Distributor Line Buffer Integration for Flexible Goods Conveying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distributor systems for conveying articles in picking systems lack flexibility and efficiency, often requiring multiple circulation circuits that increase space requirements and complexity, limiting their operational flexibility and throughput.
Innovation Solution
A distributor system with a provisioning system, a first distributor device, a buffer device, and a target system, where loading aids can be conveyed through a distributor line, allowing flexible distribution and operation, with the buffer device physically separate from the distributor line, enabling increased spatial flexibility and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple circulation circuits are used to convey articles in distributor systems, then articles can be distributed to buffer devices, but space requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor line is designed to perform multiple functions: it can convey articles directly to the target system, transfer articles to the buffer device, or receive articles from the buffer device and convey them to the target system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate circulation circuits while maintaining distribution flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple circulation circuits into a single distributor line that can interact with both the target system and the buffer device. By combining these functions into one unified conveying path, the system reduces complexity while preserving adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple circulation circuits are used to convey articles, then buffer devices can be supplied, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor line serves multiple purposes including direct conveyance to the target system, supply to the buffer device, and reception from the buffer device. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain operational flexibility without requiring the additional space that would be needed for separate circulation circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dimensional change by allowing the distributor line to operate in multiple modes or directions - it can move articles forward to the target system, backward to the buffer device, or forward to the buffer device and then to the target system. This multi-directional capability replaces the need for multiple separate circulation circuits, reducing overall space requirements.
3Device complexity
If buffer device is integrated with distributor line, then conveyance is simplified, but spatial flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the distributor line for conveyance, the buffer device for temporary storage, and the target system for final destination. These segments are connected through standardized interfaces that allow flexible interaction. The buffer device can be physically separated from the distributor line while maintaining functional integration, providing spatial flexibility without complicating the conveyance logic.
4Adaptability or versatility
If articles must pass through buffer device to reach target system, then buffer device can be used for sorting, but conveying time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its operation mode based on real-time requirements. The distributor line can be configured to send articles directly to the target system when immediate delivery is needed, or route them through the buffer device when sorting or temporary storage is required. This dynamic routing capability allows the system to optimize conveying time while maintaining buffer management flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer device can perform preliminary actions such as pre-sorting or temporary storage of articles before they are finally conveyed to the target system. This allows for advance preparation and organization of articles, which can actually reduce overall conveying time by enabling more efficient final delivery, even though articles may pass through the buffer device.
Data Source
AI summary
A distributor system (1) for conveying articles with loading aids includes a provisioning system (2), a first distributor device (3a), a first buffer device (4a) and a target system (5), wherein the first distributor device (3a) has a distributor line (32a), along which the loading aids can be conveyed, and a first distributor infeed line (31a), which is connected, in terms of conveyance, to the provisioning system (2), and wherein the first distributor device (3a) is connected, in terms of conveyance, to the first buffer device (4a) and to the target system (5), wherein the first distributor device (3a) has a second distributor infeed line (33a), which is connected, in terms of conveyance, the buffer outfeed line (43a) of the first buffer device (4a). Methods for provisioning articles included in an order are also disclosed.