Intermediate Storage Device with Open Compartments for Order Picking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing order-picking systems face inefficiencies in travel time per article and require multiple collection means, which increase complexity and reduce picking density.
Innovation Solution
An intermediate storage device with open compartments for direct article placement and a separable order-picking aid that reduces the need for collection means and displays, allowing for optimized travel time and simplified handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If collection means (containers, cartons, tubs or pallets) are used to temporarily store collected items during the picking process, then the picker can compile multiple items into an order, but the number of collection means increases device complexity and reduces picking density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the collection means with the intermediate storage device by providing receiving spaces directly integrated into the storage device structure. This allows the picker to deposit items directly into the storage device without using separate containers, cartons, tubs or pallets, thereby reducing the number of collection means while maintaining the ability to compile multiple items into an order.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate storage device serves multiple functions: it acts as both the destination for deposited items and as the collection means itself. The receiving spaces within the storage device fulfill the role of traditional collection means, eliminating the need for separate collection containers and simplifying the overall system.
2Productivity
If several picking orders are combined into a series order and processed in parallel by one picker, then picking density increases, but the picker must carry multiple collecting means corresponding to the number of orders, increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple receiving spaces for different picking orders into a single intermediate storage device. Instead of requiring the picker to carry multiple separate collecting means for parallel order processing, the storage device provides multiple integrated receiving spaces that can accommodate items from multiple orders simultaneously, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining high picking density.
3Ease of operation
If the intermediate storage device is designed with shelf-like receiving surfaces arranged in a receiving area, then receiving places are provided for collection means, but the structure increases device complexity and requires manual emptying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage device into multiple receiving spaces that are open at the front, allowing items to be deposited directly without requiring complex shelf-like structures. Each receiving space is a simple, open compartment that can be easily accessed and emptied, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing the storage device with closed shelves that require manual emptying, the patent inverts the approach by providing open receiving spaces at the front of the device. This allows items to be deposited directly into the spaces and simplifies the emptying process, as items can be easily removed from the open front without complex mechanisms.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The method involves manually collecting articles by commissioning in a commissioning system. The collected articles are carried in an intermediate storage device (1) with receiving compartments (4) during commissioning operation. The collected articles are directly stored in one of the receiving compartments of the intermediate storage device. The device is divided into a bearing part (2) with the receiving compartments and a driving part (3).