Picking Device Batch Storage for Pharmaceutical Packages
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automated order picking devices face inefficiencies in storing multiple non-identical pharmaceutical packages, as existing methods are time-consuming and require repetitive processes for each unique item, especially when dimensions and orientations are not standardized.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a reading device to determine unique identifiers and dimensions of packages, arranging them according to a storage specification, and creating removal instructions based on dimensions to facilitate efficient storage and retrieval of multiple packages using a gripper, allowing for flexible storage patterns and user-friendly operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple non-identical packages are stored using conventional methods, then each package is processed individually, but the storage time and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual package storage operations into a single batch storage operation. By reading all unique identifiers, determining dimensions for all packages, and creating comprehensive storage and removal instructions for the entire group, the system processes multiple packages simultaneously rather than sequentially, significantly reducing total storage time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by reading all unique identifiers and determining dimensions for all packages before actual storage execution. The control unit creates complete storage instructions and removal regimes in advance, allowing the physical storage operation to proceed efficiently without intermediate decision-making delays
2Adaptability or versatility
If packages are stored without standardized dimensions and orientations, then storage flexibility is maintained, but the arrangement process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the approach from physically standardizing package dimensions and orientations to standardizing the informational parameters - reading unique identifiers, determining dimensions digitally, and creating structured storage instructions. This allows flexible physical arrangement while maintaining systematic control through data standardization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual measurement and physical arrangement processes with automated optical scanning (reading devices) and computational dimension determination. The control unit algorithmically creates storage and removal instructions based on detected dimensions, substituting mechanical measurement and trial-and-error arrangement with intelligent software-based planning
3Productivity
If conventional storage methods are used for fast-moving items, then identical packages are stored together efficiently, but non-identical packages require repetitive processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal storage process that handles both identical and non-identical packages through the same workflow. The reading device, dimension determination, and instruction creation mechanisms work universally for all package types, eliminating the need for separate processing paths while maintaining efficiency for fast-moving items
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for storing a plurality of unit items in a picking device. Known storage methods are time-consuming because each unit item has to be stored individually.According to the invention, it is provided that a) a unique identifier (EI) of a unit item (6) to be stored is determined using a reading device (80), b) it is determined via the unique identifier whether the dimensions of the unit item (6) are known, c) a unit item with known dimensions is arranged in a storage area (21, 31) according to a predetermined storage specification, d) steps a) - c) are repeated until it is detected that a last unit item has been placed in the storage area (21, 31), e1) the placed unit items (6) are moved in a storage direction, and e2) a retrieval regime is created based on the dimensions of the placed unit items, wherein the retrieval regime includes at least one retrieval instruction, f1) a retrieval instruction is processed, f2) it is checked whether further retrieval instructions need to be processed, and steps f1) and f2) are repeated until all retrieval instructions of a Withdrawal regimes have been completed.