Warehouse Space Allocation for Dynamic Robot-Guided Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Intelligent warehousing systems with fixed storage spaces have low space utilization and high costs due to limited and inflexible storage capacity, restricting the quantity and size of stored boxes.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for dynamically allocating storage space based on the properties of unoccupied space and the requirements of goods, using a robot to optimize storage by determining the most suitable space score and orientation for efficient storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed storage space is used in the intelligent warehousing system, then the system structure is simple and stable, but the space utilization is low and warehousing costs are high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidstorage space allocation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic storage space allocation by allowing storage spaces to be reassigned based on real-time warehouse conditions and goods characteristics. The system dynamically adjusts which robot stores which goods in which storage space, replacing the fixed assignment model. This dynamic approach enables better space utilization while maintaining manageable complexity through automated decision-making algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of storage space assignment from static to dynamic by introducing a scoring mechanism that evaluates multiple factors (goods heat, storage space properties, robot capabilities). This parameter change allows the system to adapt to varying warehouse conditions and optimize space utilization without requiring complex manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Quantity of substance

If a fixed storage space is used, then the allocation process is simple, but the quantity and size of boxes that can be stored are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantity of stored boxesVSAvoidstorage allocation operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service through automated algorithms that independently determine optimal storage allocations. The computer executes algorithms that automatically match goods with appropriate storage spaces and assign robots, eliminating the need for manual operation while increasing the quantity of boxes that can be efficiently stored. The system serves itself by making intelligent decisions without human intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

By changing the operational parameter from fixed assignment to dynamic optimization, the system can accommodate a greater variety and quantity of boxes with different sizes and characteristics. The algorithm considers multiple parameters simultaneously (goods dimensions, storage space availability, robot capabilities) to maximize storage capacity while keeping operations automated and efficient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If dynamic space allocation is implemented, then space utilization improves, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage space adaptabilityVSAvoidspace allocation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex manual decision-making mechanisms with automated computer-based algorithms. Instead of requiring human operators to manually allocate storage spaces dynamically, the system uses software algorithms to perform the complex calculations and decisions automatically. This substitution reduces the perceived complexity by automating the process while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the computer continuously monitors warehouse conditions, goods characteristics, and robot performance to optimize storage allocations. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt dynamically while managing complexity through iterative improvement rather than requiring perfect initial decisions. The feedback mechanism allows the system to learn and adjust based on actual performance data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20230289705A1Space allocation method, goods storage method and apparatus, robot, and warehousing system
Publication Date: 2023.09.14 HAI ROBOTICS CO LTD
  • US20230289705A1 patent drawing
  • US20230289705A1 patent drawing
  • US20230289705A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a space allocation method and apparatus, a goods storage method and apparatus, a robot, and a warehousing system, where the space allocation method includes: determining, according to a space property of an unoccupied space of a goods storage space and a required space of to-be-stored goods, a first storage space adapted to the required space from the unoccupied space; allocating the first storage space to the to-be-stored goods; and sending a first storage instruction to a first robot, where the first storage instruction includes information about the first storage space. In this way, a proper space is dynamically allocated to goods according to a requirement and a space property, space utilization of a warehousing system is improved, and warehousing costs are reduced.