AT527765B1 - Method and system for picking goods with improved conveyance of shipping packages - Google Patents

Abstract

A method is specified for picking and packing goods (14) in a picking system (1, 1a, 1b), in which a shipping package (9a..9c') is provided, the shipping package size of which depends on a dimension of a picking order. The shipping package (9a..9c') is transferred to a transport load carrier (6, 6') and transported to a picking station (10, 10a..10c). In addition, a product (14) is transported to the picking station (10, 10a..10c). Subsequently, the product (14) provided in the picking station (10, 10a..10c) is loaded into the shipping package (9a..9c') provided on the transport load carrier (6, 6') in the picking station (10, 10a..10c). Furthermore, a provision system (2) for shipping packages (9a..9c’) and a picking system (1, 1a, 1b) for carrying out the said method are disclosed.

Description

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for picking and packing goods in a picking system, in which

- goods are made available in a warehouse,

- picking orders are recorded in an electronic order management system, whereby a picking order comprises one or more goods that are intended to be packed in a shipping package,

- a shipping package is provided,

- the shipping package is transported to a picking station by means of a first conveyor system and the goods are transported to the picking station by means of a second conveyor system,

- the goods and the shipping packaging are made available at the picking station and - the goods belonging to the picking order are loaded into the shipping packaging at the picking station.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a provision system for shipping packages for receiving one or more goods for a picking order, which comprises a shipping package provision device for automatically providing a shipping package.

[0003] Finally, the invention relates to a picking system for picking and packing goods, comprising - a warehouse for providing goods, - an order management system for electronically recording picking orders, wherein a picking order comprises one or more goods, - a provision system for shipping packages for receiving one or more goods of a picking order, which is designed as described above, - a picking station for manual or automatic picking of goods for the picking order, - a first conveyor system for transporting the shipping package(s) to the picking station and - a second conveyor system for transporting the goods from the warehouse to the picking station,

wherein the picking station has a first supply device for providing the goods and a second supply device for providing the shipping package, and wherein the shipping package is loaded with goods when a picking order is processed.

[0004] A method, a staging system, and a picking system of the type mentioned are generally known from the prior art. Goods from a picking order are loaded into shipping packages. The problem is that the transport of shipping packages within a picking system can sometimes be difficult, particularly when they are empty (and therefore very light) and/or when they differ in size. Problems arise particularly during changes of direction on the conveyor system, as the shipping packages mentioned often behave unexpectedly in these situations, for example, turning unintentionally or drifting significantly "out of the center" of a conveyor. In buffer zones, this can lead to unwanted jamming or wedging of several shipping packages, necessitating manual intervention, which leads to unwanted delays in picking processes. Furthermore, sequencing such shipping packages, i.e., transferring a first sequence of shipping packages into a second, different sequence, is not possible or only possible to a limited extent.

[0005] In addition, the transport speed on the conveyor systems for such shipping packages is also limited. If the transport speeds of such conveyor systems are increased, this can lead to slipping, tipping over, or even falling down or damaging the

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transported (empty) packaging boxes come from the conveyor system.

[0006] In general, the problem described occurs particularly in the B2C sector (business to consumer, especially e-commerce), since a significantly higher number of different shipping packages is required there than in the B2B sector (business to business).

[0007] In this context, it is also known to equip the conveyor system with support devices that interact with the shipping cartons to counteract forces that could cause the packaging cartons to slip, tip, or fall off the conveyor system. However, such support devices are designed for use with packaging cartons of a specific size. If a packaging container of a different size (e.g., larger or smaller) were to be transported on such a conveyor system, the support devices would no longer be able to effectively support the packaging cartons.

[0008] WO 22018/171933 A2 describes a picking system in which goods are pre-picked in picking containers. Shipping packages (open at the bottom) are then placed over the picking containers. The shipping packages and picking containers are then rotated upside down together, causing the goods to fall from the picking container into the shipping packages. The picking containers are then removed from the shipping packages, and the openings, now located at the top, of the shipping packages are closed.

[0009] EP 3 354 581 A1 discloses a picking system for packing goods into shipping packages. The size and quantity of goods to be packed into a shipping package are determined. The desired size of the shipping package is calculated, and a shipping package with appropriate dimensions is manufactured. Finally, the goods are packed into the appropriate shipping package at a packing station, and a suitable lid is placed on the shipping package at a lid-setting station.

[0010] Therefore, one object of the invention is to provide an improved method for picking and packing goods, an improved supply system for shipping packages, and an improved picking system for picking and packing goods. In particular, the above-mentioned disadvantages are to be overcome.

[0011] The object of the invention is achieved by a method for picking and packing goods in a picking system of the type mentioned above, which comprises the following method steps:

- Providing goods in a warehouse,

- Providing transport load carriers by means of an automatic transport load carrier provision device,

- Recording picking orders in an electronic order management system, whereby a picking order comprises one or more goods which are intended to be packed in a shipping package,

- Providing the shipping package by means of an automatic shipping package provision device, whereby a shipping package size of the shipping package depends on a dimension of the picking order (or on a dimension of the goods of the picking order),

- Transfer of the shipping package to one of the transport load carriers by an automatic transfer device,

- Transport of the shipping package on the transport load carrier from the automatic transfer device to the picking station by means of a first conveyor system and transport of the goods from the warehouse to the picking station by means of a second conveyor system,

- Providing the goods in the picking station and providing the shipping packaging on the transport load carrier in the picking station and

- Loading the shipping package with the goods belonging to the picking order in the picking station.

[0012] Furthermore, the object of the invention is achieved by a supply system for shipping packages

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for the acceptance of one or more goods for a picking order of the type mentioned above, comprising:

- a shipping package provision device for automatically providing a shipping package, wherein a shipping package size of the shipping package depends on a dimension of the picking order (or on a dimension of the goods of the picking order),

- a transport load carrier supply device for automatically supplying transport load carriers and

- a transfer device for automatically transferring the shipping package from the shipping package supply device to a transport load carrier.

[0013] Finally, the object of the invention is achieved by a picking system for picking and packing goods of the type mentioned above, comprising: - a warehouse for providing goods, - an order management system for electronically recording picking orders, wherein a picking order comprises one or more goods, - a provision system for shipping packages for receiving one or more goods of a picking order, which is designed as described above, - a picking station for manually or automatically picking the goods for the picking order, - a first conveyor system for transporting the shipping package(s) on the transport load carrier from the automatic transfer device to the picking station, and - a second conveyor system for transporting the goods from the warehouse to the picking station,

wherein the picking station has a first supply device for providing the goods and a second supply device for providing the shipping package on the transport load carrier, wherein the shipping package is loaded with goods when a picking order is processed.

[0014] The proposed measures facilitate the transport of shipping packages of different sizes within the order-picking system, or in some cases, even make it possible. This applies particularly to empty shipping packages, and especially to changes in direction on the conveyor system, as well as to accumulation sections and sequencing devices. The use of a (particularly standardized) transport load carrier prevents unwanted rotation of the shipping packages during changes in direction, "wandering out of the center" of a conveyor, and jamming and wedging in accumulation sections.

[0015] Sequencing of shipping packages is also possible with virtually no restrictions. Reordering (sorting) shipping packages is particularly advantageous when they are partially filled and need to be arranged in a favorable order to complete a picking order. In this context, it is also particularly advantageous if the conveyor system, in particular the first one, has at least one sorting section, in particular with a sorting buffer. Compared to known systems, the transport speed on the conveyor systems for the shipping packages can be significantly increased. The need for support devices is also eliminated.

[0016] The proposed measures are particularly suitable in the B2C sector (e-commerce), since a comparatively higher number of different shipping packages is required there, and in particular in combined B2C/B2B systems, since in the B2B sector, comparatively larger or large shipping packages are usually handled.

[0017] The transport load carriers (especially trays) serve as stabilizing platforms for shipping packages (especially cartons) of different qualities and thus reduce the risk of damage to the shipping packages, which could subsequently lead to failure (breaking, tearing). Advantageously, this allows for a further (larger)

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A wider range of shipping packages, or a broader spectrum of on-demand delivery packages, is possible, which are automatically selected or produced according to a picking order. A wider use of different cardboard qualities also allows for more efficient and cost-effective operation of a picking system.

[0018] Furthermore, the use of transport load carriers achieves greater reliability and safety in conveyor networks with higher speeds, and the design of the conveyor network can be simplified, resulting in component savings and reduced commissioning times, thus also enabling efficient and cost-effective operation of the order picking system.

[0019] By eliminating the above-mentioned constraints on the conveyor network, maximum freedom and efficiency in the correct dimensioning of shipping packages (in particular cartons) is enabled, which is subsequently advantageous for reducing shipping volumes and improving material utilization, thereby also enabling a reduction in CO2 emissions and a better alignment with environmental sustainability goals.

[0020] The transport load carriers can be standardised and/or used universally (i.e. not only for transporting a shipping package).

[0021] It should be noted at this point that a (single) shipping package can be picked up and transported on a transport load carrier, but it is also possible to transport several shipping packages simultaneously on one transport load carrier, for example two or three or more shipping packages, of the same or different sizes.

[0022] A "picking order" comprises, in particular, at least one order line, which specifies a product according to its product type and the quantity of products of this product type included in the (respective) picking order. A picking order or an order line may also include a specification for a shipping packaging type to be used for the picking order or the order line.

[0023] A "shipping package" is, for example, a packaging carton, a shipping bag, a shipping pouch, and the like. Shipping bags are primarily made of plastic and are also referred to as "polybags." The shipping packages or shipping bags are preferably designed or made of such a material that a (particularly permanently) inherently stable structure, particularly of the (bounding) side walls of the shipping package, is provided or possible, meaning that the shipping package is inherently stable even when empty and does not require an additional frame.

[0024] Preferably, a shipping package made of cardboard is also inherently stable, i.e. it retains its shape even when unsealed or opened due to the special construction and fastening or fastening by means of adhesives or mechanical interlocking (for example plug-in connections or clamp connections, for example by folding or inserting two or more cardboard flaps into one another) or other mechanical fastening means such as staples, seams or adhesive tapes.

[0025] According to an alternative embodiment, a respective support element (support frame) can be provided for shipping packages or shipping bags which are not inherently stable, wherein the respective support element preferably comprises a folding mechanism which is designed to be detachable from the shipping package or the shipping bag.

[0026] The size of the shipping package depends on a dimension of the picking order, generally on the space required by the goods of the picking order. A shipping package is provided such that, on the one hand, the goods (in particular all) included in the picking order can be accommodated in the shipping package, and, on the other hand, such that the smallest possible part of the shipping package remains unused. One of the advantages of the proposed method is therefore

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that the shipping package size is tailored to the picking order (order quantity, product characteristics, etc.), which can save material and transport costs. It is also conceivable that the goods in the picking order are loaded into multiple shipping packages. The above-mentioned characteristics then refer to the total shipping packages required for the goods in the picking order. In particular, it is conceivable that the shipping packages are provided in such a way that as few shipping packages as possible are required for the picking order.

[0027] It is also conceivable that the shipping packaging types differ in terms of the materials used. For example, one shipping packaging type may comprise plastic packaging, while another may comprise cardboard packaging. The shipping packaging may thus be designed, in particular, as a shipping bag, for example, a polybag, or as a cardboard box, in particular, as a cardboard box.

[0028] The shipping package provision device can be designed to automatically provide the shipping package individually and depending on the determined shipping package size (and possibly on a predetermined shipping package type) for each picking order.

[0029] The staging system can receive the dimensions of the picking order from a higher-level computer system, for example, from a computer system of a picking system of which the staging system is a part. It is also conceivable for the computer system to directly transmit to the staging system a shipping package size or type to be selected or produced. The shipping package staging device then selects or produces a shipping package that matches the specified shipping package size or type.

[0030] The provision of a shipping package does not include the (final) sealing of the shipping package.

[0031] The transfer device can, for example,

) be arranged in a separate transfer station which is connected to the shipping package provision device via a conveyor system, or il) be integrated into the shipping package provision device and be part of it.

[0032] Advantageously, the method for picking and packing goods and the picking system according to the invention make it possible for orders of goods for different picking orders to be processed at the picking station in a "pick and pack" process. For the purposes of the invention, the term "pick and pack" refers to a single-stage picking process, whereby one or more goods for a picking order (goods order) can be transferred directly at the picking station from one or more source containers into at least one shipping package provided on (and thus with) the transport load carrier (in particular a tray), which can then be immediately prepared for dispatch or shipping. The preparation of goods in a warehouse as well as the transport to and preparation in the picking station can take place without loading equipment or with a loading equipment, for example with a container or a tray. If necessary, after picking, the (possibly still partially filled) goods loading equipment is transported back to the warehouse using another conveyor system.

[0033] In an alternative embodiment, the picking system can also comprise multiple picking stations, in particular a first, second, and third picking station. The picking orders can be started at a first picking station and completed at a second picking station, with the respective partially loaded shipping package(s) being transported to the respective picking stations by means of the respective transport load carrier (tray) using a connecting conveyor system.

[0034] Loading the goods into the shipping package or loading the shipping package with goods can be done manually or automatically. To deliver the goods and the shipping package

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The picking station may also include a loading device. If the goods are placed in a loading device at the picking station, the process can also be referred to as "reloading the goods."

[0035] The picking process typically also includes sealing the shipping package after all goods required for the picking order are in the shipping package. Sealing can be performed manually, automatically, or automatically. Furthermore, sealing can be performed, for example, in a separate sealing station or directly in the picking station. If the shipping package is sealed in the picking station, a separate sealing station can be omitted.

[0036] Automatic sealing of a shipping carton open at the top can be achieved, in particular, with a carton sealer. In an automatic carton sealer, existing lid flaps on a shipping carton can be folded over and the lid flaps glued to the lid. For this purpose, the prefabricated carton blank also includes foldable lid flaps. Such an automatic carton sealer can comprise:

- a folding device for folding the lid flaps of a cardboard lid and

- a closure device for gluing the lid flaps of the carton lid with an adhesive, in particular adhesive tape and/or hot melt adhesive (hot glue).

[0037] If the shipping carton does not include foldable lid flaps, the top-opening shipping carton can be closed with an additional lid. This can be done, for example, with an automatic carton coverer. Such an automatic carton coverer can comprise:

- a magazine for the provision of cardboard blanks,

- a separating device for dispensing a single cardboard blank from the magazine,

- a lid-applying device for applying a lid to the shipping package opened at the top,

- a folding device for bending a lid edge of the cardboard lid,

- a closure device for gluing the lid edge with an adhesive, in particular hot melt adhesive (hot glue), and/or

- a strapping device (banding machine) for strapping the shipping package and the lid with one or more strapping bands.

[0038] If a picking order includes several goods, these can be the same or different goods.

[0039] The automated conveyor system for transporting an (empty) shipping package on a transport load carrier can comprise a stationary conveyor device, for example a roller conveyor, a belt conveyor, and/or the like, and/or a mobile conveyor system, for example a driverless transport system with one or more autonomously movable transport vehicles, each designed to transport the transport load carriers loaded with the shipping package. An autonomously movable transport vehicle is also known as an "Autonomous Guided Vehicle" (AGV) or "Autonomous Mobile Robot" (AMR).

[0040] It is also particularly advantageous if the conveyor system has at least one sorting section. This makes it possible to arrange the goods in a predeterminable sequence.

[0041] In this context, it is also particularly advantageous if the first conveyor system comprises a sorting buffer configured to provide goods sorted in a sequence and having a plurality of buffer locations formed by the stationary conveyor device along the first conveyor section and a plurality of sorting locations formed by the stationary conveyor device along the second conveyor section, wherein the first conveyor system comprises a plurality of sorting conveyor devices connecting the sorting locations to the buffer locations. This also makes it possible to arrange the goods in a predeterminable sequence.

[0042] Further advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention will become apparent

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from the subclaims and from the description in conjunction with the figures.

[0043] It is advantageous if the provision of the shipping packaging

i) the selection of the shipping package from several prefabricated shipping packages by means of the automatic shipping package supply device or il) the production of the shipping package by means of the automatic shipping package supply device

adjusting device.

[0044] The provision of a shipping package suitable for a picking order can thus be achieved by selecting a shipping package from prefabricated shipping packages, in particular from prefabricated standardized shipping package types (case I). It is also conceivable that this can be produced directly and individually (to a predeterminable size) as needed (case ii). It is also conceivable that only shipping packages with standardized dimensions are produced.

[0045] The shipping package can, for example, have dimensions of (length x width x height) 650 mm x 450 mm x 400 mm. This shipping package forms a first shipping package type. The shipping package can, for example, have dimensions of 600 mm x 400 mm x 200 mm. This shipping package forms a second shipping package type. The shipping package can, for example, have dimensions of 150 mm x 100 mm x 200 mm. This shipping package forms a third shipping package type.

[0046] "Manufacturing a shipping package" can comprise the folding of a finished blank by, for example, a carton erector. For example, the side walls of the shipping package are bent upwards and, if necessary, glued. Automatic carton erectors are relatively simple in design and use a prefabricated carton blank that can be stored in a space-saving folded state. As soon as a shipping carton is required, a prefabricated carton blank can be erected into a three-dimensional object on an automatic carton erector, and, for example, foldable bottom flaps encompassing the carton blank can be glued to the bottom. Such automatic carton erectors can preferably process various carton blanks to provide shipping package types of different formats (dimensions). Such an automatic carton erector can, in particular, comprise the following components:

- a magazine for providing cardboard blanks in folded initial state,

- a separating device for dispensing a single cardboard blank from the magazine,

- an erecting device for expanding the separated carton blank into an open (three-dimensional) use state,

- a folding device for folding the bottom flaps of a cardboard base, and/or

- a closure device for gluing the bottom flaps of the carton base with an adhesive, in particular an adhesive tape and/or hot melt adhesive (hot glue).

[0047] However, "manufacturing a shipping package" can also include the production of a blank. For example, a shipping package can then be produced in an automatic carton packaging machine. If the shipping package is produced by the shipping package supply device, this can also be understood and referred to as a "shipping package generating device" or "shipping package manufacturing device."

[0048] The shipping package supply device can be designed to produce a blank from a cardboard base material and then to form this blank into an (erected) box, in particular to fold it (optionally with prior perforation and/or creasing and/or scoring of sections of the blank) and optionally to glue it. The cardboard base material can be present as a supply of sheet material, in particular which is generally substantially rigid in at least one direction and can be used to produce a box template. For example, the supply can consist of a substantially continuous material web or a material web with any specific

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The stock may be formed of a predetermined length, for example, from corrugated cardboard and paperboard web materials. Furthermore, the stock may comprise a starting material that is substantially flat, folded, or wound on a reel.

[0049] It is also advantageous if the supply system comprises a shipping package buffer with buffer spaces for providing a number of standardized shipping package types with different dimensions and a transfer device for delivering a shipping package selected from one of the shipping package types based on the picking order.

[0050] The transport load carrier supply device of the supply system may comprise a buffer device for the transport load carriers and a conveyor device for transporting transport load carriers from the buffer device to the transfer device when the buffer device and the transfer device are arranged at a distance from each other.

[0051] In a favorable embodiment of the proposed method, it comprises the steps:

- Providing three-dimensional dimensions of the goods as electronic data in a data management system,

- Determining the shipping package size based on the three-dimensional dimensions of the goods or multiple goods in the picking order and

- Provision of the shipping packaging individually and depending on the determined shipping packaging size for each picking order using the automatic shipping packaging provision device.

[0052] Accordingly, the picking system

- have a data management system for providing three-dimensional dimensions of the goods as electronic data and

- a computer system for determining a shipping package size based on the three-dimensional dimensions of the goods or several goods of the picking order which are intended to be packed in a shipping package,

- wherein the shipping package provision device is designed to automatically provide the shipping package individually and depending on the determined shipping package size for each picking order.

[0053] “Providing three-dimensional dimensions of the goods” may include:

- measuring the goods,

- an (automated) reading of dimensions attached to the goods (e.g. printed or stored in a data carrier) or

- reading a product identification attached to the product (e.g. printed or stored in a data carrier) (using appropriate reading devices) and determining the dimensions from a database or in the data management system using the product identification.

[0054] The shipping package size is determined in such a way that, on the one hand, the goods (in particular all) included in the picking order can be accommodated in the shipping package, and, on the other hand, in such a way that the smallest possible part of the shipping package remains unused.

[0055] It is also advantageous if the shipping package size has a volume that corresponds at least to the volume of the goods belonging to the picking order.

[0056] If several goods belong to a picking order, arrangement-related free spaces may arise between several goods due to possibly different dimensions of the goods, whereby the volume of the shipping package size is correspondingly increased compared to the total volume of the goods belonging to the picking order. The determination of the shipping package size can therefore also include the determination of a packing pattern, whereby the goods belonging to the picking order are loaded into the shipping package in the picking station according to the determined packing pattern. The com-

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The mission station may include a display for displaying reloading instructions, in particular for the packing pattern.

[0057] In particular, when determining the shipping package size, any filling material can also be taken into account, which also increases the volume of the shipping package size compared to the total volume of the goods belonging to the picking order. When determining the shipping package size, a (slight) overfill of the shipping package can also be taken into account. For example, the shipping package can be slightly expanded during closing and/or adapted to the goods contained within with regard to its shape. For example, loaded shipping cartons may be slightly bulging.

[0058] The provision of a shipping package is carried out in such a way that the goods (in particular all) included in the picking order can be accommodated in the shipping package, and on the other hand, in such a way that as little unused volume as possible remains. Thus, the selection of the shipping package type is essentially volume-optimized.

[0059] In general, the shipping package can be selected with regard to a preferred ratio of its length, width, and height. In other words, it can be provided that the shipping package preferably has a specific form factor.

[0060] It is also advantageous if the largest dimension of the shipping package corresponds at least to the largest dimension of the largest goods belonging to the picking order.

[0061] This ensures that the goods belonging to the picking order fit into the shipping packaging. This can, in turn, determine a packing pattern and/or filler material.

[0062] A shipping package is provided in such a way that the largest of the goods included in the order picking order can be accommodated in the shipping package. Thus, the selection of the shipping package type is essentially length-optimized. A combination with the previously disclosed embodiment, thus combining volume-optimized and length-optimized selection of a shipping package, is also possible.

[0063] In general, the shipping package can again be selected with regard to a preferred ratio of its length, width, and height. In other words, it can again be provided that the shipping package preferably has a specific form factor.

[0064] It is particularly advantageous if trays are provided as transport load carriers and are provided by means of the automatic transport load carrier provision device and subsequently the (manufactured, essentially empty, i.e. not filled with goods) shipping package is transferred to one of the trays and the shipping package is transported on the tray to the picking station and provided there.

[0065] A "tray" is a flat, level loading device comprising a base and an optional, low edge. The base provides a transport surface on its underside, and a loading level on its top for receiving a shipping package. The edge may also be slanted or rounded on the inside to enable or facilitate the release of the shipping package from the tray, in particular to facilitate sliding the shipping package off the tray.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the base can have a number of access openings. In this case, a suitable unloading device has lifting pins, by means of which reaching through the access openings of the tray is possible. Thus, the shipping package can be lifted from the base by means of the lifting pins and then pushed by the lifting pins in a push-off direction by a slider, in particular onto a conveyor system.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the upper side of the base can provide a first and optionally a second loading level, which are provided and designed to accommodate shipping packages of different sizes.

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[0068] The transfer of the shipping package to the transport load carrier can also be referred to as “tray loading” or “traying” when using a tray.

[0069] Preferably, a shipping package is provided open; in principle, a preliminary closure of the (produced, empty) shipping package by the shipping package provision device would also be conceivable. The preliminary closure would essentially be provisional or temporary during transport to the picking station, and would be relatively easy to reopen there for the subsequent picking process. This can further increase the transport reliability and safety of the shipping packages (particularly up to the picking station).

[0070] It is advantageous if the proposed method comprises, after loading the shipping package with the goods belonging to the picking order (in other words, after loading the goods belonging to the picking order into the shipping package), closing the loaded shipping package in the picking station and

in one case A)

- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package on the transport load carrier to a goods exit by a third conveyor system.

or in case B)

- a transfer of the loaded and sealed shipping package from the transport load carrier to a third conveyor system by an automatic transfer device, and

- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package from the automatic dispensing device to a goods exit by the third conveyor system.

or in case C)

- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package on the transport load carrier to an automatic dispensing device by means of a third conveyor system,

- a transfer of the loaded and sealed shipping package from the transport load carrier to a fourth conveyor system by the automatic transfer device and

- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package from the automatic dispensing device to a goods exit by the fourth conveyor system.

[0071] A common feature of the proposed variants A) to C) is that the shipping package is sealed directly in the picking station. The shipping package can then be transported on the transport load carrier to a goods issue (case A), taken from the transport load carrier in a delivery device of the picking station and subsequently transported to a goods issue without a transport load carrier (case B), or transported to a delivery device remote from the picking station and subsequently transported from there to a goods issue without a transport load carrier (case C).

[0072] It is also advantageous if the proposed method, after loading the shipping package with the goods belonging to the order picking order, comprises transporting the loaded, open shipping package on the transport load carrier to a closing station by means of a third conveyor system and closing the loaded shipping package in the closing station, and

in one case D)

- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package on the transport load carrier to a goods issue by a fourth conveyor system

or in one case E)

- a transfer of the loaded and closed shipping package from the transport load carrier to a fourth conveyor system by an automatic transfer device and

- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package from the automatic dispensing device to a goods exit by the fourth conveyor system, or

in one case F)

- transport of the loaded shipping package on the transport load carrier to an automatic dispensing device by means of a fourth conveyor system,

- a transfer of the loaded shipping package from the transport load carrier to a fifth conveyor system by the automatic transfer device and

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- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package from the automatic dispensing device to a goods exit by the fifth conveyor system.

A common feature of the proposed variants D) to F) is that the shipping package is transported on the transport load carrier to a separate closing station, particularly one located away from the picking station, and sealed there. The sealed shipping package can be transported on the transport load carrier to a goods issue (case D), removed from the transport load carrier in a delivery device of the closing station and subsequently transported to a goods issue without a transport load carrier (case E), or transported to a separate delivery device and subsequently to a goods issue without a transport load carrier (case F).

[0073] The closing station and the dispensing device can both be part of a shipping preparation system included in the order picking system.

[0074] It is also advantageous if the proposed method comprises the following process steps after loading the shipping package with the goods belonging to the picking order

in one case G)

- transfer of the loaded, open shipping package from the transport load carrier to a third conveyor system by an automatic transfer device,

- transport of the loaded, open shipping package from the automatic dispensing device to a closing station by means of the third conveyor system,

- closing the loaded shipping package in the closing station and

- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package from the closing station to a goods exit by a fourth conveyor system.

or in one case H)

- transport of the loaded, open shipping package on the transport load carrier to an automatic dispensing device by means of a third conveyor system,

- a transfer of the loaded, open shipping package from the transport load carrier to a fourth conveyor system by the automatic transfer device,

- transport of the loaded, open shipping package from the automatic dispensing device to a closing station by means of the fourth conveyor system,

- closing the loaded shipping package in the closing station and

- transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package from the closing station to a goods exit by a fifth conveyor system.

A common feature of the proposed variants G) and H) is that the shipping package is transported to a separate sealing station without a transport load carrier and sealed there (for shipping). The open shipping package can be picked up from the transport load carrier in a delivery device at the picking station and subsequently transported to the sealing station without a transport load carrier (case G) or transported to a separate delivery device and subsequently to the sealing station without a transport load carrier (case H).

[0075] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed method, the loaded shipping package is closed by an automatic closing device.

[0076] As a closing device, for example, a carton sealer and/or carton coverer can be provided.

[0077] The closing of the shipping package can generally be done manually or automatically. If a shipping carton is provided as the shipping package, then closing the shipping package can include bending the closure flaps and, if necessary, gluing the shipping package (e.g., with hot melt glue, adhesive tape, etc.) and, if necessary, banding. Closing the shipping package can also include placing and fixing a lid, possibly made to measure, on an open cardboard box (shipping package). If a film bag is provided as the shipping package, then

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Closing the shipping package may involve welding or gluing the film bag.

[0078] If a tray is provided as the transport load carrier, the discharge of the loaded (filled with goods) shipping package from the transport load carrier onto a conveyor system, which can be carried out by means of a discharge device, can also be referred to as "tray unloading" or "detraying".

[0079] In a further embodiment, the provision system comprises

- a conveyor device for transporting the shipping packages from the shipping package supply device to the transfer device and

- a conveyor device for transporting the transport load carriers from the buffer device to the transfer device.

[0080] According to one embodiment, in a loading device (synonym: transfer system) for automatically loading a transport load carrier with an (empty) shipping package, the latter can be provided at the loading device and delivered to the transport load carrier via a conveyor device.

[0081] By means of a shipping package conveyor system, the shipping package and, by means of a transport load carrier conveyor system, the transport load carrier(s) can be transported to the loading device and made available there. The loading device is preferably arranged downstream of the shipping package conveyor system in the conveying direction.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the shipping package conveyor system comprises a shipping package conveyor device for transporting the shipping package to the loading device in a conveying direction, wherein the shipping package conveyor device defines a shipping package conveyor plane. Furthermore, the transport load carrier conveyor system comprises a transport load carrier conveyor device for transporting the transport load carrier in the conveying direction, wherein the transport load carrier conveyor device defines a transport load carrier conveyor plane. During the transport of the transport load carrier, the transport load carrier is aligned with its longitudinal axis preferably parallel to the conveying direction. The transport load carrier conveyor plane is arranged at a first height level and the shipping package conveyor plane is arranged at a second height level, wherein the second height level is above the first height level, so that the shipping package can be placed onto the transport load carrier from above.

[0083] The loading of the transport load carrier can preferably be carried out in a continuous flow and therefore without stopping the transport load carrier during a loading process. Optionally, the conveying speed of the transport load carrier during the loading process can be reduced compared to the conveying speed of the transport load carrier before and/or after the loading process.

[0084] It may be advantageous if the loading device comprises a transfer conveyor device running between a receiving edge and a transfer edge, wherein the transfer conveyor device receives the shipping package from the shipping package conveyor device at the receiving edge and deposits it onto the transport load carrier at the transfer edge. In order to bridge a height difference between the first height level and the second height level, the transfer conveyor device has a transfer conveyor plane inclined between the height levels. The transport load carrier is provided by the transport load carrier conveyor device below the transfer edge of the transfer conveyor device, in particular with continuous movement in the conveying direction. The shipping package can be deposited onto the transport load carrier during the continuous movement of the shipping package and the transport load carrier in the conveying direction.

[0085] Alternatively, the loading device may comprise a slider with which the shipping package or the plurality of shipping packages can be pushed from the shipping package conveyor device onto a provided transport load carrier.

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Such a transfer system is disclosed, for example, in WO 2019/140473 A1, Fig. 10, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein.

[0086] In a further alternative embodiment, the loading device can comprise a tilting device with which the shipping package or multiple shipping packages can be tilted onto the transport load carrier. The tilting device can comprise a rotational axis parallel to the conveying plane of the transport load carrier. The loading of the transport load carrier can be carried out stationary, i.e., onto the stationary transport load carrier, or dynamically, i.e., during a passing movement.

[0087] In general, when loading the transport load carrier with several (empty) shipping packages, this can be done sequentially or essentially in parallel, i.e. simultaneously.

[0088] The shipping package conveyor and/or transport load carrier conveyor can be designed, in particular, as a stationary conveyor or as a mobile conveyor, or as a combination of stationary and mobile conveyors. In the latter case, a respective additional transfer device can be provided for transferring the shipping packages and the transport load carrier between the stationary and mobile conveyors.

[0089] It is advantageous if the transport load carrier conveyor device is designed as a knife edge conveyor.

[0090] In the above embodiments, the transport load carrier can be designed, in particular, as a tray. Accordingly, the "transport load carrier conveyor system" can then be referred to as a "tray conveyor system," the "transport load carrier conveyor device" as a "tray conveyor device," and the "transport load carrier conveyor level" as a "tray conveyor level."

[0091] According to one embodiment, a tray can be designed as a one-piece tray with access openings, which has a base and four side walls projecting upwards from the base. The base on the underside provides a transport surface and on the top a loading level for receiving a shipping package. The base in this embodiment can have a plurality of access openings. In this case, a suitable unloading device has lifting pins, by means of which it is possible to reach through the access openings of the tray. As a result, the shipping package can be lifted from the base by means of the lifting pins and then pushed off by the lifting pins in a pushing direction by a slider.

[0092] Alternatively, a one-piece tray can be provided which has a base and four side walls projecting upwards from the base. An underside of the base provides a transport surface. An upper side of the base provides a first and optionally second loading level, which serves to receive the shipping package(s). For unloading, this tray further comprises at least one push-off ramp, which bridges or reduces a height difference between the loading level and an upper edge of a side wall. A corresponding tray unloading device for this case has a slider for pushing the shipping package over the push-off ramp. The push-off ramp(s) facilitate the automatic pushing of the shipping package off the tray.

[0093] According to a further embodiment, the tray can be designed in two parts as a "U-shaped tray", comprising four side walls, a lower part with a transport floor and an upper part with a loading floor for receiving the shipping package, wherein the lower part comprises two of the four side walls, which form first side walls and protrude from the transport floor, and the upper part comprises two of the four side walls, which form second side walls and protrude from the loading floor.

[0094] The shipping package can be pushed from the loading floor to an open side of the upper part of the tray when the tray is in the dispensing configuration. The side walls or the loading floor provide the possibility of automatically performing a relative movement between the upper part and the lower part, thereby enabling automatic unloading.

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can be realized.

[0095] According to a preferred embodiment, the shipping package deposited on the transport load carrier, in particular the tray, is in an upright orientation with its opening facing upwards. Alternatively, the shipping package can be deposited on the tray in a different orientation and only brought into an upright orientation at a later time or at a different location (manually or automatically by means of a device, for example, with a rotating device or a robot arm).

[0096] Preferably, the first conveyor system of the order-picking system leads from, in particular, an exit of the provision system to the order-picking station and serves to transport the transport load carriers loaded with the shipping package(s) provided by the provision system at the exit to the order-picking station.

[0097] It is advantageous if the first conveyor system of the order picking system

- a conveyor device between the automatic shipping package supply device and the automatic transfer device, and

- comprises a conveyor device between the automatic transfer device and the picking station and, where appropriate,

- a conveyor device for transporting the transport load carriers from the buffer device to the automatic transfer device.

This allows the transport load carrier and the shipping package to be transported between the above-mentioned modules if they are arranged at a distance from each other.

[0098] It is also advantageous if the picking station comprises a closing station for closing the loaded shipping package (particularly for shipping) and a third conveyor system, wherein the third conveyor system leads from the picking station or closing station to a goods exit or to a delivery device of the picking system, and wherein the delivery device is designed to automatically deliver the shipping package from the transport load carrier to a fourth conveyor system of the picking system, which leads to the goods exit. This allows the loaded and closed shipping package (particularly on the transport load carrier) to be transported directly to the goods exit or even beforehand to a delivery device and then to the goods exit without a transport load carrier.

[0099] Alternatively, the picking system can also advantageously

- a closing station (spaced from the picking station) for closing the loaded shipping package and

- include a third conveyor system from the picking station to the closing station and

- a fourth conveyor system from the closing station to a goods exit or to a delivery device for automatically delivering the shipping package from the transport load carrier to a fifth conveyor system of the order picking system, which leads to a goods exit.

This eliminates the need to seal the shipping package at the picking station; instead, this takes place in a separate sealing station. The loaded and sealed shipping package (especially on the transport load carrier) can then be transported directly to the outgoing goods area, or even to a drop-off point and then to the outgoing goods area without the transport load carrier.

[00100] In general, it is also advantageous if the order-picking system includes a delivery device for automatically transferring the shipping package from the transport load carrier to a (fourth or fifth) conveyor system. This allows the loaded (and possibly sealed) shipping package to be transported further without a transport load carrier, for example, to a goods issue area.

[00101] In a further embodiment, the picking system comprises:

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a) a third conveyor system from the picking station to a goods issue,

b) a third conveyor system from the picking station to a closing station and a fourth conveyor system from the closing station to a goods exit,

C) a third conveyor system from the picking station to a closing station, a

fourth conveyor system from the closing station to a delivery device and a fifth conveyor system from the delivery device to a goods exit, or

d) a third conveyor system from the picking station to a delivery device, a fourth conveyor system from the delivery device to a closing station and a fifth conveyor system from the closing station to a goods exit.

Case a) concerns the closing directly in the picking station (see also variant A disclosed above),

Case b) concerns the closing in the closing station and there the delivery to the fourth conveyor system (see also variant D disclosed above),

Case c) concerns the closing in the closing station and delivery to the fifth conveyor in the delivery device (see also variant F disclosed above) and

Case d) concerns the transport of the shipping package to a dispensing device and then the closing of the shipping package in the closing station (see also variant H disclosed above).

[00102] At this point, it is noted that the embodiments disclosed for the method for picking and packing goods and the resulting advantages also apply mutatis mutandis to the disclosed provision system and the disclosed picking system and vice versa.

[00103] For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[00104] They show in a highly simplified, schematic representation:

[00105] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a first exemplary order picking system in plan view;

[00106] Fig. 2 shows a picking station with an integrated closing station in a schematic plan view;

[00107] Fig. 3 shows a section of the picking system downstream of the picking station with a combined closing station and dispensing device as well as downstream goods exit in a schematic plan view;

[00108] Fig. 4 shows a section of the picking system downstream of the picking station with a separate delivery device, closing station and goods exit in a schematic plan view;

[00109] Fig. 5 shows another exemplary order picking system in an oblique view and

[00110] Fig. 6 shows yet another exemplary order picking system in a schematic plan view.

[00111] By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference numerals or component designations, whereby the disclosure contained in the entire description can be applied mutatis mutandis to identical parts with identical reference numerals or component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure and, in the event of a change in position, is to be applied mutatis mutandis to the new position.

[00112] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a first exemplary order picking system 1 for picking and packing goods in plan view. The order picking system 1 comprises, among other things, a staging system 2 with a shipping package staging device 3, a transfer device 4, and a transport load carrier staging device 5.

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[00113] The transport load carrier supply device 5 serves to automatically supply transport load carriers 6 and, for this purpose, has an optional buffer device 7 for the transport load carriers 6. An optional buffer conveyor device 8 leads from the buffer device 7 to the supply system 2. In principle, however, the transport load carriers 6 could also be supplied to the supply system 2 in another way. The supply system 2, in particular the shipping package supply device 3, serves to supply shipping packages 9a. The transfer device 4 serves to automatically transfer a shipping package 9a from the shipping package supply device 3 to one of the transport load carriers 6.

[00114] Furthermore, the picking system 1 comprises a picking station 10 with a first supply device 11 and a second supply device 12. Furthermore, the picking system 1 comprises a warehouse 13 for storing and staging goods 14. A first conveyor system F1 of the picking system 1 leads from the staging system 2 to the picking station 10 and serves to transport the shipping packages 9a on the transport load carrier 6 from the automatic transfer device 4 to the picking station 10. A second conveyor system F2 of the picking system 1 leads from the warehouse 13 to the picking station 10 and serves to transport the goods 14 from the warehouse 13 to the picking station 10.

[00115] The picking station 10 serves for the manual or automatic picking of goods 14 from a picking order, with the first delivery device 11 serving to provide the goods 14 and the second delivery device 12 serving to provide the shipping package 9a on the transport load carrier 6. For this purpose, the first delivery device 11 can be connected to the second conveyor system F2 or be part of it. Likewise, the second delivery device 12 can be connected to the first conveyor system F1 or be part of it.

[00116] The goods 14 can be loaded into the shipping package 9a when a picking order is being processed. Accordingly, a shipping package 9a serves to hold one or more goods 14 of a picking order. The shipping package size of the shipping package 9a provided by the shipping package provision device 3 depends on a dimension of the picking order or on a dimension of the goods 14 included in the picking order.

[00117] In addition, the order picking system 1 comprises an optional goods exit 15 and an optional third conveyor system F3, which connects the order picking station 10 and the goods exit 15. The third conveyor system F3 serves to transport the loaded and, in this example, sealed shipping package 9b from the order picking station 10. In the example specifically shown in Fig. 1, the loaded shipping package 9b is transported on the transport load carrier 6 to the goods exit 15, but other embodiments are also conceivable.

[00118] Finally, the picking system 1 comprises an order management system 16 for electronically recording picking orders, wherein a picking order comprises one or more order lines with one or more goods 14. The order management system 16 is connected by data technology to other components of the picking system 1, in particular to the shipping package provision device 3 (in particular to a control device of the shipping package provision device 3 not shown in the figures), the picking station 10 and the warehouse 13, as symbolized in Fig. 1 with the double arrow.

[00119] A method for picking and packing goods 14 in a picking system 1 can now comprise the following method steps:

- Providing goods 14 in a warehouse 13,

- Providing transport load carriers 6 by means of an automatic transport load carrier provision device 5,

- Recording picking orders on an electronic order management system

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system 16, wherein a picking order comprises one or more goods 14 which are intended to be packed in a shipping package 9a,

- Providing the shipping package 9a by means of an automatic shipping package provision device 3, wherein a shipping package size of the shipping package 9a depends on a dimension of the picking order,

- Transfer of the (provided) shipping package 9a to one of the transport load carriers 6 by an automatic transfer device 4,

- Transport of the shipping package 9a on the transport load carrier 6 from the automatic transfer device 4 to the picking station 10 by means of a first conveyor system F1 and transport of the goods 14 from the warehouse 13 to the picking station 10 by means of a second conveyor system F2,

- Providing the goods 14 in the picking station 10 and providing the shipping package 9a on the transport load carrier 6 in the picking station 10 and

- Loading the shipping package 9a with the goods 14 belonging to the picking order in the picking station 10.

[00120] Loading the shipping package 9a with goods 14 can be done manually or automatically, for example, with a robot with a gripper. Likewise, closing the shipping package 9a can be done manually or automatically, for example, with an automatic carton sealer or carton coverer.

[00121] In the example shown in Fig. 1, the order picking system 1 comprises, in addition to the components already mentioned:

- an optional data management system 17 for providing three-dimensional dimensions of the goods 14 as electronic data, and

- an optional computer system 18 for determining a shipping package size based on the three-dimensional dimensions of the goods 14 or the plurality of goods 14 of the picking order which are intended to be packed in a shipping package 9a.

[00122] Accordingly, the proposed method may comprise the following steps:

- Providing three-dimensional dimensions of the goods 14 as electronic data in a data management system 17,

- Determining the shipping package size based on the three-dimensional dimensions of the goods 14 or the multiple goods 14 of the picking order and

- Provision of the shipping package 9a individually and depending on the determined shipping package size for each picking order by means of the automatic shipping package provision device 3.

[00123] In this case, the shipping package provision device 3 is designed to automatically provide the shipping package 9a individually and depending on the determined shipping package size for each picking order. For this purpose, the shipping package provision device 3 can be connected to the data management system 17 and/or the computer system 18 (again, see the double arrow in Fig. 1). The order management system 16, the data management system 17, and the computer system 18 can also be connected to each other.

[00124] Providing the shipping package 9a may include:

i) the selection of the shipping package 9a from several prefabricated shipping packages 9a by means of the automatic shipping package supply device 3 or il) the production of the shipping package 9a by means of the automatic shipping package supply device 3

Provision device 3 (see in this context in particular Fig. 5).

[00125] Accordingly, the shipping package providing device 3 can be designed to select a shipping package 9a from a plurality of prefabricated shipping packages 9a or to produce the shipping package 9a.

[00126] The shipping package size can have a volume that corresponds at least to the volume of the goods 14 belonging to the picking order. Alternatively or additionally

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It is conceivable that the largest dimension of the shipping package 9a corresponds at least to the largest dimension of the largest item 14 belonging to the picking order. It is conceivable that shipping packages 9a of not any shipping package size are provided, but rather that only a few standardized shipping package sizes are provided.

[00127] The determination of a shipping package type and/or shipping package size can be carried out in the shipping package supply device 3 based on order data, which are received, for example, from the order management system 16, or based on three-dimensional dimensions of the goods 14 of the picking order, which are received, for example, from the data management system 17. However, the determination of a shipping package type and/or shipping package size can also be carried out in the computer system 18 and transmitted to the shipping package supply device 3, which then implements the selection already made in the computer system 18.

[00128] Providing three-dimensional dimensions of the goods 14 may in particular comprise measuring the goods 14, (automated) reading of dimensions attached to the goods 14, as well as reading a goods identification of the goods 14 and subsequently determining the dimensions of the goods 14 in the data management system 17 with the aid of the goods identification.

[00129] When determining the shipping package size, a packing pattern for the goods 14 in the shipping package 9a can also be specified, which must be implemented accordingly when loading the shipping package 9a in the picking station 10. For this purpose, a robot in the picking station 10 is instructed accordingly, or corresponding loading instructions are issued to a picking person in the picking station 10. When determining the shipping package size, any filling material to be used can also be taken into account. The shipping package size can be determined, for example, in a volume-optimized and/or length-optimized manner and/or optimized to achieve a specific form factor, i.e., for example, a specific length-width-height ratio of the shipping package 9a.

[00130] A shipping package 9a can be, for example, a shipping box, a shipping bag, a shipping pouch, and the like, and can be made of cardboard or plastic, for example. The shipping package supply device 3 can also be configured to provide shipping packages 9a of different types, for example, shipping boxes made of cardboard and shipping bags made of plastic, and so on.

[00131] The shipping package 9a is preferably inherently stable (even when empty), but a support element can also be provided that is temporarily attached in or to the shipping package 9a. A shipping package 9a that is not inherently stable when empty can become inherently stable through loading, whereby the support element can be removed after loading, for example, in the picking station 10 or a closing station (see also Figs. 2 to 4).

[00132] It is also conceivable that the goods 14 of a picking order are loaded into multiple shipping packages 9a. The process sequence disclosed above is then repeated accordingly. In particular, it is conceivable that the provision of shipping packages 9a is carried out in such a way that as few shipping packages 9a as possible are required for the picking order.

[00133] A picking order can specify the goods 14 to be loaded not only in terms of their number and type of goods, but can also include a specification for a shipping packaging type to be used for the picking order or certain goods 14 of the picking order.

[00134] It is particularly advantageous if trays are provided as transport load carriers 6 and are provided by the automatic transport load carrier provision device 5. Subsequently, the shipping package 9a is transferred to one of the trays 6 and transported on the tray 6 to the picking station 10 and provided there. The transport load carriers 6 can be standardized. The transport load carriers 6 can also be used universally.

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not only for transporting a shipping package 9a, but also, for example, for transporting the goods 14. It is also possible to transport several shipping packages 9a or several goods 14 on a (single) transport load carrier 6.

[00135] In principle, a shipping package 9a can be closed directly after loading at a picking workstation of the picking station 10. In particular, the shipping package 9a can still be served by the second serving device 12. However, it is also conceivable for the picking station 10 to have a separate closing station 19, in which the shipping package 9a is closed, as shown schematically in Fig. 2. The picking station 10 shown in Fig. 2 can replace the picking station 10 shown in Fig. 1. In particular, the closing station 19 can be designed as an automatic closing station 19, whereby the loaded shipping package 9a is closed automatically.

[00136] Fig. 3 shows a further schematically illustrated possibility for further processing a loaded shipping package 9c after the picking process in the picking station 10. Specifically, Fig. 3 shows a closing station 19 and a downstream delivery device 20, both of which are part of a shipping preparation system 21. The closing station 19 serves to close a loaded shipping package 9c in the manner already explained above. The delivery device 20 serves to separate the loaded shipping package 9c from the transport load carrier 6. In this example, a fourth conveyor system F4 leads from the shipping preparation system 21, specifically from the delivery device 20, to the goods exit 15, which here serves to transport the closed shipping package 9b without the transport load carrier 6 to the goods exit 15. It is also conceivable that the closing station 19 and the dispensing device 20 are interchanged, i.e., the closing station 19 is located downstream of the dispensing device 20 (in terms of conveyor technology). In this case, the loaded shipping package 9c is then closed after the loaded shipping package 9c has been separated from the transport load carrier 6.

[00137] At this point, it should be noted that the automatic dispensing device 20 could also be integrated into the picking station 10. In Fig. 2, the automatic dispensing device 20 would then take the place of the closing station 19. A separate closing station 19 could, in this case, be located downstream of the picking station 10 and connected to it via a third conveyor system F3. A fourth conveyor system F4 could lead from the closing station 19 to the goods exit 15. However, it would also be conceivable for both the dispensing device 20 and the closing station 19 to be integrated into the picking station 10. The closing station 19 can be located upstream of the dispensing device 20 in the workflow, but it could also be located downstream of the dispensing device 20. For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that a separate dispensing device 20 can be located downstream of the picking station 10 shown in Fig. 2 and connected to it via a third conveyor system F3. A fourth conveyor system F4 could lead from the delivery device 20 to the goods exit 15.

[00138] Furthermore, it is noted that transport of the loaded shipping package 9b, 9c to the picking station 10 can generally be carried out with or without a transport load carrier 6. Accordingly, a delivery device 20 can also be omitted in the embodiments shown. The loaded shipping package 9b, 9c is then transported to the goods exit 15 without a transport load carrier 6, optionally with the interposition of a closing station 19.

[00139] The separation of the loaded shipping package 9b, 9c from the transport load carrier 6 can generally be achieved, for example, by pushing or lifting the shipping package 9c from the transport load carrier 6. It is also conceivable for the transport load carrier 6 to have openings in the bottom through which pins of the dispensing device 20 can be moved, thus lifting the shipping package 9c or lifting it from the transport load carrier 6. The transport load carrier 6 can generally be constructed in one or more parts.

[00140] Fig. 4 shows yet another schematically illustrated possibility of further processing

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ing a loaded shipping package 9c after the picking process in the picking station 10. Specifically, Fig. 4 shows a dispensing device 20 and a separate, downstream closing station 19. This means that the closing station 19 and the dispensing device 20 are not part of a (combined) shipping preparation system 21 in this case. The dispensing device 20 in turn serves to separate the loaded (filled) shipping package 9c from the transport load carrier 6, and the closing station 19 in turn serves to close a loaded shipping package 9c'. A fourth conveyor system F4 leads from the dispensing device 20 to the closing station 19, which is provided and designed to transport the loaded, but still open shipping package 9c' without the transport load carrier 6. From the closing station 19, a fifth conveyor system F5 leads to the goods exit 15, which serves to transport the sealed shipping package 9b without the transport load carrier 6 to the goods exit 15. It is again conceivable that the closing station 19 and the delivery device 20 are interchanged, i.e., that the delivery device 20 is located downstream of the closing station 19 (in terms of conveyor technology). In this case, the separation of the loaded shipping package 9c from the transport load carrier 6 takes place after the loaded shipping package 9c' has been closed. The conveyance of the sealed shipping package 9b on the fourth conveyor system F4 then takes place with the transport load carrier 6.

[00141] Fig. 5 shows another exemplary order-picking system 1a in a detailed oblique view. The order-picking system 1a essentially corresponds to the arrangement shown in Fig. 1, with a separate closing station 19 located downstream of the order-picking station 10 and shown in Fig. 5.

[00142] In particular, a provision system 2 is shown in Fig. 5, which in particular comprises a transfer conveyor device for transporting the (essentially empty, i.e., not filled with goods 14) shipping packages 9a from the shipping package provision device 3 to the transfer device 4 and a buffer conveyor device 8 for transporting the transport load carriers 6 from the buffer device 7 to the transfer device 4. At this point, it is also noted that, in an alternative embodiment, the shipping package provision device 3 can transfer the shipping packages 9a directly to provided transport load carriers 6. The first conveyor system F1 can thus be connected to a separate transfer device 4 or to a transfer device 4 integrated into the shipping package provision device 3 and can be designed to receive the transport load carriers 6 loaded with shipping package(s) 9a.

[00143] In the order picking system 1a shown in Fig. 5, the loading of the transport load carriers 6 preferably takes place in a continuous flow and therefore without stopping the transport load carrier 6 during a loading process. If necessary, the conveying speed of the transport load carrier 6 can also be slightly reduced during the loading process. In the order picking system 1a shown in Fig. 5, the loading of the transport load carrier 6 takes place by gravity, with the shipping packages 9a falling onto the transport load carriers 6. However, this is not the only conceivable possibility; the shipping packages 9a can also, for example, be lifted or pushed onto the transport load carriers 6. In the latter case, the shipping package supply device 3 could be arranged next to the conveyor device 8, possibly slightly elevated. It would also be conceivable for the shipping packages 9a to be tilted onto the transport load carriers 6.

[00144] In the example shown in Fig. 5, the transfer device 4 is arranged in a separate transfer station, which is connected to the shipping package provision device 3 via a transfer conveyor system. It would also be conceivable for the transfer device 4 to be integrated into the shipping package provision device 3 and to be part of it.

[00145] The warehouse 13 is not explicitly shown in Fig. 5, but the second conveyor system F2 leading to the warehouse —13 and coming from the warehouse —13 is shown. Likewise, the goods exit 15 is not explicitly shown, but the fourth conveyor system F4 leading to the goods exit —15 is shown. Finally, in the arrangement shown in Fig. 5, a connecting line leading to the buffer device —>7 and coming from the delivery device —20 is shown.

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A sixth conveyor system F6 is present, but only partially shown.

[00146] Figure 5 shows a cardboard base material 22 fed to the shipping package supply device 3. The shipping package supply device 3 is therefore designed as a shipping package production device for producing shipping packages 9a. The shipping package supply device 3 can be designed to produce a blank from the cardboard base material 22 and subsequently form it into a box, i.e., to fold it and, if necessary, glue it.

[00147] However, it is also conceivable that finished blanks are folded and, if necessary, glued. The shipping package supply device 3 can then be designed, in particular, as a carton erector. In this case, the shipping package supply device 3 is strictly speaking designed for a combined selection and production of the shipping package 9a. The mere selection of a shipping package 9a from a plurality of prefabricated shipping packages 9a by the shipping package supply device 3 would also be possible. Preferably, a shipping package 9a is provided open, but a preliminary closure of the shipping package 9a by the shipping package supply device 3 would also be conceivable in principle.

[00148] Regarding the order picking system 1a shown in Fig. 5, it should also be noted that the goods 14 are transported on the second conveyor system F2 with loading aids or source containers 23. However, it is also conceivable that the goods 14 are transported without loading aids or source containers 23 and thus directly on the second conveyor system F2.

[00149] Fig. 6 shows yet another exemplary order-picking system 1b in a schematic plan view. The order-picking system 1a essentially corresponds to a combination of the arrangements shown in Figs. 1 and 2, with a separate dispensing device 20 arranged downstream of the order-picking stations 10a..10c and shown in Fig. 6. It would also be conceivable for a separate closing station 19 to be missing in the order-picking stations 10a..10c (i.e., the order-picking stations 10a..10c are constructed differently than shown in Fig. 2) and for a shipping package 9a to be closed during the order-picking process, i.e., directly after loading.

[00150] In addition, the order picking system 1b comprises a sixth conveyor system F6, which leads from the delivery device 20 to the buffer device 7 and which serves to transport the empty transport load carriers 6 to the buffer device 7.

[00151] The picking system 1b shown in Fig. 6 comprises a plurality of picking stations 10a..10c, which are connected via a first conveyor system F1 to a common shipping package supply device 3 or a common transfer device 4, respectively, and via a second conveyor system F2 to a common warehouse 13. With regard to the presence of a plurality of picking stations 10a..10c, it should also be noted that a picking process can generally be designed as a single-stage or multi-stage process. The picking orders can be started in a first picking station 10a and completed in a second picking station 10b, with the partially loaded shipping package 9c being transported with the transport load carrier 6 from the first picking station 10a to the second picking station 10b by means of a connecting conveyor system (not shown).

[00152] In general, a picking system 1, 1a, 1b may also comprise a sorting line and/or a sorting buffer with which the goods 14 can be arranged in a predeterminable sequence. The picking system 1, 1a, 1b may additionally or alternatively comprise a sorting line and/or a sorting buffer with which the shipping packages 9a..9c can be arranged in a predeterminable sequence, before and/or after the picking station 10, 10a..10c.

[00153] The conveyor system F1..F6 can generally comprise a stationary conveyor device, for example a roller conveyor, a belt conveyor and/or the like, and/or a mobile conveyor system, for example a driverless transport system with one or more auto-

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nom movable transport vehicles, each designed to transport the shipping packages 9a..9c or the goods 14 (with and without transport load carriers 6, 6°).

[00154] The proposed measures facilitate the transport of shipping packages 9a..9c' of different sizes in the order picking system 1, 1a, 1b, or in some cases even make it possible in the first place. The use of (particularly standardized) transport load carriers 6, 6' prevents unwanted rotation of the shipping packages 9a..9c' during changes of direction, "wandering out of the center" of a conveyor of the conveyor system F1..F6, and wedging in accumulation sections. Furthermore, sequencing of shipping packages 9a..9c' is practically unrestricted. Compared to known order picking systems 1, 1a, 1b, the transport speed on the conveyor system F1..F6 can be significantly increased. The use of transport load carriers 6, 6' enables, in particular, the transport of shipping packages 9a..9c' of different qualities and reduces the risk of damage to the shipping packages 9a..9c'. A wider use of different cardboard qualities also allows for more efficient and cost-effective operation of a picking system.

[00155] Finally, it is noted that the scope of protection is determined by the patent claims. However, the description and drawings are to be used for the interpretation of the claims.

[00156] In particular, it is also noted that the illustrated devices may in reality comprise more or fewer components than depicted. In some cases, the illustrated devices or their components may also be depicted out of scale and/or enlarged and/or reduced in size.

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LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

1, 1a, 1b picking warehouse

2 Provisioning system

3 Shipping package supply device / generation device 4 Transfer device

5 Transport load carrier provision device 6, 6' transport load carrier (tray)

7 Buffer device

8 Buffer conveyor device

9a Shipping package (empty and open) 9b Shipping package (filled and closed) 9c, 9c‘ Shipping package (filled and open) 10, 10a..10c Picking station

11 first delivery device

12 second delivery device

13 warehouses

14 goods

15 Goods issue

16 Order management system

17 Data management system

18 Computer system

19 Closing station

20 Dispensing device

21 Shipping preparation system

22 Cardboard base material

23 Loading equipment / source containers

F1 first conveyor technology

F2 second conveyor technology

F3 third conveyor technology

F4 fourth conveyor technology

F5 fifth conveyor technology

F6 sixth conveyor technology

7 to the buffer device

—13 to the camp

«—13 from the camp

—15 to outgoing goods

«—20 from the dispenser

Claims (19)

A 'hes AT 527 765 B1 2025-10-15 Ss N patent claims 1. A method for picking and packing goods (14) in a picking system (1, 1a, 1b), characterized in that the method comprises the following method steps: - Providing goods (14) in a warehouse (13), - Providing transport load carriers (6, 6°) by means of an automatic transport load carrier provision device (5), - Recording picking orders on an electronic order management system (16), wherein a picking order comprises one or more goods (14) which are intended to be packed in a shipping package (9a..9c’), - Providing the shipping package (9a..9c’) by means of an automatic shipping package provision device (3), wherein a shipping package size of the shipping package (9a..9c’) depends on a dimension of the picking order, - transfer of the shipping package (9a..9c’) to one of the transport load carriers (6, 6’) by an automatic transfer device (4), - Transport of the shipping package (9a..9c’) on the transport load carrier (6, 6’) from the automatic transfer device (4) to the picking station (10, 10a..10c) by means of a first conveyor system (F1) and transport of the goods (14) from the warehouse (13) to the picking station (10, 10a..10c) by means of a second conveyor system (F2), - Providing the goods (14) in the picking station (10, 10a..10c) and providing the shipping packaging (9a..9c’) on the transport load carrier (6, 6’) in the picking station (10, 10a..10c) and - Loading the shipping package (9a..9c’) with the goods (14) belonging to the picking order in the picking station (10, 10a.. 100). 2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the provision of the shipping package (9a..9c’) i) the selection of the shipping package (9a..9c’) from several prefabricated shipping packages (9a..9c’) by means of the automatic shipping package supply device (3) or il) the production of the shipping package (9a..9c’) by means of the automatic shipping package supply device (3). 3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the steps - providing three-dimensional dimensions of the goods (14) as electronic data in a data management system (17), - Determining the shipping package size on the basis of the three-dimensional dimensions of the goods (14) or the plurality of goods (14) of the picking order and - Providing the shipping package (9a..9c’) individually and depending on the determined shipping package size for each picking order by means of the automatic shipping package provision device (3). 4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the shipping package size has a volume which corresponds at least to the volume of the goods (14) belonging to the picking order. 5. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the largest dimension of the shipping package (9a..9c’) corresponds at least to the largest dimension of the largest item of goods (14) belonging to the picking order. 6. Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that trays are provided as transport load carriers (6, 6') and are provided by means of the automatic transport load carrier provision device (5) and subsequently the shipping package (9a..9c') is transferred to one of the trays (6, 6') and the shipping package (9a..9c') is transported on the tray (6, 6°) to the picking station (10, 10a..10c) and is provided there. 24 1 32 7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, after loading the shipping package (9a..9c’) with the goods (14) belonging to the order picking order, it comprises closing the loaded shipping package (9a..9c’) in the order picking station (10, 10a..10c) and, in a case A) - transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) on the transport load carrier (6, 6’) to a goods exit (15) by a third conveyor system (F3). or in case B) - a delivery of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) from the transport load carrier (6, 6’) to a third conveyor system (F3) by an automatic delivery device (20), and - transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) from the automatic dispensing device (20) to a goods exit (15) by the third conveyor system (F3). or in case C) - transporting the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) on the transport load carrier (6, 6°) to an automatic dispensing device (20) by means of a third conveyor system (F3), - a delivery of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) from the transport load carrier (6, 6’) to a fourth conveyor system (F4) by the automatic delivery device (20) and - transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) from the automatic dispensing device (20) to a goods exit (15) by the fourth conveyor system (F4). 8. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, after loading the shipping package (9a..9c’) with the goods (14) belonging to the order picking order, it comprises transporting the loaded, open shipping package (9c, 9c’) on the transport load carrier (6, 6’) to a closing station (19) by means of a third conveyor system (F3) and closing the loaded shipping package (9c, 9c’) in the closing station (19) and in a case D) - transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) on the transport load carrier (6, 6’) to a goods exit (15) by a fourth conveyor system (F4) or in one case E) - a delivery of the loaded and closed shipping package (9b) from the transport load carrier (6, 6°) to a fourth conveyor system (F4) by an automatic delivery device (20) and - transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) from the automatic dispensing device (20) to a goods exit (15) by the fourth conveyor system (F4), or in one case F) - transporting the loaded shipping package (9b) on the transport load carrier (6, 6°) to an automatic dispensing device (20) by means of a fourth conveyor system (F4), - a delivery of the loaded shipping package (9b) from the transport load carrier (6, 6’) to a fifth conveyor system (F5) by the automatic delivery device (20) and - transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9a..9c’) from the automatic dispensing device (20) to a goods exit (15) by the fifth conveyor system (F5). 9. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that after loading the shipping package (9a..9c’) with the order-picking order belonging 25 / 32 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. AT 527 765 B1 2025-10-15 Goods (14) comprises the following process steps in one case G) - a delivery of the loaded, open shipping package (9c, 9c’) from the transport load carrier (6, 6’) to a third conveyor system (F3) by an automatic delivery device (20), - transporting the loaded, open shipping package (9c, 9c’) from the automatic dispensing device (20) to a closing station (19) by means of the third conveyor system (F3), - closing the loaded shipping package (9c, 9c’) in the closing station (19) and - transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) from the closing station (19) to a goods exit (15) by a fourth conveyor system (F4) or in one case H) - transporting the loaded, open shipping package (9c, 9c’) on the transport load carrier (6, 6°) to an automatic dispensing device (20) by means of a third conveyor system (F3), - a delivery of the loaded, open shipping package (9c, 9c’) from the transport load carrier (6, 6°) to a fourth conveyor system (F4) by the automatic delivery device (20), - transporting the loaded, open shipping package (9c, 9c’) from the automatic dispensing device (20) to a closing station (19) by means of the fourth conveyor system (F4), - closing the loaded shipping package (9c, 9c’) in the closing station (19) and - transport of the loaded and sealed shipping package (9b) from the closing station (19) to a goods exit (15) by a fifth conveyor system (F5). Method according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the closing of the loaded shipping package (9c, 9c’) is carried out by an automatic closing device. Provision system (2) for shipping packages (9a..9c’) for receiving one or more goods (14) for a picking order, comprising - a shipping package provision device (3) for automatically providing a shipping package (9a..9c’), wherein a shipping package size of the shipping package (9a..9c’) depends on a dimension of the picking order, - a transport load carrier supply device (5) for automatically supplying transport load carriers (6, 6’), characterized by - a transfer device (4) for automatically transferring the shipping package (9a..9c’) from the shipping package supply device (3) to a transport load carrier (6, 6’). Provision system (2) according to claim 11, characterized in that the transport load carrier provision device (5) for automatically providing transport load carriers (6, 6’) comprises - a buffer device (7) for the transport load carriers (6, 6’) and - a conveying device (8) for transporting transport load carriers (6, 6’) from the buffer device (7) to the transfer device (4). Provision system (2) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized by - a conveyor device for transporting the shipping packages (9a..9c’) from the shipping package provision device (3) to the transfer device (4). Order picking system (1, 1a, 1b) for picking and packing goods (14), comprising - a warehouse (13) for providing goods (14), 26 / 32 15. 16. 17. 18. AT 527 765 B1 2025-10-15 - an order management system (16) for electronically recording picking orders, wherein a picking order comprises one or more items of goods (14), - a provision system (2) for shipping packages (9a..9c') for receiving one or more items of goods (14) of a picking order according to one of claims 11 to 13, - a picking station (10, 10a..10c) for manually or automatically picking the goods (14) for the picking order, - a first conveyor system (F1) for transporting the shipping package(s) (9a..9c') on the transport load carrier (6, 6°) from the automatic transfer device (4) to the picking station (10, 10a..10c), and - a second conveyor system (F2) for transporting the goods (14) from the warehouse (13) to the picking station (10, 10a..10c), wherein the picking station (10, 10a..10c) has a first delivery device (11) for providing the goods (14) and a second delivery device (12) for providing the shipping package (9a..9c’) on the transport load carrier (6, 6°), wherein the shipping package (9a..9c’) is loaded with a product (14) when a picking order is processed. Order picking system (1, 1a, 1b) according to claim 14, characterized by - a data management system (17) for providing three-dimensional dimensions of the goods (14) as electronic data, and - a computer system (18) for determining a shipping package size on the basis of the three-dimensional dimensions of the goods (14) or the plurality of goods (14) of the picking order which are intended to be packed in a shipping package (9a..9c’), - wherein the shipping package provision device (3) is designed to automatically provide the shipping package (9a..9c’) individually and depending on the determined shipping package size for each picking order. Order picking system (1, 1a, 1b) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the first conveyor system (F1) - a conveying device between the automatic shipping package supply device (3) and the automatic transfer device (4), and - a conveying device between the automatic transfer device (4) and the picking station (10, 10a..10c). Order-picking system (1, 1a, 1b) according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the order-picking station (10, 10a..10c) comprises a closing station (19) for closing the loaded shipping package (9a..9c') and a third conveyor system (F3), wherein the third conveyor system (F3) leads from the order-picking station (10, 10a..10c) or closing station (19) to a goods exit (15) or to a delivery device (20) of the order-picking system (1, 1a, 1b), and wherein the delivery device (20) is designed to automatically deliver the shipping package (9a..9c') from the transport load carrier (6, 6') to a fourth conveyor system (F4) of the order-picking system (1, 1a, 1b), which leads to the goods exit (15). Order picking system (1, 1a, 1b) according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized by - a closing station (19) for closing the loaded shipping package (9a..9c’) and - a third conveyor system (F3) from the picking station (10, 10a..10c) to the closing station (19) and - a fourth conveyor system (F4) from the closing station (19) to a goods exit (15) or to a delivery device (20) for automatically delivering the shipping package (9a..9c’) from the transport load carrier (6, 6’) to a fifth conveyor system (F5) of the order-picking system (1, 1a, 1b), which leads to a goods exit (15). 27 1/32 It's AT 527 765 B1 2025-10-15 Ss N 19. Order-picking system (1, 1a, 1b) according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized by a delivery device (20) for automatically delivering the shipping package (9a..9c’) from the transport load carrier (6, 6’) onto a conveyor system (F4, F5). 4 sheets of drawings 28 / 32