Logistical Unit Grouping for Order Preparation Bottlenecks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing order preparation methods, such as cross-docking and automated sorting and storage depot systems, face challenges including high logistics costs, substantial space requirements, and lengthy preparation times due to the need for extensive conveyance means and individual handling of unit loads.
Innovation Solution
A method that groups multiple unit loads into logistical units under the control of a management system, allowing for efficient sorting and handling, reducing the need for complex and costly systems by enabling unit loads to arrive and be processed in blocks, thereby decreasing preparation time and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If unit loads are handled individually through extensive conveyance means, then sorting and delivery can be performed, but preparation time increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual unit loads into grouped logistical units that are handled together as a single entity. This merging approach allows the sorting system to process multiple items simultaneously rather than sequentially, directly reducing preparation time while maintaining sorting accuracy through the management system's control.
2Productivity
If substantial conveyance means are used for individual unit load handling, then sorting can be performed, but logistics costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple unit loads into logistical units, the system reduces the total number of individual handling operations required. This consolidation decreases the energy consumption and operational costs associated with extensive conveyance means while preserving the ability to sort and deliver to correct destinations through automated control.
3Ease of operation
If extensive conveyance means are implemented for individual handling, then unit loads can be transported, but floor space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple unit loads into grouped logistical units that occupy less space individually. This merging strategy reduces the floor space required for conveyance and handling operations while maintaining transport capability through the automated sorting system's management control.
4Productivity
If unit loads are processed one by one, then sorting can be performed, but the flow generated increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple unit loads into logistical units, reducing the total number of individual flow units that need to be processed. This consolidation decreases the overall flow volume while maintaining the sorting function through automated control, thereby reducing the complexity and resources required for handling.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for preparing instructions that each list unit loads. The method includes: obtaining unit loads; inputting the unit 11 loads into a sorting system under the supervision of a control system; sorting the unit loads using a sorting system in accordance with the instructions from and under the supervision of the control system; and, for each instruction, providing, via the sorting system, unit loads listed in the instruction. The step of obtaining unit loads is followed by forming logistical units, each including one or more unit loads, on the basis of the instructions from and under the supervision of the control system. The inputting, sorting, and providing steps are carried out by handling the logistical units obtained.