专利摘要:
There is provided a buffer storage and charge sequencing system configured to receive non-sequenced charges from at least one external unit (UE) and provide sequenced charges to at least one preparation station (PP). The system comprises: an alternating elevator (EA) comprising a single nacelle having K levels each capable of carrying at least one load, with K ≥ 2; at least one buffer storage unit (UST1, UST2); and a control unit (UP) configured to organize first load movements from at least one input forward conveyor (CAE) to the at least one buffer storage unit, via the alternate elevator, and second load movements from the at least one buffer storage unit to at least one outbound conveyor (CAS), via the alternate elevator.
公开号:FR3045583A1
申请号:FR1563151
申请日:2015-12-22
公开日:2017-06-23
发明作者:Jean-Michel Collin;Stephane Pietrowicz
申请人:Savoye SA;
IPC主号:
专利说明:

Buffer storage and load sequencing system upstream of at least one preparation station.
1. TECHNICAL FIELD
The field of the invention is that of logistics.
More specifically, the present invention relates to a buffer storage and charge sequencing system configured to receive non-sequenced charges from at least one external unit (e.g., an automated storage / retrieval warehouse) and to provide sequenced charges to least one preparation post. By "supply of sequenced charges" is meant the supply, under a delivery constraint, of at least one sequence comprising charges in a desired order.
The present invention can be applied to any type of preparation station, including but not limited to: - picking stations (also called "picking stations"), by taking samples from storage containers (also called "source loads"): an operator (or a robot) receives a list of samples (on paper, on the screen of a terminal, in voice form, in the form of a computer mission (in the case of the robot), etc. .) indicating to him, for each parcel to be shipped (also called "shipping container" or "target load"), the quantity of each type of product that he must collect in storage containers and group in the parcel to be despatched ; and - palletizing stations of storage containers (also called "source loads") themselves containing products: an operator (or a robot) receives a list of samples (on paper, on the screen of a terminal, in the form of in the form of a computer mission (in the case of the robot), etc.), indicating for each pallet to be shipped (also called "shipping container" or "target load"), the quantity of each type of container of storage (eg cartons) that it must collect and unload on the pallet to be shipped.
2. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND
With reference to FIG. 1, a top view of an exemplary known configuration for an automated order preparation system comprising: an automated storage / retrieval warehouse 7 comprising several (two in this example) sets is now presented; each formed an aisle 7a, 7a 'serving on both sides a storage shelf 7b, 7c, 7b', 7c 'with several levels of stacked storage; A set of conveyors bringing the source charges from the automated warehouse 7 to preparation stations, and vice versa. In the example of Figure 1, there are: o for the go (ie the automated warehouse 7 to the preparation stations), conveyors referenced 9a and 9a '(one per aisle) and 6 and 8; and o for the return (ie preparation stations to the automated warehouse 7), conveyors referenced 8 ', 6' and 9b and 9b '(one per aisle); in this example, the conveyors 6 'and 8' are superimposed on the conveyors 6 and 8; A plurality of picking stations 10a to 10f, each occupied by an operator 1a and 1f extending perpendicularly to the conveyors referenced 8 and 8 '; and a control system (also called "control unit"), which is a central management computer system responsible for controlling the entire system (automated storage / retrieval warehouse 7, set of conveyors 6, 6 ', 8, 8', 9a, 9a ', 9b and 9b', and preparation stations 10a to 10f).
The control system also manages the list of commands associated with each shipping container (target load) and therefore the order of the order lines forming this list, depending on the location of the storage containers (source loads) in the container. automated warehouse 7, the availability of the carts and elevators of the automated warehouse 7, as well as the product needs of the various shipping containers to be prepared which succeed one another at the preparation station. This is to optimize all travel and preparation times of shipping containers and ensure synchronization between the arrival, at the preparation station, of a shipping container and the corresponding storage containers ( ie containing the products indicated in the order list associated with this storage container).
In the example of FIG. 1, each preparation station comprises two conveyor circuits: a first conveyor circuit for the storage containers, formed of two horizontal columns of conveyors: one (forward column 2) for moving the conveyors; storage containers from the third subset of conveyors 8 to the operator la, and the other (return column 3) for the reverse movement; and a second conveyor circuit for the shipping containers, consisting of two horizontal conveyor columns: one (forward column 4) for moving the shipping containers from the third conveyor subassembly 8 to the next operator la, and the other (return column 5) for the reverse movement.
A buffer storage function (also called "accumulation function") of a predetermined quantity of containers upstream of the operator (or the automaton) is carried out, in each of the first and second circuits, by the first column 2 and 4 (consisting of horizontal conventional conveyors). A storage container thus carries out the following route: it is taken by a truck in the automated warehouse 7, then conveyed successively by one of the conveyors 9a and 9a '(as it arrives from the aisle 7a or 7a') , then by the conveyors 6 and 8, and finally by the conveyors of the column go 2, to be presented to the operator. In the other direction (after presentation to the operator), the storage container performs the reverse course: it is conveyed by the conveyors of the return column 3, then by the conveyors 8 'and 6', and finally by the one of the conveyors 9b and 9b '(as it returns to the aisle 7a or 7a'), before being returned to the automated warehouse 7 by a carriage.
As mentioned above, the containers (source charges and target charges) must be presented to the operator in a desired order forming at least one specified sequence. Typically, this order of arrival is predetermined by the control system (that is to say, determined for each container, before the container reaches the preparation station) and, if necessary, recalculated during routing containers from the output of the automated warehouse 7 to the preparation station (for example to account for a failure of a system element).
In a first known implementation (standard), a first level of sequencing is performed by depositing on each of the conveyors 9a and 9a 'pre-sequenced loads (there are therefore constraints on the automated warehouse 7). In other words, the charges deposited on the conveyor 9a are in an order consistent with the desired final order, and the charges deposited on the conveyor 9a 'are also in an order consistent with the desired final order. Then, a second level of sequencing is performed by depositing in the desired final order, on the conveyor 6, the charges coming from the conveyors 9a and 9a '. For example, for a sequence of seven loads, if the rank charges 1, 2, 4 and 5 are stored in the aisle 7a they are deposited in this order on the conveyor 9a and if the rank charges 3 and 6 are stored. in the aisle 7a 'they are deposited in this order on the conveyor 9a'; then the seven charges are deposited on the conveyor 6 in ascending order (from 1 to 7) of their ranks.
In a second known implementation, in order to relax the constraints on the automated warehouse 7, it is assumed that the containers do not leave the automated warehouse 7 in the desired order (that is to say the order in which they must be presented to the operator). It is therefore necessary to perform a sequencing operation of the containers, between the automated warehouse 7 and the preparation station where the operator is located. The removal of sequencing constraints usually weighing on the automated warehouse 7 allows a significant increase in the performance thereof (and more generally the different upstream equipment), and therefore a reduction in its size and complexity, and therefore its cost. In the example of FIG. 1, this sequencing operation is carried out as follows: the storage containers circulate in a loop on the conveyors 6, 8, 8 'and 6', and when the storage container expected on the conveyors of the column go 2 is presented in front of the latter (in order to complete the sequence of storage containers expected at the preparation station), it is transferred to the conveyors of the outgoing column 2, the other storage containers continuing to circulate in the loop above mentioned (conveyors 6, 8, 8 'and 6'). This process is performed for each of the storage containers expected in the sequence (i.e. in the desired order of arrival at the preparation station).
The two aforementioned known implementations (based on conventional horizontal conveyors), to perform the functions of buffer storage (accumulation) and sequencing, have several disadvantages.
First of all, they have a high consumption of m2 at low running height (typically 750 mm). As an example of this footprint too high, the area required for six order picking stations (as in the example of Figure 1) is of the order of 100 m2.
Another disadvantage is that the horizontal density of the horizontal conventional conveyors (included in the preparation stations) is such that it makes it difficult to maintain access to these conveyors (too dense conveyor web).
Another disadvantage is that, except to further increase the footprint of the preparation station (by increasing the length of the first column of each of the first and second circuits), it is not possible to increase the number of containers can be accumulated (buffer storage) upstream of the operator (or the PLC). The invention, in at least one embodiment, is intended in particular to provide a buffer storage system and load sequencing to overcome the disadvantages of the known technique of Figure 1. 3. SUMMARY
In a particular embodiment of the invention, there is provided a buffer storage and load sequencing system, configured to receive non-sequenced loads from at least one external unit, via at least one input forward conveyor , and providing sequenced loads to at least one preparation station, via at least one outward going conveyor, said system comprising: an alternating elevator comprising a single nacelle comprising K levels each of which can transport at least one load, with K> 2 ; at least one buffer storage unit comprising a plurality of buffer locations, distributed over a plurality of levels and each configured to temporarily receive at least one load from the AC elevator; and a control unit configured to organize: first load movements from said at least one input forward conveyor to said at least one buffer storage unit, via the AC elevator; and * second load movements from said at least one buffer storage unit to said at least one outward delivery conveyor, via the alternator, under a delivery constraint on said at least one outbound conveyor of at least one a sequence comprising charges in a desired order.
The general principle of the proposed system is to perform buffer storage and load sequencing functions using, according to a completely new and inventive approach, a multi-level reciprocating elevator (with a single nacelle comprising K levels) in combination with at least one buffer storage unit, under the control of a control unit configured to organize first load movements and second load movements.
Said at least one external unit (which provides the non-sequenced loads) belongs for example to the following non-exhaustive list: an automated storage / retrieval warehouse and at least one other buffer storage and load sequencing system.
The sequencing capability (scheduling) of the proposed system is related to the amount of loads that can be stored temporarily in the at least one buffer storage unit.
The proposed solution has many advantages, in particular but not exclusively: • minimizing the sequencing constraints at the output of the external unit (s) by a sequencing downstream of that (s) -ci, and at closer to the position (s) of preparation; this minimization of the constraints making it possible to reduce the size and the complexity, and therefore the cost, of the external unit (s); • reduction of the footprint; • optimization of overall system performance (including external unit (s), buffer and sequencing storage system, and preparation position (s)); • optimizing the responsiveness of the overall system; • manipulation of multi-format loads if motorized rollers are used; • cost optimization if the overall system includes several preparation stations (pooling of the buffer storage and sequencing system); • etc.
At the output of the buffer storage and sequencing system, several types of charge sequences are feasible, and in particular but not exclusively: a sequence comprising only source charges, each source charge being a product storage container (s); or a sequence comprising only target charges, each target charge being a product shipping container (s); or a sequence comprising a target charge, which is a product shipping container (s), followed by at least one source charge, which is a product storage container (s).
Several buffer storage and sequencing systems (each made according to the proposed solution) can be used in parallel. For example, upstream of at least one preparation station, a first buffer storage and sequencing system is used only for source loads, and in parallel a second buffer storage and sequencing system is used only for target loads .
Various implementations and features are specified in the set of claims. They are also detailed (with their associated advantages) and illustrated by examples in the following description.
4. LIST OF FIGURES Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description, given by way of indicative and nonlimiting example, and the appended drawings, in which: FIG. 1, already described in relationship with the prior art, is a top view of an automated order preparation system; FIG. 2 is a side view of a first example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; FIG. 3 is a side view of a second example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; FIG. 4 is a side view of a third example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; FIG. 5 is a side view of a fourth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; Fig. 6 is a side view of a fifth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; Fig. 7 is a side view of a sixth exemplary buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; Figure 8 is a side view of a seventh example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; Fig. 9 is a side view of an eighth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; Figures 10a, 10b and 10c are views, from above, from above and from front, respectively, of a ninth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; FIGS. 11a, 11b and 11c are views, from above, from above and from the front respectively, of a tenth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; FIGS. 12a, 12b and 12c are views, from above, from above and from the front respectively, of an eleventh example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; Figs. 13a, 13b and 13c are side, top and front views, respectively, of a twelfth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention; and FIG. 14 shows an exemplary structure of a control unit according to a particular embodiment of the invention.
5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
FIG. 2 illustrates a first example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It is configured to receive non-sequenced loads from an external UE, via a CAE inbound forward conveyor, and to provide sequenced loads to a PP preparation station (occupied by an operator or robot), via a conveyor go CAS exit. The external unit UE is for example an automated storage / retrieval warehouse.
In one variant, the external unit UE is another buffer storage and charge sequencing system. In another variant, the buffer storage and load sequencing system receives non-sequenced loads from a plurality of external units (either via a plurality of CAE-specific input forward conveyors each to one of the external units or via a forward conveyor of CAE input used jointly by several external units).
The buffer storage and charge sequencing system comprises an AC booster, two UST1, UST2 buffer storage units, and a UP control unit. The reciprocating elevator EA is a vertical elevator of discontinuous type, comprising a single nacelle 21 performing vertical reciprocating movements (the nacelle up and down alternately). In contrast, a "continuous elevator" (also called "paternoster") is a vertical elevator comprising a plurality of nacelles circulating in a closed loop, without reciprocating motion. The single nacelle 21 has K levels, with K> 2 each comprising a location (or position) configured to receive a load. In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, tunic nacelle 21 has two levels 22a, 22b (K = 2). The reciprocating elevator therefore has a capacity of 2x1 loads. Each of the nacelle locations is for example equipped with a motorized conveyor section (or any transfer device) for transferring a load on or off the nacelle. Alternatively, each nacelle location is equipped with free rollers, the setting in motion is for example provided by a retractable mechanical means positioned at the end of another equipment (conveyor or buffer location). Other means of setting in motion can be envisaged.
Each of the two buffer storage units UST1, UST2 comprises a plurality of buffer locations 23, distributed over a plurality of levels (one buffer location per level) and each configured to temporarily receive at least one load from the AC elevator. The two buffer storage units UST1, UST2 are arranged vertically on either side of the alternative elevator EA. Each of the levels of the nacelle of the alternative elevator EA may come next to each of the levels of each of the buffer storage units UST1, UST2 for a transfer of at least one load. The use of two buffer storage units thus arranged makes it possible to increase the capacity and the rate of the buffer storage and sequencing system.
In a particular implementation making it possible to limit the movements of the alternating elevator EA, the pitch (ie the spacing between two successive levels) of the nacelle of the alternate elevator EA is equal to or is a multiple of the pitch ( i.e. spacing between two successive levels) UST1, UST2 buffer storage units. The control unit UP makes it possible to optimally organize the movements of the loads in the system, and in particular on the alternative elevator EA and the buffer storage units UST1, UST2, in order to make available on the outbound conveyor CAS source loads according to a specific sequence. For this purpose, the control unit UP receives information (in particular a charge identifier) read, on the charges passing at different places of the system, by reading devices (not shown), of the bar code reader type, reader RFID tag, etc. These places are for example located at the ends of the different conveyors.
More specifically, the UP control unit organizes first load movements from the CAE inward conveyor to the UST1, UST2 buffer storage units via the alternative elevator EA. It also organizes second load movements from the buffer storage units UST1, UST2 to the outgoing conveyor CAS via the alternate elevator EA under a supply constraint on the forward conveyor CAS of at least one sequence comprising loads in a desired order.
In a particular implementation, part of the first load movements is performed at the same time as part of the second load movements.
For example, the UP control unit is configured to organize, wherever possible: a transfer of first loads (for example those marked "a" and "b" in FIG. 1) from the alternate elevator EA to the buffer storage units UST1, UST2 together with a transfer of second charges (e.g. those marked "c" and "d" in Fig. 1) from the buffer storage units UST1, UST2 to the elevator alternative EA. Failing these two transfers are carried out successively; and / or a transfer of the second loads from the AC elevator to the CAS exit conveyor at the same time as a transfer of third loads (not shown in FIG. 1) from the CAE inbound forward conveyor to the alternative elevator EA. Failing these two transfers are made successively.
This combination of the first and second load movements makes it possible to increase the rate of the buffer storage and sequencing system.
In FIG. 1 (and also in the other figures described below), certain loads are referenced with letters ("a", "b", "c", "d") to illustrate the operation of the system. In order to show successive positions of the same load in the same figure, the following notation is used: for a first position, the load is referenced only with its associated letter (for example "a"), for a second position, the load is referenced with its associated letter followed by the premium symbol (for example "a '"), for a third position, the load is referenced with its associated letter followed by the double premium symbol (for example "a" "), etc. Thus, in FIG. 1, the load "a" is first on the CAE inward conveyor, then on the alternative elevator EA (it is then denoted "a"), and finally in the one buffer storage units UST1, UST2 (it is then denoted "a" ").
FIG. 3 illustrates a second example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the first example illustrated in FIG. 1 in that it also provides sequenced charges to another preparation station PP 'via another CAS' output forward conveyor. The two conveyors go CAS, CAS 'exit are located on two different levels. In a variant, the number of preparation stations is greater than two. In another variant, the same CAS outbound conveyor is used in combination with an appropriate referral system, to serve several preparation stations.
FIG. 4 illustrates a third example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the first example illustrated in FIG. 1 in that it comprises a return return conveyor CRE allowing the return to the alternating elevator EA of charges that have been processed by the preparation station PP.
In this example, the CAE inward conveyor and the CAS exit conveyor are positioned at the same height (level referenced as "Level 1"), on either side of the alternative elevator EA. The CRE input return conveyor is positioned at a lower height (referenced level "Lv 0"). The forward CAS exit conveyor and the CRE return return conveyor are parallel and vertically adjacent. In a particular implementation, they have between them a vertical spacing equal to a vertical spacing between two successive levels of the nacelle of the AC elevator.
For the loads coming back from the preparation station PP, the control unit UP is configured to further organize third movements of loads from the return return conveyor CRE to one or more entities accessible via the alternate elevator EA, in particular: UST1, UST2 buffer storage units for charges to be re-stored; and the CAS exit conveyor, for loads to be presented again to the preparation station PP, under the delivery constraint (sequencing constraint).
In a variant of the third example of a buffer storage and load sequencing system, the nacelle of the reciprocating elevator comprises a single level comprising one or more charging locations.
FIG. 5 illustrates a fourth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the third example shown in Figure 4 in that it comprises a CRS output return conveyor, for loads to be returned to the external unit UE. In a variant, there are several output return conveyors, each allowing a return of loads to a particular external unit. The external unit (or each of the external units) is an additional entity to which the UP control unit can organize the third load movements, for the expenses returning from the preparation station PP.
In this example, the output return conveyor CRS and the return return conveyor CRE are positioned at the same height (level referenced "Lv 0"), on either side of the alternative elevator EA. The CAE Inbound Feed Conveyor and the CRS Output Return Conveyor are parallel and vertically adjacent. In a particular implementation, they have between them a vertical spacing equal to a vertical spacing between two successive levels of the nacelle of the AC elevator.
Thus, several types of returns are possible, making it possible to minimize the use of said at least one external unit and to further improve the responsiveness of the overall system: • first returns to the buffer storage units UST1, UST2; • second returns to the PP preparation station (via the outbound one-way conveyor); and • third returns to the UE external unit, or to at least one other preparation station, or to at least one other external unit (another automated storage / retrieval warehouse, or other buffer storage and sequencing system). loads).
In a particular implementation, part of the second load movements is performed at the same time as part of the third load movements. Likewise, part of the third load movements is performed at the same time as part of the first load movements.
For example, the UP control unit is configured to organize, whenever possible: a transfer of first loads from the AC elevator to the buffer storage units UST1, UST2 at the same time as a transfer second charges from the UST1, UST2 buffer storage units to the alternate elevator EA. Failing these two transfers are carried out successively; a transfer of the second loads from the AC elevator to the CAS exit conveyor at the same time as a transfer of third loads from the input return conveyor CRE to the AC elevator. Failing these two transfers are carried out successively; a transfer of the third loads from the AC elevator to the CRS exit return conveyor or the UST2, UST2 buffer storage units together with a transfer of fourth loads from the CAE inward conveyor to the AC elevator EA or buffer storage units UST1, UST2. Failing these two transfers are made successively.
This combination of the first, second and third load movements makes it possible to increase the rate of the buffer storage and sequencing system.
In a variant of the fourth example of a buffer storage and load sequencing system, the nacelle of the reciprocating elevator comprises a single level comprising one or more charging locations.
FIG. 6 illustrates a fifth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the fourth example illustrated in FIG. 5 in that each level 22a, 22b of the single nacelle 21 of the reciprocating elevator EA comprises a row of two locations. The reciprocating elevator therefore has a capacity of KxL loads, with K the number of levels and L the number of loads per level (in the example illustrated in Figure 6, the capacity is 2x2 loads).
FIG. 7 illustrates a sixth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the fifth example illustrated in FIG. 6 in that it comprises, between the AC reciprocator and the CAS output forward conveyor, a DTS output transfer device and an SeqS output sequencer. Furthermore, in this sixth example, the system does not include the CRE input return conveyor or the CRS output return conveyor. In a variant, he understands them.
The DTS output transfer device has two levels each for receiving two charges. More generally, it comprises the same number K of levels as the alternating elevator, and each of its levels can receive the same number L of loads as each of the levels of the alternating elevator. Each of the locations of the output transfer device DTS is for example equipped with a motorized conveyor section (or any transfer device) for transferring a load to or out of the DTS output transfer device. Alternatively, each of these locations is equipped with free rollers, the setting in motion is for example provided by a retractable mechanical means positioned at the end of another equipment (conveyor or alternator). Other means of setting in motion can be envisaged. To perform a simultaneous transfer of KxL charges to the maximum (2x2 charges in the example of FIG. 7), the K levels of the alternate elevator EA are aligned with the K levels of the output transfer device DTS.
The SeqS output sequencer is provided with vertical displacement means. It is capable of transferring charges between the DTS output transfer device and the CAS output forward conveyor. The SeqS output sequencer is a lift-table type device with platform, or other equivalent device that allows the vertical movement of a load. In this example, the SeqS output sequencer includes a single level (i.e., a single platform) that is equipped with a motorized conveyor portion for horizontal movement of a load. The control unit UP is configured to control: a transfer of a group of N charges, from the buffer storage units UST1, UST2 to the alternate elevator EA, with N less than or equal to a capacity C of the elevator alternative EA in number of loads (C = KxL). For each group of N loads, the sequencing of the charges placed at each level of the alternate elevator is consistent with the delivery constraint (sequencing constraint on the CAS outbound conveyor). Thus, the sequencing of the charges on each level of the alternate elevator (sequencing which is kept on each level of the output transfer device) makes it possible to simplify the sequencing function performed by the output sequencer; a transfer, simultaneously on the K levels, of each group of N charges from the AC booster to the DTS output transfer device; and transferring each group of N loads, via the SeqS output sequencer, from the DTS output transfer device to the CAS output forward conveyor, under the delivery constraint (sequencing constraint).
In this sixth example, for the transfer of loads from the AC elevator to the preparation station PP, the AC elevator is used in combination with two other elements: • a DTS output transfer device, which performs a function complementary buffer, to put on hold a group of N loads, after unloading by the alternator; and • SeqS output sequencer, which participates in performing the sequencing function.
This combination of three elements makes it possible to significantly increase the overall rate of the buffer storage and sequencing system, while respecting the constraints of sequencing.
In a variant, the output transfer device DTS is provided with means for vertical displacement (reciprocating elevator-type means with platform, or any other equivalent means permitting the vertical displacement of the loads between two or more levels) and replaces the output sequencer. SEQS. This variant is therefore more compact and reduces the material needed. The control unit UP is configured to control a transfer of each group of N charges directly from the DTS output transfer device to the CAS output forward conveyor. For example, the high level of the DTS output transfer device aligns horizontally with the CAS outbound conveyor, to discharge two charges (eg "e" and "f"), and then the low level of the charge transfer device. DTS output aligns horizontally with the CAS output forward conveyor, to unload two other loads (eg "g" and "h"), thus respecting the sequence.
FIG. 8 illustrates a seventh example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the sixth example shown in FIG. 7 in that it comprises, between the CAE inward conveyor and the AC elevator, a DTE input transfer device and a SeqE input sequencer.
The DTE input transfer device has two levels each for receiving two charges. More generally, it comprises the same number K of levels as the alternating elevator, and each of its levels can receive the same number L of loads as each of the levels of the alternating elevator. Each of the locations of the DTE input transfer device is for example equipped with a motorized conveyor section (or any other transfer device) for transferring a load to or out of the DTE input transfer device. Alternatively, each of these locations is equipped with free rollers, the setting in motion is for example provided by a retractable mechanical means positioned at the end of another equipment (conveyor or alternator). Other means of setting in motion can be envisaged. To achieve a simultaneous transfer of KxL charges to the maximum (2x2 charges in the example of Figure 8), the K levels of the AC elevator are aligned with the K levels of the DTE input transfer device.
SeqE input sequencer is provided with vertical displacement means. It is capable of transferring loads between the CAE inward conveyor and the DTE input transfer device. The SeqE input sequencer is a platform-type device with platform, or other equivalent device that allows the vertical movement of a load. In this example, the SeqE input sequencer comprises a single level (i.e., a single platform) that is equipped with a motorized conveyor portion for horizontal movement of a load. The control unit UP is configured to control: a load transfer, via the SeqE input sequencer, from the CAE input forward conveyor to the DTE input transfer device, forming in the transfer device DTE input of groups of N 'distributed loads on the different levels, with N' less than or equal to the capacity C of the alternator in number of charges (C = KxL). For each group of N 'charges, the sequencing of the charges placed at each level of the DTE input transfer device is consistent with a deposition constraint of N' charges in the buffer storage units UST1, UST2. Thus, the sequencing of the charges on each level of the DTE input transfer device (sequencing which is kept on each level of the AC riser) makes it possible to simplify the realization of the deposition constraint of the N 'charges (in the units of FIG. buffer storage); a transfer, simultaneously on the K levels, of each group of N 'charges from the DTE input transfer device to the AC elevator; and transferring each group of N 'charges, from the AC elevator to the buffer storage units UST1, UST2, under the N-charge deposition constraint.
In this seventh example, for the transfer of loads from the external unit UE to the AC elevator, the AC elevator is therefore used in combination with two other elements: a DTE input transfer device, which provides a complementary buffer function, allowing to put a group of N charges on hold, before loading them on the alternator also multi-level; and • a SeqE input sequencer, which makes it possible to transfer charges in a predetermined order to the DTE input transfer device.
This combination of three elements makes it possible to optimize the general timing of the buffer storage and sequencing system, while respecting the constraints of placement of the charges in the buffer storage units UST1, UST2.
In a variant, the DTE input transfer device is provided with means for vertical displacement (reciprocating elevator-type means with platform, or any other equivalent means allowing the vertical displacement of the charges between two or more levels) and replaces the sequencer SeqE entry. This variant is therefore more compact and reduces the material needed. The control unit UP is configured to control a transfer of each group of N 'charges directly from the CAE input forward conveyor to the DTE input transfer device. For example, the low level of the DTE input transfer device aligns horizontally with the CAE input forward conveyor, to load a load (eg "a"), and then the high level of the input transfer device. DTE aligns horizontally with the CAE Inbound Conveyor, to unload another load (eg "b"), etc.
FIG. 9 illustrates an eighth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the seventh example illustrated in FIG. 8 in that each level of each of the two buffer storage units UST1, UST2 is multi-charge, that is to say comprises several (for example three) buffer locations.
FIGS. 10a, 10b and 10c illustrate a ninth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the fifth example shown in FIG. 6 in that the CAE inward conveyor and the CRS exit return conveyor are positioned at the same height (level referenced "Lvl 2"), on either side of the alternative elevator EA.
FIGS. 11a, 11b and 11c illustrate a tenth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the ninth example illustrated in FIGS. 10a, 10b and 10c in that the CAE inward conveyor and the CRS exit return conveyor are parallel and vertically adjacent. In a particular implementation, they have between them a vertical spacing equal to a vertical spacing between two successive levels of the nacelle of the AC elevator. In this example, the CAE inward conveyor is positioned at a height (referenced level "Lvl 3") higher than that (referenced level "Lvl 2") of the output return conveyor CRS.
FIGS. 12a, 12b and 12c illustrate an eleventh example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the ninth example illustrated in FIGS. 10a, 10b and 10c in that: the nacelle of the reciprocating elevator comprises a single level with two rows of two charging locations. In Figure 12b (seen from above), one row contains the charges "a" and "b", and the other row the charges "i" and "j"; The CAS outgoing conveyor and the CRE return return conveyor are parallel, horizontally adjacent (at the level referenced "Lv 0") and have between them a horizontal spacing equal to a horizontal spacing between the two rows of the single level of the nacelle of the alternative elevator EA. The positioning of these CAS and CRE conveyors with respect to the alternative elevator EA is such that it is possible to carry out simultaneously transfer of charges on the one hand between the CAS exit conveyor and one of the two rows of the single level. of the nacelle of the alternative elevator EA, and secondly between the return return conveyor CRE and the other of the two rows of the single level of the nacelle of the alternating elevator EA; The CAE inward conveyor and the CRS exit return conveyor are parallel, horizontally adjacent (at the level referenced "Level 1") and have between them a horizontal spacing equal to a horizontal spacing between the two rows of the single level of the nacelle of the alternative elevator EA. The positioning of these conveyors CAE and CRS with respect to the alternating elevator EA is such that it is possible to carry out simultaneously transfer of charges on the one hand between the CAE inward conveyor and one of the two rows of the level. unique of the bucket of the elevator AE EA, and secondly between the CRS exit return conveyor and the other of the two rows of the single level of the nacelle of the alternative elevator EA.
FIGS. 13a, 13b and 13c illustrate a twelfth example of a buffer storage and charge sequencing system according to the invention. It differs from the eleventh example illustrated in FIGS. 12a, 12b and 12c in that the nacelle of the reciprocating elevator comprises K levels, with K> 2 (in the example illustrated in FIGS. 13a, 13b and 13c, K = 2), each having two rows of two charging locations. In FIG. 13b (top view), the high level of the nacelle of the reciprocating elevator comprises a first row, which contains the charges "c" and "d", and a second row, which contains the charges "i". and "j". As seen partially in Fig. 13b (side view), the low level of the AC lift pod includes a first row, which contains the charges "a" and "b", and a second row, which contains the charges. "K" and "1".
The twelfth example also illustrates the possibility that the system comprises one or more pairs of additional conveyors, each associating an inbound forward conveyor and an exit return conveyor, and allowing exchanges (round trip) of loads with another external unit. (not shown) This other external unit is for example an automated storage / retrieval warehouse or another buffer storage and load sequencing system.
Thus, in FIGS. 13a, 13b and 13c, the system comprises a first pair of additional conveyors denoted CAE 'and CRS', positioned at the level referenced "Level 1", and a second pair of additional conveyors denoted by CAE "and CRS", positioned at the level referenced "Lvl 2".
The configuration of each of the ninth, tenth, eleventh and twelfth examples makes it possible to combine the return of the loads from the preparation station PP to the CRS 'CRS' return conveyor (s) or the UST1 buffer storage units. , UST2, by minimizing the flow of sequenced loads on the CAS outbound conveyor.
FIG. 14 shows an exemplary structure of the above-mentioned control unit UP, according to one particular embodiment of the invention. The control unit UP comprises a random access memory 143 (for example a RAM memory), a processing unit 141, equipped for example with a processor, and controlled by a computer program stored in a read-only memory 142 (for example a ROM or a hard disk). At initialization, the code instructions of the computer program are for example loaded into the RAM 143 before being executed by the processor of the processing unit 141. The processing unit 141 receives signals from input 44, processes them and generates output signals 45.
The input signals 144 comprise various information relating to the operation of the overall system (including in particular the external unit (s), the buffer storage and sequencing system and the position (s) of preparation), including the load identifiers read (by bar code readers, RFID tag readers, etc.) on the loads as they pass through different parts of the overall system (for example at the ends of different conveyors).
The output signals 145 comprise various control information for the control (control) of the equipment of the overall system (notably within the buffer storage and sequencing system), in order to manage the movements of the loads in the overall system.
This Figure 14 illustrates only one particular implementation among several possible. Indeed, the control unit UP is carried out indifferently on a reprogrammable calculation machine (a PC computer, a DSP processor or a microcontroller) executing a program comprising a sequence of instructions, and / or on a dedicated computing machine ( for example a set of logic gates such as an FPGA or an ASIC, or any other hardware module). In the case where the control unit is located at least partly on a reprogrammable calculation machine, the corresponding program (that is to say the instruction sequence) can be stored in a removable storage medium (such as as for example a floppy disk, a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM) or not, this storage medium being readable partially or totally by a computer or a processor.
权利要求:
Claims (16)
[1" id="c-fr-0001]
A buffer storage and load sequencing system, configured to receive unsequenced loads from at least one external unit (UE) via at least one input one-way conveyor (CAE, CAE ', CAE "), and supplying sequenced loads to at least one preparation station (PP, PP '), via at least one outward going conveyor (CAS, CAS'), said system being characterized in that it comprises: an alternating elevator (EA ) comprising a single nacelle comprising K levels each of which can carry at least one load, with K> 2; at least one buffer storage unit (UST1, UST2) comprising a plurality of buffer locations, distributed over a plurality of levels and each configured to temporarily receive at least one load from the AC elevator; and a control unit (UP) configured to organize: * first load movements from said at least one input one-way conveyor (CAE, CAE ', CAE') to said at least one buffer storage unit (UST1, UST2) ), via the alternating elevator (EA); and * second load movements from said at least one buffer storage unit (UST1, UST2) to said at least one outbound conveyor (CAS, CAS '), via the AC elevator, under a constraint of delivering on said at least one outgoing conveyor (CAS, CAS ') at least one sequence comprising charges in a desired order.
[2" id="c-fr-0002]
2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that part of the first load movements is carried out at the same time as part of the second load movements.
[3" id="c-fr-0003]
3. System according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the control unit (UP) is configured to further organize third load movements via the alternating elevator (EA), for loads having have been processed by said at least one preparation station (PP), since at least one return return conveyor (CRE) to at least one of the entities belonging to the group comprising: said at least one buffer storage unit (UST1, UST2) , for charges to be re-stored; said at least one outbound conveyor (CAS, CAS '), for loads to be presented again to said at least one preparation station (PP), under said delivery constraint; and at least one return return conveyor (CRS, CRS ', CRS "), for loads to be returned to at least one of the entities belonging to the group comprising said at least one external unit (UE), at least one other preparation and at least one other external unit.
[4" id="c-fr-0004]
4. System according to claim 3, characterized in that part of the second load movements is carried out at the same time as part of the third load movements, and in that a part of the third load movements is performed in same time as some of the first charge movements.
[5" id="c-fr-0005]
5. System according to any one of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that each of the K levels of the nacelle of the AC elevator (EA) comprises a row of at least two charging locations, and in that the The system comprises at least one pair comprising an outbound conveyor (CAS, CAS ') and an inlet return conveyor (CRE) which are parallel and vertically adjacent.
[6" id="c-fr-0006]
6. System according to any one of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that each of the K levels of the nacelle of the alternating elevator (EA) comprises two rows of at least two charging locations, and in that the the system comprises at least one pair comprising an outbound conveyor (CAS, CAS ') and an inlet return conveyor (CRE) which are parallel, horizontally adjacent and have between them a horizontal spacing equal to a horizontal spacing between two rows of each of the K levels of the nacelle of the alternating elevator (EA).
[7" id="c-fr-0007]
7. System according to any one of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that each of the K levels of the nacelle of the AC elevator (EA) comprises a row of at least two charging locations, and in that the The system comprises at least one pair comprising an inbound feed conveyor (CAE) and an output return conveyor (CRS) which are parallel and vertically adjacent.
[8" id="c-fr-0008]
8. System according to any one of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that each of the K levels of the nacelle of the alternating elevator (EA) comprises a row of at least two charging locations, and in that the The system comprises at least one pair comprising an inlet forward conveyor (CAE) and an exit return conveyor (CRS) which are positioned at the same height, on either side of the alternating elevator (EA).
[9" id="c-fr-0009]
9. System according to any one of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that each of the K levels of the nacelle of the alternating elevator (EA) comprises two rows of at least two charging locations, and in that the system includes at least one pair comprising an inbound feed conveyor (CAE, CAE ', CAE') and an output return conveyor (CRS, CRS ', CRS') which are parallel, horizontally adjacent and have a horizontal spacing therebetween equal to a horizontal spacing between two rows of each of the K levels of the nacelle of the alternating elevator (EA).
[10" id="c-fr-0010]
10. System according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises two buffer storage units (UST1, UST2) arranged vertically on either side of the alternating elevator (EA) and comprising each a plurality of levels each comprising at least one buffer location, each of K levels of the AC elevator pod (EA) facing each of the levels of each of the buffer storage units (UST1, UST2) for a transfer at least one load.
[11" id="c-fr-0011]
11. System according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises, between the reciprocating elevator (EA) and said at least one outward going conveyor (CAS, CAS '): a transfer device output signal (DTS) comprising K levels each for receiving at least one load; and an output sequencer (SeqS) provided with vertical displacement means; and in that the control unit (UP) is configured to control: a transfer of a group of N charges, from said at least one buffer storage unit (UST1, UST2) to the AC elevator (EA), with N less than or equal to a capacity of the AC elevator in number of loads; a transfer, simultaneously on the K levels, of each group of N charges from the AC elevator to the output transfer device (DTS); and transferring each group of N loads, via the output sequencer (SeqS), from the output transfer device to said at least one outbound conveyor (CAS, CAS ') under said delivery constraint.
[12" id="c-fr-0012]
12. System according to claim 11, characterized in that the output transfer device (DTS) is provided with vertical displacement means and replaces the output sequencer, and in that the control unit (UP) is configured to driving a transfer of each group of N loads directly from the output transfer device (DTS) to the at least one outbound conveyor (CAS, CAS ').
[13" id="c-fr-0013]
13. System according to any one of claims 11 and 12, characterized in that the alternating elevator (EA) is multicharge at each level, and in that the control unit (UP) is configured to drive, for each group of N loads, a sequencing of the charges placed at each level of the AC elevator, said sequencing being consistent with said delivery constraint.
[14" id="c-fr-0014]
14. System according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it comprises, between said at least one forward one-way conveyor (CAE, CAE ', CAE ") and the alternative elevator (EA): a device input transfer system (DTE) comprising K levels each for receiving at least one load; and an input sequencer (SeqE) provided with vertical displacement means; and in that the control unit (UP) is configured to control: a charge transfer, via the input sequencer, from said at least one input forward conveyor (CAE, CAE ', CAE ") to the input transfer device (DTE), forming in the input transfer device groups of N 'distributed loads on the K levels, with N' less than or equal to a capacity of the reciprocating elevator in number of loads ; a transfer, simultaneously on the K levels, of each group of N 'charges from the input transfer device (DTE) to the AC elevator; and transferring each group of N 'charges, from the AC elevator to said at least one buffer storage unit (UST1, UST2), under a N-charge deposition constraint.
[15" id="c-fr-0015]
15. System according to claim 14, characterized in that the input transfer device (DTE) is provided with vertical displacement means and replaces the input sequencer (SeqE), and in that the control unit ( UP) is configured to control a transfer of each group of N 'loads directly from said at least one input forward conveyor (CAE, CAE', CAE ") to the input transfer device.
[16" id="c-fr-0016]
16. System according to any one of claims 14 and 15, characterized in that the alternating elevator (EA) is multi-charge at each level, and in that the control unit (UP) is configured to drive, for each group of N 'charges, a sequencing by the input sequencer of the charges placed at each level of the input transfer device (DTE), said sequencing being consistent with said N charges deposition constraint.
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同族专利:
公开号 | 公开日
WO2017108383A1|2017-06-29|
US20190002202A1|2019-01-03|
EP3393939A1|2018-10-31|
FR3045583B1|2020-06-19|
US10689195B2|2020-06-23|
CN108778960A|2018-11-09|
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法律状态:
2016-12-23| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 2 |
2017-06-23| PLSC| Publication of the preliminary search report|Effective date: 20170623 |
2017-12-20| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 3 |
2019-12-20| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 5 |
2020-12-18| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 6 |
2021-12-17| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 7 |
优先权:
申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
FR1563151|2015-12-22|
FR1563151A|FR3045583B1|2015-12-22|2015-12-22|BUFFER STORAGE AND LOAD SEQUENCING SYSTEM UPSTREAM OF AT LEAST ONE PREPARATION STATION.|FR1563151A| FR3045583B1|2015-12-22|2015-12-22|BUFFER STORAGE AND LOAD SEQUENCING SYSTEM UPSTREAM OF AT LEAST ONE PREPARATION STATION.|
PCT/EP2016/079813| WO2017108383A1|2015-12-22|2016-12-06|System for buffer storage and sequencing of loads upstream from at least one preparation station|
CN201680082284.0A| CN108778960A|2015-12-22|2016-12-06|The buffer-stored and load ordering system of at least one preraratory station upstream|
US16/064,903| US10689195B2|2015-12-22|2016-12-06|System of buffer storage and sequencing of loads upstream to at least one preparing station|
EP16808987.8A| EP3393939A1|2015-12-22|2016-12-06|System for buffer storage and sequencing of loads upstream from at least one preparation station|
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