JP7770950B2 - Program, information processing method and system - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a program, an information processing method, and a system.

In warehouses and other locations, systems are provided that have picking means, such as operators, pick items from shelves according to orders. Such systems have the picking means pick items using a pick-and-seek method, which collects items for each order, or a sowing method, which collects items for multiple orders at once.

The system assigns picking tasks to each picking device in a way that minimizes the operator's travel distance.

In the past, when a system received an additional order, the distance traveled by the picking means increased, which could reduce work efficiency.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-160935

To solve the above problem, we provide a program, information processing method, and system that can effectively allocate picking tasks to picking means.

According to an embodiment, the program executed by the processor causes the processor to perform the following functions: based on an order indicating an item to be picked, generate a list of picking operations indicating, for each picking means that will pick the item, the shelves that store the item in the order of picking routes; based on an additional order that occurs after the list is generated, if the shelf position indicated by the additional picking operation is on the route along which any of the picking means moves, add the additional picking operation to a list of picking means that includes the position on the route; and, if the position is not on the route, update at least one of the lists based on the position.

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a picking system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control system of the picking system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the warehouse management device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a mobile terminal according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a picking list according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an operator's route according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an additional picking operation according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a picking list according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an operator's route according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the warehouse management device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an additional picking operation according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a picking list according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an operator's route according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the warehouse management device according to the second embodiment.

Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
(First embodiment)
First, the first embodiment will be described.
A picking system according to an embodiment picks items according to an order supplied from an external source. The picking system assigns picking tasks to operators (picking means) based on the location of the shelves storing the items to be picked. The operators pick the items from the shelves according to the assigned picking tasks and transport them to a predetermined location.
For example, picking systems are used in logistics centers or warehouses.

Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example configuration of a picking system 100 according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the picking system 100 includes operators α to γ, shelves A1 to K12, a mobile terminal 30, a detection device 40, and a shipping work area 50.

Shelves A1 to K12 are arranged in a matrix. A to K indicate shelf columns, and 1 to 12 indicate shelf rows.

Shelves A1 to K12 store items in advance. Here, shelves A1 to K12 each store the same type of item. Also, shelves A1 to K12 may store different types of items. Also, some of shelves A1 to K12 may store the same type of item.

Passages are formed between shelves A1 to K12. In the example shown in Fig. 1, passages are formed between shelves B and C, between shelves D and E, between shelves F and G, and between shelves H and J.
In addition, both ends of shelves A to K (the upper and lower ends in FIG. 1) are passable.

Operators α to γ pick items from shelves A1 to K12. After picking several items, operators α to γ transport the picked items to the shipping work area 50. Note that operators α to γ may have containers or carts for transporting items.

Furthermore, the operators α to γ carry mobile terminals 30 (30a to 30c). As will be described later, the mobile terminals 30 display the shelves on which the items to be picked are stored and the number of items. The operators α to γ pick the items according to the display on the mobile terminals 30.
Here, operators α to γ carry portable terminals 30a to 30c, respectively.

The mobile terminal 30 displays various data under control of the warehouse management device 20, which will be described later. For example, the mobile terminal 30 displays the shelf on which the items to be picked are stored and the number of items. The mobile terminal 30 also receives input from the operator carrying the mobile terminal 30 indicating that picking has been completed. The mobile terminal 30 will be described in more detail below.

Multiple detection devices 40 are installed along the aisles. The detection devices 40 are devices that wirelessly transmit and receive data with the wireless tags 38 (described below) that are included in the mobile terminals 30. For example, the detection devices 40 wirelessly transmit polling signals at predetermined intervals. In response to the polling signal, the detection devices 40 receive responses from the wireless tags 38 that include information such as an ID. Upon receiving the response, the detection devices 40 transmit the ID and other information to the warehouse management device 20.

The shipping work location 50 receives the goods from the operators α to γ. That is, the shipping work location 50 is the end point of the route along which the operators α to γ travel.
The shipping work of the items is carried out in the shipping work area 50. For example, in the shipping work area 50, operators α to γ pack the items into cases such as boxes. Furthermore, an operator or a robot for carrying out the shipping work may be installed in the shipping work area 50.

Next, the control system of the picking system 100 will be described.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control system of the picking system 100 according to the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 2, the picking system 100 includes a warehouse management device 20, a mobile terminal 30, and a detection device 40. The warehouse management device 20 is connected to the mobile terminal 30 and the detection device 40.

The warehouse management device 20 (information processing device) can be realized by one or more computers. The warehouse management device 20 stores item management information related to items stored in the warehouse. The item management information indicates the items stored on each shelf A1 to K12.

The warehouse management device 20 receives an order from an external device indicating the items to be shipped. Based on the order, the warehouse management device 20 generates a picking list indicating the shelf on which the items to be picked will be stored and the number of items. The warehouse management device 20 transmits the picking list to the mobile terminal 30.

Next, the warehouse management device 20 will be described.
Fig. 3 shows an example of the configuration of the warehouse management device 20 according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the example of the configuration of the warehouse management device 20. As shown in Fig. 3, the warehouse management device 20 includes a processor 21, a ROM 22, a RAM 23, an NVM 24, a communication unit 25, a mobile terminal interface 26, a detection device interface 27, an operation unit 28, a display unit 29, and the like.

The processor 21, the ROM 22, the RAM 23, the NVM 24, the communication unit 25, the mobile terminal interface 26, the detection device interface 27, the operation unit 28, and the display unit 29 are connected to one another via a data bus or the like.
The warehouse management device 20 may include other components as needed in addition to the components shown in FIG. 3, or certain components may be excluded from the warehouse management device 20.

Processor 21 (first processor) has the function of controlling the overall operation of the warehouse management device 20. Processor 21 may also include an internal cache and various interfaces. Processor 21 performs various processes by executing programs pre-stored in internal memory, ROM 22, or NVM 24.

Note that some of the various functions realized by processor 21 executing programs may be realized by hardware circuits. In this case, processor 21 controls the functions executed by the hardware circuits.

ROM 22 is a non-volatile memory in which control programs, control data, etc. are pre-stored. The control programs and control data stored in ROM 22 are pre-installed according to the specifications of the warehouse management device 20.

RAM 23 is a volatile memory. RAM 23 temporarily stores data being processed by processor 21. RAM 23 stores various application programs based on instructions from processor 21. RAM 23 may also store data required to execute application programs and the execution results of application programs.

The NVM 24 is a non-volatile memory to which data can be written and rewritten. For example, the NVM 24 may be composed of a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or flash memory. The NVM 24 stores control programs, applications, various data, and the like depending on the operational use of the warehouse management device 20. The NVM 24 stores item management information and the like in advance.

The communication unit 25 is an interface for sending and receiving data to and from an external device. The communication unit 25 connects to an external device. For example, the communication unit 25 is an interface that supports wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network) connections.

The mobile terminal interface 26 (first interface) is an interface for sending and receiving data to and from the mobile terminal 30. The mobile terminal interface 26 connects to the mobile terminal 30 via a wireless LAN access point or the like. For example, the mobile terminal interface 26 is an interface that supports wired or wireless LAN connections.

The detector interface 27 is an interface for sending and receiving data to and from the detector 40. The detector interface 27 connects to the detector 40 via a wireless LAN access point or the like. For example, the detector interface 27 is an interface that supports wired or wireless LAN connections.

The communication unit 25, mobile terminal interface 26, and detection device interface 27 may be configured as an integrated unit.

The operation unit 28 accepts various operation inputs from the operator. The operation unit 28 transmits signals indicating the input operations to the processor 21. For example, the operation unit 28 may be composed of a mouse, keyboard, or touch panel.

The display unit 29 displays image data from the processor 21. For example, the display unit 29 may be configured as a liquid crystal monitor. Note that if the operation unit 28 is configured as a touch panel, the display unit 29 may be formed integrally with the touch panel that serves as the operation unit 28.

Next, the mobile terminal 30 will be described.
4 shows an example of the configuration of the mobile terminal 30 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the mobile terminal 30 includes a processor 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, an NVM 34, a communication unit 35, an operation unit 36, a display unit 37, a wireless tag 38, and the like.

The processor 31, the ROM 32, the RAM 33, the NVM 34, the communication unit 35, the operation unit 36, and the display unit 37 are connected to one another via a data bus or an interface.
The mobile terminal 30 may include other components as needed in addition to the components shown in FIG. 4, or certain components may be excluded from the mobile terminal 30.

Processor 31 (second processor) has the function of controlling the overall operation of mobile terminal 30. Processor 31 may also include an internal cache and various interfaces. Processor 31 performs various processes by executing programs stored in advance in internal memory, ROM 32, or NVM 34.

Note that some of the various functions realized by processor 31 executing programs may be realized by hardware circuits. In this case, processor 31 controls the functions executed by the hardware circuits.

ROM 32 is a non-volatile memory in which control programs, control data, etc. are pre-stored. The control programs and control data stored in ROM 32 are pre-installed according to the specifications of the mobile terminal 30.

RAM 33 is a volatile memory. RAM 33 temporarily stores data being processed by processor 31. RAM 33 stores various application programs based on instructions from processor 31. RAM 33 may also store data required to execute application programs and the execution results of application programs.

NVM 34 is a non-volatile memory to which data can be written and rewritten. NVM 34 is composed of, for example, an HDD, SSD, or flash memory. NVM 34 stores control programs, applications, various data, and the like depending on the operational use of mobile terminal 30.

The communication unit 35 (second interface) is an interface for communicating with the warehouse management device 20 and the like. For example, the communication unit 35 connects to the warehouse management device 20 via a wireless LAN access point or the like. For example, the communication unit 35 is an interface that supports wired or wireless LAN connections.

The operation unit 36 accepts various operation inputs from the operator. The operation unit 36 transmits signals indicating the input operations to the processor 31. In this example, the operation unit 36 is configured as a touch panel.

The display unit 37 displays image data from the processor 31. For example, the display unit 37 is composed of a liquid crystal monitor. Here, the display unit 37 is formed integrally with the touch panel that serves as the operation unit 36.

The wireless tag 38 wirelessly transmits predetermined data to the detection device 40. For example, the wireless tag 38 is attached to the outer layer of the mobile terminal 30.

The wireless tag 38 is activated (put into an operable state) by receiving a supply of power or other electrical energy from the detection device 40 or the like in a non-contact manner. The wireless tag 38 receives radio waves from the detection device 40 via an antenna and a modulation/demodulation circuit. The wireless tag 38 is activated by generating an operating power supply and operating clock using a power supply unit driven by the radio waves.

When activated, the wireless tag 38 can communicate data with the detection device 40 through the antenna. The wireless tag 38 reflects and absorbs radio waves by changing the impedance of the antenna.

For example, the wireless tag 38 receives an access password or the like from the detection device 40 or the like via the antenna and establishes communication with the detection device 40. The wireless tag 38 also transmits predetermined data to the detection device 40 via the antenna. Here, the wireless tag 38 transmits an ID that identifies itself to the detection device 40 via the antenna.

For example, the wireless tag 38 is an RFID (radio frequency identifier) tag. The wireless tag 38 may also be compliant with GEN2 (Generation-2).

For example, the mobile terminal 30 may be a notebook PC, tablet PC, smartphone, or wearable device.

The processor 31 displays various data on the display unit 37 in accordance with signals from the warehouse management device 20. For example, the processor 31 displays a picking list from the warehouse management device 20 on the display unit 37.

The processor 31 also inputs various operations through the operation unit 36. For example, the processor 31 inputs an operation indicating that the picking work has been completed through the operation unit 36. When this operation is input, the processor 31 transmits a signal indicating that this operation has been input to the warehouse management device 20 through the communication unit 35.

Next, we will explain the functions realized by the warehouse management device 20. The functions realized by the warehouse management device 20 are realized by the processor 21 executing programs stored in internal memory, ROM 22, NVM 24, etc.

First, the processor 21 has a function of generating a picking list for each operator.
For example, the processor 21 acquires an order indicating an item to be picked from an external device via the communication unit 25. The processor 21 may acquire multiple orders, or may acquire an order indicating multiple items.

When an order is received, the processor 21 refers to item management information, etc., to identify the shelf where the item indicated in the order is stored. Once the shelf is identified, the processor 21 identifies the location of each operator.

For example, the processor 21 acquires the ID of the wireless tag 38 from each detection device 40 via the detection device interface 27. The processor 21 identifies the location of each mobile terminal 30 (i.e., the location of each operator) based on the location of the detection device 40 that acquired the ID of the wireless tag 38.

Once the location of each operator is identified, processor 21 generates a picking list for each operator indicating the picking work to be performed based on the location of the shelf storing the items to be picked and the location of the operator. A picking work consists of one shelf storing the items and the number of items to be picked from that shelf.

For example, processor 21 generates a picking list for each operator so that the total distance traveled by each operator is minimized. Processor 21 may also generate a picking list for each operator so that the distance traveled by each operator is uniform. Processor 21 may also rearrange the picking tasks in the picking list so that the distance traveled by each operator is minimized. In other words, processor 21 may rearrange the picking tasks in the picking list in the order of the picking route. The method by which processor 21 generates a picking list is not limited to a specific method.

Figure 5 shows an example of a picking list generated by processor 21. Figure 6 shows the route each operator will travel. Figure 6 also shows the shelves storing the items to be picked with black circles.

As shown in Figure 5, operator α's picking list shows four picking tasks. Operator α's picking list shows "A11 2 items" (picking two items from shelf A11) as the picking task. The picking list also shows "A2 1 item," "B5 1 item," and "C11 1 item" as the picking tasks.

Figure 6 also shows route 60a for operator α. Route 60a passes through shelf A11, shelf A2, shelf B5, and shelf C11 from operator α's current location to the shipping work area 50.

Also, as shown in Figure 5, operator β's picking list indicates four picking tasks. Operator β's picking list indicates the following picking tasks: "2 units of H1," "1 unit of J5," "1 unit of H11," and "2 units of K11."

Figure 6 also shows route 60b for operator β. Route 60b passes through shelves H1, J5, H11, and K11 from operator β's current location to the shipping work area 50.

Also, as shown in Figure 5, operator γ's picking list shows four picking tasks. Operator γ's picking list shows the following picking tasks: "1 E4," "2 D1," "1 F10," and "3 G11."

Figure 6 also shows route 60c for operator γ. Route 60c passes through shelves E4, D1, F10, and G11 from operator γ's current location to reach the shipping work area 50.

After generating a picking list for each operator, the processor 21 provides the generated picking list to the operator.
That is, the processor 21 transmits each picking list to the corresponding mobile terminal 30a to 30c through the mobile terminal interface 26. That is, the processor 21 transmits the picking list of operator α to the mobile terminal 30a through the mobile terminal interface 26. The processor 21 also transmits the picking list of operator β to the mobile terminal 30b through the mobile terminal interface 26. The processor 21 also transmits the picking list of operator γ to the mobile terminal 30c through the mobile terminal interface 26.

The processor 21 also has the function of obtaining additional orders and generating picking work related to the additional orders.

Here, after generating or transmitting the picking list, the processor 21 acquires additional orders through the communication unit 25.

When an additional order is received, processor 21 refers to item management information, etc., to identify the shelf on which the item indicated in the additional order is stored. Once the shelf is identified, processor 21 generates a picking job (additional picking job) that indicates one shelf on which the item is stored and the number of items to be picked from that shelf.

Figure 7 shows an example of additional picking work. Here, it is assumed that the processor 21 has generated three additional picking work tasks. As shown in Figure 7, it is assumed that the processor 21 has generated "1 unit of A6," "1 unit of K5," and "2 units of F2" as additional picking work tasks.

The processor 21 also has the function of updating the picking list based on the shelf position indicated by the additional picking work.
Here, the processor 21 assigns the additional picking work to one of the operators, i.e., the processor 21 adds the additional picking work to one of the picking lists.

First, processor 21 sets one additional picking job. When the additional picking job is set, processor 21 acquires the shelf location indicated by the set additional picking job. After acquiring the location, processor 21 determines whether the acquired shelf location is on the route of any operator. In other words, processor 21 determines whether there is an operator who can pick an item from that shelf without changing their route.

If the processor 21 determines that the acquired shelf location is on the route of one of the operators, it adds the additional picking task to the picking list of the operator whose route includes the acquired shelf location. In other words, the processor 21 assigns the additional picking task to the operator whose route includes the acquired shelf location.

If it is determined that the acquired shelf position is not on any operator's route, processor 21 identifies the operator who is currently closest to the acquired shelf position. After identifying the operator, processor 21 adds the additional picking task to the identified operator's picking list. In other words, processor 21 assigns the additional picking task to the operator who is closest to the acquired shelf position. Note that processor 21 may re-identify the position of each operator at this point.

Processor 21 similarly adds each additional picking task to the picking list.

Figure 8 shows an example of a picking list with an additional picking operation added. Figure 9 shows the route after the additional picking operation has been added to the picking list. Figure 9 also shows the shelf for the additional picking operation with a white circle.

First, we will explain the operation of processor 21 to add "1 A6" as an additional picking task to the picking list.

Processor 21 determines that shelf A6 is on route 60a. When determining that shelf A6 is on route 60a, processor 21 identifies operator α as the operator of route 60a. When operator α is identified, processor 21 adds "1 unit of A6" to operator α's picking list. Here, processor 21 adds "1 unit of A6" between "2 units of A11" and "1 unit of A2" so that operator α can pick items in order on route 60a.

Next, we will explain the operation of processor 21 to add "K5 1 unit" to the picking list as an additional picking task.

Processor 21 determines that shelf K5 is not on any of routes 60a to 60c. If it is determined that shelf K5 is not on any of routes 60a to 60c, processor 21 identifies operator β as the operator closest to shelf K5. After identifying operator β, processor 21 adds "K5 (1 unit)" to operator β's picking list. Here, processor 21 adds "K5 (1 unit)" to the end of the picking list. Processor 21 may also rearrange operator β's picking list so that the travel distance of operator β is minimized.

When "K5 1 unit" is added to the picking list, operator β's route changes from route 60b to route 61b. Route 61b travels from operator β's current position, passing through shelf H1, shelf J5, shelf H11, shelf K11, and shelf K5, and reaches shipping location 50.

Next, we will explain the operation of processor 21 to add "F2 2 units" as an additional picking task to the picking list.

Processor 21 determines that shelf F2 is on route 60c. Upon determining that shelf F2 is on route 60c, processor 21 identifies operator γ as the operator of route 60c. Upon identifying operator γ, processor 21 adds "2 units of F2" to operator γ's picking list. Here, processor 21 adds "2 units of F2" between "2 units of D1" and "1 unit of F5" so that operator γ can pick items in order on route 60c.

Next, an example of the operation of the warehouse management device 20 will be described.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the warehouse management device 20.

First, the processor 21 of the warehouse management device 20 acquires an order from an external device via the communication unit 25 (S11). Upon acquiring the order, the processor 21 generates a picking list for each operator based on the order (S12).

Once the picking list for each operator has been generated, the processor 21 sends each picking list to the corresponding mobile terminal 30a to 30c via the mobile terminal interface 26 (S13).

After transmitting each picking list, the processor 21 acquires additional orders via the communication unit 25 (S14). Upon acquiring the additional orders, the processor 21 generates additional picking work based on the additional orders (S15).

When an additional picking job is generated, processor 21 sets one additional picking job (S16). When one additional picking job is set, processor 21 determines whether the shelf location of the set additional picking job is on any route (S17).

If it is determined that the shelf location of the set additional picking job is on one of the routes (S17, YES), the processor 21 adds the additional picking job to the picking list of the operator whose route includes the shelf location (S18).

If it is determined that the shelf location of the set additional picking operation is not on any route (S17, NO), the processor 21 adds the additional picking list to the picking list of the operator closest to the shelf location (S19).

When the additional picking task is added to the picking list (S18), or when the additional picking list is added to the picking list (S19), the processor 21 determines whether there are any other additional picking tasks (S20).

If it is determined that there is another additional picking operation (S20, YES), the processor 21 returns to S16.
When it is determined that there is no additional picking work (S20, NO), the processor 21 ends the operation.

The processor 21 may also set an upper limit on the number, volume, or weight of items that each operator may pick. For example, the processor 21 may set an upper limit based on the capacity of a container or cart carried by the operator.

The processor 21 may also generate a picking list so that the routes of each operator do not overlap.

The processor 21 may also acquire the location of each mobile terminal 30 (i.e., the operator's location) from each mobile terminal 30. In this case, the processor 31 of the mobile terminal 30 identifies its own location based on radio waves from a wireless LAN or the like, and transmits information indicating its own location to the warehouse management device 20. The method by which the processor 21 acquires the operator's location is not limited to a specific method.

The picking means may also be a robot. In this case, the processor 21 may send a picking list to the picking means.

When a picking system configured as described above receives an additional order, it generates an additional picking job. The picking system assigns the additional picking job to one of the operators based on the shelf location indicated by the additional picking job. As a result, the picking system can process the additional order while minimizing the distance the operator has to travel.

The picking system also requires less calculations than if all picking tasks were reallocated to operators each time an additional order was received.
Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
The picking system according to the second embodiment differs from that according to the first embodiment in that the picking lists of multiple operators are updated when an additional order is received. Therefore, the other features are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

The configuration of the picking system 100 according to the second embodiment is the same as that according to the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, we will explain the functions realized by the warehouse management device 20. The functions realized by the warehouse management device 20 are realized by the processor 21 executing programs stored in internal memory, ROM 22, NVM 24, etc.

In addition to the functions realized by the warehouse management device 20 according to the first embodiment, the warehouse management device 20 also realizes the following functions.

Processor 21 has the function of updating multiple picking lists if the shelf location indicated by the additional picking operation is not on any operator's route.

Here, it is assumed that the processor 21 has generated additional picking work. Figure 11 shows an example of additional picking work. It is assumed that the processor 21 has generated three additional picking work. As shown in Figure 7, it is assumed that the processor 21 has generated "1 unit of A6," "2 units of F2," and "1 unit of K1" as additional picking work.

As described above, processor 21 sets one additional picking job. After setting one additional picking job, processor 21 determines whether the shelf location indicated by the additional picking job is on any of the operator's routes.

Here, processor 21 determines that the shelf location indicated by the additional picking operation is not on any operator's route.

If the processor 21 determines that the shelf location indicated by the additional picking operation is not on any operator's route, it selects multiple operators based on the shelf location.

For example, processor 21 selects operators that are within a predetermined distance from the shelf position. Processor 21 may also select a predetermined number of operators (for example, the two closest) that are closest to the shelf position. Processor 21 may also select a predetermined number of operators (for example, the two closest) that are closest to the shelf position if there are not a predetermined number of operators within a predetermined range. The method by which processor 21 selects operators is not limited to the characteristic method.

Once an operator is selected, the processor 21 updates the picking list for the selected operators.

Here, processor 21 regenerates a picking list for each selected operator. That is, processor 21 assigns the picking tasks indicated in the picking lists of the selected operators and additional picking tasks to the selected operators.

For example, processor 21 generates a picking list for each selected operator so that the total distance traveled by each selected operator is minimized. Processor 21 may also generate a picking list for each selected operator so that the distance traveled by each selected operator is uniform. Processor 21 may also rearrange the picking tasks in the picking list so that the distance traveled by each selected operator is minimized. The method by which processor 21 generates a picking list is not limited to a specific method.

After updating the picking list for each selected operator, the processor 21 sends each picking list to the corresponding mobile terminal 30 via the mobile terminal interface 26.

Figure 12 shows an example of an updated picking list. Figure 13 shows the route after the picking list has been updated. Figure 13 also shows shelves for additional picking work with white circles.

First, as in the first embodiment, the processor 21 adds "1 A6" as an additional picking task to the picking list of operator α.

Furthermore, as in the first embodiment, the processor 21 adds "F2 2 units" as an additional picking task to the picking list of operator γ.

Next, the processor 21 will explain the operation of adding "K1 2 units" to the picking list as an additional picking task.

Processor 21 determines that shelf K1 is not on any of routes 60a to 60c. If it determines that shelf K1 is not on any of routes 60a to 60c, processor 21 selects an operator based on the position of shelf K1. Here, processor 21 selects operator β and operator γ.

When Operator β and Operator γ are selected, Processor 21 updates the picking lists for Operator β and Operator γ. That is, Processor 21 reassigns the picking tasks on Operator β's picking list, the picking tasks on Operator γ's picking list, and "2 F2s" to Operators β and γ.

As shown in Figure 12, operator β's picking list shows five picking tasks. Operator β's picking list shows the following picking tasks: "2 units of H1," "1 unit of J5," "1 unit of H11," "1 unit of F10," and "3 units of G11."

Figure 13 also shows route 62b for operator β. Route 62b passes through shelves H1, J5, H11, F10, and G11 from operator β's current location to the shipping work area 50.

Also, as shown in Figure 12, operator γ's picking list shows five picking tasks. Operator γ's picking list shows the following picking tasks: "1 E4," "2 D1," "2 F2," "1 K5," and "2 K1."

Figure 13 also shows route 62c for operator γ. Route 62c passes through shelves E4, D1, F2, K5, and K1 from operator γ's current location to reach the shipping work area 50.

Next, an example of the operation of the warehouse management device 20 will be described.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the warehouse management device 20.

First, the processor 21 of the warehouse management device 20 acquires an order from an external device via the communication unit 25 (S21). Upon acquiring the order, the processor 21 generates a picking list for each operator based on the order (S22).

Once the picking list for each operator has been generated, the processor 21 sends each picking list to the corresponding mobile terminal 30a to 30c via the mobile terminal interface 26 (S23).

After transmitting each picking list, the processor 21 acquires additional orders via the communication unit 25 (S24). Upon acquiring the additional orders, the processor 21 generates additional picking work based on the additional orders (S25).

When an additional picking job is generated, processor 21 sets one additional picking job (S26). When one additional picking job is set, processor 21 determines whether the shelf location of the set additional picking job is on any route (S27).

If it is determined that the shelf location of the set additional picking job is on one of the routes (S27, YES), the processor 21 adds the additional picking job to the picking list of the operator whose route includes the shelf location (S28).

If it is determined that the shelf location for the set additional picking operation is not on any of the routes (S27, NO), the processor 21 selects multiple operators based on the shelf location (S29). Once multiple operators are selected, the processor 21 updates the picking list for each selected operator (S30).

After updating the picking list for each selected operator, the processor 21 sends each updated picking list to the corresponding mobile terminal 30 via the mobile terminal interface 26 (S31).

When the additional picking task is added to the picking list (S28), or when each updated picking list is sent to the corresponding mobile device 30 (S31), the processor 21 determines whether there are any other additional picking tasks (S32).

If it is determined that there is another additional picking operation (S32, YES), the processor 21 returns to S26.
When it is determined that there is no additional picking work (S32, NO), the processor 21 ends the operation.

In addition, processor 21 may first add each additional picking task to the picking list of an operator whose shelf location is on the route, and then update the picking list based on the additional picking task that indicates a shelf that is not on the route. In addition, processor 21 may first select an operator for each additional picking task that indicates a shelf that is not on the route, and then update the picking list of each selected operator.

A picking system configured as described above updates the picking list of operators close to a shelf for additional picking work if that shelf is not on the route. As a result, the picking system can more effectively assign picking work to operators when additional orders are received.

In addition, the picking system can reduce the amount of calculations required by limiting the picking lists to be updated.

Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims.
The inventions described in the claims of the present application as originally filed are as follows:
[Appendix 1]
A program executed by a processor,
the processor,
a function of generating a picking operation list indicating, based on an order indicating an item to be picked, for each picking means that picks the item, the order of routes for picking the item from shelves that store the item;
a function of adding an additional picking operation to a list of picking means that includes an additional order on a route when the shelf position indicated by the additional picking operation is on the route along which any of the picking means moves, based on an additional order that occurs after the generation of the list;
updating at least one of the lists based on the location if the location is not on the route;
A program to make this happen.
[Appendix 2]
the processor,
A function of acquiring the position of the picking means is realized,
updating at least one of the lists by adding the additional picking operation to a list of a picking means that is closest to the location on the shelf based on the location of the picking means;
10. The program according to claim 1.
[Appendix 3]
updating at least one of the lists comprises selecting a plurality of the picking means based on the location and updating a list of the selected plurality of picking means.
10. The program according to claim 1.
[Appendix 4]
Selecting the picking means is selecting the picking means that is present within a predetermined range from the position.
3. The program according to claim 3.
[Appendix 5]
selecting the picking means comprises selecting a predetermined number of the picking means that are closest to the position;
3. The program according to claim 3.
[Appendix 6]
updating the list of the selected plurality of picking means is updating the list of the selected plurality of picking means so that the movement distance of the picking means is minimized;
6. The program according to any one of appendices 3 to 5.
[Appendix 7]
generating the list to minimize a moving distance of the picking means;
7. The program according to any one of appendices 1 to 6.
[Appendix 8]
the processor,
providing the list to the picking means;
8. The program according to any one of appendices 1 to 7.
[Appendix 9]
1. An information processing method executed by a processor, comprising:
generating a picking operation list indicating, for each picking means that picks the items, a route order for picking the items from shelves that store the items;
If a shelf position indicated by an additional picking operation is on the route along which any of the picking means moves, based on an additional order that occurs after the creation of the lists, add the additional picking operation to a list of the picking means that includes the position on the route; and if the position is not on the route, update at least one of the lists based on the position.
Information processing methods.
[Supplementary Note 10]
A system comprising an information processing device and a mobile terminal,
The information processing device includes:
a first interface for connecting to the mobile terminal;
generating a picking operation list indicating, for each picking means that picks the items, a route order for picking the items from shelves that store the items;
transmitting the list to the mobile device through the first interface;
based on an additional order that occurs after the generation of the list, if the shelf position indicated by the additional picking operation is on the route along which any of the picking means moves, add the additional picking operation to a list of the picking means that includes the position on the route;
if the location is not on the route, updating at least one of the lists based on the location;
a first processor;
Equipped with
The mobile terminal
a second interface connected to the information processing device;
a monitor for displaying information;
obtaining the list through the second interface;
displaying the list on the monitor;
a second processor; and
Equipped with
system.

20...warehouse management device, 21...processor, 22...ROM, 23...RAM, 24...NVM, 25...communication unit, 26...mobile terminal interface, 27...detection device interface, 28...operation unit, 29...display unit, 30...mobile terminal, 30a...mobile terminal, 30b...mobile terminal, 30c...mobile terminal, 31...processor, 32...ROM, 33...RAM, 34...NVM, 35...communication unit, 36...operation unit, 37...display unit, 38...wireless tag, 40...detection device, 50...shipping work location, 60a...route, 60b...route, 60c...route, 61b...route, 62b...route, 62c...route, 100...picking system, shelves...A1 to K12.

Claims (9)

A program executed by a processor,
the processor,
a function of generating a picking operation list indicating, based on an order indicating an item to be picked, for each picking means that picks the item, the order of routes for picking the item from shelves that store the item;
a function of adding, based on an additional order generated after the generation of the list, when the shelf position indicated by the additional picking operation is on the route along which any of the picking means moves, the additional picking operation to a list of the picking means that includes the shelf position on the route ;
updating at least one of the lists based on the location of the shelf if the location of the shelf is not on the route;
To achieve this ,
Further, the processor
A function of acquiring the position of the picking means is realized,
Updating at least one of the lists includes adding the additional picking operation to a list of a picking means that is closest to the location on the shelf based on the location of the picking means . updating at least one of the lists includes selecting a plurality of the picking means based on the location of the shelf and updating a list of the selected plurality of picking means;
The program according to claim 1. selecting the picking means is selecting the picking means that is present within a predetermined range from the position on the shelf ;
The program according to claim 2 . selecting the picking means comprises selecting a predetermined number of the picking means that are closest to the position on the shelf ;
The program according to claim 2 . updating the list of the selected plurality of picking means to update the list of the selected plurality of picking means so that the movement distance of the picking means is minimized;
5. The program according to claim 2 . generating the list to minimize a moving distance of the picking means;
The program according to any one of claims 1 to 5 . the processor,
providing the list to the picking means;
The program according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . 1. An information processing method executed by a processor, comprising:
generating a picking operation list indicating, for each picking means that picks the items, a route order for picking the items from shelves that store the items;
based on an additional order that occurs after the generation of the list, if the shelf position indicated by the additional picking operation is on the route along which any of the picking means moves, add the additional picking operation to a list of the picking means that includes the shelf position on the route;
If the location of the shelf is not on the route, updating at least one of the lists based on the location of the shelf ;
Furthermore, the information processing method includes:
Obtaining the position of the picking means;
An information processing method, wherein updating at least one of the lists comprises adding the additional picking operation to a list of a picking means that is closest to the location on the shelf based on the location of the picking means. A system comprising an information processing device and a mobile terminal,
The information processing device includes:
a first interface for connecting to the mobile terminal;
generating a picking operation list indicating, for each picking means that picks the items, a route order for picking the items from shelves that store the items;
transmitting the list to the mobile device through the first interface;
based on an additional order that occurs after the generation of the list, if the shelf position indicated by the additional picking operation is on the route along which any of the picking means moves, add the additional picking operation to a list of the picking means that includes the shelf position on the route;
updating at least one of the lists based on the location of the shelf if the location of the shelf is not on the route;
a first processor;
Equipped with
Furthermore, the first processor
Obtaining the position of the picking means;
updating at least one of the lists by adding the additional picking operation to a list of a picking device that is closest to the location on the shelf based on the location of the picking device;
The mobile terminal
a second interface connected to the information processing device;
a monitor for displaying information;
obtaining the list through the second interface;
displaying the list on the monitor;
a second processor; and
Equipped with
system.