Abstract: Embodiments relate to the design of a (good-to-person) robotics warehouse, and in particular to a warehouse layout model. The warehouse layout model is interposed between a warehouse map/location model containing concrete physical location data (e.g., QR codes), and an overlying warehouse management system generally configured to interact with a robotics system. The warehouse layout model defines basic elements such as •rackspace, •rackspace block, •lane, and •workstation. Those elements may in turn be arranged into basic patterns such as •storage area, •workstation area, •entry area, and others. The layout model also includes a set of basic traveling rules governing the movement of robots in relation to the elements and patterns. The layout model serves as a translator between the generalized warehouse management system, and the location/map model specific to a particular warehouse footprint. The warehouse layout model facilitates adapting the robotic system to changes as the warehouse expands and evolves.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for controlling an order-picking, rack-transporting robot. More specifically, the robot is controlled to select a minimized number of movable racks storing ordered products identified in one or more orders for product deliveries, while still ensuring that all ordered products are included.

Abstract: Embodiments implement a minispace concept to dynamically manage layout of a robotics warehouse system. The warehouse space is divided into a plurality of equally sized minispaces, each corresponding to a standard rack footprint. Each minispace is identified by tagging with a unit location ID and attribute(s) such as coordinates. Minispaces may be referenced in a task planning process flow that initially comprises determining stock and rack, followed by determining a relevant workstation. The task is then assigned to an appropriate robot, and a travel route is planned (e.g., shortest path in minispace layout). Robot actions within the route are then planned and executed by the warehouse management system according to the minispace layout. Minispaces allow a robot to identify each minispace by the tagging, and to plan the next movement accordingly. The use of minispaces may facilitate collision avoidance by grouping actions together and allowing performance of minispace locking/checking procedures.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for controlling an order-picking, rack-transporting robot. More specifically, the robot is controlled to select a minimized number of movable racks storing ordered products identified in one or more orders for product deliveries, while still ensuring that all ordered products are included.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to the design of a (good-to-person) robotics warehouse, and in particular to a warehouse layout model. The warehouse layout model is interposed between a warehouse map/location model containing concrete physical location data (e.g., QR codes), and an overlying warehouse management system generally configured to interact with a robotics system. The warehouse layout model defines basic elements such as •rackspace, •rackspace block, •lane, and •workstation. Those elements may in turn be arranged into basic patterns such as •storage area, •workstation area, •entry area, and others. The layout model also includes a set of basic traveling rules governing the movement of robots in relation to the elements and patterns. The layout model serves as a translator between the generalized warehouse management system, and the location/map model specific to a particular warehouse footprint. The warehouse layout model facilitates adapting the robotic system to changes as the warehouse expands and evolves.

Abstract: Embodiments implement a minispace concept to dynamically manage layout of a robotics warehouse system. The warehouse space is divided into a plurality of equally sized minispaces, each corresponding to a standard rack footprint. Each minispace is identified by tagging with a unit location ID and attribute(s) such as coordinates. Minispaces may be referenced in a task planning process flow that initially comprises determining stock and rack, followed by determining a relevant workstation. The task is then assigned to an appropriate robot, and a travel route is planned (e.g., shortest path in minispace layout). Robot actions within the route are then planned and executed by the warehouse management system according to the minispace layout. Minispaces allow a robot to identify each minispace by the tagging, and to plan the next movement accordingly. The use of minispaces may facilitate collision avoidance by grouping actions together and allowing performance of minispace locking/checking procedures.