Automated Storage Rack Vision System for Free Space Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage racks face challenges in accelerating storage operations and simplifying stockkeeping, particularly in detecting free storage spaces and managing variously shaped goods, with operator intervention required for accurate data entry and storage location selection.
Innovation Solution
The storage rack incorporates an image data storage and processing unit to automatically detect and recognize free storage spaces using digital image data, along with a contactless detection unit and RFID transponders for identification, enabling automated selection and updating of storage information without operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If operator manually enters storage location information, then data accuracy can be maintained, but storage operation speed decreases and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses image capture devices to automatically detect and identify storage goods, carriers, and storage locations without requiring operator intervention. The computer processing unit automatically updates storage information based on captured images, enabling the system to serve itself and eliminate manual data entry while maintaining high accuracy through automated vision-based detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry operations with automated optical detection systems. Image capture devices capture visual information about storage locations and goods, which are then processed by computer algorithms to automatically update the storage database, substituting human manual input with automated optical-mechanical systems.
2Productivity
If automatic image-based detection is implemented, then storage operation speed increases, but device complexity increases due to additional image capture and processing components
Solution Approach 1:
The computer processing unit performs multiple functions: it processes images from capture devices, identifies storage goods, determines storage locations, updates the storage database, and controls the loading/removal device. By making the computer multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated systems for each task, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines image capture, image processing, goods identification, location determination, and database updating into a single integrated computer-based system. Rather than using separate independent systems for each function, all these functions are merged into one cohesive automated storage management system.
3Productivity
If manual selection of carriers is required, then system complexity remains low, but time consumption increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously captures images of carriers and storage locations, processes this visual feedback to identify free storage spaces and suitable carriers, and automatically selects appropriate carriers for incoming goods. This closed-loop feedback system eliminates manual carrier selection by using real-time visual information to automatically make carrier assignment decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection and identification of all carriers and storage locations before actual storage operations begin. By pre-processing images and identifying suitable storage spaces in advance, the system prepares carrier assignment decisions beforehand, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual selection during the actual storage operation.
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
This solution accelerates storage operations, increases data reliability by minimizing operator errors, and allows for precise and efficient storage of goods of any shape, even if they have slipped, by automatically detecting occupied and free spaces.
Implementation Method 1
at least one image capture device (24) which is suitable for optical recording of the goods placed on the carriers and is able to produce digital image information
Implementation Method 2
The storage rack may comprise a contactless detection unit for recognition of storage goods
Implementation Method 3
the storage goods may comprise a wireless transponder device for identification purposes and the storage rack may be provided with a communication device for wireless transponders designed to transfer identification data to the computer
Data Source
AI summary
A storage shelf (10) has a plurality of supports (14) arranged on top of each other for supporting stock carriers (15) which can be moved by means of an automatic transfer and removal device (13), has at least one access opening (18) for supplying and removing the stock carriers (15), and has a computer (20) in which information about the stored goods (17, 17a) is saved. At least one image sensing device (24) is provided which is suitable for the optical detection of goods placed on the stock carriers (15) and can produce digital image information, wherein the digital image information can be stored in the computer (20) and called up by means of a display unit (22, 23). The display unit (22) is associated with a selection device which uses the digital image information to allow selection of a stock carrier (15) and movement thereof to the access opening (18) by means of the computer. The computer (20) has an image data archive (34) for archiving the digital image information of the stock carrier (15), and an image data processing unit (38) which is designed for the detection and/or recognition of modification to the loading state of stock carriers (15) and/or for the detection and/or recognition of free storage places using the digital image information from the image data archive (34).