Warehouse Order Fulfillment Linear Storage Buffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing warehouse distribution systems face inefficiencies when processing large orders with many different articles, requiring numerous circular storage containers and complex sorting procedures, leading to increased space and processing time.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising temporary storage devices acting as buffers, where items from multiple orders are stored together in a circulating flow, eliminating the need for sorting by article ID and allowing for fully automated processing, with a separation zone and delivery lines to ensure items are delivered according to specific orders, reducing throughput time and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If items are sorted by article ID in circular storage containers, then items can be systematically organized, but a large number of containers is required for large orders with many different articles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple storage functions into a single linear storage device. Instead of using multiple circular storage containers sorted by article ID, the invention uses one linear storage device where items from different orders are stored sequentially. This consolidation reduces the number of storage containers needed while maintaining systematic organization through the linear arrangement and automated retrieval process.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear storage device serves multiple functions: it stores items from multiple different orders simultaneously, acts as a buffer for items removed from main storage, and provides sequential access to items needed for different orders. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized containers for each order or article type.
2Ease of operation
If items are stored in separate circular storage containers sorted by article ID, then each article type is easily accessible, but processing time increases due to the need to transport multiple containers to the outgoing goods zone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple storage operations into a single linear storage device, eliminating the need to transport multiple separate circular containers to the outgoing goods zone. Items from different orders are stored sequentially in the linear device, and the system retrieves them in the required sequence, reducing transport time and increasing throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary sorting and sequencing of items in the linear storage device before they are retrieved. Items are stored in the linear device in the sequence they will be needed, so when retrieval occurs, items are already positioned correctly for efficient access without requiring additional sorting or transport operations.
3Ease of operation
If a three-stage sorting method is used to provide unsorted items from warehouse to outgoing goods zone, then items can be sorted according to orders, but the delivery method becomes complicated and requires great effort in preparation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sorting function from a complex multi-stage process and consolidates it into a single linear storage device. The system retrieves items directly from main storage and places them sequentially in the linear storage device according to the order in which they are needed, eliminating the need for intermediate sorting stages and reducing procedural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear storage device automatically performs the sorting function through its sequential storage and retrieval mechanism. The system self-organizes items in the required sequence without requiring external sorting operations or complex control procedures, simplifying the overall delivery method.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for providing items for more than one order from a warehouse according to each particular order comprises at least one temporary storage device linked with the warehouse for temporarily storing items of at least one order, at least one collection zone linked with the at least one temporary storage device for collecting the items of the at least one completed order, and a separation zone having a number of delivery lines for providing the items of the at least one completed order according to the respective order.