Conveyor Zone Data Handoff Using Local Item Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveying systems face inefficiencies due to the use of one-dimensional bar codes, which do not allow information to be passed between zones and cannot be updated, leading to high costs and bottlenecks in data transfer, and RFID tags have limitations in durability and cost when used across large systems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where data associated with items is stored in local non-transitory computer-readable storage media within each zone, allowing for local processing and transfer of data between zones without the need for extensive data tag readers, reducing the reliance on centralized controllers and minimizing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If one-dimensional bar codes are used to identify items in conventional conveying systems, then item identification is achieved, but data cannot be passed between zones and information cannot be updated, leading to high costs and bottlenecks in data transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static one-dimensional bar codes to dynamic two-dimensional bar codes that can be updated and modified. The 2D bar codes can store changing information such as routing data, order details, and sortation instructions, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements without physical replacement of identification media.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent directly addresses the information limitation by moving from one-dimensional bar codes to two-dimensional bar codes. This dimensional change enables significantly increased data storage capacity, allowing multiple data elements to be encoded in a single visual pattern that can be read and updated across different zones of the conveying system.
2Measurement precision
If bar code scanners are positioned at each decision point to read bar codes, then item identification is achieved, but equipment costs increase and extensive data communication networks and cabling are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional two-dimensional bar code system that serves multiple purposes: identification, data storage, routing information, and inter-zone communication. This single 2D bar code structure replaces the need for separate identification tags and extensive communication infrastructure, as the bar code itself contains and transmits the necessary operational data.
3Extent of automation
If centralized controllers service all decision points simultaneously to access central database information, then centralized control is maintained, but timely access to database becomes challenging on large automated conveyor systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the conveying system into multiple autonomous zones, each capable of independently reading and processing two-dimensional bar code information. This distributed architecture allows each zone to make local decisions based on the data contained in the 2D bar codes, eliminating the need for simultaneous centralized servicing and reducing data access time while maintaining overall system coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of associating data to an item being transported by a conveying system are disclosed. The item and data associated with the item are received at a first zone of the conveying system. The data is stored in a first computer-readable storage medium associated with the first zone. The item is transported to a second zone of the conveying system, and the data stored in the first computer-readable storage medium is transferred to a second computer-readable storage medium associated with the second zone.