Magnetic Storage Access Monitoring for Error-Free Order Picking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing order-picking systems in logistics require significant intervention and structural changes in warehouse organization, leading to reduced efficiency and increased errors due to the need for manual verification of picking locations using RFID systems, which disrupt natural movement sequences and increase the burden on order pickers.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a conductor loop arrangement generating a magnetic field with an AC signal to monitor access to storage areas, allowing for real-time feedback on correct picking locations without altering the natural movement sequence of order pickers, using a detection device to determine access and compare it with target access, and providing display signals for errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID readers and transponders are used for monitoring storage locations, then error reduction is achieved, but the picking process is interrupted by requiring special verification movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/optical verification systems (RFID readers requiring close proximity and specific movements) with a magnetic field-based detection system. Conductor loops generate magnetic fields that are detected by sensors, enabling contactless and movement-free verification of storage location access.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field detection system automatically monitors picker movement through storage areas without requiring the picker to perform any verification actions. The system self-activates when the picker enters the magnetic field zone, eliminating the need for manual verification steps.
2Productivity
If specification systems are used to guide pickers, then picking speed is improved, but verification of specifications is lacking leading to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic feedback by comparing the storage location detected via magnetic field position with the target storage location from the picking list. The system provides real-time verification feedback to confirm correct picking location, eliminating the need for manual verification while maintaining high picking speed.
3Ease of operation
If manual picking processes are used, then flexibility is maintained, but errors occur due to lack of verification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the picker and the verification system. The conductor loops embedded in the warehouse floor generate magnetic fields that mediate the verification process, allowing manual picking to continue with automatic, non-intrusive verification.
4Reliability
If existing monitoring systems are implemented, then error monitoring is improved, but structural changes in warehouse organization are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monitoring function into independent conductor loops for each storage area. Each loop operates autonomously, allowing modular implementation without requiring comprehensive warehouse reorganization. The segmented approach enables phased deployment and maintains existing warehouse layout.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces errors and improves efficiency by providing immediate feedback on correct picking locations, allowing order pickers to recognize and correct mistakes promptly, while being easily integrated into existing warehouse systems without disrupting the workflow.
Implementation Method 1
the conductor loop arrangement (18) being arranged in such a way as to generate a magnetic field (22) based on an electrical alternating current signal (20)
Implementation Method 2
The detection device (26) for detecting the generated magnetic field (22) is designed to provide a measurement signal (28) based on the detected magnetic field (22)
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a device for monitoring access to one storage region of a plurality of storage regions for goods. The device has a measurement signal generation unit, a detection unit and an evaluation unit. The measurement signal generation unit has a signal source and a conductor loop arrangement, wherein the conductor loop arrangement is arranged to generate a magnetic field on the basis of an electrical alternating current signal, wherein each of the storage regions is assigned at least one conductor loop of the conductor loop arrangement, and wherein the signal source is configured to supply an electrical alternating current signal to each conductor loop of the conductor loop arrangement. The detection unit for detecting the generated magnetic field is configured to provide a measurement signal based on the detected magnetic field. The evaluation unit for evaluating the measurement signal is configured to determine an access instance to one of the storage regions based on the measurement signal, to compare a determined access instance with a target access instance, and to output a display signal based on the comparison.