Apparatus for improving the ergonomics and safety of a storage device, operating device, and storage device having such an apparatus

Abstract

When working on a storage device, in particular a vertical storage device, for example a paternoster rack, a vertical lift module, an automatic small-parts storage system, or a carousel storage system, the storage device is usually not ergonomically supportive for the employees because they often have to bend or move over one or more machine edges of an access region of such a storage device. The aim of the invention is therefore to provide an apparatus with which the ergonomics and safety of a storage device is improved for operators. This aim is achieved by an apparatus (1) for improving the ergonomics of a storage device (2), comprising - a longitudinal side (L) which extends at least partly in the horizontal direction along an access region (3) of a storage device (2), - a transverse side (Q) which extends at least partly in a horizontal direction along the access region (3) of the storage device (2), and - a height side (H) which extends at least partly in the vertical direction along the access region (3) of the storage device (2), wherein the apparatus (1) is made of an elastic and compressible but dimensionally stable material.

Description

[0001] Device for improving the ergonomics and safety of a storage device, operating device and storage device with such a device

[0002] The present invention relates to a device for improving the ergonomics and safety of a storage device, as well as an operating device and a storage device with such a device.

[0003] When working on storage equipment, especially vertical storage equipment such as a carousel, a vertical lift, an automated small parts warehouse, or a vertical carousel, the equipment is often not ergonomically supportive for employees, as they frequently have to bend over or move along one or more machine edges within the access area of ​​such equipment. This repetitive and potentially strenuous movement, often performed over several hours, can cause discomfort or even pain for the employees.

[0004] Several solutions are already known in the art to support operators in their daily work with such storage systems. These include text display elements based on LED matrices or segment displays. In combination with static or movable lighting elements, these can support the picking process by displaying the position of the items to be retrieved on the storage carriers. Swiveling the storage carrier towards the operator is also known in the art. By swiveling the storage carrier towards the operator, the operator does not have to bend over it to reach items located far away.However, even with this solution, hard machine edges are still present, posing a potential risk of injury to operators.

[0005] To increase the safety of operators during order picking at storage systems, various solutions are already known from the prior art. In particular, soft elements are used to protect operators at storage systems, preventing them from, for example, hitting their heads on machine parts or rods. Such shock-absorbing elements are also used for the storage system itself to protect it from other machines or storage equipment, such as forklifts, etc.

[0006] Based on this prior art, the invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a device that improves the ergonomics and safety of a storage device for operators. Furthermore, it is an objective of the invention to simplify the order picking process for operators. These objectives are achieved with a device according to claim 1. These objectives are further achieved with an operating device according to claim 17 and a storage device according to claim 20.

[0007] In a first aspect of the invention, it is a device for improving the ergonomics and safety of a storage device, comprising

[0008] a longitudinal side that extends at least partially in a horizontal direction along a bearing device,

[0009] a transverse side that extends at least partially in a horizontal direction along the bearing device, as well as

[0010] a height side that extends at least partially in a vertical direction along the bearing device.

[0011] The device according to the invention is made of an elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material. The device according to the invention has the advantage that when an operator bends along a machine edge of a storage device, particularly when bending over a horizontally extending machine edge of an access area of ​​a storage device, this material acts as a cushioning layer between the operator and the hard machine edge. This prevents the operator from being bumped or pressed against a machine edge. Consequently, the device according to the invention can improve the ergonomics for an operator during order picking or when storing and retrieving goods onto a storage carrier of a storage device. Advantageously, the device according to the invention extends along an access area of ​​the storage device.

[0012] Elastic, compressible, and dimensionally stable materials are those that can deform under pressure but return to their original shape after the pressure is released. Examples include silicone foam, polyurethane foam, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, viscoelastic foam, natural rubber, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), elasticized cork, and technical gels. The choice of material depends on the application, particularly the temperature range, pressure load, and long-term stability.

[0013] The invention can be further improved by the following embodiments, each of which is advantageous in itself and can be combined with each other as desired.

[0014] In a first advantageous embodiment, the invention provides that the device, made of an elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material, comprises a dimensionally stable core and an elastic and deformable outer shell. The core can be made of a harder plastic or foam, which is encased or surrounded by a plastic or foam that is softer than the core. However, it is also conceivable that the core is made of a different material, for example, a metal, particularly aluminum, in order to further improve the stability of the device along its longitudinal side. In order to adapt flexibly to the respective local conditions, in particular the individual design of a storage device, the invention provides in a further advantageous embodiment that the device is formed in one piece or in multiple parts.For example, this can consist of two identical modules arranged at two different positions within the access area, leaving an area within the access area free where no device according to the invention is arranged. Further conveying technologies, such as conveyor belts, etc., can be connected to this free area.

[0015] In a further advantageous embodiment, the invention provides that the elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material comprises an encasing cover. This cover is preferably a textile plastic cover, and particularly preferably a compostable textile plastic cover. The cover can be permanently bonded to the elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material. Alternatively, it can, for example, have a closure mechanism, in particular a zipper, with which the cover can be pulled onto and off the elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material. This ensures easy replacement of the cover. Furthermore, different covers made of different materials can be provided, adapted to different conditions. Various chemical resistances, temperature ranges, electrostatically dissipative materials, etc., are conceivable.

[0016] Preferably, the elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material comprises a foam, particularly preferably a polyurethane foam. The polyurethane foam, which is typically made of two components, is particularly durable and weather-resistant. Advantageously, the elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material is produced by extrusion, casting, injection molding, and / or compression molding.

[0017] Furthermore, the elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material can be an air-inflated structure made of an airtight fabric. An airtight fabric is defined as one that prevents the diffusion of gas molecules into or out of the surrounding air as completely as possible. Preferably, the airtight fabric is a plastic fabric, and particularly preferably a flame-retardant and coated plastic fabric. A flame-retardant and coated plastic fabric can further enhance operator safety in the event of a fire or accident. A flame-retardant material is characterized by low flammability and the ability to resist igniting easily upon contact with a flame or to self-extinguish the fire when the ignition source is removed.Examples include polycarbonates (PC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinyl chlorides (PVC), phenolic resins (PF), polyetheretherketones (PEEK), polyester resins with flame retardants, melamine resins, polysulfones, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) with flame retardants, epoxy resins (EP), glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) or carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP), polyamides with flame retardants, thermoplastic polyurethanes with flame retardants, or polyolefins with flame retardants. Flame retardants can be halogenated compounds, phosphorus-based additives, or inorganic fillers, such as aluminum hydroxide.

[0018] The inflated structure can have a closable opening through which air can be blown into the airtight fabric. This can be done, for example, with a hand pump or an electric pump. It is also conceivable that the air-inflated structure is constantly inflated or filled with air during operation by means of an attached blower. This has the advantage that any pressure fluctuations during operation can be compensated for by the blower.

[0019] To further improve the stability of the air-inflated structure, the invention provides, in a further advantageous embodiment of the device, that the plastic fabric has seams, preferably double seams, made of abrasion- and rot-resistant plastic fibers. The plastic fibers are particularly preferably made of polyester and / or nylon fibers. This further increases the durability, longevity, and robustness of the device.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment of the device according to the invention, the transverse and vertical sides of the device are designed such that they together form an L-shape. This has the particular advantage that the device can cover the longitudinal side of a machine edge of an access area of ​​a storage device in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0021] Advantageously, a surface is formed between the longitudinal and transverse sides of the device. This surface can be used, for example, to support the operator or to place heavy or unwieldy stored goods. To ensure the durability and longevity of the device's surface, a preferred embodiment features a cleanable and / or chemically resistant surface. A cleanable surface is understood to be one into which cleaning agents cannot penetrate and remain. This is achieved, for example, with a surface made of waterproof plastic. Particularly preferably, the surface can be resistant to acids, bases, aliphatic and / or aromatic hydrocarbons, especially gasoline. This makes the device suitable for storage applications involving the storage of such chemicals.Examples of suitable plastic surface materials include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoroalkoxy polymer (PFA), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE), and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) with a protective coating, for example, made of epoxy resin, polyoxymethylene (POM), or ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE). Furthermore, in another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the invention, the order picking process for operators can be improved. In this embodiment, at least one projection surface is provided within the surface formed by the longitudinal and transverse sides. This projection surface serves to display order picking information, which can be used, for example, to initiate, terminate, or support an order picking process.Preferably, the projection surface comprises a non-reflective material. This allows the information projected onto the surface to be optimally reproduced or displayed, as there is no reflection or scattering. Examples of suitable materials are matte plastics, in particular polycarbonates (PC) or polymethyl methacrylates (PMMA), matte varnishes and paints, especially acrylic-based, matte textiles, especially velour, linen or cotton, matte films, in particular anti-reflective films or light-diffusing films, or anti-reflective coated plastics, in particular polyethylene terephthalates or polycarbonate with anti-reflective layers.

[0022] To enable the device according to the invention to be retrofitted to an existing storage device, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the device has mounting means with which it can be attached to an access area of ​​the storage device. These mounting means can be screws, adhesive, hook-and-loop fasteners, and / or magnets. Hook-and-loop fasteners and magnets have the advantage that the device according to the invention can be easily removed from the storage device, for example, for maintenance of the storage device or for replacing a covering of the device according to the invention, and can be reattached at a later time. A plug connection is also conceivable as a mounting means.

[0023] A second aspect of the invention relates to an operating device for a storage device. The storage device comprises an access area for providing a storage carrier with stored goods for user access, as well as a data processing unit, a projector, and a 3D sensor system. The operating device according to the invention is characterized in that the projector projects a graphical user interface onto the device. The projected user interface can have one or more widgets. By projecting picking information onto the device according to the invention, advantageously onto its projection surface, the picking process can be significantly simplified for an operator. In particular, the projection surface can display...

[0024] The remaining time until delivery or provision of a storage carrier to the access area is displayed.

[0025] the position along the longitudinal side of the device of the stored goods to be removed or stored on the storage carrier is displayed,

[0026] An error by the operator is indicated by a change in color or pictograms; confirmation of the removal or storage of a stored item is carried out by interaction with the projection surface, for example, by the operator touching the projection surface with their hand.

[0027] In a first advantageous embodiment, the invention provides for the operating device in which the projector, the 3D sensor system, and the data processing unit are formed in a single, easily handled unit, in particular combined in a common housing. This allows for easy assembly of the operating device and simple retrofitting of existing devices with the operating device.

[0028] In a third and final aspect of the invention, the invention relates to an automatic storage device, in particular a storage paternoster, a storage lift, an automatic small parts storage system or a storage carousel or a combination of several such devices, comprising an operating device according to the invention as well as a device according to the invention for improving ergonomics and safety.

[0029] Advantageously, the operating device is arranged above the access area of ​​the storage device, which is particularly advantageous compared to the device according to the invention for improving the ergonomics and safety of a storage device.

[0030] The invention is described below by way of example with reference to the drawings and several embodiments. The same reference numerals are always used in the drawings for elements that correspond to each other in terms of function and / or structure.

[0031] As described above, a feature of the embodiment can be omitted if the technical effect associated with that feature is not relevant for a particular application. Conversely, a feature not yet present in the embodiment can also be added as described above if the technical effect of the added feature is relevant for a particular application.

[0032] They show:

[0033] Fig. 1 shows a front view of a first embodiment of the device according to the invention mounted on a storage lift.

[0034] Fig. 2 shows the embodiment according to Fig. 1 in a side view,

[0035] Fig. 3 shows a front view of a second embodiment of the device according to the invention mounted on a storage lift.

[0036] Fig. 4 shows a front view of a third embodiment of the device according to the invention, supplemented by an operating device according to the invention.

[0037] Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention on a storage device 2. The storage device 2 in the embodiment shown here is a vertical storage module (VLM), also called a vertical storage lift or vertical lift module. The storage device 2 has an access area 3 arranged at the front. A transport unit (not shown) is arranged inside the storage device 2, which can transport storage carriers from storage locations arranged inside the storage device 2 to the access area 3 and back again. If an operator requests a specific item or a specific storage carrier, or if this occurs due to an automated warehouse management system, the transport unit conveys the corresponding storage carrier from its storage location inside the storage device 2 to the access area 3.The operator can then remove or add a stored item from the storage carrier. Depending on the depth and design of the storage carrier, for example, a tray, the operator often has to lean over the front edge of the storage device 2. To prevent repeated contact or pressure with the machine edge of the storage device 2 by a part of the operator's body, a device 1 according to the invention is arranged at the front of the storage device 2. This device extends along the entire longitudinal side L of the access area 3 and is made of an elastic and compressible, yet dimensionally stable material. Furthermore, the device 1 according to the invention extends along the vertical side H of the access area 3 such that the lower edge of the access area 3 of the storage device 2 is completely covered by the device 1.Consequently, when leaning against the support device 2 or leaning over the machine edge into the access area 3, the operator cannot bump into or press against the lower edge of the machine. Rather, the operator only comes into contact with the elastic and compressible device 1.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 2, the device 1 has an L-shape in cross-section. Due to the L-shape, the device 1 extends along its transverse side Q into the access area 3, thus enabling an operator to support or rest body parts within the access area 3. This further improves ergonomics during order picking by an operator. This can be particularly advantageous if shorter operators have to remove or place goods from a storage carrier that is located far from the operator's position. Furthermore, goods can be placed or temporarily stored on the surface 4 of the device 1 during storage or retrieval. The surface 4 can also have at least one projection surface 5. This projection surface 5 can be used to display picking information, which can be used, for example, to initiate, end, or support a picking process.

[0039] Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention. Unlike the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the device 2 shown here is not made in one piece, but is constructed from two parts or modules. Both modules are the same size, with one module arranged on the left side and one module on the right side of the access area 3. This has the

[0040] One advantage of this design is that a defined area remains free between the two modules at access area 3. Conveyor systems, such as conveyor belts, robot arms, or similar devices, can be connected to this free area. More than two modules and other arrangements along access area 3 of the storage device 2 are also conceivable.

[0041] In addition to improved ergonomics and safety for operators of a storage device 2, the device 1 also improves or simplifies its usability. A corresponding embodiment is shown in Figure 4. This includes an operating device 8, which comprises a projector 6, a 3D sensor system 7, and a data processing unit (not shown). The operating device 8 is arranged opposite the device 1. Picking information is displayed on the projection surface 5 of the device 1 by means of the projector 6. For example, arrows or other symbols or pictograms, which can be projected onto the projection surface 5 of the device 1 by the projector 6, can indicate the position or location of the stored goods to be picked or the storage location of the stored goods along the longitudinal side L of the device 1.Furthermore, the 3D sensor system 7 enables the interaction of an operator with the projection surface 5 to be determined. Therefore, it is possible, for example, for an operator to confirm the picking process by touching a specific area of ​​the projection surface 5.

[0042] Thus, a device is disclosed above which increases the ergonomics and safety of a storage device for an operator and which also improves the operability of a storage device. Reference numeral

[0043] 1 Device

[0044] 2 Storage device 3 Access area 4 Surface

[0045] 5 projection surfaces, 6 projectors

[0046] 7 3D sensor system 8 Operating device

[0047] L Long side

[0048] Q side panel

[0049] H Height side

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device (1) for improving the ergonomics and safety of a storage device (2), comprising a longitudinal side (L) which extends at least section by section in a horizontal direction along a bearing device (2), a transverse side (Q) which extends at least section by section in a horizontal direction along the bearing device (2), as well as a height side (H) which extends at least section by section in a vertical direction along the bearing device (2), wherein the device (1) is made of an elastic and compressible, but dimensionally stable material.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the elastic and compressible, but dimensionally stable material comprises a dimensionally stable core and an elastic and deformable covering.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it is formed in one piece or in multiple parts.

4. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the elastic and compressible, but dimensionally stable material comprises a encasing shell, preferably a textile plastic shell, particularly preferably a compostable textile plastic shell.

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elastic and compressible, but dimensionally stable material comprises foam, preferably polyurethane foam.

6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elastic and compressible, but dimensionally stable material is produced by means of extrusion, casting, injection molding and / or pressing processes.

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the elastic and compressible, but dimensionally stable material is an air-inflated structure consisting of an airtight fabric.

8. Device according to claim 7, characterized in that the airtight fabric is a plastic fabric, preferably a flame-retardant and coated plastic fabric, particularly preferably a polyvinyl chloride-polyester fabric.

9. Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the plastic fabric has seams, preferably double seams, made of abrasion- and rot-resistant plastic fibers, preferably polyester and / or nylon fibers.

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transverse side (Q) and height side (H) are designed such that they together form an L-shape.

11. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a surface (4) is formed between the longitudinal side (L) and the transverse side (Q).

12. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the surface (4) is cleanable and / or chemically resistant, preferably resistant to acids, bases, aliphatic and / or aromatic carbon compounds, in particular gasoline.

13. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one projection surface (5) is provided within the surface (4) formed by the longitudinal side (L) and transverse side (Q).

14. Device according to claim 13, characterized in that the at least one projection surface (5) comprises a non-reflective material.

15. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is attached to the storage device (2), in particular in the vicinity of the access area (3), by means of mounting means.

16. Device according to claim 15, characterized in that the mounting means comprise screws, adhesives, hook and loop fasteners and / or magnets.

17. Operating device (8) for a storage device (2) which has an access area (3) for providing a storage carrier with stored goods for user access, comprising a data processing device, a projector (6) and a 3D sensor system (7), characterized in that the projector (6) projects a graphic user interface onto a device (1) according to claims 1 to 16.

18. Operating device according to claim 17, characterized in that the projector (6), the 3D sensor system (7) and the data processing device are combined in a single, manageable unit. teirrfexrernstar19. Operating device according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the operating device (8) is designed as a retrofit device with which a storage device (2) in use can be retrofitted.

20. Automatic storage device (2), in particular a storage paternoster, a storage lift, an automatic small parts storage system or a storage carousel or a combination of several such devices, comprising an operating device (8) according to one of claims 17 to 20 and a device (1) according to claims 1 to 16.

21. Automatic storage device (2) according to claim 20, characterized in that the operating device (8) is arranged above the access area (3) of the storage device (2), preferably opposite the device (1) according to claims 1 to 16. karrfexremstar

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