U.S. patent application number 16/552671 was filed with the patent office on 2020-03-12 for parcel and article sorting system and method with destination container removal.
The applicant listed for this patent is Tompkins International. Invention is credited to Michael C. Futch, James M. Serstad.
Application Number | 20200078828 16/552671 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 69721037 |
Filed Date | 2020-03-12 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200078828 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Futch; Michael C. ; et
al. |
March 12, 2020 |
PARCEL AND ARTICLE SORTING SYSTEM AND METHOD WITH DESTINATION
CONTAINER REMOVAL
Abstract
System includes an article supply location that includes a
plurality of articles to be sorted, first and second transport
vehicles, each having a first position in which an article is
stowed about the vehicle and a second position in which the article
is deposited into a proximal container, and one or more removal
devices that transport the container to a location of further
processing. System further includes a control system configured to
receive an order for a plurality of disparate articles, determine
one destination container of a plurality of destination containers
to direct the transport vehicle to deposit a selected article,
direct the first transport vehicle to transport a selected article
to the destination container, deposit the article in the
destination container, and transport the destination container to a
location for further processing by manipulation of the removal
device.
Inventors: |
Futch; Michael C.; (Raleigh,
NC) ; Serstad; James M.; (Raleigh, NC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Tompkins International |
Raleigh |
NC |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
69721037 |
Appl. No.: |
16/552671 |
Filed: |
August 27, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62727619 |
Sep 6, 2018 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B07C 2501/0063 20130101;
G06Q 10/08 20130101; B07C 5/36 20130101; B07C 3/18 20130101; B07C
3/10 20130101; B07C 3/02 20130101; B65G 1/1378 20130101; B65G 1/137
20130101; B65G 2201/0285 20130101; B65G 1/065 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B07C 3/02 20060101
B07C003/02; B07C 3/18 20060101 B07C003/18; B07C 3/10 20060101
B07C003/10; G06Q 10/08 20060101 G06Q010/08; B65G 1/137 20060101
B65G001/137; B65G 1/06 20060101 B65G001/06 |
Claims
1. A system comprising: a first article supply location, wherein
the first article supply location includes a plurality of articles
to be sorted that have been pulled from batched orders from a first
location in a distribution center, a second article supply
location, wherein the second article supply location includes a
plurality of articles to be sorted that have been pulled from
batched orders from a second location in the distribution center,
wherein a product type of each article is determined by interacting
with an information acquisition device at a respective first
article supply location and second article supply location; first
and second computer-controlled transport vehicles, each vehicle
having a first position in which a selected article is stowed about
the vehicle and a second position in which the selected article is
deposited into a proximal container by manipulating a support of
the vehicle that carries the selected article and deposits the
selected article when in the second position; a first platform
elevated from a first surface, wherein the first
computer-controlled transport vehicle traverses the first platform
and the selected articles are deposited into a destination
container positioned about the first surface; a removal device
configured to relocate a destination container from a position
about the first surface to a location designated for further
processing of at least one article contained within the destination
container; a control system configured to: receive an order for a
plurality of disparate articles, wherein the disparate articles are
found within the first or second article supply location after the
articles have been pulled from the distribution center; determine a
first destination container of a plurality of destination
containers to direct a first transport vehicle to deposit a
selected article from the first or second article supply location
based on a determined product type, wherein the first destination
container corresponds with an order for a first business; direct
the first transport vehicle to transport the selected article to
the first destination container and deposit the selected article by
manipulation of the first transport vehicle from the first position
to the second position for deposit of the selected article in the
first destination container; determine a second destination
container of a plurality of destination containers to direct a
second transport vehicle to deposit another article from the first
or second article supply location based on a determined product
type, wherein the second destination container corresponds with an
order for a second business; direct the second transport vehicle to
transport a disparate article to the second destination container
and deposit the disparate article by manipulation of the second
transport vehicle from the first position to the second position
for deposit of the disparate article in the second destination
container; determine a location that the destination container is
to be delivered to for further processing of at least one article
in the destination container; determine when all of the articles
required to complete at least one of the orders has been deposited
in the destination container; direct the removal device to remove
the destination container from the position proximal to the
platform and transport it to the location of further
processing.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the control system is configured
to indicate when the destination container is full or when the
destination container has been removed whereby the control system
directs at least one of the first and the second transport vehicles
to cease delivery of articles to a removed destination container
location; and wherein the control system is further configured to
indicate when an empty destination container is positioned proximal
to the platform whereby the control system directs the at least one
of the first and the second transport vehicles to resume delivery
of articles to the empty destination container.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the removal device is configured
to replace destination containers that are full or that contain
complete orders with empty destination containers.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the location of further
processing comprises one or more of packaging, gift wrapping,
labeling, and assembly.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the removal device is fully
automated or semi-automated.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the removal device is one of an
automatic guided vehicle, an automated mobile robot, and a rail
robot.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises a plurality
of locations of further processing.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the determined product type of
the selected article or the disparate article is determined by
interacting with an identifier of the selected article or the
disparate article with the information acquisition device, wherein
the identifier is a UPC or other product code associated with the
selected article or the disparate article.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the destination container is
positioned proximal an opening in the first platform, wherein the
control system is further configured to direct the first transport
vehicle to traverse the first platform proximal the opening, then
manipulate from the first position to the second position to
deposit the selected article or the disparate article into the
destination container through the opening in the first
platform.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the first transport
vehicle and the second transport vehicle is configured to carry a
respective single selected article at a time.
11. The system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of
additional transport vehicles.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein the control system is further
configured to direct the first transport vehicle to return to a
position proximal the first article supply location, wherein the
first transport vehicle is configured to be in the first position
upon being positioned proximal the first article supply
location.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein the control system is configured
to direct a plurality of additional transport vehicles, wherein the
control system is further configured to direct the plurality of
additional transport vehicles such that the plurality of additional
transport vehicles do not collide with one another.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein the control system is configured
to direct a plurality of additional removal devices, wherein the
control system is further configured to direct the plurality of
additional removal devices such that the plurality of additional
removal devices does not collide with one another.
15. A control system configured for use with material handling of a
plurality of articles, the control system comprising a memory and a
processor, the control system configured to: receive a plurality of
orders for a plurality of disparate articles; batch the plurality
of orders over a period of time, wherein the plurality of disparate
articles are received from a first article supply location that has
been pulled from batched orders from a first location in a
distribution center and from a second article supply location that
has been pulled from batched orders from a second location in the
distribution center; interact with an identifier affixed to a
selected article or packaging associated with the selected article
to determine a product type of the selected article at the first
article supply location or the second article supply location;
determine one destination container of a plurality of destination
containers to deposit, with a transport vehicle, the selected
article, wherein the destination container is determined based on
at least one of the orders and a determined product type of the
selected article; direct a first transport vehicle to transport the
selected article to the one destination container and deposit the
selected article by manipulation of the first transport vehicle
from a first position to a second position for deposit of the
selected article in the one destination container; determine
another destination container of a plurality of destination
containers to deposit, with a transport vehicle, a disparate
selected article, wherein the another destination container is
determined based on at least one of the orders and a determined
product type of the disparate selected article; direct a second
transport vehicle to transport the disparate selected article to
the another destination container and deposit the disparate
selected article by manipulation of the second transport vehicle
from the first position to the second position for deposit of the
disparate selected article in the another destination container;
determine a location that the destination container is to be
delivered to for further processing of at least one article in the
destination container; determine when all of the articles required
to complete at least one order have been deposited into the
destination container; and direct a removal device to remove the
destination container from a position proximal to a platform and
transport it to the location of further processing.
16. A system comprising: a first article supply location, wherein
the first article supply location includes a plurality of articles
to be sorted that have been pulled from batched orders from a first
location in a distribution center; a second article supply
location, wherein the second article supply location includes a
plurality of articles to be sorted that have been pulled from
batched orders from a second location in the distribution center;
wherein a product type of each article is determined by interacting
with an information acquisition device at a respective first
article supply location and second article supply location; a
platform assembly that includes: a platform elevated from a
proximal surface, wherein the platform defines an opening and a
destination container that is positioned proximal the opening in
the platform or proximal a location at an edge of the platform;
first and second computer-controlled transport vehicles, each
transport vehicle having a first position in which a selected
article is stowed about a transport vehicle and a second position
in which the selected article is deposited into a proximal
container by manipulating a support of the vehicle that carried the
selected article and deposits the selected article when in the
second position; wherein each transport vehicle traverses the
platform and positions proximal the opening to deposit the selected
article in the destination container by manipulation from the first
position to the second position; a removal device configured to
relocate the destination container from a position about the
proximal surface to a location designated for further processing of
at least one articles contained within a designation container; a
control system configured to: receive an order for a plurality of
disparate articles, wherein the disparate articles are found within
the first and second article supply location after the articles
have been sorted and pulled at the distribution center; determine a
first destination container of a plurality of receiving destination
containers to direct a first transport vehicle to deposit the
selected article from the first or second article supply location
based on a determined product type, wherein the first destination
container corresponds with an order for a first business; direct
the first transport vehicle to transport the selected article to
the first destination container and deposit the selected article by
manipulation of the support of the first transport vehicle from the
first position to the second position for deposit of the selected
article in the first destination container; determine a second
destination container of a plurality of destination containers to
direct a second transport vehicle to deposit a disparate selected
article from the first or second article supply location based on a
determined product type, wherein the second destination container
corresponds with an order for a second business; direct the second
transport vehicle to transport the disparate selected article to
the destination container and deposit the disparate selected
article by manipulation of the support of the second transport
vehicle from the first position to the second position for deposit
of the disparate selected article in the destination container;
determine when all articles required to complete at least one order
for purchase have been deposited in the destination container;
determine a location that the destination container is to be
delivered to for further processing of at least one article in the
container; direct the removal device to remove the destination
container from the position proximal to the platform and transport
it to the location of further processing.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein the control system is
configured to direct the first transport vehicle to return to a
position proximal the first article supply location, wherein the
first transport vehicle is configured to be in the first position
upon being positioned proximal the first article supply
location.
18. A system comprising: an article supply location; a
computer-controlled transport vehicle; a removal device configured
to relocate a destination container to a processing location
designated for further processing of at least one article contained
within the destination container; a control system configured to:
determine a destination container to direct the transport vehicle
to deposit a selected article from the article supply location,
wherein the destination container corresponds with a customer
order; direct the transport vehicle to transport the selected
article to the destination container and deposit the selected
article by manipulation of the transport vehicle from a first
position to a second position for deposit of the selected article
in the destination container; determine a processing location that
the destination container is to be delivered to for further
processing of at least one article in the destination container;
direct the removal device to transport the destination container to
the processing location for further processing.
19. A system comprising: an article supply location, wherein the
article supply location includes a plurality of articles to be
sorted that have been pulled from batched orders from a location in
a distribution center; a computer-controlled transport vehicle
having a first position in which a selected article is stowed about
the vehicle and a second position in which the selected article is
deposited into a proximal container by manipulating a support of
the vehicle that carries the selected article and deposits the
selected article when in the second position; a removal device
configured to relocate a destination container to a processing
location designated for further processing of at least one article
contained within the destination container; a control system
configured to: receive an order for a plurality of disparate
articles, wherein the disparate articles are found within the
article supply location after the articles have been pulled from
the distribution center; determine a destination container to
direct the transport vehicle to deposit a selected article from the
article supply location, wherein the destination container
corresponds with a shipping order; direct the transport vehicle to
transport the selected article to the destination container and
deposit the selected article by manipulation of the transport
vehicle from the first position to the second position for deposit
of the selected article in the destination container; determine a
processing location that the destination container is to be
delivered to for further processing of at least one article in the
destination container; direct the removal device to transport the
destination container to the processing location for further
processing.
20. A system comprising: an article supply location, wherein the
article supply location includes a plurality of articles to be
sorted that have been pulled from batched orders from a location in
a distribution center; wherein a product type of each article is
determined by interacting with an information acquisition device at
the first article supply location; a computer-controlled transport
vehicle having a first position in which a selected article is
stowed about the vehicle and a second position in which the
selected article is deposited into a proximal container by
manipulating a support of the vehicle that carries the selected
article and deposits the selected article when in the second
position; a removal device configured to relocate a destination
container from a filling location to a processing location
designated for further processing of at least one article contained
within the destination container; a control system configured to:
receive an order for a plurality of disparate articles, wherein the
disparate articles are found within the article supply location
after the articles have been pulled from the distribution center;
determine a destination container of a plurality of destination
containers to direct a transport vehicle to deposit a selected
article from the article supply location based on a determined
product type, wherein the destination container corresponds with an
order for a first business; direct the transport vehicle to
transport the selected article to the destination container and
deposit the selected article by manipulation of the transport
vehicle from the first position to the second position for deposit
of the selected article in the destination container; determine a
processing location that the destination container is to be
delivered to for further processing of at least one article in the
destination container; determine when all of the articles required
to complete at least one of the orders has been deposited in the
destination container; direct the removal device to remove the
destination container from the filling location and transport it to
the processing location of further processing.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/727,619 filed on Sep. 6, 2018, the entire
contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The presently disclosed subject matter relates to handling
of packages, and specifically to a parcel and article sorting
system and method.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Parcel sorting includes dispensing packages going to
different destinations through a delivery management system to
realize unified transport of packages. This is especially
advantageous in an order fulfillment center or shipping facility.
Generally, a parcel or article for shipment will have a UPC,
barcode, SKU, or similar identifier that allows for identification
of the parcel and destination. Similarly, article sorting includes
dispensing articles that come from a plurality of warehouse
locations to different exits through a delivery management system.
Unified consolidation at a single exit or destination point of all
articles in a single order in a single article, package or parcel
can thus be realized, such as in a parcel fulfilment center. The
sorting process is labor intensive and often involves processing
errors and erroneous package arrival times. Additionally, packages
may be damaged or packaged incorrectly, which reduces efficiency
for all involved parties. Automated sorting equipment can be used
to address some of these issues. However, sorting equipment is
costly, takes up large portions of warehouse space, is limited in
the volume of packages that can be sorted, is significantly
underutilized at less than peak periods, and can have a long
payback time frame.
[0004] Accordingly, opportunities exist for provision of an
improved sorting system for parcels and articles.
SUMMARY
[0005] This summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form
concepts that are further described in the following detailed
descriptions. This summary is not intended to identify key features
or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it to
be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed subject
matter.
[0006] In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter
is directed to system includes a first article supply location,
wherein the first article supply location includes a plurality of
articles to be sorted that have been pulled from batched orders
from a first location in a distribution center. The system includes
a second article supply location, wherein the second article supply
location includes a plurality of articles to be sorted that have
been pulled from batched orders from a second location in the
distribution center. A product type of each article is determined
by interacting with an information acquisition device at a
respective first article supply location and second article supply
location. The system includes first and second computer-controlled
transport vehicles, each vehicle having a first position in which a
selected article is stowed about the vehicle and a second position
in which the selected article is deposited into a proximal
container by manipulating a support of the vehicle that carries the
selected article and deposits the selected article when in the
second position. The system includes a first platform elevated from
a first surface, wherein the first computer-controlled transport
vehicle traverses the first platform and the selected articles are
deposited into a destination container positioned about the first
surface. The system includes a removal device configured to
relocate a destination container from a position about the first
surface to a location designated for further processing of at least
one article contained within the destination container. The system
includes a control system. The control system is configured to
receive an order for a plurality of disparate articles, wherein the
disparate articles are found within the first or second article
supply location after the articles have been pulled from the
distribution center. The control system is configured to determine
a first destination container of a plurality of destination
containers to direct a first transport vehicle to deposit a
selected article from the first or second article supply location
based on a determined product type, wherein the first destination
container corresponds with an order for a first business. The
control system is configured to direct the first transport vehicle
to transport the selected article to the first destination
container and deposit the selected article by manipulation of the
first transport vehicle from the first position to the second
position for deposit of the selected article in the first
destination container. The control system is configured to
determine a second destination container of a plurality of
destination containers to direct a second transport vehicle to
deposit another article from the first or second article supply
location based on a determined product type, wherein the second
destination container corresponds with an order for a second
business. The control system is configured to direct the second
transport vehicle to transport a disparate article to the second
destination container and deposit the disparate article by
manipulation of the second transport vehicle from the first
position to the second position for deposit of the disparate
article in the second destination container. The control system is
configured to determine a location that the destination container
is to be delivered to for further processing of at least one
article in the destination container. The control system is
configured to determine when all of the articles required to
complete at least one of the orders has been deposited in the
destination container. The control system is configured to direct
the removal device to remove the destination container from the
position proximal to the platform and transport it to the location
of further processing.
[0007] According to one or more embodiments, the control system is
configured to indicate when the destination container is full or
when the destination container has been removed whereby the control
system directs at least one of the first and the second transport
vehicles to cease delivery of articles to a removed destination
container location. The control system is further configured to
indicate when an empty destination container is positioned proximal
to the platform whereby the control system directs the at least one
of the first and the second transport vehicles to resume delivery
of articles to the empty destination container.
[0008] According to one or more embodiments, the removal device is
configured to replace destination containers that are full or that
contain complete orders with empty destination containers.
[0009] According to one or more embodiments, the location of
further processing comprises one or more of packaging, gift
wrapping, labeling, and assembly.
[0010] According to one or more embodiments, the removal device is
fully automated or semi-automated.
[0011] According to one or more embodiments, the removal device is
one of an automatic guided vehicle, an automated mobile robot, and
a rail robot.
[0012] According to one or more embodiments, the system comprises a
plurality of locations of further processing.
[0013] According to one or more embodiments, the determined product
type of the selected article or the disparate article is determined
by interacting with an identifier of the selected article or the
disparate article with the information acquisition device, wherein
the identifier is a UPC or other product code associated with the
selected article or the disparate article.
[0014] According to one or more embodiments, the destination
container is positioned proximal an opening in the first platform,
wherein the control system is further configured to direct the
first transport vehicle to traverse the first platform proximal the
opening, then manipulate from the first position to the second
position to deposit the selected article or the disparate article
into the destination container through the opening in the first
platform.
[0015] According to one or more embodiments, each of the first
transport vehicle and the second transport vehicle is configured to
carry a respective single selected article at a time.
[0016] According to one or more embodiments, the system further
includes a plurality of additional transport vehicles.
[0017] According to one or more embodiments, the control system is
further configured to direct the first transport vehicle to return
to a position proximal the first article supply location, wherein
the first transport vehicle is configured to be in the first
position upon being positioned proximal the first article supply
location.
[0018] According to one or more embodiments, the control system is
configured to direct a plurality of additional transport vehicles,
wherein the control system is further configured to direct the
plurality of additional transport vehicles such that the plurality
of additional transport vehicles does not collide with one
another.
[0019] According to one or more embodiments, the control system is
configured to direct a plurality of additional removal devices,
wherein the control system is further configured to direct the
plurality of additional removal devices such that the plurality of
additional removal devices does not collide with one another.
[0020] Disclosed herein is control system configured for use with
material handling of a plurality of articles. The control system
comprising a memory and a processor. The control system configured
to receive a plurality of orders for a plurality of disparate
articles. The control system configured to batch the plurality of
orders over a period of time, wherein the plurality of disparate
articles are received from a first article supply location that has
been pulled from batched orders from a first location in a
distribution center and from a second article supply location that
has been pulled from batched orders from a second location in the
distribution center. The control system configured to interact with
an identifier affixed to a selected article or packaging associated
with the selected article to determine a product type of the
selected article at the first article supply location or the second
article supply location. The control system configured to determine
one destination container of a plurality of destination containers
to deposit, with a transport vehicle, the selected article, wherein
the destination container is determined based on at least one of
the orders and a determined product type of the selected article.
The control system configured to direct a first transport vehicle
to transport the selected article to the one destination container
and deposit the selected article by manipulation of the first
transport vehicle from a first position to a second position for
deposit of the selected article in the one destination container.
The control system configured to determine another destination
container of a plurality of destination containers to deposit, with
a transport vehicle, a disparate selected article, wherein the
another destination container is determined based on at least one
of the orders and a determined product type of the disparate
selected article. The control system configured to direct a second
transport vehicle to transport the disparate selected article to
the another destination container and deposit the disparate
selected article by manipulation of the second transport vehicle
from the first position to the second position for deposit of the
disparate selected article in the another destination container.
The control system configured to determine a location that the
destination container is to be delivered to for further processing
of at least one article in the destination container. The control
system configured to determine when all of the articles required to
complete at least one order have been deposited into the
destination container. The control system configured to direct a
removal device to remove the destination container from a position
proximal to a platform and transport it to the location of further
processing.
[0021] Disclosed herein is a system. The system includes a first
article supply location, wherein the first article supply location
includes a plurality of articles to be sorted that have been pulled
from batched orders from a first location in a distribution center.
The system includes a second article supply location, wherein the
second article supply location includes a plurality of articles to
be sorted that have been pulled from batched orders from a second
location in the distribution center. A product type of each article
is determined by interacting with an information acquisition device
at a respective first article supply location and second article
supply location. The system includes a platform assembly that
includes a platform elevated from a proximal surface, wherein the
platform defines an opening and a destination container that is
positioned proximal the opening in the platform or proximal a
location at an edge of the platform. The system includes first and
second computer-controlled transport vehicles, each transport
vehicle having a first position in which a selected article is
stowed about a transport vehicle and a second position in which the
selected article is deposited into a proximal container by
manipulating a support of the vehicle that carried the selected
article and deposits the selected article when in the second
position. Each transport vehicle traverses the platform and
positions proximal the opening to deposit the selected article in
the destination container by manipulation from the first position
to the second position. The system includes a removal device
configured to relocate the destination container from a position
about the proximal surface to a location designated for further
processing of at least one articles contained within a designation
container. The system includes a control system. The control system
is configured to receive an order for a plurality of disparate
articles, wherein the disparate articles are found within the first
and second article supply location after the articles have been
sorted and pulled at the distribution center. The control system is
configured to determine a first destination container of a
plurality of receiving destination containers to direct a first
transport vehicle to deposit the selected article from the first or
second article supply location based on a determined product type,
wherein the first destination container corresponds with an order
for a first business. The control system is configured to direct
the first transport vehicle to transport the selected article to
the first destination container and deposit the selected article by
manipulation of the support of the first transport vehicle from the
first position to the second position for deposit of the selected
article in the first destination container. The control system is
configured to determine a second destination container of a
plurality of destination containers to direct a second transport
vehicle to deposit a disparate selected article from the first or
second article supply location based on a determined product type,
wherein the second destination container corresponds with an order
for a second business. The control system is configured to direct
the second transport vehicle to transport the disparate selected
article to the destination container and deposit the disparate
selected article by manipulation of the support of the second
transport vehicle from the first position to the second position
for deposit of the disparate selected article in the destination
container. The control system is configured to determine when all
articles required to complete at least one order for purchase have
been deposited in the destination container. The control system is
configured to determine a location that the destination container
is to be delivered to for further processing of at least one
article in the container. The control system is configured to
direct the removal device to remove the destination container from
the position proximal to the platform and transport it to the
location of further processing.
[0022] According to one or more embodiments, the location of
further processing comprises one or more of packaging, gift
wrapping, labeling, and assembly.
[0023] According to one or more embodiments, the system comprises a
plurality of locations of further processing.
[0024] According to one or more embodiments, the control system is
further configured to determine a characteristic of an article by
the information acquisition device interacting with the article,
wherein the characteristic includes one of size, color, deformation
or other defect of the article.
[0025] According to one or more embodiments, the determined product
type of the selected article or the disparate selected article is
determined by the information acquisition device interacting with
an identifier of the selected article or the disparate selected
article, wherein the identifier is a UPC code (Universal Product
Code) or other product code associated with the selected article or
the disparate selected article.
[0026] According to one or more embodiments, the control system is
configured to direct the first transport vehicle to return to a
position proximal the first article supply location, wherein the
first transport vehicle is configured to be in the first position
upon being positioned proximal the first article supply
location.
[0027] According to one or more embodiments, the control system is
configured to direct a plurality of additional transport vehicles,
wherein the control system is further configured to direct the
plurality of additional transport vehicles such that the plurality
of additional transport vehicles does not collide with one
another.
[0028] Disclosed herein is a system. According to various
embodiments, the system comprises: an article supply location; a
computer-controlled transport vehicle; a removal device configured
to relocate a destination container to a processing location
designated for further processing of at least one article contained
within the destination container; and a control system. The control
system configured to: determine a destination container to direct
the transport vehicle to deposit a selected article from the
article supply location, wherein the destination container
corresponds with a customer order; direct the transport vehicle to
transport the selected article to the destination container and
deposit the selected article by manipulation of the transport
vehicle from a first position to a second position for deposit of
the selected article in the destination container; determine a
processing location that the destination container is to be
delivered to for further processing of at least one article in the
destination container; and, direct the removal device to transport
the destination container to the processing location for further
processing.
[0029] Disclosed herein is a system. According to various
embodiments, the system comprises: an article supply location,
wherein the article supply location includes a plurality of
articles to be sorted that have been pulled from batched orders
from a location in a distribution center; a computer-controlled
transport vehicle having a first position in which a selected
article is stowed about the vehicle and a second position in which
the selected article is deposited into a proximal container by
manipulating a support of the vehicle that carries the selected
article and deposits the selected article when in the second
position; a removal device configured to relocate a destination
container to a processing location designated for further
processing of at least one article contained within the destination
container; and, a control system. The control system configured to:
receive an order for a plurality of disparate articles, wherein the
disparate articles are found within the article supply location
after the articles have been pulled from the distribution center;
determine a destination container to direct the transport vehicle
to deposit a selected article from the article supply location,
wherein the destination container corresponds with a shipping
order; direct the transport vehicle to transport the selected
article to the destination container and deposit the selected
article by manipulation of the transport vehicle from the first
position to the second position for deposit of the selected article
in the destination container; determine a processing location that
the destination container is to be delivered to for further
processing of at least one article in the destination container;
and, direct the removal device to transport the destination
container to the processing location for further processing.
[0030] Disclosed herein is a system. According to various
embodiments, the system comprises: an article supply location,
wherein the article supply location includes a plurality of
articles to be sorted that have been pulled from batched orders
from a location in a distribution center; wherein a product type of
each article is determined by interacting with an information
acquisition device at the first article supply location; a
computer-controlled transport vehicle having a first position in
which a selected article is stowed about the vehicle and a second
position in which the selected article is deposited into a proximal
container by manipulating a support of the vehicle that carries the
selected article and deposits the selected article when in the
second position; a removal device configured to relocate a
destination container from a filling location to a processing
location designated for further processing of at least one article
contained within the destination container; and, a control system.
The control system is configured to: receive an order for a
plurality of disparate articles, wherein the disparate articles are
found within the article supply location after the articles have
been pulled from the distribution center; determine a destination
container of a plurality of destination containers to direct a
transport vehicle to deposit a selected article from the article
supply location based on a determined product type, wherein the
destination container corresponds with an order for a first
business; direct the transport vehicle to transport the selected
article to the destination container and deposit the selected
article by manipulation of the transport vehicle from the first
position to the second position for deposit of the selected article
in the destination container; determine a processing location that
the destination container is to be delivered to for further
processing of at least one article in the destination container;
determine when all of the articles required to complete at least
one of the orders has been deposited in the destination container;
and, direct the removal device to remove the destination container
from the filling location and transport it to the processing
location of further processing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] FIG. 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a sorting system
provided in accordance with some embodiments of the presently
disclosed subject matter.
[0032] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the sorting system provided in
accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject
matter.
[0033] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a sorting system provided in
accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject
matter.
[0034] FIG. 4 is a structural schematic diagram of a sorting system
provided in accordance with some embodiments of the presently
disclosed subject matter.
[0035] FIG. 5 is a schematic flow diagram for sorting system in
accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject
matter.
[0036] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a sorting system in accordance
with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject
matter.
[0037] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a sorting system provided in
accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject
matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0038] Below, the technical solutions in the examples of the
present invention are depicted clearly and comprehensively with
reference to the figures according to the examples of the present
invention. Obviously, the examples depicted here are merely some
examples, but not all examples of the present invention. In
general, the components in the examples of the present invention
depicted and shown in the figures herein can be arranged and
designed according to different configurations. Thus, detailed
description of the examples of the present invention provided in
the figures below are not intended to limit the scope of the
present invention as claimed, but merely represent selected
examples of the present invention. On the basis of the examples of
the present invention, all of other examples that could be obtained
by a person skilled in the art without using inventive efforts will
fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0039] Below, the technical solutions set forth in the examples are
depicted clearly and comprehensively with reference to the figures.
It should be appreciated that the examples depicted herein are not
limited to each and every embodiment of the presently disclosed
subject matter. In general, the components in the disclosed
examples and shown in the figures herein can be arranged and
designed according to different configurations. Thus, detailed
description of the examples of the present invention provided in
the figures below are not intended to limit the scope of the
presently disclosed subject matter as claimed, but merely represent
selected examples. On the basis of the examples below, other
examples that could be obtained by a person skilled in the art
without using inventive efforts will fall within the scope of the
presently disclosed subject matter.
EXAMPLE 1
[0040] According to Example 1, the presently disclosed subject
matter is directed to a parcel sorting system, as shown in FIG. 1.
The parcel sorting system includes a parcel sorting device 100 and
a parcel collecting device 101. The parcel sorting device 100 is
provided on the parcel collecting device with a plurality of parcel
checking inlets 104 and a plurality of parcel outlets 102. In one
embodiment, the parcel collecting device 101 is located just below
the parcel sorting device 100, as illustrated in FIG. 1. The
plurality of parcel outlets 102 on the parcel sorting device 100
are respectively in communication or connected with the parcel
collecting device 101. The plurality of parcel outlets 102 are
respectively located at the middle or/and edges of the parcel
sorting device 100, or throughout the parcel sorting device 100.
Parcel collecting device 101 is provided thereon with storage
devices 103. One storage device is located at each of positions of
the parcel outlets, and an opening diameter of the storage device
103 is greater than a diameter of the parcel outlet 102. In some
embodiment, an opening perimeter of storage device 103 is greater
than a perimeter of parcel outlet 102.
[0041] Parcel sorting device 100 and the parcel collecting device
101 can be embodied in various structures such as, for example,
quadrangle, circle, polygon and similar other structures, and the
parcel collecting device 101 and the parcel sorting device 100
preferably have substantially the same area.
[0042] In order to improve the parcel sorting efficiency, each of
the parcel checking inlets 104 ((see FIG. 4) is provided with one
parcel information acquisition device 200 (see FIGS. 2 and 3).
Parcel checking inlets 104 can be in one-to-one correspondence with
parcel information acquisition devices 200. Further, parcel
information acquisition devices 200 are configured to acquire
parcel information of the parcels to be sorted that enter the
parcel checking inlets 104 associated with each of the parcel
information acquisition devices 200. The parcel information
contains destinations of the parcels to be sorted.
[0043] A plurality of parcel checking inlets 104 are provided as
shown, for example, in FIG. 4. Each parcel checking inlet 104 is
provided with a parcel information acquisition device 200 such that
the information acquisition and sorting of the plurality of parcels
to be sorted may be performed simultaneously at the plurality of
parcel checking inlets 104. This can significantly increase the
parcel information acquisition efficiency, thereby improving the
parcel sorting efficiency.
[0044] In the above, there are many ways in which parcel
information acquisition devices 200 can acquire the parcel
information of the parcels to be sorted. For example, in some
embodiments, the destination information is carried in a
destination address information code provided on the parcel to be
sorted. Each of the parcel information acquisition devices 200 can
include a scanner configured to scan the information code for
obtaining the destination of the parcel to be sorted. In various
embodiments, the parcels to be sorted are provided with information
codes thereon containing destination information. Parcel
information acquisition devices 200 obtain the destinations of the
parcels to be sorted by scanning the information codes, wherein the
information code may be a bar code, a two-dimensional code, a radio
frequency tag, or similar other code or tag. Correspondingly,
parcel information acquisition device 200 may be a bar code
scanner, a two-dimensional code scanner, a radio frequency
identifier, or similar other corresponding device and the transport
device 202 may be an auto-navigating small vehicle.
[0045] According to actual demands, in addition to the destination,
the parcel information may further contain information about the
parcel volume, weight, and/or similar other information.
Correspondingly, the parcel information acquisition device 200 may
further include a weighing device, a volume scanner, or a similar
other corresponding device.
[0046] While the parcel information is obtained in a highly
efficient manner, to improve the efficiency of subsequent sorting
(i.e., after the plurality of parcel information acquisition
devices 200 have simultaneously acquired the parcel information of
the respective parcels to be sorted), control system 201 (see FIG.
2) is used to complete the analytical processing of the obtained
parcel information of all the parcels to be sorted by obtaining the
destination information of the respective parcels to be sorted.
Accordingly, the system can further include control system 201 in
connection with all parcel information acquisition devices 200,
control system 201 operable to obtain the parcel information
acquired by all the parcel information acquisition devices 200, to
thereby obtain the destinations of the respective parcels to be
sorted.
[0047] After obtaining the parcel information, to improve the
efficiency of the subsequent sorting processes, the system
preferably further includes a plurality of transport devices 202,
wherein the plurality of transport devices 202 are in connection
with the control system 201. Control system 201 is pre-provided
with parcel outlets 102 respectively corresponding to different
destinations and is further configured to control (according to the
obtained destinations of the parcels to be sorted) at least one of
the transport devices 202 to transport the parcels to be sorted to
the parcel outlets 102 corresponding to the destinations of the
parcels to be sorted, as shown, for example, in FIG. 2.
[0048] After control system 201 has already obtained the
destinations of the respective parcels to be sorted at the
respective parcel checking inlets 104, the parcel sorting can be
completed just by obtaining the transport paths of the respective
parcels to be sorted through analysis according to the position of
a respective parcel outlet 102 that corresponds to the destination
of a respective parcel to be sorted. Control system 201 can then
control at least one of the transport devices 202 to transport,
according to the transport paths, each parcel to be sorted to the
respective parcel outlet 102 corresponding to the destination of
the parcel to be sorted.
[0049] In various embodiments, the analysis by control system 201
on the transport paths of the respective parcels to be sorted can
be performed simultaneous to receiving the destinations of the
respective parcels. After the path analysis is completed, the
plurality of transport devices 202 may be simultaneously controlled
by control system 201 to simultaneously complete transporting of
the individual parcels to be sorted by the transport devices 202,
thereby significantly improving the parcel sorting efficiency.
[0050] Each of the transport devices 202 is configured to load one
parcel to be sorted or a plurality of parcels to be sorted that go
to the same destination. In some embodiments, transport device 202
is configured to transport one parcel to be sorted one time.
Control system 201 sends a control instruction to a particular
transport device 202 after obtaining the destination of the parcel
to be sorted that is going to be transported by that particular
transport device 202, such that the transport device 202 travels to
the position of the parcel outlet 102 corresponding to the
destination of the parcel to be sorted.
[0051] In some embodiments, parcels to be sorted may be manually
loaded onto transport devices 202. In other embodiments, the
parcels to be sorted may be automatically loaded onto transport
devices 202 by intelligently controlling parcel gripping devices or
the like via control system 201. Similarly, in some embodiments,
the transport of the parcels to be sorted from parcel outlets 102
to parcel collecting device 101 can be performed manually, and may
also be completed by intelligently controlling parcel gripping
devices or the like through the control system 201.
[0052] To assure that the respective parcels to be sorted that are
transported to the parcel collecting device 101 can be delivered in
time, the system can further include a detection device 204 and a
transfer device 203 (see FIG.). Detection device 204 is configured
to detect whether a storage device 103 is full or not and to
transmit to control system 201 the obtained information regarding
whether the storage device 103 is full or not. Transfer device 203
is configured to transfer storage device 103 which is full
according to an instruction from control system 201. There are many
options for transfer device 203; for example, transfer device 203
can be an intelligent robot in one embodiment. In another example,
storage device 103 can mounted on transfer device 203, with
transfer device 203 in the form of a large-scale auto-navigating
vehicle, the transfer device 203 moving to a position to load and
unload the parcels according to the control instruction of the
control system 201, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.
[0053] Based on the above-mentioned system architecture, additional
examples of the present invention are implemented as set forth
below.
[0054] In various embodiments, the respective transport devices,
such as a forklift, transport the parcels to be sorted to the
respective parcel checking inlets 104. The parcel information
acquisition devices 200 at the respective parcel checking inlets
104 acquire the parcel information of the respective parcels and
transmit the acquired parcel information to control system 201.
Control system 201 performs simultaneous analysis on the parcel
information of the plurality of parcels to be sorted to obtain the
destinations of the respective parcels and the parcel outlets 102
corresponding to the respective destinations. Control system 201
further controls the plurality of transport devices 202 to
simultaneously transport the respective parcels to be sorted to the
corresponding parcel outlets 102. The parcels to be sorted are
delivered from parcel outlets 102 into storage devices 103 on
parcel collecting device 101 located below, and then are moved away
from parcel outlets 102 according to a control instruction of the
control system 201 and wait for further instructions. The processes
above are repeated until all of the parcels to be sorted are
delivered into storage devices 103. In the meantime, detection
device 204 constantly detects whether there is a storage device 103
that is full of parcels. When there is a storage device 103 full of
parcels, control system 201 controls transfer device 203 to
transfer the storage device 103 that is full and placing an empty
storage device 103 at the position where the transferred storage
device 103 was, until sorting of all the parcels to be sorted is
completed. In some embodiments, the replacement of the full storage
device 103 with an empty storage device 103 could also be performed
by a person.
[0055] The parcel sorting system according to one or more
embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter can make full
use of the area of parcel sorting device 100, increasing a
plurality of effective parcel outlets 102 and can solve the
traditional problem of goods accumulation. Checking efficiency can
thereby be greatly increased to make the whole operation flow of
the parcel sorting more systematic and intelligent. A "double"
structure is creatively adopted, with parcel sorting device 100 and
parcel collecting device 101 being arranged one above the other for
sorting parcels. Parcel outlets 102 on parcel sorting device 100
are in communication with or positioned in alignment with parcel
collecting device 101. During parcel sorting, the parcels to be
sorted can enter parcel collecting device 101 arranged below just
by passing through the parcel outlets 102, thereby completing the
sorting. Such a structural design can ensure that parcel outlets
102 can be flexibly arranged on the edges of the parcel sorting
device 100 or at middle positions of the edges, rather than only
being provided at the edges of the parcel sorting device 100 as set
forth in a typical existing installation. The middle position
mentioned in the disclosed examples refers to positions on the
parcel sorting device 100 other than the edges. The utilization
ratio of the parcel sorting device 100 can be efficiently improved,
the transport path for parcel sorting can be shortened, the parcel
sorting efficiency can be increased, and the design can be
beneficial.
EXAMPLE 2
[0056] According to Example 2, FIG. 5 illustrates one example of a
disclosed parcel sorting method that is applied to a parcel sorting
system. The parcel sorting system comprises a parcel sorting device
and a parcel collecting device. The parcel sorting device is
provided with a plurality of parcel checking inlets and a plurality
of parcel outlets. The parcel collecting device is located just
below the parcel sorting device. Each of the plurality of parcel
outlets on the parcel sorting device is respectively in
communication with parcel collecting device. The parcel outlets are
respectively located at the middle and/or edges of the parcel
sorting device, and the parcel collecting device is respectively
provided thereon with storage devices. One storage device is
located at each position of the parcel outlets, and an opening
diameter of the storage device is greater than a diameter of the
parcel outlet.
[0057] The method includes step S300: presetting correspondence
relationships between the parcel outlets and the parcels to be
sorted that go to different destinations; Step S301: obtaining the
destinations of the parcels to be sorted; Step S302: transporting
the parcels to be sorted to the parcel outlets corresponding to the
destinations of the parcels to be sorted; and, Step S303:
delivering, through the parcel outlets, the parcels to be sorted
into the storage devices under the parcel outlets.
[0058] To improve the efficiency of parcel sorting, each of the
parcel checking inlets can be provided with a parcel information
acquisition device. The parcel checking inlets may be in one-to-one
correspondence with the parcel information acquisition devices.
Obtaining the destinations of the parcels to be sorted includes
acquiring, by the respective parcel information acquisition
devices, the parcel information of the parcels to be sorted that
enter the parcel checking inlets corresponding to the parcel
information acquisition devices, with the parcel information
containing the destinations of the parcels to be sorted.
[0059] There are many manners for the parcel information
acquisition devices to acquire the parcel information on the
parcels to be sorted. For example, the destination information is
carried in a destination address information code provided on the
parcel to be sorted. Each of the parcel information acquisition
devices includes a scanner configured to scan the information code
for obtaining the destination of the parcel to be sorted. For
example, in one embodiment, the parcels to be sorted are provided
thereon with information codes containing destination information
of the parcels to be sorted. The parcel information acquisition
devices obtain the destinations of the parcels to be sorted by
scanning the information codes on the parcels to be sorted. The
information code may be a bar code, a QR code, a RF tag or a
similar other code or tag, and correspondingly, the parcel
information acquisition device may be a bar code scanner, a
two-dimensional code scanner, a radio frequency identifier, or a
similar other corresponding code or tag reader. The transport
device may be an auto-navigating small vehicle.
[0060] According to actual demands, in addition to the destination,
the parcel information may further contain information about the
parcel volume, weight, and/or similar other information.
Correspondingly, the parcel information acquisition device may
further include a weighing device, a volume scanner, or a similar
other corresponding device.
[0061] According to various embodiments, while the parcel
information is obtained in a highly-efficiently manner, to improve
the efficiency of subsequent sorting, after the plurality of parcel
information acquisition devices simultaneously acquire the parcel
information of the respective parcels to be sorted, the control
device is used to complete the analytical processing of the
obtained parcel information of all the parcels to be sorted,
thereby obtaining the destination information of the respective
parcels. For example, the system can further include a control
device and a plurality of transport devices, wherein the
correspondence relationships between the parcel outlets and the
parcels to be sorted that go to different destinations are preset
in the control device. Transporting the parcels to be sorted to the
parcel outlets corresponding to the destinations of the parcels to
be sorted includes obtaining, by the control device, the parcel
information acquired by all the parcel information acquisition
devices to obtain the destinations of the respective parcels to be
sorted; and, controlling at least one of the transport devices,
according to the obtained destinations of the parcels to be sorted,
to transport the parcels to be sorted to the parcel outlets
corresponding to the destinations of the parcels to be sorted.
[0062] After obtaining the parcel information, to improve the
efficiency of the subsequent sorting processes, the system can
further include a detection device and a transfer device. The
method can accordingly further include obtaining, by the control
device, the information detected by the detection device about
whether the storage device is full or not, and when obtaining
information indicating that the storage device is full,
transmitting to the transfer device an instruction for transferring
the storage device that is full.
[0063] In various embodiments, the control device can previously be
provided with the destinations of the respective parcels to be
sorted at the respective parcel checking inlets. The parcel sorting
can be completed just by obtaining the transport paths of the
respective parcels to be sorted through analysis according to the
positions of the parcel outlets corresponding to the destinations
of the respective parcels to be sorted, and then controlling at
least one of the transport devices to transport, according to the
transport paths. The transport devices can then deposit each of the
parcels to be sorted to the parcel outlets corresponding to the
destinations of the parcels to be sorted.
[0064] In various embodiments, the analysis by the control device
on the transport paths of the respective parcels to be sorted can
be performed simultaneous to receiving the destinations of the
respective parcels. After the path analysis is completed, the
plurality of transport devices may be simultaneously controlled by
the control device to simultaneously complete transporting of the
respective parcels to be sorted, thereby significantly improving
the parcel sorting efficiency.
[0065] Each of the transport devices is configured to load one
parcel to be sorted or a plurality of parcels to be sorted that go
to the same destination. In some embodiments, the transport device
is configured to transport one parcel to be sorted one time. The
control device sends a control instruction to the transport device
after obtaining the destination of the parcel to be sorted that is
going to be transported by the transport device that are mobile,
such that the transport device travels to the position of the
parcel outlet corresponding to the destination of the parcel to be
sorted.
[0066] In various embodiments, the parcels to be sorted may be
manually loaded onto the transport device. In other embodiments,
the parcels to be sorted may be automatically loaded onto the
transport devices by intelligently controlling parcel gripping
devices or the like through the control device. Similarly, in some
embodiments, the transport of the parcels to be sorted from the
parcel outlets to the parcel collecting device can be performed
manually and may also be completed by intelligently controlling
parcel gripping devices or the like through the control device.
[0067] As to the methods provided in the disclosed examples, the
implementation principles and the technical effects produced
thereof are the same as or similar to those in the preceding
examples regarding the systems. For brief description, as for
contents not mentioned in the examples regarding the methods,
reference can be made to the corresponding contents in the
preceding examples regarding the systems.
EXAMPLE 3
[0068] According to Example 3, as illustrated in FIG. 6, various
embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter are directed
to a system for use in an order fulfillment center or any other
facility that receives orders or listings of articles for an order.
The system provides an improvement for sorting orders and packaging
the same for fulfillment. The system includes a platform that is
elevated proximal to a lower level, which in some embodiments may
be a second platform. The platform provides a surface for transport
vehicles 202 to traverse to deposit an article to a destination
container 212. In operation, a device or conveyor delivers a
container of articles proximal a chute 214 or other material
handling system. The chute 214 or other material handling system
delivers the container of articles to an article supply location.
The container may contain products that are identical to each other
or may be disparate products. The article supply, i.e., the
articles shown in the containers, can be a supply of articles that
has identifier 216 on each article. Parcel information acquisition
devices 200 obtain the information contained in identifier 216 of
the articles to be sorted by identifying the information codes
present therein. The information code can be a bar code, a
two-dimensional code, a radio frequency tag, or similar other code
or tag, and correspondingly, the parcel information acquisition
device 200 may be a bar code scanner, a two-dimensional code
scanner, a radio frequency identifier, or similar other
corresponding device. Additionally, the information acquisition
device can be configured to image the article and compare against a
database of known articles to determine a characteristic, SKU, or
identity of the article.
[0069] An operator an select an article from the delivered
container and image an identifier 216 positioned on the article via
parcel information acquisition device 200. Optionally, parcel
information acquisition device 200 can automatically interact with
identifier 216 for article recognition without the need for any
action on the part of the operator. The operator can place the
article on the transport vehicle 202, or the system and process may
be set up so that such deposition of article onto the transport
vehicle 202 is automated. Parcel information acquisition device 200
can then communicate the article identifier information to control
system 201 in communication with parcel information acquisition
device 200 via the network.
[0070] Transport vehicle 202 may have a first position in which an
article is stowed about the vehicle and a second position in which
the article is deposited into a proximal destination container. In
one or more embodiments, transport vehicle 202 can be an
auto-navigating small vehicle.
[0071] Control system 201 is configured to determine one
destination container 212 of a plurality of destination containers
to deposit, with the transport vehicle 202, a selected article
based on the interaction with identifier 216 present on the
selected article. The control system 201 is further configured to
direct the transport vehicle to transport the selected article to a
specific destination container 212 and deposit the article by
manipulation of the transport car from the first position to the
second position for deposit of the selected article in the specific
destination container 212.
[0072] In various embodiments, the system may be embodied in a
multiple level arrangement. The multiple level arrangement can
include an elevated platform above a lower level, wherein the lower
level can be the floor or a second platform. In operation, the
control device determines that a destination container needs an
article deposited therein. In the multiple level arrangement, the
destination container is positioned proximal an opening in the
elevated platform. As directed by the system, the transport vehicle
traverses the elevated platform to the destination container and
deposits the article by manipulation of the transport vehicle from
the first position to the second position for deposit of the
selected article in the destination container.
[0073] As an illustrative example, consider a situation at an order
fulfillment facility where an order calls for 3 red shirts, 2 blue
shirts, and 2 pair of blue jeans to be transported to an end
destination retailer. The control system 2011 may know that at
article supply #1 has the red shirts, article supply #5 has the
blue shirts, and article supply #13 has the blue jeans. The control
system 201 proceeds to direct a respective transport vehicle 202 to
each of article supply #1, article supply #5, and article supply
#13. The control system 201 also determines or otherwise knows that
the destination container for delivery of the order is located at a
certain location on the platform. The control system 201 then
directs each respective transport vehicle 202 to deposit articles
into the destination container until the entire order is filled.
When the order had been filed, control system 201 can then direct
or otherwise instruct removal of the destination container.
[0074] The control system may be further configured to direct the
transport vehicle to return to be proximally located at any article
supply. The transport vehicle is in the first position upon being
proximal to an article supply. The control system may be further
configured to direct a plurality of transport vehicles such that
the transport vehicles do not collide with one another.
[0075] Disclosed herein is thus a system that includes an article
supply. The article supply includes a plurality of articles
associated with an order fulfillment center. In operation, the
system has a method or material handling system to move and
transport containers of articles. The method or material handling
system delivers a container of articles to an article supply
location. The container may contain product that is identical or
may be disparate product. Control system 201 communicates over a
network. The network may be a wired or wireless network, such as
Bluetooth.RTM., WIFI, a specific Radio Frequency, cellular, and the
like. Control system 201 may be embodied as a server with a
processor and a memory, where the processor executes many
instructions provided herein.
[0076] Control system 201 forming part of the control system may be
configured to receive an order for a plurality of disparate
articles to fulfill an order. The disparate articles may be a
plurality of similar articles having different sizes, colors, and
the like, such as apparel, or the disparate articles may be largely
unrelated. Control system 201 can be configured to determine one
destination container of a plurality of destination containers to
deposit, with the transport vehicle, a selected article. Control
system 201 can be configured to direct the transport vehicle to
transport the selected article which is stowed about the vehicle to
the destination container and deposit the article by manipulation
of the transport vehicle from the first position to the second
position for deposit of the selected article in the destination
container. Control system 201 can be configured to direct the
transport vehicle to transport a disparate article to the
destination container and deposit the disparate article by
manipulation of the transport vehicle from the first position to
the second position for deposit of the selected disparate article
in the destination container. Control system 201 may be configured
to determine when the order is complete.
[0077] The control system as disclosed herein can include a parcel
information acquisition device 200 that is configured to image the
selected article. The control system may then be further configured
to determine a characteristic of the selected article by
interacting with the selected article with the information
acquisition device. This interaction may include optical
recognition to determine one or more characteristic of an article,
including size, color, deformation or other defect, UPC or other
identifying code, and the like. The control system can be further
configured to determine a characteristic of the selected article by
interacting with an identifier 216 of the selected article with the
information acquisition device. The identifier may be a UPC or
other similar other product code associated with the article.
[0078] The control system can further include an elevated platform
above a lower level. The transport vehicle traverses the platform.
The destination container is positioned proximal a recess in the
platform. The transport vehicle traverses the platform, positions
the vehicle proximal the recess and then manipulates from the first
position to the second position to deposit the article. Each
transport vehicle can carry a respective single selected article,
and multiple transport vehicles may be traversing the platform at
any given time. The control system can be configured to direct the
transport vehicle to return to a position proximal an article
supply. The transport vehicle is in the first position upon being
proximal an article supply. The control system can be configured to
direct a plurality of transport vehicles. The control system is
further configured to direct the plurality of transport vehicles
such that the transport vehicles do not collide with one
another.
[0079] A method is also provided herein. The method can include
receiving an order for a plurality of disparate articles;
determining one destination container of a plurality of destination
containers to direct the transport vehicle to deposit a selected
article; and, directing the first transport vehicle to transport
the selected article to the destination container and deposit the
article by manipulation of the first transport vehicle from the
first position to the second position for deposit of the selected
article in the destination container. The method can further
include directing the second transport vehicle to transport a
disparate article to the destination container and deposit the
disparate article by manipulation of the second transport vehicle
from the first position to the second position for deposit of the
selected disparate article in the destination container, and
determining when all articles required to complete the order have
been deposited in the destination container.
EXAMPLE 4
[0080] According to Example 4, an additional example utilizing the
same or many of the components discussed in regard to Example 3, a
control system receives an order for fulfillment. The order, in
this example, may include articles from various portions of a
warehouse or fulfillment center. The control system batches the
orders, thus allowing for multiple orders to be fulfilled at once
in a time efficient manner.
[0081] The control system may then determine that a first plurality
of articles to be sorted is located within a first portion of the
fulfillment center, and a second plurality of articles to be sorted
is located within a second portion of the fulfillment center, and
the like. The pluralities of articles span the batched orders.
[0082] The control system may direct a person or an automated
machine to pull the plurality of articles associated with the
batched orders where the articles are in a first location of the
fulfillment center. Those pulled articles in the first location may
then be positioned in a case, bin, or other container. The control
system may similarly direct a person or an automated machine to
pull the plurality of articles associated with the batched orders
where the articles are in a second location of the fulfillment
center. The pulled articles in the second location may then be
positioned into a separate case, bin, or other container. The bin
or other container is then taken to a conveyor, chute, or the like
to transport the pulled articles to a location of article supply. A
person can then position an article from the pulled articles onto a
transport vehicle, or an automated machine can then position the
article onto the transport vehicle.
[0083] The information acquisition device can then image the UPC or
other identifying code on the article to determine the article
identity. The information acquisition device then communicates the
article identity to the control system, which is then able to
compare the article identity to the database of orders that have
been batched and assign a destination container for depositing the
article based on the orders. The control system does this for each
article until the orders are filled.
[0084] The destination container can be positioned below the
platform, where a chute may extend from the elevated platform to
the destination container in order to guide the article into the
destination container.
EXAMPLE 5
[0085] According to Example 5, an additional example utilizing the
same or many of the components discussed in regard to Example 3, a
control system receives an order for store fulfillment. The order,
in this example, may include articles from various portions of a
warehouse or fulfillment center. The control system batches orders
for stores, thus allowing for multiple store orders to be fulfilled
at once in a time efficient manner
[0086] The control system may then determine that a plurality of
articles to be sorted is located within a first portion of the
fulfillment center, and a second plurality of articles to be sorted
is located within a second portion of the fulfillment center, and
the like. The plurality of articles spans the store orders.
[0087] The control system may then direct a person or an automated
machine to pull the plurality of articles associated with the
stores orders where the articles are in the first portion of the
fulfillment center. Those pulled articles in the first location may
then be positioned in a case, bin or other container. Similarly,
the pulled articles in the second location may then be positioned
into a separate case, bin or other container. The bin or other
container is then taken to a conveyor, chute, small vehicle, or the
like to transport the pulled articles to a location of article
supply. A person may then place an article onto a transport
vehicle, or an automated machine may then place the article onto
the transport vehicle.
[0088] The information acquisition device may then image the UPC or
other identifying code on the article to determine the article
identity. The information acquisition device then communicates the
article identity to the control system which is then able to
compare the article identity to the database of store orders that
have been batched and assign a destination container for depositing
the article based on the individual store. The control system then
does this for each article until a store order is filled.
[0089] The control system may be further configured to segregate a
store order into departments such that all articles for a given
store department are assigned to a single destination container.
Store departments may include or be defined as women's, men's,
shoes, and similar other items.
[0090] The destination container may be positioned below the
platform, where a chute may extend from the elevated platform to
the destination container in order to guide the article into the
destination container.
EXAMPLE 6
[0091] According to Example 6, an additional example utilizing the
same or many of the components discussed in regard to Example 3, an
operation receives returns of articles from a customer. The returns
arrive at a returns processing area and are received into the
facility. In operation, a method, device or conveyor delivers a
container of returned articles proximal a chute or other material
handling system or method. The material handling system or method
delivers the container of returned articles to an article supply
location.
[0092] An operator may then place a single returned article onto a
transport vehicle, or an automated machine may then place the
article onto the transport vehicle.
[0093] The information acquisition device may then image the UPC or
other identifying code on the article to determine the article
identity. The information acquisition device then communicates the
article identity to the control system is then able to compare the
article identity to the database of the articles in the article
master database and assign a destination container for depositing
the article based on the article identity or SKU. The control
system then does this for each article until all returned articles
have been transported and deposited into destination containers.
The control system can be configured to transport and deposit
identical or similar articles into a single destination
container.
[0094] The destination container may be positioned below the
platform, where a chute may extend from the elevated platform to
the destination container in order to guide the article into the
destination container.
EXAMPLE 7
[0095] According to Example 7, an additional example utilizing the
same or many of the components discussed in regard to Example 3, a
control system receives an order for fulfillment. The order can
include articles from various portions of a warehouse or
fulfillment center. The control system batches orders, thus
allowing for multiple orders to be fulfilled at once in a time
efficient manner. The control system can then determine that a
plurality of articles to be sorted is located within a first
portion of the fulfillment center, and a second plurality of
articles to be sorted is located within a second portion of the
fulfillment center, and the like. The plurality of articles spans
the batched orders.
[0096] The control system can then direct a person or an automated
machine to pull the plurality of articles associated with the
batched orders where the articles are in the first portion of the
fulfillment center. Those pulled articles in the first location may
then be positioned in a case, bin, or other container. Similarly,
the pulled articles in the second location may then be positioned
into a separate case, bin, or other container. The bin or other
container is then taken to a conveyor, chute, or the like to
transport the pulled articles to a location of article supply. A
person may then position an article onto a transport vehicle, or an
automated machine may then position the article onto the transport
vehicle.
[0097] The information acquisition device can then image the UPC or
other identifying code on the article to determine the article
identity. The information acquisition device then communicates the
article identity to the control system, which is then able to
compare the article identity to the database of orders that have
been batched and assign a destination container for depositing the
article based on the orders. The control system does this for each
item until the orders are filled. The destination container can be
positioned on the same platform or surface as the transport vehicle
and the transport vehicle can deposit directly into the destination
container.
EXAMPLE 8
[0098] According to Example 1, an additional example utilizing the
same or many of the components discussed in regard to Examples 1-7,
the disclosed system comprises one or more removal devices
configured to relocate a destination container. Particularly, the
removal device is configured to relocate a destination container
from a position below or alongside a platform as disclosed herein
to a location designated for further processing of at least one
article contained within the designation container.
[0099] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the disclosed system can include
platform 250 that extends from a first surface. The platform 250
defines one or more platform openings 255 through which articles
are deposited into destination containers 260. One or more
computer-controlled transport vehicles 202 traverse platform 250
and are configured to have a first position in which an article is
stowed upon transport vehicle 202, and a second position in which
the article is deposited into a destination container by
manipulating a holder carried by transport vehicle 202. Transport
vehicles 202 therefore function to deposit articles stowed thereon
into destination containers positioned below an opening in the
platform or alongside a position at the edge of the platform by
manipulation of the transport vehicle first position to the second
position. Accordingly, in use, one or more transport vehicles 202
traverse platform 250 and can be positioned proximal to platform
opening 255. In some embodiments, the platform can include a chute
or other mechanism that connects platform opening 255 and
destination container 260 to guide the article into the destination
container.
[0100] The system further includes removal device 265 configured to
relocate destination container 260 from a position about the first
surface (e.g., beneath a platform opening or alongside a location
on the edge of the platform) to processing location 270 for further
processing of an article contained within the destination
container, as illustrated by Arrows A. The processing location can
be configured for any desired processing of an article, including,
but not limited to, packaging and value-added services such as
labeling, gift wrapping, assembly, and the like. In some
embodiments, the disclosed system can include a plurality of
processing locations 270, and each destination container 260 can be
transported via removal device 265 to one or more processing
locations 270.
[0101] Removal device 265 can transport destination container 260
using any known method. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, in some
embodiments, the removal device can include wheels or other
mechanical elements to allow movement in a desired direction
through any desired mechanism. However, the removal device is not
limited and can include any device capable of moving across a
surface. For example, in some embodiments, suitable removal devices
can include, but are not limited to, automatic guided vehicles
(AGVs), automated mobile robots, rail bots, semi-automated
vehicles, and the like. In various embodiments, the removal device
can be semi-automated or fully automated. In some embodiments, the
removal device can include any computer-controlled or
user-controlled device known or used in the art. In various
embodiments, the removal device can relocate destination container
260 using any desired method. For example, the destination
container 260 can be hauled, dragged, toted, carried, lifted, or
otherwise moved to processing location 270.
[0102] The disclosed system further includes a control system. As
set forth herein above, the control system is configured to receive
an order for one or more disparate articles found within an article
supply location after the articles have been pulled from a
distribution center. The control system determines a destination
container 260 to direct a transport vehicle to deposit a selected
article based on the determined product type. The product type can
be determined by interacting with an identifier of the article
(e.g., UPC or other product code associated with the article) with
an information acquisition device. The destination container 260
corresponds with an order for a business. The control system
directs the transport vehicle 202 to transport the selected article
to the destination container 260 and deposit the selected article
by manipulation of the transport vehicle 202 from the first
position to the second position. The destination container 260 can
be positioned proximal to (e.g., beneath) an opening in a first
platform.
[0103] The control system further determines processing location
270 that the destination container 260 is to be delivered to for
further processing of at least one article in the container. Any
known processing action can be performed at processing location
270. For example, the processing location can be configured for
assembly of an item or order. In some embodiments, assembly can
include grouping a plurality of items together to be shipped as a
unit or as a single order. In some embodiments, assembly can
include grouping together items that are to be shipped to a common
location (e.g., zip code, city, or similar other attributes). An
order or item can be manufactured or constructed into a final form
during assembly (e.g., two portions of an order can be joined).
[0104] In some embodiments, processing location 270 can be
configured for gift wrapping an order or article. Gift wrapping can
include receiving and enclosing a gift in a decorative enclosure.
In some embodiments, the gift wrapping can include covering the
outside of the order or article in the decorative enclosure. In
some embodiments, the gift wrapping can include packaging the order
or article in a container (such as a box) and then gift wrapping
the container. Gift wrapping can include the addition of a card or
other element from the sender with a message, receipt, or a similar
other piece of information. Gift wrapping at processing location
270 can be automated or semi-automated in some embodiments.
[0105] In some embodiments, processing location 270 can be
configured to package an article or order. The term "package" as
used herein refers to enclosing a particular article and/or order
in a suitable container (e.g., box, envelope, padded mailer), such
as for shipping. Packaging can further include the addition of
filler materials to cushion the packaged item and prevent or
eliminate damage. Suitable filler materials can include shipping
peanuts, air cellular material, foam inserts, paper stuffing, paper
shredding, and the like. In some embodiments, packaging can include
the insertion of an order receipt, order form, return instructions,
use instructions, packing list, and similar other attributes within
the interior of the package to allow the receiver to ensure the
entire order has been received. In some embodiments, packaging can
include sealing the package, such as with tape, adhesive, and the
like. Packaging at processing location 270 can be automated or
semi-automated in some embodiments.
[0106] Processing location 270 can comprise labeling the order or
article, such as after packaging has occurred. Suitable labeling
can include information such as shipping data, return data,
tracking number, date, shipping cost, and similar other attributes.
In some embodiments, the labeling information can be printed
directly onto the packaging or it can be affixed to the package
exterior. The labeling can be automated or semi-automated.
[0107] The control system as disclosed herein directs removal
device 265 to remove destination container 260 from the position
proximal to the platform 250 and transport it to the determined
processing location. The disclosed system can include a plurality
of processing locations 270. Alternatively, a single processing
location can be configured to perform more than one task (e.g.,
packaging and labeling). The control system can be configured to
direct a plurality of removal devices 265 such that there are no
collisions.
[0108] The control system can be further configured to determine
when all of the articles required to complete at least one of the
orders has been deposited into the destination container. The
control system can send a notification that a particular order has
been completed.
[0109] In some embodiments, the control system is further
configured to indicate when the destination container is full or
when the destination container is removed from its location so that
the transport vehicle will not deliver articles to that location.
The control system is further configured, and when an empty
destination container is positioned proximal the platform, that the
position can once again receive articles.
[0110] The control system is configured to indicate when the
destination container is full or when the destination container has
been removed whereby the control system directs a transport vehicle
to cease delivery of articles to the removed destination container
location. The control system is further configured to indicate when
an empty destination container is positioned proximal to the
platform whereby the control system directs the transport vehicle
to resume delivery of articles to the empty destination
container.
[0111] In some embodiments, the removal device also operates to
replace destination containers that are full or that contain
complete orders with empty destination containers.
[0112] In some embodiments, the control system can be configured to
direct the transport vehicle to return to a position proximal the
first article supply location after the article has been
processed.
[0113] As to the above, they are merely specific embodiments of the
presently disclosed subject matter. However, the scope of
protection is not limited thereto, and within the disclosed
technical scope, any modifications or substitutions that a person
skilled in the art could readily conceive of should fall within the
scope of protection of the presently disclosed subject matter.
Thus, the scope of protection shall be determined by the scope of
protection of the appended claims.
[0114] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of
the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an" and
"the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood
that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this
specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude
the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
[0115] The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present
invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are
not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments
disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope
and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used
herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the
embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement
over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of
ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed
herein.
[0116] The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and
equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the
claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or
act for performing the function in combination with other claimed
elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present
invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and
description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the
invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations
will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without
departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The
embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the
principles of the invention and the practical application, and to
enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the
invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are
suited to the particular use contemplated.
[0117] These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in
light of the Detailed Description. While the above description
describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the
best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in
text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details of the
system may vary considerably in its implementation details, while
still being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As
noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain
features or aspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply
that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to
any specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the
disclosure with which that terminology is associated. In general,
the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to
limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed in the
specification, unless the above Detailed Description section
explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the
disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also
all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosure
under the claims.
* * * * *