Automated Storage Recognition Module for Multi-Identifier Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated storage and retrieval devices in retail environments struggle to recognize and process multiple types of machine-readable identifiers, leading to inefficiencies in item tracking and location management within orders.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that includes an automated storage and retrieval device, a scanning device, and a computing device configured to execute a recognition module, which can read and map various machine-readable identifiers such as container IDs, tracking numbers, or ASN numbers to existing orders, creating a new container ID for future tracking and storage within the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single identifier (ID) is used for an item in the order, then the item can be identified during different stages of processing, but the system cannot recognize and process multiple types of machine-readable identifiers (such as tracking numbers, ASN numbers, container IDs)
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a universal identifier mapping mechanism that can handle multiple types of machine-readable identifiers (tracking numbers, ASN numbers, container IDs, barcodes) through a single unified approach. The recognition module detects various identifier types and maps them to a standardized container ID format, allowing the automated storage and retrieval device to process diverse identifiers without requiring separate processing pathways for each type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mapping layer between the diverse machine-readable identifiers and the internal container ID system. The recognition module acts as a mediator that receives various identifier types, determines their type through detection, and maps them to the appropriate container ID format. This intermediary layer enables the system to maintain a simple internal structure while supporting complex external identifier variations.
2Productivity
If manual intervention is required to map identifiers to orders, then accurate tracking can be achieved, but processing efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automated recognition and mapping capabilities. The recognition module automatically detects the type of machine-readable identifier presented, retrieves the appropriate mapping rules from the database, and performs the mapping to container ID without human intervention. The system serves itself by maintaining and updating its own mapping rules based on identifier type detection, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the recognition module continuously learns from identifier detection results. When an identifier is successfully mapped and tracked, the system reinforces the mapping rules. If mapping failures occur or new identifier types are encountered, the system can update its recognition patterns and mapping strategies, improving both speed and accuracy over time through iterative feedback from actual processing outcomes.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and machine-readable media are provided for processing items within an automated storage and retrieval device. A scanned machine-readable identifier associated with an item is received at an automated storage and retrieval device. A determination is made whether the machine-readable identifier that was scanned is a container identification (ID). The machine-readable identifier is identified based on pre-defined criteria when the machine-readable identifier is determined not to be a container ID. The machine-readable identifier is mapped to an existing order using stored order information. A container ID is created by the fulfillment system and passed back to the automated storage and retrieval device. The item is stored in the automated storage and retrieval device using the created container ID.