Shuttle Takeaway Routing for Faster Automated Order Fulfillment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) are limited by the time and resources required to move totes to and from individuals, and the speed at which people can process totes, especially when handling a large number of objects, necessitating a more efficient and cost-effective system that assists in the processing of a variety of objects.
Innovation Solution
A storage, retrieval, and processing system that utilizes a programmable motion device with bin and object perception units, a central control system, and coordinated conveyance systems to identify, sort, and deliver objects based on unique indicia, enabling efficient routing and placement into destination containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional queue-based ordering systems are used, then customers can place orders, but customers must wait in line and experience long wait times
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows customers to place orders in advance through mobile devices before arriving at the restaurant. Orders are queued virtually and prepared ahead of time, eliminating the need for customers to wait in physical lines when they arrive.
Solution Approach 2:
A virtual queue management system acts as an intermediary between customers and the restaurant kitchen. The system manages order sequencing, timing, and communication, allowing customers to interact with the restaurant remotely through mobile devices without physically queuing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customers order from any location in the restaurant, then ordering flexibility is improved, but tracking and retrieving orders becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses color-coded identifiers (such as colored lights or displayed colors on mobile devices) to represent different orders. This visual coding system allows customers and staff to quickly identify and track orders regardless of location, simplifying the tracking process while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback to customers through mobile devices, notifying them when their order is ready for pickup. This automated feedback mechanism eliminates the need for complex manual tracking systems while allowing customers to retrieve orders from any location.
3Productivity
If multiple orders are handled simultaneously, then productivity increases, but order accuracy and tracking become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides each order into distinct, trackable units with unique identifiers. Each order is segmented in the virtual queue with its own status, timing, and location information, allowing multiple orders to be processed simultaneously without confusion or mixing up of orders.
Data Source
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AI summary
A storage, retrieval and processing system for processing objects includes: a plurality of bins including objects to be distributed, said plurality of bins being provided on an input conveyance system: a programmable motion device that includes an end effector for grasping and moving any of the objects, a perception system for providing perception data regarding a selected object that is presented to the perception system by the programmable motion device, and a routing conveyance system for receiving the selected object, and for moving the selected object in each of horizontal and vertical directions toward a selected destination container responsive to the perception data, the routing conveyance system including at least one object conveyor for urging the selected object toward the selected destination container m a third direction that is generally orthogonal to the horizontal and vertical directions.