AR Warehouse Management System for SKU Tracking Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Warehouse managers face difficulties in tracking Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) and managing available space due to the large size of modern warehouses and the lack of effective visualization tools in Computerized Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), leading to inefficiencies in storage and retrieval processes.
Innovation Solution
An Augmented Reality (AR) based Warehouse Management System that identifies suitable pallets for SKU storage and retrieval using metadata, notifies operators through AR-enabled devices, updates database addresses, and guides operators via virtual maps to optimize storage and retrieval processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional paper-based tracking methods are used, then warehouse managers can maintain simplicity in the system, but tracking accuracy and real-time visibility deteriorate due to excessive paperwork and human memory limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical paper-based tracking systems with an electronic database system that automatically stores and retrieves SKU location information. The database update module automatically updates the WMS database when SKUs are stored or retrieved, eliminating manual paperwork and human memory dependency while maintaining system simplicity through automated processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical warehouse inventory status through the WMS database. The virtual map displays a replicated view of SKU locations and pallet positions, allowing managers to track inventory information electronically without physically inspecting each location, thereby improving tracking accuracy without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Loss of information
If Computerized Warehouse Management Systems are implemented, then information storage and retrieval capability improves, but visualization capability deteriorates as systems rely solely on naming methods without spatial representation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a spatial visualization dimension to the traditional database system by implementing a virtual map that graphically represents the physical warehouse layout. This map displays pallet positions, SKU locations, and available space using visual icons and color coding, transforming abstract database information into intuitive spatial representation that improves ease of operation while maintaining full information accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual map uses color coding to indicate different warehouse states: green for available pallet positions, red for occupied positions, and yellow for SKUs requiring retrieval. This visual encoding system allows operators to quickly assess warehouse status and locate specific items without parsing text-based database entries, significantly improving visualization capability.
3Quantity of substance
If warehouse size increases to accommodate high volume stock, then storage capacity improves, but tracking difficulty increases due to expanded square miles and operator navigation challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements real-time feedback through the virtual map that continuously updates SKU locations and pallet positions as operations occur. When a SKU is stored or retrieved, the database update module immediately refreshes the virtual representation, providing operators with current location information that reduces navigation time and eliminates wasted movement in large warehouse facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The pickup list module pre-identifies and queues SKUs that need to be retrieved before operators begin their tasks. The system determines optimal retrieval sequences and prepares navigation routes in advance, allowing operators to efficiently navigate large warehouse distances without unnecessary backtracking or search time.
4Device complexity
If manual paper noting is used for location tracking, then system simplicity is maintained, but operator confusion increases due to excessive paperwork in high-volume warehouses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual paper noting systems with an electronic database and virtual map interface. Operators interact with touchscreens or mobile devices to record and retrieve location information, eliminating the need to manually write down and physically manage excessive paperwork. The system automatically manages data organization and retrieval, maintaining simplicity while dramatically improving operator clarity through digital interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a Warehouse Management System (WMS) for optimizing storage and retrieval of a Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) present in a warehouse. A pallet identification module identifies one or more pallets capable for storing a plurality of SKUs. A notifying module notifies a first operator for storing the plurality of SKUs in the one or more pallets. A database update module updates an address of each pallet in a WMS database. A pickup list module provides a pickup list comprising one or more SKUs to be retrieve. A determination module determines at least one pallet and a second operator from the one or more pallets and a plurality of second operators respectively. An operator guiding module guides the second operator, via a virtual map displayed on the AR enabled device, to the address of the at least one pallet in order to retrieve the one or more SKUs.