EP2699495A1 - Apparatus and method for managing stored goods such as packaged tobacco products - Google Patents

Apparatus and method for managing stored goods such as packaged tobacco products

Info

Publication number
EP2699495A1
EP2699495A1 EP12715991.1A EP12715991A EP2699495A1 EP 2699495 A1 EP2699495 A1 EP 2699495A1 EP 12715991 A EP12715991 A EP 12715991A EP 2699495 A1 EP2699495 A1 EP 2699495A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
packages
tube
chaos
package
fetcher mechanism
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP12715991.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2699495B1 (en
Inventor
Rasmus Thyrring
Christian CRAMER NIELSEN
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
PROCES-DATA AS
Original Assignee
PROCES-DATA AS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by PROCES-DATA AS filed Critical PROCES-DATA AS
Publication of EP2699495A1 publication Critical patent/EP2699495A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2699495B1 publication Critical patent/EP2699495B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F11/00—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
    • G07F11/02—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines
    • G07F11/28—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which the magazines are inclined
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F11/00—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
    • G07F11/02—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines
    • G07F11/04—Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
    • G07F11/16—Delivery means
    • G07F11/165—Delivery means using xyz-picker or multi-dimensional article picking arrangements

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit for storing packages in a number of storage shelves or tubes, said storage shelves or tubes forming an angle to the horizontal which is larger than or smaller than 90°, a unit for conveying one or more packages from the storage unit to an outlet, said unit being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube.
  • the invention further relates to an apparatus for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit for storing packages in a plurality of storage shelves or tubes.
  • an apparatus for storing and dispensing goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages.
  • the apparatus comprises a storing unit, which unit is connected to a pneumatic distribution device for delivering packages from the storage unit to a row of check-out counters.
  • Such an apparatus requires installation of pneumatic delivery piping and is not suitable to be installed in small stores such as gas stations or kiosks.
  • the apparatus does not allow for packages to be inputted using the same mechanism that is used to deliver packages.
  • the present invention deals with the problem of managing storage space for packages.
  • Some products are sold in higher volumes than others, and hence it is convenient to dedicate a number of shelves or tubes to a single product.
  • the individual packages When packages are positioned in an inlet of the storage apparatus, the individual packages are scanned and registered. When registering the packages, the individual package is assigned to a given position, corresponding to an inclining shelf or tube in the storage unit. Thereby it is possible to keep a register of the individual packages contained in the storage unit and the actual position of the packages.
  • the storage apparatus takes over the "responsibility" for the packages, since the apparatus is designed in such a way that the shop assistant or other persons being in the store, cannot get access to the storage compartment of the storage apparatus.
  • a customer wants to purchase a package which for example can be a pack of cigarettes
  • the shop assistant presses an icon on a display, which icon represents the desired product.
  • a fetcher mechanism will be positioned relative to the storing shelf or tube containing the specific pack of cigarettes, the fetcher mechanism releases the pack of cigarettes from the inclining storage shelf or tube and the package slides into a chamber in the fetcher mechanism.
  • the fetcher mechanism moves to an outlet opening, to which the pack of cigarettes is delivered and from where the shop assistant or the customer can pick up the purchased pack of cigarettes.
  • the apparatus When the apparatus is filled it may occur that a number of packages from a carton or outer cannot be contained in a shelf or tube. If the product has additional available dedicated tubes, the system will place the surplus packages in the next shelf or tube dedicated for this product. If there are no additional available dedicated shelves or tubes to receive the further packages, the further packages are placed in one or more shelves or tubes, which are not dedicated to a certain product. Such shelves or tubes are referred to herein as chaos tubes and are used to contain surplus packages.
  • the chaos tubes act like a kind of buffer to the dedicated tubes.
  • a feeding device comprising a detecting device for detecting a unique code provided on a package makes it possible to register and keep track of packages inputted into the system.
  • the aim of the invention is to minimize the need for filling up shelves or tubes at short notice and to allow stock to be replenished more efficiently whilst reducing the risk of the system running out of stock of a particular product.
  • the method can comprise the following steps:
  • the number of packages and the identity of the one or more packages are registered before delivering the one or more packages. Further the exact location of each package can be registered and processed in a processing unit.
  • an apparatus for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit for storing packages in a plurality of storage shelves or tubes, where the storage unit further comprises chaos tubes.
  • a unit for conveying one or more packages from the storage unit to an outlet said unit being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube, it is possible to position an exact package at an exact location.
  • chaos tubes provided to hold an assortment of packages and where the apparatus is able to obtain any one package from any position in the tube due to the unique code assigned to the individual packages inserted through the inlet and convey the package to a designated tube, another chaos tube or into the discharge opening, it is possible to retrieve an exact package and to have an active buffer when further packages of an exact product are needed.
  • tobacco-related products and cigarettes are taken to include all tobacco industry products and for example include smokeable products such as cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes and also heat-not-burn products. Further embodiments and advantages are disclosed below in the description and in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Figure 1 shows a section of a feeding device with packages positioned in an inlet opening and a pushing device ready to push one or more packages;
  • Figure 2 shows a section of the feeding device with one or more packages pushed towards a bend
  • Figure 3 shows a section of the feeding device with a package pushed beyond a bend
  • Figure 4 shows a storing unit
  • Figure 5 shows a position of the inlet opening in the storing unit
  • Figure 6 shows the fetcher mechanism positioned just below a chaos tube
  • Figure 7 shows the fetcher mechanism ready to pick up a stored package from a chaos tube
  • Figure 8 shows the fetcher mechanism releasing a package from a chaos tube
  • Figure 9 shows the fetcher mechanism with a package in a chamber for delivery to the outlet opening or to a storage shelf or tube;
  • Figure 10 shows the fetcher mechanism with a package in the chamber for delivery to a storage shelf or tube
  • Figure 1 1 shows the fetcher mechanism ready to place a package in a storage shelf or tube
  • Figure 12 shows the fetcher mechanism delivering a package showing a lifting device lifting the package over the stop means of a storage shelf or tube;
  • Figure 13 shows the fetcher mechanism with the lifting device and the second restraining device positioning the package in a storage shelf or tube;
  • Figure 14 shows the fetcher mechanism retracting the lifting device and the second restraining device holding the package; and Figure 15 shows the fetcher mechanism with the second restraining device after positioning the package in place on a storage shelf or tube.
  • the invention is carried out in a storage unit 16 for storing packages in a number of storage shelves 15, said storage shelves 15 forming an angle to the horizontal which is larger than or smaller than 90°, a unit 14 for conveying one or more packages 1 , 100 from the storage unit 16 to an outlet, said unit 14 being in the form of a fetcher mechanism 14 which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism 14 can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf 15.
  • the shelves 15 can be tubes, which tubes are positioned in an angle to the horizontal which is larger than or smaller than 90°.
  • the tubes 15 are provided with an edge or protrusion at their bottom end to prevent the packages from falling out. The packages must be moved or pushed over the edge or protrusion to be released from the storage shelf or tube.
  • the one or more packages 1 , 100 are placed in a feeding device 3 on a base surface 4.
  • a number of packages 1 can be positioned on top of each other in such a way, that they rest against each other with respect to their largest surfaces, with a bottom package 100 resting against a first pushing device 7 on the largest surface of the package 100 and the packaging or packages resting with their edges on the base surface in such a way that it is possible for a detecting device 6 to detect read or in another way scan a code for the specific kind of package.
  • the package When a package is detected and identified through the code in the inlet, the package is provided with a unique code, which code can comprise an electronic "time stamp".
  • This "time stamp” makes it possible at any time to determine when a given package 1 , 100 is inserted into the apparatus for storing and dispensing goods, and allows the exact location of the package within the apparatus to be known.
  • This "time stamp" or unique code makes it possible to withdraw certain packages from the storage unit for example if a given group of packages are recalled and need to be removed from circulation.
  • the unique code makes it also possible to offer certain products and packages 1 , 100 for shorter periods without reconfiguration of the storage unit.
  • the detecting device 6 is placed below the base surface and at least a part of the base surface 4 is provided with a transparent part 5, which transparent part 5 in the rest of the description for convenience will be called a window 5. When the one or more packages 1 , 100 are pushed across the base surface 4 and thereby across the window 5 the detecting device 6 is able to scan the unique codes of the packages one at the time.
  • the inlet chamber 3 can be provided with a line pattern at the top 20 of the inlet 3 opposite the base surface 4 and the window 5. Further a mirror 24 can be placed at the top 20 of the inlet 3 to reflect an image of a line pattern placed on top 21 of the base surface 4, which pattern is visible for the detecting device 6 if no packages 1 , 100 are placed in the inlet 3 in front of the first pushing device 7, when the first pushing device 7 is retracted to its initial position.
  • the underside 22 of the first pushing device 7 can also be provided with a line pattern.
  • the purpose of the line pattern is to make it possible to distinguish between packages with authorized codes, objects with unauthorized codes and if objects with no codes are present in the inlet opening 3.
  • the system will know that there is no objects present in the inlet ahead of the first pushing device 7. If the detecting device 6 detects that the line pattern is interfered the first pushing device 7 will be advanced and the system checks through the detecting device if an authorized bar code is present. If this is the case, the first pushing device 7 is advanced to push the one or more packages 1 , 100 over a bend or edge 9 from where the one or more packages 1 , 100 slides in a substantially downwards direction until the package or first package 1 , 100 rests against a stopping member 10. If the system does not detect an authorized bar code, the first pushing device will return to its initial position and a display or other form for signal will give the instruction "remove object".
  • the first pushing device 7 will start advancing after a defined time interval.
  • the lines in the pattern will have a certain thickness, which is larger than the average thickness of a bar code.
  • the line pattern is provided by lines preferably in black and white, but other colours or greyscale contrasts can be used.
  • the black and white lines can be of the same thickness or they can be of different thickness. The most important is that the detecting device is capable of recognising the pattern or can recognise if the pattern is interfered by an unauthorized object, which object could be a finger or a hand.
  • a hatch 23 can be provided at the top of the inlet 3 .
  • the hatch 23 is connected to the first pushing device 7 and prevents that a package 1 , 100 or another object by mistake or deliberately can be inserted into the storage unit 16 without first being detected and registered by the detecting device 6
  • the detecting device 6 can be placed behind a window (not shown) placed behind the packages 1 , 100 shown in figure 1 .
  • the packages 1 , 100 should be placed on the base surface 4 with their shortest edges facing towards the base surface 4 and the surfaces of the packages 1 , 100 whereon the unique codes i.e. bar codes are placed facing towards the detecting device 6.
  • the packages 1 , 100 can rest on the base surface 4 on one of their narrow sides of the packages 1 , 100.
  • the window 5 and the detecting device 6 are preferably arranged relative to each other in such a way that the window is not positioned perpendicular to a longitudinal axis through the detecting device. Hereby reflections are avoided.
  • an angle between the window and the detecting device must not be too wide since total reflection then can occur and the detecting device will not be able to detect the code on the packages, which code can be a bar code.
  • packages is placed in the inlet with a bottom package resting on the base surface on the largest surface of the package.
  • the way of positioning the packages on the base surface in the inlet is determined by a position of the window and the detecting device for detecting, reading or in another way scanning a unique code for the specific kind of package.
  • a unique code could be a bar code or another code presenting information i.e. about size of the package, price, content, date of production or the like.
  • a first pushing device moves into an engaging position, bringing a protrusion into position to push the bottom package from the its position and over a bend or edge from where the package slides in a substantially downwards direction until the package rests against a stopping member.
  • a first restraining device holds back the package lying on top of the bottom package.
  • the restraining device To position the first restraining device in a suitable distance from the base surface to hold back the package lying on top of the bottom package, the restraining device is provided with a distance sensing device.
  • the distance sensing device is provided by an arm, which is hinged at a hinging point to the restraining device in such a way, that the length of the arm ensures that the restraining device is positioned to hold back the package lying on top of the bottom package.
  • the arm When the bottom package is pushed against and beyond the bend, the arm will pivot around the hinging point allowing the bottom package to pass under the first restraining device while the first restraining device is holding back the package (if any) lying on top of the bottom package.
  • the restraining device can follow the package guiding the package downwards in an inclining direction towards the stopping member.
  • the package When the package is resting against the stopping member, the package is ready to be collected by a fetcher mechanism.
  • the fetcher mechanism 14 is arranged to be moved under a number of storage shelves or tubes 15, which storage shelves or tubes 15 are arranged inclining relative to a storage unit 16 in such a way that the packages 1 , 100 will be positioned in a lower end of a shelf or tube 15 due to gravity.
  • the fetcher mechanism 14 can then transport the package 1 , 100 to the outlet opening or the second pushing device 17 can simply let the package 1 , 100 drop through an opening in the bottom of the fetcher mechanism 14 by moving the second pushing device to the side so it will no longer support the package 1 , 100. Then the package 1 , 100 will drop onto a kind of funnel leading the package 1 , 100 to the outlet opening.
  • a substantially vertically positioned plate 18 is provided on the second pushing device 17 .
  • the plate 18 can lift a package 1 , 100 over the stopping member 10 when it extends through a slit in a storage shelf or tube 15, in a chaos tube 25, or in an inlet shelf 25 in order to release the package 1 , 100.
  • a third pushing device 19 is positioned on another side of a chamber in the fetcher mechanism 14 in relation to the position of the storage shelves or tubes 15 or the inlet shelf 25 to be able to push a package 1 , 100 through the chamber of the fetcher mechanism 14.
  • the third pushing device is able to follow a pack 1 , 100 through the chamber and to place the package 1 , 100 over the stopping member in such a way that the package 1 , 100 rests on the stopping member 10 of a storage shelf or tube 15.
  • the third pushing device 19 could be capable of lifting a package over the stopping member 10 to release a package 1 , 100 for transport by the fetcher mechanism.
  • the third pushing device also secures that a released package 1 , 100 does not fall through the chamber of the fetcher mechanism.
  • the second and third pushing device 17, 19 can be provided with a control arm (not shown).
  • the third pushing device 19 can also in this embodiment be provided with a platform (not shown), which platform is held parallel with the bottom of the package 1 and perpendicular to the travelling direction of the package when moved in relation to the fetcher mechanism 14.
  • the control arm and the third pushing device are at one end both pivotably hinged to the platform and at the other end both pivotably hinged such that their mutual movement enables the platform to be held at the same angle relative to the fetcher mechanism 14 and to the package when the third pushing device 19 supports and moves the package 1 on its way into the chamber in the fetcher mechanism 14 or out of the same.
  • the fetcher mechanism 14 can be moved in a substantially horizontal direction to bring packages 1 , 100 from the feeding device 3 to the storage shelves or tubes 15 and from the storage shelves or tubes 15 to an outlet (not shown).
  • the invention comprises a method for storing and dispensing goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit 16 for storing packages in a number of storage shelves or tubes 15, a unit 14 for conveying one or more packages 1 , 100 from the storage unit 16 to an outlet, said unit 14 being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism 14 can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube 15, comprising the steps of: - Placing one or more packages 1 , 100 in an inlet device 3 from where the individual packages 1 , 100 are detected and registered;
  • the method can comprise the following steps:
  • chaos tubes Use of the chaos tubes can be described as follows in following example. A customer wants to buy five packages of a specific type and there are three packages of this specific type left in the dedicated shelf or tube. Now the shop assistant has to get one or more cartons or outers to have enough packages to sell to the customer and to fill up the dedicated shelf or tube.
  • the system would tell the shop assistant how many packages are left in the apparatus. If no packages are present in the chaos tubes, the shop assistant will sell the three remaining packages from the dedicated shelf or tube and two packages from the carton or outer. Afterwards the remaining packages from the one or more cartons or outers are placed in the inlet of the apparatus. The packages will be registered and by the fetcher mechanism filled into the tube or tubes dedicated to the specific type of packages. If more packages than the tube or tubes can contain are filled into the inlet, the remaining packages are filled into one or more chaos tubes from where they can be retrieved when needed.
  • a deviation report is generated due to the fact that the shop assistant counts for the cartons and outers taken from another storage facility, which cartons or outers are registered in the same or in another system.
  • the shop assistant counts for the cartons and outers taken from another storage facility, which cartons or outers are registered in the same or in another system.
  • Rules can be set up in the system for when to supply with packages from the chaos tubes to supply the dedicated tubes.
  • the number of packages in the chaos tubes should be kept low in case chaos tubes are needed for filling the dedicated tubes before or during busy periods or for holding other products held within the storage unit.
  • the apparatus can run consolidation sequences cleaning up the chaos tubes by moving packages from chaos tubes into dedicated tubes when the fetcher mechanism is not occupied for other duties.
  • the packages are selected in such a way that the packages of a specific product first filled into the apparatus also are the packages first selected when the specific product is sold. This is a particularly beneficial feature of the system as it ensures that product is sold on a "first-in, first-out” (FIFO) basis, and so older product stock is held for longer than is necessary.
  • FIFO first-in, first-out
  • the FIFO system also ensures that older stock for example product from discontinued product lines or lower priced product is sold before newer products.
  • the invention also comprises an apparatus for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages 1 , 100 in an apparatus comprising a storage unit 16 for storing packages 1 , 100 in a plurality of storage shelves or tubes 15, where the storage unit 16 further comprises chaos tubes 25.
  • the apparatus comprises a unit 14 for conveying one or more packages 1 , 100 from the storage unit 16 to an outlet, said unit 14 being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism 14 can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube 15.
  • the chaos tubes 25 is provided to hold an assortment of packages 1 , 100 and which apparatus is able to obtain any one package 1 , 100 from any position in the tube 25 due to the unique code assigned to the individual packages 1 , 100 inserted through the inlet 3 and convey the package 1 , 100 to a designated tube 15, another chaos tube 25 or into the discharge opening.
  • the system may need to move packages 1 , 100 from the chaos tube 25 to further tubes (designated tubes or chaos tubes) to access the desired package 1 , 100 while the system still keeps precise information regarding the location of each package.

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for managing stored goods contained in packages in a storage unit (16) for storing packages in a number of storage shelves or tubes (15), a unit (14) for conveying one or more packages (1, 100) from the storage unit (16) to an outlet, said unit (14) being in the form of a fetcher mechanism comprising means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism (14) can be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube (15), comprising the steps of: - Placing one or more packages (1, 100) in an inlet device (3) from where the individual packages (1, 100) are detected and registered; - Transferring one or more packages (1, 100) from the inlet device (3) to a fetcher mechanism (14); - Checking if a dedicated shelf or tube (15) is full; - If the dedicated shelf or tube is full, position the fetcher mechanism (14) under a chaos tube (25); - Transferring the one or more packages (1, 100) to the chaos tube (25). The invention also relates to an apparatus for managing stored goods.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANAGING STORED GOODS SUCH AS PACKAGED TOBACCO PRODUCTS The invention relates to a method for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit for storing packages in a number of storage shelves or tubes, said storage shelves or tubes forming an angle to the horizontal which is larger than or smaller than 90°, a unit for conveying one or more packages from the storage unit to an outlet, said unit being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube. The invention further relates to an apparatus for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit for storing packages in a plurality of storage shelves or tubes. From EP1977401 A1 is known an apparatus for storing and dispensing goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages. The apparatus comprises a storing unit, which unit is connected to a pneumatic distribution device for delivering packages from the storage unit to a row of check-out counters.
Such an apparatus requires installation of pneumatic delivery piping and is not suitable to be installed in small stores such as gas stations or kiosks.
The apparatus does not allow for packages to be inputted using the same mechanism that is used to deliver packages. The present invention deals with the problem of managing storage space for packages.
When allocating a number of shelves or tubes to a certain product in a storage apparatus it is essential to know how many packages of each product is available for delivery in the apparatus.
Some products are sold in higher volumes than others, and hence it is convenient to dedicate a number of shelves or tubes to a single product.
When packages are positioned in an inlet of the storage apparatus, the individual packages are scanned and registered. When registering the packages, the individual package is assigned to a given position, corresponding to an inclining shelf or tube in the storage unit. Thereby it is possible to keep a register of the individual packages contained in the storage unit and the actual position of the packages.
When a person, typically being a shop assistant, puts a number of packages into an insert opening of the storage apparatus and the packages are registered the storage apparatus takes over the "responsibility" for the packages, since the apparatus is designed in such a way that the shop assistant or other persons being in the store, cannot get access to the storage compartment of the storage apparatus. When a customer wants to purchase a package, which for example can be a pack of cigarettes, the shop assistant presses an icon on a display, which icon represents the desired product. A fetcher mechanism will be positioned relative to the storing shelf or tube containing the specific pack of cigarettes, the fetcher mechanism releases the pack of cigarettes from the inclining storage shelf or tube and the package slides into a chamber in the fetcher mechanism. Hereafter, the fetcher mechanism moves to an outlet opening, to which the pack of cigarettes is delivered and from where the shop assistant or the customer can pick up the purchased pack of cigarettes.
Hereby it is only possible to distribute the exact number of packages corresponding to the packages bought, and no one may obtain a pack of cigarettes that has not been properly processed and bought.
When a dedicated shelf, shelves or tube(s) representing a product is running low, the shop assistant will have to input some more packages of such product. This operation can be very difficult during busy periods with a lot of people to serve within a short timeframe.
When the apparatus is filled it may occur that a number of packages from a carton or outer cannot be contained in a shelf or tube. If the product has additional available dedicated tubes, the system will place the surplus packages in the next shelf or tube dedicated for this product. If there are no additional available dedicated shelves or tubes to receive the further packages, the further packages are placed in one or more shelves or tubes, which are not dedicated to a certain product. Such shelves or tubes are referred to herein as chaos tubes and are used to contain surplus packages. The chaos tubes act like a kind of buffer to the dedicated tubes.
A feeding device comprising a detecting device for detecting a unique code provided on a package makes it possible to register and keep track of packages inputted into the system.
Therefore the aim of the invention is to minimize the need for filling up shelves or tubes at short notice and to allow stock to be replenished more efficiently whilst reducing the risk of the system running out of stock of a particular product.
This is achieved by a method comprising the steps of: - Placing one or more packages in an inlet device from where the individual packages are detected and registered;
- Transferring one or more packages from the inlet device to a fetcher mechanism;
- Checking if a dedicated shelf or tube is full;
- If the dedicated shelf or tube is full, positioning the fetcher mechanism under a chaos tube;
- Transferring the one or more packages to the chaos tube.
Further the method can comprise the following steps:
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism under a chaos tube;
- Releasing one or more packages from the chaos tube into the fetcher mechanism;
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism over a discharge opening, which discharge opening is in connection to an outlet opening;
- Releasing the one or more packages into the discharge opening.
Alternatively the method can comprise the following steps:
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism under a chaos tube;
- Releasing one or more packages from the chaos tube into the fetcher mechanism;
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism under a dedicated shelf or tube, ready for receiving one or more packages;
- Transferring the one or more packages into the dedicated shelf or tube.
In an embodiment of the invention the number of packages and the identity of the one or more packages are registered before delivering the one or more packages. Further the exact location of each package can be registered and processed in a processing unit.
Hereby is achieved that the system is able to provide a reliable overview over the flow of packages into and out of the storage apparatus.
It is also achieved by an apparatus for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit for storing packages in a plurality of storage shelves or tubes, where the storage unit further comprises chaos tubes.
By having a unit for conveying one or more packages from the storage unit to an outlet, said unit being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube, it is possible to position an exact package at an exact location.
By having chaos tubes provided to hold an assortment of packages and where the apparatus is able to obtain any one package from any position in the tube due to the unique code assigned to the individual packages inserted through the inlet and convey the package to a designated tube, another chaos tube or into the discharge opening, it is possible to retrieve an exact package and to have an active buffer when further packages of an exact product are needed.
As used herein, the terms tobacco-related products and cigarettes are taken to include all tobacco industry products and for example include smokeable products such as cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes and also heat-not-burn products. Further embodiments and advantages are disclosed below in the description and in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will now be described more fully below, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a section of a feeding device with packages positioned in an inlet opening and a pushing device ready to push one or more packages;
Figure 2 shows a section of the feeding device with one or more packages pushed towards a bend;
Figure 3 shows a section of the feeding device with a package pushed beyond a bend;
Figure 4 shows a storing unit;
Figure 5 shows a position of the inlet opening in the storing unit;
Figure 6 shows the fetcher mechanism positioned just below a chaos tube; Figure 7 shows the fetcher mechanism ready to pick up a stored package from a chaos tube;
Figure 8 shows the fetcher mechanism releasing a package from a chaos tube; Figure 9 shows the fetcher mechanism with a package in a chamber for delivery to the outlet opening or to a storage shelf or tube;
Figure 10 shows the fetcher mechanism with a package in the chamber for delivery to a storage shelf or tube;
Figure 1 1 shows the fetcher mechanism ready to place a package in a storage shelf or tube; Figure 12 shows the fetcher mechanism delivering a package showing a lifting device lifting the package over the stop means of a storage shelf or tube;
Figure 13 shows the fetcher mechanism with the lifting device and the second restraining device positioning the package in a storage shelf or tube;
Figure 14 shows the fetcher mechanism retracting the lifting device and the second restraining device holding the package; and Figure 15 shows the fetcher mechanism with the second restraining device after positioning the package in place on a storage shelf or tube.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The invention is carried out in a storage unit 16 for storing packages in a number of storage shelves 15, said storage shelves 15 forming an angle to the horizontal which is larger than or smaller than 90°, a unit 14 for conveying one or more packages 1 , 100 from the storage unit 16 to an outlet, said unit 14 being in the form of a fetcher mechanism 14 which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism 14 can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf 15. The shelves 15 can be tubes, which tubes are positioned in an angle to the horizontal which is larger than or smaller than 90°. The tubes 15 are provided with an edge or protrusion at their bottom end to prevent the packages from falling out. The packages must be moved or pushed over the edge or protrusion to be released from the storage shelf or tube.
When inserting one or more packages 1 , 100 in an insert opening 2 of the apparatus for storing and dispensing goods such as tobacco related products, the one or more packages 1 , 100 are placed in a feeding device 3 on a base surface 4. In a feeding device 3 a number of packages 1 can be positioned on top of each other in such a way, that they rest against each other with respect to their largest surfaces, with a bottom package 100 resting against a first pushing device 7 on the largest surface of the package 100 and the packaging or packages resting with their edges on the base surface in such a way that it is possible for a detecting device 6 to detect read or in another way scan a code for the specific kind of package.
When a package is detected and identified through the code in the inlet, the package is provided with a unique code, which code can comprise an electronic "time stamp". This "time stamp" makes it possible at any time to determine when a given package 1 , 100 is inserted into the apparatus for storing and dispensing goods, and allows the exact location of the package within the apparatus to be known.
This "time stamp" or unique code makes it possible to withdraw certain packages from the storage unit for example if a given group of packages are recalled and need to be removed from circulation. The unique code makes it also possible to offer certain products and packages 1 , 100 for shorter periods without reconfiguration of the storage unit. In an embodiment of the invention the detecting device 6 is placed below the base surface and at least a part of the base surface 4 is provided with a transparent part 5, which transparent part 5 in the rest of the description for convenience will be called a window 5. When the one or more packages 1 , 100 are pushed across the base surface 4 and thereby across the window 5 the detecting device 6 is able to scan the unique codes of the packages one at the time.
The inlet chamber 3 can be provided with a line pattern at the top 20 of the inlet 3 opposite the base surface 4 and the window 5. Further a mirror 24 can be placed at the top 20 of the inlet 3 to reflect an image of a line pattern placed on top 21 of the base surface 4, which pattern is visible for the detecting device 6 if no packages 1 , 100 are placed in the inlet 3 in front of the first pushing device 7, when the first pushing device 7 is retracted to its initial position. The underside 22 of the first pushing device 7 can also be provided with a line pattern.
The purpose of the line pattern is to make it possible to distinguish between packages with authorized codes, objects with unauthorized codes and if objects with no codes are present in the inlet opening 3.
If the pattern is visible for the detecting device 6 the system will know that there is no objects present in the inlet ahead of the first pushing device 7. If the detecting device 6 detects that the line pattern is interfered the first pushing device 7 will be advanced and the system checks through the detecting device if an authorized bar code is present. If this is the case, the first pushing device 7 is advanced to push the one or more packages 1 , 100 over a bend or edge 9 from where the one or more packages 1 , 100 slides in a substantially downwards direction until the package or first package 1 , 100 rests against a stopping member 10. If the system does not detect an authorized bar code, the first pushing device will return to its initial position and a display or other form for signal will give the instruction "remove object". Thereby no fingers or hands should be caught in the inlet, when the first pushing device 7 moves forwards. Further a person operating the system will know the instruction can be caused by a package 1 , 100 placed the wrong way, why the bar code cannot be detected. Then the package can be placed correct and the operation can continue.
If only one or a few packages 1 , 100 are placed in the inlet the first pushing device 7 will start advancing after a defined time interval. Hereby it is possible for the system to await insertion of any further packages 1 , 100 before the first pushing device is advanced (again when determined whether the object is a package 1 , 100 with an acceptable code or if the object could be a finger or a hand). The lines in the pattern will have a certain thickness, which is larger than the average thickness of a bar code. The line pattern is provided by lines preferably in black and white, but other colours or greyscale contrasts can be used. The black and white lines can be of the same thickness or they can be of different thickness. The most important is that the detecting device is capable of recognising the pattern or can recognise if the pattern is interfered by an unauthorized object, which object could be a finger or a hand.
When the line patterns are placed out of optimal focus of the scanner, it is advantageous to have a line pattern of relatively wide lines to ensure that the scanner is able to detect the difference between "pattern" and "not pattern" At the top of the inlet 3 a hatch 23 can be provided. The hatch 23 is connected to the first pushing device 7 and prevents that a package 1 , 100 or another object by mistake or deliberately can be inserted into the storage unit 16 without first being detected and registered by the detecting device 6
In alternative embodiment the detecting device 6 can be placed behind a window (not shown) placed behind the packages 1 , 100 shown in figure 1 . In such an embodiment the packages 1 , 100 should be placed on the base surface 4 with their shortest edges facing towards the base surface 4 and the surfaces of the packages 1 , 100 whereon the unique codes i.e. bar codes are placed facing towards the detecting device 6.
In an alternative embodiment of a feeding device 3, the packages 1 , 100 can rest on the base surface 4 on one of their narrow sides of the packages 1 , 100.
In an embodiment the window 5 and the detecting device 6 are preferably arranged relative to each other in such a way that the window is not positioned perpendicular to a longitudinal axis through the detecting device. Hereby reflections are avoided.
On the other hand an angle between the window and the detecting device must not be too wide since total reflection then can occur and the detecting device will not be able to detect the code on the packages, which code can be a bar code.
In yet an alternative embodiment (not shown) packages is placed in the inlet with a bottom package resting on the base surface on the largest surface of the package. The way of positioning the packages on the base surface in the inlet is determined by a position of the window and the detecting device for detecting, reading or in another way scanning a unique code for the specific kind of package. Such a unique code could be a bar code or another code presenting information i.e. about size of the package, price, content, date of production or the like.
When a number of packages are positioned on the base surface of the inlet or feeding device a first pushing device moves into an engaging position, bringing a protrusion into position to push the bottom package from the its position and over a bend or edge from where the package slides in a substantially downwards direction until the package rests against a stopping member. To ensure that only the bottom package is pushed out from a stack of packages in this embodiment, a first restraining device holds back the package lying on top of the bottom package.
To position the first restraining device in a suitable distance from the base surface to hold back the package lying on top of the bottom package, the restraining device is provided with a distance sensing device.
In an embodiment, the distance sensing device is provided by an arm, which is hinged at a hinging point to the restraining device in such a way, that the length of the arm ensures that the restraining device is positioned to hold back the package lying on top of the bottom package.
When the bottom package is pushed against and beyond the bend, the arm will pivot around the hinging point allowing the bottom package to pass under the first restraining device while the first restraining device is holding back the package (if any) lying on top of the bottom package. When the package is pushed towards the bend, the restraining device can follow the package guiding the package downwards in an inclining direction towards the stopping member.
When the package is resting against the stopping member, the package is ready to be collected by a fetcher mechanism.
The fetcher mechanism 14 is arranged to be moved under a number of storage shelves or tubes 15, which storage shelves or tubes 15 are arranged inclining relative to a storage unit 16 in such a way that the packages 1 , 100 will be positioned in a lower end of a shelf or tube 15 due to gravity. Hereby it is possible to release a package, stored on a shelf or tube, by means of the fetcher mechanism 14. The fetcher mechanism 14 can then transport the package 1 , 100 to the outlet opening or the second pushing device 17 can simply let the package 1 , 100 drop through an opening in the bottom of the fetcher mechanism 14 by moving the second pushing device to the side so it will no longer support the package 1 , 100. Then the package 1 , 100 will drop onto a kind of funnel leading the package 1 , 100 to the outlet opening.
On the second pushing device 17 a substantially vertically positioned plate 18 is provided. The plate 18 can lift a package 1 , 100 over the stopping member 10 when it extends through a slit in a storage shelf or tube 15, in a chaos tube 25, or in an inlet shelf 25 in order to release the package 1 , 100.
A third pushing device 19 is positioned on another side of a chamber in the fetcher mechanism 14 in relation to the position of the storage shelves or tubes 15 or the inlet shelf 25 to be able to push a package 1 , 100 through the chamber of the fetcher mechanism 14. The third pushing device is able to follow a pack 1 , 100 through the chamber and to place the package 1 , 100 over the stopping member in such a way that the package 1 , 100 rests on the stopping member 10 of a storage shelf or tube 15. Further the third pushing device 19 could be capable of lifting a package over the stopping member 10 to release a package 1 , 100 for transport by the fetcher mechanism. The third pushing device also secures that a released package 1 , 100 does not fall through the chamber of the fetcher mechanism.
In an embodiment the second and third pushing device 17, 19 can be provided with a control arm (not shown). The third pushing device 19 can also in this embodiment be provided with a platform (not shown), which platform is held parallel with the bottom of the package 1 and perpendicular to the travelling direction of the package when moved in relation to the fetcher mechanism 14. The control arm and the third pushing device are at one end both pivotably hinged to the platform and at the other end both pivotably hinged such that their mutual movement enables the platform to be held at the same angle relative to the fetcher mechanism 14 and to the package when the third pushing device 19 supports and moves the package 1 on its way into the chamber in the fetcher mechanism 14 or out of the same.
The fetcher mechanism 14 can be moved in a substantially horizontal direction to bring packages 1 , 100 from the feeding device 3 to the storage shelves or tubes 15 and from the storage shelves or tubes 15 to an outlet (not shown).
The invention comprises a method for storing and dispensing goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit 16 for storing packages in a number of storage shelves or tubes 15, a unit 14 for conveying one or more packages 1 , 100 from the storage unit 16 to an outlet, said unit 14 being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism 14 can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube 15, comprising the steps of: - Placing one or more packages 1 , 100 in an inlet device 3 from where the individual packages 1 , 100 are detected and registered;
- Transferring one or more packages 1 , 100 from the inlet device to a
- fetcher mechanism 14;
- Checking if a dedicated shelf or tube 15 is full;
- If the dedicated shelf or tube is full, positioning the fetcher mechanism 14 under a chaos tube 25;
- Transferring the one or more packages 1 , 100 to the chaos tube 25.
Further the method can comprise the following steps:
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism 14 under a chaos tube 25;
- Releasing one or more packages 1 , 100 from the chaos tube 25 into the fetcher mechanism 14;
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism 14 over a discharge opening, which discharge opening is in connection to an outlet opening;
- Releasing the one or more packages 1 , 100 into the discharge opening.
Alternatively the method can comprise the following steps:
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism 14 under a chaos tube 25;
- Releasing one or more packages 1 , 100 from the chaos tube 25 into the fetcher mechanism 14;
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism 14 under a dedicated shelf or tube 15, ready for receiving one or more packages 1 , 100;
- Transferring the one or more packages 1 , 100 into the dedicated shelf or tube 15. In another embodiment the number of packages 1 , 100 and the identity of the one or more packages 1 , 100 are registered before delivering the one or more packages 1 , 100. In yet another embodiment the exact place of each package 1 , 100 is registered and processed in a processing unit.
Use of the chaos tubes can be described as follows in following example. A customer wants to buy five packages of a specific type and there are three packages of this specific type left in the dedicated shelf or tube. Now the shop assistant has to get one or more cartons or outers to have enough packages to sell to the customer and to fill up the dedicated shelf or tube.
If packages of the specific type were present in a chaos tube, the system would tell the shop assistant how many packages are left in the apparatus. If no packages are present in the chaos tubes, the shop assistant will sell the three remaining packages from the dedicated shelf or tube and two packages from the carton or outer. Afterwards the remaining packages from the one or more cartons or outers are placed in the inlet of the apparatus. The packages will be registered and by the fetcher mechanism filled into the tube or tubes dedicated to the specific type of packages. If more packages than the tube or tubes can contain are filled into the inlet, the remaining packages are filled into one or more chaos tubes from where they can be retrieved when needed.
To ensure that the packages from the carton or outer, which was handed directly to the customer will not disappear from the register, a deviation report is generated due to the fact that the shop assistant counts for the cartons and outers taken from another storage facility, which cartons or outers are registered in the same or in another system. When comparing the stockpiles a deviation occurs, but the deviation should be balanced by comparing to the list of sold packages.
Rules can be set up in the system for when to supply with packages from the chaos tubes to supply the dedicated tubes.
In general the number of packages in the chaos tubes should be kept low in case chaos tubes are needed for filling the dedicated tubes before or during busy periods or for holding other products held within the storage unit.
These rules are incorporated in the control unit in the apparatus and thereby the apparatus is capable of determining when packages from chaos tubes should be transferred to dedicated tubes. The apparatus can run consolidation sequences cleaning up the chaos tubes by moving packages from chaos tubes into dedicated tubes when the fetcher mechanism is not occupied for other duties.
The packages are selected in such a way that the packages of a specific product first filled into the apparatus also are the packages first selected when the specific product is sold. This is a particularly beneficial feature of the system as it ensures that product is sold on a "first-in, first-out" (FIFO) basis, and so older product stock is held for longer than is necessary.
The FIFO system also ensures that older stock for example product from discontinued product lines or lower priced product is sold before newer products.
The invention also comprises an apparatus for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages 1 , 100 in an apparatus comprising a storage unit 16 for storing packages 1 , 100 in a plurality of storage shelves or tubes 15, where the storage unit 16 further comprises chaos tubes 25.
In an embodiment of the invention the apparatus comprises a unit 14 for conveying one or more packages 1 , 100 from the storage unit 16 to an outlet, said unit 14 being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism 14 can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube 15. In yet an embodiment the chaos tubes 25 is provided to hold an assortment of packages 1 , 100 and which apparatus is able to obtain any one package 1 , 100 from any position in the tube 25 due to the unique code assigned to the individual packages 1 , 100 inserted through the inlet 3 and convey the package 1 , 100 to a designated tube 15, another chaos tube 25 or into the discharge opening.
Further in operation the system may need to move packages 1 , 100 from the chaos tube 25 to further tubes (designated tubes or chaos tubes) to access the desired package 1 , 100 while the system still keeps precise information regarding the location of each package.
Throughout the description we have used expressions such as packages and cigarette pack. It is obvious that the apparatus can be used for vending other types of packages of a certain value.

Claims

1 . A method for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit (16) for storing packages in a number of storage shelves or tubes (15), a unit (14) for conveying one or more packages (1 , 100) from the storage unit (16) to an outlet, said unit (14) being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism (14) can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube (15), comprising the steps of:
- Placing one or more packages (1 , 100) in an inlet device (3) from where the individual packages (1 , 100) are detected and registered;
- Transferring one or more packages (1 , 100) from the inlet device (3) to a fetcher mechanism (14);
- Checking if a dedicated shelf or tube (15) is full;
- If the dedicated shelf or tube (15) is full, position the fetcher mechanism (14) under a chaos tube 25;
- Transferring the one or more packages (1 , 100) to the chaos tube (25).
2. A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the steps:
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism (14) under a chaos tube (25);
- Releasing one or more packages (1 , 100) from the chaos tube (25) into the fetcher mechanism (14);
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism (14) over a discharge opening, which discharge opening is in connection to an outlet opening;
- Releasing the one or more packages (1 , 100) into the discharge opening.
3. A method according to claim 1 , further comprising the steps: - Positioning the fetcher mechanism (14) under a chaos tube (25);
- Releasing one or more packages (1 , 100) from the chaos tube (25) into the fetcher mechanism (14);
- Positioning the fetcher mechanism (14) under a dedicated shelf or tube (15), ready for receiving one or more packages (1 , 100);
- Transferring the one or more packages (1 , 100) into the dedicated shelf or tube (15).
4. A method according to claim 1 , 2 or 3, characterised in that the number of packages and the identity of the one or more packages are registered before handing out the one or more packages (1 , 100).
5. A method according to claim 4, characterised in that the exact place of each package (1 , 100) is registered and processed in a processing unit.
6. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that each package passing the inlet device (3) is assigned a unique code.
7. A method according to claim 6, characterised in that the unique code comprises a time stamp.
8. Apparatus for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages in an apparatus comprising a storage unit (16) for storing packages in a number of storage shelves or tubes (15), characterised in that a the storage unit (16) further comprises chaos tubes (25).
9. Apparatus according to claim 8, characterised in that a unit (14) for conveying one or more packages (1 , 100) from the storage unit (16) to an outlet, said unit (14) being in the form of a fetcher mechanism which comprises means for determining position, whereby the fetcher mechanism (14) can be caused to be situated next to a given storage shelf or tube (15).
10. Apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, characterised in that the chaos tubes (25) are provided to hold an assortment of packages (1 , 100) and which apparatus is able to obtain any one package (1 , 100) from any position in the tube (25) due to the unique code assigned to the individual packages (1 , 100) inserted through the inlet (3) and convey the package (1 , 100) to a designated tube (15), another chaos tube (25) or into the discharge opening.
EP12715991.1A 2011-04-19 2012-04-19 Apparatus and method for managing stored goods such as packaged tobacco products Not-in-force EP2699495B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DKPA201170192A DK177550B1 (en) 2011-04-19 2011-04-19 Apparatus and method for managing stored goods such as tobacco related products, which products are contained in packages
PCT/EP2012/057181 WO2012143453A1 (en) 2011-04-19 2012-04-19 Apparatus and method for managing stored goods such as packaged tobacco products

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EP2699495A1 true EP2699495A1 (en) 2014-02-26
EP2699495B1 EP2699495B1 (en) 2017-08-23

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DK (1) DK177550B1 (en)
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CN108877040A (en) * 2018-06-04 2018-11-23 北京无人店科技有限公司 Automatic monitoring method, device, electronic equipment and the computer readable storage medium of open unmanned counter
CN114735382B (en) * 2021-01-07 2023-09-26 中国石油天然气股份有限公司 Straight pipe section access system

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IT234325Y1 (en) * 1994-05-18 2000-03-09 Progetto Automazione Srl AUTOMATIC DISPENSER FOR STACKED PACKAGING.
DE29817529U1 (en) * 1998-10-01 2000-02-17 Willach Gmbh Geb Dispenser
US20020087231A1 (en) * 2001-01-04 2002-07-04 Lewis Jimmy Randolph Method and apparatus for filling stock orders
US7121427B2 (en) * 2003-07-22 2006-10-17 Scriptpro Llc Fork based transport storage system for pharmaceutical unit of use dispenser
ITBO20050521A1 (en) * 2005-08-03 2007-02-04 U T I T Spa MACHINE FOR AUTOMATIC ORDER COMPOSITION WITH PRODUCTS
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NO2699495T3 (en) 2018-01-20
WO2012143453A1 (en) 2012-10-26
EP2699495B1 (en) 2017-08-23
DK201170192A (en) 2012-10-20
DK177550B1 (en) 2013-10-07

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