In addition, the store control server (2000) can read order information and, when it is calculated that the corresponding items fill the volume of one tray and remain, provide an operation signal to operate multiple trays (230) and robots (250).

[0087] In addition, the above logistics automation equipment (1000) controls the position and number of trays (230) and robots (250) according to the position and number of items for removing the items of the above order information.

[0088] For example, in the logistics automation facility (1000), the logistics processing device and the logistics transport means operate in the order of the processing time of the goods according to the operation signal of the store control server (2000), when the logistics transport means is autonomous driving or rail (line) and the first order information is 4 items in section A23 (column), 1 item in A4 (column), 2 items in A52 (column), 3 items in section B51 (column), 1 item in section D13 (column), 2 items in D15 (column), 1 item in D62 (column), and the second order information is 2 items in section B A25 (column), 2 items in section D34 (column), and 2 items in D22 (column), each section operates with the first order information, but the tray (230) and the robot (250) move in the order of section B, section D, and section A according to the processing time of the goods. The operation is performed to receive the goods and to perform the operation signal of the second order information in the order of the section that finishes the work first, and the tray (230) and robot (250) are assigned and moved accordingly. When the logistics transportation means is a conveyor, each section conveyor operates in the order in which the goods are loaded, but the operation is performed to gather the goods of each section corresponding to one order information and then move them.

[0089] The robot and tray (200) may be configured such that the tray (230) and the robot (250) are charged or standby and wait until a signal is provided from the store control server (2000). The robot and tray (200) may be configured excluding the robot when the logistics transportation means is a conveyor. The tray (230) in the robot and tray (200) may have various forms, and a specific form of the tray (230) may be selected according to the operation signal of the store control server (2000).

[0090] For example, a suitable tray (230) can be selected according to the total quantity, size, or shape of the ordered information item.

[0091] The above error checking table (300) may be configured to filter out error-related items when there is a difference between the order information and the multiple items loaded on the tray (230) and the robot (250).

[0092] The above error checking unit (300) may be configured to recognize the weight or tag (including QR code) or image of the product among the operation information provided by the store control server (2000) by the tray (230) or robot (250) to determine whether it matches the order information, and if it does not match, the robot arm or product sorter at the error checking unit (300) processes the product with an error, or when a tray loaded with the product enters the error checking unit (300), the product is scanned, and if it does not match the order information, the robot arm or product sorter processes the product with an error.

[0093] The above warehouse (400) is configured to operate according to the stock in the above order information, and when there are a set number or more of goods in the corresponding compartment (102) of the goods integration device according to the import / export operation information of the store control server (2000), the spare goods are stored in the warehouse (400), and when there are a set number or less of goods in the corresponding compartment (102), the goods stored in the warehouse (400) are moved out to be brought into the corresponding compartment (102).

[0094] The above packaging device (600) may be configured to operate depending on whether the product is packaged or not in the above order information, and may be configured to move the tray (230) and robot (250) or conveyor loaded with the product according to the order information to the packaging device in accordance with the operation signal according to the corresponding order information packaging of the store control server (2000), and store the product in a storage box after packaging it in the packaging device (600).

[0095] The above storage box (500) is configured to store items waiting to be shipped, and includes a plurality of storage blocks. Some of the plurality of storage blocks are arranged in a spaced state, so that when a specific storage block is moved to the shipping window, it is moved organically by utilizing the empty space.

[0096] The above-mentioned receiving window (700) is a window where goods are received in the logistics automation facility (1000), the shipping window (800) is a window where goods stored in the logistics automation facility (1000) are shipped out, and the return window (900) is a window for receiving returned goods.

[0097] Meanwhile, the logistics automation facility (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a location information system.

[0098] The above location information system (not shown) is configured to identify the current location of the registered electronic device of the purchaser in real time, and the logistics automation equipment (1000) may be configured to move the corresponding storage block of the storage box so that it is placed closer to the shipping window according to the distance between the electronic device and the unmanned automated store (3000) or the expected arrival time.

[0099] Additionally, the above logistics automation equipment (1000) may further include an AI system.

[0100] The above AI system (not shown) may analyze the buyer's tendencies (existing acquisition time data) and move the corresponding storage block in the storage box closer to the shipping window in accordance with the predicted acquisition time for the next order.

[0101] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 16, a method for operating an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information according to an embodiment of the present invention (S1000) first includes a series of processes in which, when a store control server receives product order information (incoming or outgoing) from an external terminal or server (S1100), the store control server generates input / outgoing operation information for incoming or outgoing goods based on the product order information (product code, quantity, packaging presence / absence, designated time for outgoing), and provides an operation signal to a logistics automation facility (S1200), and in the logistics automation facility, a robot and a tray are allocated according to the input / outgoing operation signal and move to an optimal path, and an item integration device operates to load items in the corresponding compartments in each section and then transfer them to the robot and tray, and if the items loaded on the robot and tray do not match the order information, the items are moved to an error inspection table, and if they match, the items are moved to a packaging device or stored in a storage unit depending on whether they are packaged (S1300).

[0103] FIG. 17 is a method for operating an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information according to another embodiment of the present invention (S2000). When a store control server receives product order information (incoming or outgoing) from an external terminal or server (S2100), the store control server generates input / outgoing operation information for incoming or outgoing goods based on the product order information (product code, quantity, packaging presence / absence, designated time for outgoing), and provides an operation signal to a logistics automation facility (S2200). In the logistics automation facility, a product integration device operates according to the input / outgoing operation signal to load goods in the corresponding compartment in each section onto a partial conveyor, and collects goods from each section at the center of the partial conveyor, and then determines whether they match the order information by weight measurement or camera recognition, and if they do not match, moves them to an error inspection table, and if they match, moves them to a packaging device or stores them in a storage unit depending on whether they are packaged (S2300).

[0104] Therefore, by using an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information according to one embodiment of the present invention, there is an advantage in that small quantities of logistics, which are characteristic of unmanned retail stores located throughout the neighborhood, can be processed economically.

[0105] The “unit” used in one embodiment of the present invention may be implemented as a hardware component, a software component, and / or a combination of hardware components and software components. For example, the devices and components described in the embodiments may be implemented using one or more general-purpose computers or special-purpose computers, such as, for example, a processor, a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable array (FPA), a programmable logic unit (PLU), a microprocessor, or any other device capable of executing instructions and responding to them. The processing device may execute an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications running on the operating system. In addition, the processing device may access, store, manipulate, process, and generate data in response to the execution of the software. For ease of understanding, the processing device is sometimes described as being used alone; however, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the processing device may include multiple processing elements and / or multiple types of processing elements. For example, a processing unit may include multiple processors, or a processor and a controller. Other processing configurations, such as parallel processors, are also possible.

[0106] Software may include a computer program, code, instructions, or a combination of one or more of these, and may configure a processing device to perform a desired operation or, independently or collectively, command the processing device. The software and / or data may be permanently or temporarily embodied in any type of machine, component, physical device, virtual equipment, computer storage medium or device, or transmitted signal wave, for interpretation by the processing device or for providing instructions or data to the processing device. The software may also be distributed over networked computer systems and stored or executed in a distributed manner. The software and data may be stored on one or more computer-readable recording media.

[0107] The method according to an embodiment of the present invention may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination. The program commands recorded on the medium may be those specially designed and configured for the embodiment or may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of the program commands include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations of the embodiment, and vice versa.

[0108] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications and variations of the above-described content may be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. The configuration and arrangement of the above-described logistics automation equipment are merely examples, and actual application may vary depending on the size and shape of the internal space of each unmanned automated store. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical spirit of the present invention, but rather to illustrate it, and the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the rights of the present invention.

[0109] [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 3000: Unmanned automated store

[0111] 1000: Logistics automation equipment

[0112] 100: Product Integration Device

[0113] 110: Section A

[0114] 120: Section B

[0115] 130: Section C

[0116] 140: Section D

[0117] 150: Central passage

[0118] 151: Elevator

[0119] 152: Central Toll Tray

[0120] 153: Push device

[0121] 154: Robot arm

[0122] 200: Robots and Trays

[0123] 300: Error checking unit

[0124] 400: Warehouse

[0125] 500: Storage

[0126] 600: Packaging machine

[0127] 700: Deposit window

[0128] 800: Shipping window

[0129] 900: Returns window

Claims

1. A store control server that creates and provides information on import / export operations for receiving or shipping goods corresponding to order information on the receipt / export of goods; and Includes a logistics automation facility that operates to export or import goods corresponding to the order information according to the above import / export operation information. The above logistics automation equipment Contains an article integration device consisting of multiple sections, The above product integration device A structure in which multiple compartments (block trays) for storing and loading / unloading different items are connected with an empty space (central passage) in the center, and includes a central passage tray that moves up and down through the central passage. Characterized in that at least one item is brought in or taken out through the central passage tray. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

2. In paragraph 1, The above product integration device It is a structure with a cube-shaped, cylindrical, or polygonal structure. The above cube-shaped structure moves the block trays placed on a square in the X and Z directions based on the central passage when goods are brought in or taken out. Among the above polygonal structures, the hexagon is characterized by having a central passage as the basis when bringing in or taking out goods, and the tray carrying the goods when bringing them in moves up and down along the outer wall of the goods integration device. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

3. In paragraph 1, The above central aisle tray It is characterized by being a fixed or floating structure that is permanently installed in the central passageway or is brought in and taken out through an external robot or conveyor. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

4. In paragraph 1, The above product integration device A structure in which multiple blocks (block trays) are connected with an empty space (central passage) in the center, and which includes a central passage tray that moves up and down through the central passage. The above plurality of compartments and the central passage tray are characterized in that they can apply a tray device for sequentially loading and unloading items according to the number of items in the order information. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

5. In paragraph 1, The above product integration device It is characterized by linking the items brought in and out through the central passage tray with an external tray and a robot or conveyor. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

6. In paragraph 1, The above product integration device It is composed of one or more unmanned automated store units according to the volume. The above multiple item integration devices are classified into each section according to the items to be stored, Each section is characterized by being able to be divided into sections, columns, and columns. Unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information 7. In paragraph 6, The above product integration device Classify into each section according to the items to be stored, Each section can be divided into columns, columns, and columns. When exporting goods corresponding to the above order information, it is characterized in that it operates to maximize time and energy efficiency by exporting goods from the corresponding compartment at the highest level first and then exporting goods from the lower compartments sequentially. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

8. In paragraph 6, The above product integration device When exporting goods corresponding to the above order information, it is characterized in that goods from each block (block tray) in one section can be exported at once. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

9. In paragraph 1, The above store control server A method characterized in that when the above order information is read and the calculation is made that the corresponding items fill one tray volume and have remaining items, an operation signal is provided to operate multiple trays and robots. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

10. In paragraph 1, The above store control server Characterized in that it specifies a tray suitable for the total quantity or size or shape of the above order information product. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

11. In paragraph 1, The above logistics automation equipment It is characterized by controlling the position and number of trays and robots according to the position and number of items for removing the items of the above order information. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

12. In paragraph 1, The above logistics automation equipment includes an error inspection table, The above error check table A method characterized in that when multiple items loaded on the above tray and robot are different from the order information, an error item is detected. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

13. In paragraph 12, The above error check table The above tray or robot recognizes the weight or tag (including QR code) or image of the product among the motion information provided by the store control server and determines whether it matches the order information. characterized in that, when there is a mismatch, the robot arm or the goods sorter operates to process the defective goods. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

14. In paragraph 1, The above logistics automation equipment Includes a storage unit for storing items awaiting shipment; The above storage box is composed of a plurality of storage blocks, and some of the plurality of storage blocks are arranged in a spaced state so that a specific storage block is organically moved by utilizing the empty space when moved to the shipping window. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

15. In paragraph 1, The above store control server It further includes a location information system that identifies the current location of the buyer's registered electronic device in real time. It is characterized by providing control information for moving the corresponding storage block of the storage box to be placed closer to the shipping window according to the distance between the electronic device and the unmanned automated store or the expected arrival time. An unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

16. A step for receiving product order information (receiving or shipping) from an external terminal or external server in the store control server; A step of generating an import / export operation information for receiving or shipping goods based on the goods order information (goods code, quantity, packaging status, shipping designation time) from the above store control server and providing an operation signal to the logistics automation equipment; and In the above logistics automation equipment, the product integration device operates according to the above-mentioned import / export operation signal to load the products of the corresponding space in each section onto the section conveyor, collect the products of each section at the center of the section conveyor, and determine whether they match the order information by weight measurement or camera recognition. If they do not match, they are moved to the error inspection table, and if they match, they are moved to the packaging device or stored in a storage unit depending on whether they are packaged. Method for operating an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information 17. A step for receiving product order information (receiving or shipping) from an external terminal or external server in the store control server; A step of generating an import / export operation information for receiving or shipping goods based on the goods order information (goods code, quantity, packaging status, shipping designation time) from the above store control server and providing an operation signal to the logistics automation equipment; and In the above logistics automation equipment, the product integration device operates according to the input / output operation signal to load the products of the corresponding space in each section onto the section conveyor, collect the products of each section at the center of the section conveyor, and determine whether they match the order information by weight measurement or camera recognition. If they do not match, they are moved to the error inspection unit, and if they match, they are moved to the packaging device or stored in a storage unit depending on whether they are packaged. A method for operating an unmanned automated store system for processing computerized order information.

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