Multi-Row Sorting Picking System Vertical Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing picking systems face inefficiencies in processing multiple orders simultaneously due to limited space and lack of consideration for efficient unloading and reloading of articles, leading to poor space utilization and increased operational costs.
Innovation Solution
A picking system featuring a multi-row sorting device with exits at different heights, a container supporting device for accommodating containers, and a transport device that unloads and reloads containers automatically, allowing for increased order processing without expanding the installation space and optimizing the unloading and reloading process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the number of orders to be collectively processed at a time increases, then the sorting capacity increases, but the movable range of the sorting device must be extended and additional collecting boxes must be provided, resulting in poor space efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies vertical stacking of multiple rows of collecting boxes at different heights to increase sorting capacity without expanding horizontal space. The sorting device includes multiple rows of exits at different vertical levels, with corresponding collecting boxes stacked vertically, transforming a 2D horizontal arrangement into a 3D vertical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested arrangement where multiple rows of collecting boxes are positioned within the vertical space above and below the sorting device. The container supporting device is positioned below the sorting device to support containers discharged from lower exits, creating a nested vertical configuration that maximizes space utilization.
2Productivity
If the movable range of the sorting device is extended to process more orders, then the number of orders that can be processed increases, but the space efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by extending the sorting device vertically rather than horizontally. Multiple rows of exits are arranged at different heights, allowing the device to process more orders while maintaining a compact horizontal footprint. The container supporting device positioned below further utilizes vertical space.
3Productivity
If collecting boxes are added in extended areas to increase processing capacity, then sorting efficiency improves, but space utilization becomes poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions container supporting portions below the sorting device to support containers discharged from lower exits. This nested vertical arrangement allows collecting boxes to be stacked efficiently within the vertical envelope of the sorting device, improving space utilization while maintaining sorting efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from horizontal expansion of collecting boxes to vertical stacking. Multiple rows of collecting boxes are arranged at different vertical levels corresponding to different rows of exits, enabling high-density space utilization while maintaining access to all boxes for container support.
Data Source
AI summary
A picking system is realized that can efficiently perform operations from collection to delivery of articles in a limited space. A picking system (1) includes: a multi-row sorting device (2) configured to sort the article into one of the plurality of rows of exits (21) and discharge the sorted article; a container supporting device (3) capable of supporting an accommodating container (B) on a plurality of rows of container supporting portions (32) until an article group that is a set of articles for the order is collected; and a transport device (4) configured to unload the accommodating container (B) in which the article is accommodated from the container supporting portion (32), and load an empty accommodating container (B) to the container supporting portion (32).