Logistics Tote Routing Based on Item Attributes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Logistics management systems face inefficiencies in storing, moving, sorting, and packing items in fulfillment centers, particularly with increased delivery volumes, leading to a need for a method to streamline processes and reduce costs.
Innovation Solution
A logistics managing method that identifies tote sets and determines their destination stations based on item attributes, allowing for efficient distribution and processing without separate sorting tasks, using an electronic apparatus with a communication module, display, and processor to manage and allocate tasks effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a separate sorting task is performed for picked items before packing, then item sorting accuracy is improved, but processing time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sorting function from the traditional separate sorting task and integrates it into the item picking process itself. The picking system is designed to directly place items into appropriate packing stations based on destination, eliminating the need for a separate sorting step while maintaining sorting accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the picking and sorting operations into a single integrated process. The picking system simultaneously performs both item selection and sorting by directing items to different packing stations based on their destination, combining two previously separate functions into one unified operation.
2Productivity
If multiple stations are provided for packing tasks, then packing capacity is improved, but work distribution complexity and management overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a work distribution system that monitors the status and workload of multiple packing stations in real-time. The system uses feedback from station status information to dynamically allocate picking tasks, directing items to packing stations that are currently less loaded or have shorter queues, thereby balancing the workload automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic task allocation that adapts to changing conditions at different packing stations. Instead of static assignment, the system continuously adjusts which packing station receives which items based on real-time status, making the work distribution flexible and responsive to current system conditions.
3Reliability
If traditional logistics processing is used with separate picking, sorting, and packing tasks, then process thoroughness is improved, but lead time and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs sorting actions preliminarily during the picking process itself, rather than as a subsequent separate step. Items are sorted into their destination packing stations while being picked, preparing them in advance for immediate packing without requiring intermediate handling or transport to a separate sorting area.
Data Source
AI summary
A logistics managing method according to example embodiments may include identifying at least one tote included in a tote set, identifying a station set corresponding to the tote set among at least one station set based on an attribute of an item included in the at least one tote, and determining one of the at least one station included in the station set to be a destination of the at least one tote. Other various embodiments are also possible.