Conveying-Track Circuit for Sorting Containers in Order-Picking Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional order-picking systems face challenges in efficiently sorting containers within a series, particularly when a large number of containers are in the incorrect sequence, as they cannot effectively overtake or be shifted to the front of the sequence without disrupting the flow on the main conveying track.
Innovation Solution
A sorting apparatus and method that utilize a conveying-track circuit connected to the main conveying track, equipped with a transfer device to exchange containers between exchange points, allowing for re-sorting by sensing incorrect sequences and executing re-sorting commands to reintegrate containers into the correct sequence without stopping the main conveying track flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If containers are removed from the main conveying track to be sorted, then containers can be shifted to the rear of the sequence, but containers cannot be shifted to the front of the sequence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a lateral dimension by adding parallel conveying tracks alongside the main track. Containers that need to overtake others are transferred laterally to the parallel track, advanced in position, and then transferred back to the main track, effectively enabling front-shifting through dimensional expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The parallel conveying track serves as an intermediary structure that facilitates container repositioning. Transfer devices act as mediators between the main track and parallel track, enabling containers to be moved to the front sequence without directly disrupting the main conveying flow.
2Productivity
If containers are shifted to the rear using parking locations, then individual containers can be removed from the sequence, but multiple containers cannot be shifted simultaneously in opposite directions
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system is segmented into multiple independent tracks (main track and parallel tracks), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows different containers to be sorted in opposite directions simultaneously on different tracks, increasing sorting throughput without requiring a single complex sorting mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The parallel conveying tracks serve multiple functions: they act as temporary storage, sorting lanes, and overtaking paths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated structures for each sorting operation, managing system complexity while enabling sophisticated sorting capabilities.
3Manufacturing precision
If the main conveying track flow is stopped to sort containers, then containers can be repositioned in the sequence, but system throughput decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Containers are identified and transferred to parallel tracks in advance before the main conveying track reaches the sorting location. This preliminary action allows the main track to maintain continuous flow while sorting operations are performed on the parallel tracks without interrupting the overall system throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The main conveying track maintains continuous motion and container flow throughout the sorting process. Sorting operations are performed on parallel tracks that operate simultaneously, ensuring that the primary conveying function continues uninterrupted while sequence correction is achieved.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus or system for sorting non-sorted containers in a predetermined sequence in an order-picking system includes a main conveying track by means of which the non-sorted containers are transported within the order-picking system, in particular to an order-picking workstation or into a container store, in a main conveying direction. The apparatus includes a conveying-track circuit, which can be connected to the main conveying track via an introduction point, for introducing containers into the conveying-track circuit, and via a discharge point, for discharging containers which are located in the conveying-track circuit. At least one transfer device is arranged within the conveying-track circuit such that containers can be exchanged between a first exchange point and a second exchange point of the conveying-track circuit.