Picking Station With Interchangeable Locations And Single Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing order-picking stations lack ergonomic design and flexibility in using available space, requiring complex structures and multiple transport systems for efficient supply and disposal of picking and storage containers.
Innovation Solution
The picking station allows interchangeable use of locations as either picking or storage spaces, with a single automatic transport system that uses a container transport vehicle moving in a partial circle to supply and remove containers, simplifying the layout and reducing costs by integrating supply and disposal processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate transport systems are used for supplying picking containers and storage containers, then the reliability of container supply is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the supply of picking containers and storage containers into a single integrated transport system. The transport system includes a single conveyor that can transport both types of containers to their respective locations, eliminating the need for separate transport systems while maintaining operational reliability through unified control and coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport system is designed with multi-functionality to handle both picking containers and storage containers using the same infrastructure. The system can switch between transporting different container types based on operational needs, reducing overall system complexity while ensuring reliable supply of both container types through a versatile platform.
2Device complexity
If fixed picking and storage locations are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to changing order situations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic location assignment where picking locations and storage locations are not permanently fixed but can be reassigned based on current order requirements. The system can dynamically determine which locations serve as picking locations and which serve as storage locations, allowing flexible adaptation to changing order situations while maintaining a relatively simple physical layout.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (location functions) based on order characteristics. By dynamically adjusting which locations are designated for picking versus storage based on real-time order data, the system achieves high adaptability without requiring complex physical reconfiguration of the facility layout.
3Productivity
If the picker has direct access to multiple containers for sorting, then the productivity is improved, but the ergonomics worsen due to increased movement distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the working area into multiple designated locations around the picker, with picking locations and storage locations arranged in accessible positions. This segmentation allows the picker to access multiple containers efficiently while maintaining ergonomic distances, as each location is optimally positioned within reach rather than requiring traversal across large distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The system optimizes the spatial arrangement of containers around the picker in a two-dimensional workspace layout, positioning both picking and storage locations within easy reach. By carefully arranging containers in accessible positions around the picker rather than in linear sequences, the system enables efficient sorting across multiple containers while minimizing movement distances and maintaining ergonomic standards.
Data Source
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AI summary
Commissioning station (1) for manual commissioning of articles with a working area (2) for the commissioner (3) (sic) and at least one commissioning area (4) for the commission holder (5), storage spaces around the working areas (6) for the stock holder (7) for withdrawal of the articles to be commissioned. At least one commissioning area (4) and storage space (6) are arranged in a graduated circle around the working area (1).