EP4292403A1

EP4292403A1 - Light strip comprising a user interface element, system for a goods storage device comprising a light strip, and goods storage device comprising such a system

Info

Publication number: EP4292403A1
Application number: EP22709643.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Arash BASHIRI
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2021-02-15
Filing date: 2022-02-14
Publication date: 2023-12-20
Also published as: DE102021103512A1; WO2022171858A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (1) and a retrofit kit for a goods storage device (5). In order to make it easier for a person to use the goods storage device (5) when adding and/or removing stored goods, the system (1) comprises a light strip (2) and a control device (3), the control device (3) being designed to control a first portion (2a) of the light strip (2) in such a manner that the first portion (2a) illuminates differently than a second portion (2b) of the light strip (2), the control device (3) also being designed to adapt the length of the first portion (2a) along the light strip (2) to the size of a stored good to be added or removed, and/or to adapt the position of the first portion (2a) along the light strip (2) to the storage location of a stored good to be added or removed.

Description

LIGHTING STRIP WITH USER INTERFACE ELEMENT AND SYSTEM FOR WAREHOUSING DEVICE WITH LIGHTING STRIP AND WAREHOUSING DEVICE WITH SUCH SYSTEM

technical field

The present invention relates to the field of warehousing and in particular to a light strip with a plurality of light-emitting element contact points for contacting light-emitting elements, and with a plurality of connection lines for connecting the light-emitting element contact points to a control device, the connection lines being electrically conductively connected to the light-emitting element contact points. Furthermore, the invention relates to a system for supporting a person when placing and/or picking stored goods for a goods storage device. The system has a luminous strip having a large number of luminous elements and a control device for the luminous strip. Furthermore, the invention relates to a goods storage device with several storage locations. In addition, the invention relates to a retrofit kit for a goods storage device to support a person when placing and/or picking stored goods.

Technological background

Goods storage devices usually have a large number of storage locations. In order to indicate to a user storage locations from which storage goods have been removed or in which storage goods are to be stored, light strips are used which are attached near the storage location or at the storage location and are controlled in order to indicate to the user what needs to be done by their lights. After removal, ie picking or storage of the stored goods, the user confirms that the stored goods have been picked or stored, for example at an operator station, ie a warehouse management computer or at a mobile computer terminal connected to the warehouse management computer. However, this requires a lot of effort, since the user either has to cover the distance to the warehouse management computer or due to the acquisition and operating costs of mobile computer terminals.

Presentation of the invention

It is an object of the invention to make it easier for an operator or user of the goods storage device to communicate the completion of picking or storage activities in a cost-effective manner. This object is achieved for the light strip mentioned at the outset in that a user interface element is provided on at least one of the light element contact points instead of a light element and is electrically conductively connected to the light element contact point. The object is achieved for the system mentioned at the outset in that the light strip is the light strip according to the invention. The object is achieved for the goods storage device in that the goods storage device has the system according to the invention, with the light strip being attached to one of the storage locations of the goods storage device. The object is achieved for the retrofit kit in that the retrofit kit has the system according to the invention.

Because the user interface element contacts the light strip like the light elements, the user interface element can be attached directly to the storage location, so that the user does not have to travel long distances to confirm that the stored goods have been picked or stored. In addition, the connection of the user interface element is particularly inexpensive since only the light strip has to be installed. The installation of additional lines, in particular for connecting the user interface element, is not required.

The solution can be further improved by various configurations that are advantageous in and of themselves and, unless stated otherwise, can be combined with one another as desired. These embodiments and the advantages associated with them are discussed below.

According to a first embodiment of the light strip, the light strip is designed to supply the user interface element with operating energy and with control and/or data signals through the light element contact point.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that for the operation of the user interface element neither separately executed lines nor separately executed contact points in addition to the existing ones

Light-emitting element connection lines and light-emitting element contact points of the light strip are required. In particular, the light strip can be a commercially available light strip whose light elements can be addressed via a previously known data protocol, with the user interface element being provided instead of at least one of the light elements. There is also no need to add a battery to the user interface element that may need to be charged or replaced regularly.

According to one embodiment of the light strip, the user interface element is set up to use a predetermined light element communication protocol with address, control and and/or extract display data for the user interface element. The light-emitting element communication protocol can be a previously known one

be light element communication protocol. The light-emitting element communication protocol can be designed to transmit, for example, operating parameters for the light-emitting elements, such as color and/or brightness parameters and logical addresses of light-emitting elements to be operated with the operating parameters.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that previously known light strips can be easily provided with at least one user interface element during their production or afterwards, so that the light strip according to the invention can be produced easily and without major development effort in order to mechanically and/or electrically change the light strip itself.

According to one embodiment of the light strip, the light strip has light-emitting element control elements that are designed to receive light-emitting element control signals and to operate at least one of the light-emitting elements according to the light-emitting element control signals, with the user interface element being connected downstream of one of the light-emitting element control signals to receive a signal. The light-emitting element control signals can correspond to or be the previously known light-emitting element communication protocol.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the light strip can have previously known light element control elements, so that the light strip according to the invention can be produced easily and without major development effort in order to mechanically and/or electrically change the light strip itself.

According to an embodiment of the light strip, the logical address of the user interface element is based on its physical position on the light strip. In particular, the logical address can be predetermined by the light-emitting element control element assigned to the user interface element. The light-emitting element control element can be permanently electrically connected to one of the signal lines of the light strip and, for example, soldered.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the addressing is carried out by the light strip and in particular by its light element control elements, so that the user interface element does not have to be assigned an address before it is installed. The user interface element is therefore particularly easy to assemble or replace or to attach to a different position without having to re-enter the logical address of the user interface element manually. The addressing of the user interface element may be dependent on the physical location of each user interface element. The address is not necessarily stored in the user interface element. Changing the position of the user interface element will automatically change its address and no manual change is required.

According to one embodiment of the light strip, the user interface element is designed to provide a return signal channel. The return signal channel can include or have a signal line. The signal line can be an electrical line present in the light strip. Alternatively or additionally, the return signal channel can be or have a wireless connection. In particular, the return signal channel can be a wireless return signal channel, which can possibly provide a digital data connection to the control device wirelessly, ie for example via radio.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that, in addition to the light strip, no line has to be laid to connect the user interface element.

According to a further embodiment of the light strip, the signal line is integrated into the light strip or provided separately from the light strip.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the separate signal line can be laid more flexibly together with the light strip, and that the integrated signal line does not require any additional effort during assembly.

According to one embodiment of the light strip, the user interface element is designed to output its address and/or a confirmation signal via the return signal channel.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the address can be used to determine which storage goods have been commissioned or stored. Furthermore, it can be checked that the user interface element has been mounted at the intended position on the light strip.

According to a further embodiment of the light strip, the user interface element has a display representing user data and/or a switch.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the user can be given further information in addition to the information provided by the light-emitting elements. According to a further embodiment of the light strip, the light strip has a plurality of light elements and is designed such that at least selected ones of the light elements can be logically addressed, the user interface element being logically addressable like the selected light elements.

According to a further embodiment of the system, at least selected ones of the light-emitting elements are logically addressable. The light strip can be designed to logically address at least selected ones of the light elements. The control device can be designed to address the selected light elements individually or together using the logical address, with the user interface element being logically addressable like the selected light elements and the control device being designed to send data to be displayed to a user of the system via the electrical lines of the light strip.

The user interface element can be a button element, which can optionally also have an indicator element. The display element can, for example, be a matrix display, an LCD, an OLED or an e-paper and/or have an actuating lamp.

An LED strip, for example, can serve as the basis for the light strip according to the invention, the RGB LEDs of which can be addressed and controlled via predetermined protocols, such as WS2811, WS2812, WS2815, WS2818, SKU2812, etc. These protocols can transmit addresses and control data using pulse width modulation.

To provide the addressing, the light strip can have addressing elements, for example so-called controllers, which can be separate from the light elements or integrated into them. If the light strip has light elements with integrated addressing elements, the user interface element can also have an integrated addressing element. If the addressing elements are provided separately, each of the addressing elements can be associated with one of the light-emitting element pads.

The light-emitting element contact points can therefore be connected in series with one another. The light strip can have a connection line for the voltage supply, with a supply contact of the light-emitting element contact points being connected to the connection line for the voltage supply.

Furthermore, the light strip can have a connection line for providing the ground, ie a ground line, with a ground contact of the light-emitting element contact points being connected to the ground line. Furthermore, the light strip can have at least one Have connecting line for signal transport, ie a signal transport line. The signal transport line can be designed to transmit electrical signals. If signals that can be transmitted through the signal transport line represent data, the signal transport line can also be referred to as a data transport line. The signal transport line can run from a signal output of one of the light-emitting element contact points to a signal input of another of the light-emitting element contact points. Address and control signals, for example in accordance with one of the protocols mentioned above, are transmitted via the signal transport line.

The user interface element can be addressed like a light element and loaded with control data, the user interface element being set up to provide the user with information based on the control data, for example by means of the matrix display or the actuating lamp.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that there is no additional effort for the implementation of the addressing of the user interface element.

The user interface element can thus be addressable by the light strip. When the user interface element includes a display, such as an alphanumeric display, and a switch, such as a confirmation button, the display and switch may be addressable together or separately.

According to a further embodiment of the system, the control device is designed to control a first section of the light strip in such a way that the first section lights up differently than a second section of the light strip, wherein the control device is also designed to adapt the length of the first section along the light strip to the size and /or to adapt the position of the first section along the light strip to the storage location of a storage item to be placed or picked.

In order to improve the storage capacity of the known goods storage devices, the size of the storage locations can be adapted to the stored goods. A storage space for a large storage item can, for example, be wider, deeper or higher than a storage space for a small storage item. Consequently, it may be possible to divide a large bin into smaller bins in order to store several smaller stock items in the same storage volume instead of one large stock and to avoid a small stock blocking a bin that could hold several or larger stock items.

However, the division of storage locations is not a trivial problem, especially if many stored goods are to be stored. Furthermore, it is cumbersome for an operator or user of the goods storage device, the intended storage location for a to be placed or to find stored goods to be stored, or to find stored goods to be picked, ie to be removed from the goods storage device, especially if the goods warehouse is large and possibly has many thousands of potential storage locations.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that, because the control device is designed to adapt the length of the luminous section to the size of the stored goods and/or the position of the luminous section to the position of the storage location for the stored goods, it is no longer necessary That the user or operator of the goods storage device may have to look for a suitable storage location using a printed storage plan.

According to a further embodiment of the system, the control device is designed to control further sections of the light strip in addition to the first section in such a way that selected or all of the further sections light up differently than at least one other section of the light strip, with the control device also being designed to determine the length of each of the Sections along the light strip to each adapt to the size and / or the position of each of the sections along the light strip to the storage location of a to be placed or to be picked stored goods.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the user or operator can be supported more flexibly or that several users or operators can be supported when placing and/or picking. For example, different light emitted by the sections and, for example, different luminous patterns or colors can be assigned to certain stored goods or groups of stored goods or users or operators.

According to a further embodiment of the system, the system has a mounting channel with a base and two side walls, wherein the user interface element can be mounted in the mounting channel, and wherein the user interface element is connected to the control device in a signal-transmitting manner in its mounted state. In its mounted state in the mounting channel (13), the user interface element can press the light strip against the floor.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the user or operator can interact directly with the help of the user interface element, in particular if the user interface element is arranged at a storage location or in the vicinity of one of the storage locations of the goods storage device. The system may have multiple user interface elements, with selected or all of the User interface elements can each be arranged at a storage location or in the vicinity of one of the storage locations of the goods storage device.

According to a further embodiment of the system, the user interface element presses the light strip against the floor in its mounted state in the mounting channel.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the light strip can be attached with less effort in the mounting channel protecting the light strip.

According to a further embodiment of the system, the user interface element has a pressing element that presses the light strip against the floor, the pressing element being designed to deform elastically when it presses the light strip against the floor.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the light strip is held securely in the mounting channel by the user interface element and without the risk of being damaged by a rigid pressing element.

According to a further embodiment of the system, the system has at least one storage goods identification sensor, the sensor signal is connected to the control device in a manner that transmits signals, the control device being designed to recognize correct order picking or correct placement of storage goods using the sensor signal of the storage goods identification sensor and by activating the section to inform a user whether the stored goods have been picked or placed correctly or incorrectly.

The stored goods detection sensor can be, for example, an optical sensor that has a light barrier and can detect whether a storage location or a stored goods is being accessed. Alternatively, the storage goods detection sensor can be a capacitive sensor, a pressure switch, an ultrasonic sensor or another suitable sensor that is designed to detect access to the storage space or the storage location and to convert it into a sensor signal.

The storage goods detection sensor can be designed to detect storage goods and, for example, the number and/or the type of storage goods that are stored or removed. As an alternative or in addition, the storage goods identification sensor can be designed to recognize that the hand of a user reaches into the storage location assigned to the storage goods identification sensor. An advantage of this embodiment can be that the operator or user receives direct feedback, as a result of which errors on the part of the operator or user can be corrected immediately.

According to a further embodiment of the system, the control device is designed to inform the user whether the storage goods have been picked or placed correctly or incorrectly, or whether the storage goods are the storage goods to be picked, or whether a storage location of the goods storage device is the storage location to be used for the storage goods to be placed is.

Optionally, the control device can be designed to inform the user whether the storage goods have been picked or placed correctly or incorrectly, or whether the storage goods are the storage goods to be picked, or whether a storage location of the goods storage device is the storage location to be used for the storage goods to be placed after the user operated the user interface element.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the operator or user receives direct feedback, as a result of which errors on the part of the operator or user can be prevented or corrected immediately. In order to prevent the sensor from detecting incorrect placement or picking while the user or operator is placing or picking the stored goods, i.e. possibly moving them or moving other stored goods, the control device can only confirm or deny the correctness after the user interface element has been actuated.

According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, the light strip extends beyond one of the storage locations, or the system has a number of light strips which are arranged at different storage locations.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that several storage locations can be used flexibly depending on the size of the stored goods and, for example, can be divided up to match the size of the stored goods.

According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, in which the system has a plurality of light strips which are arranged at different storage locations, the goods storage device can have a distribution device which is designed to output light source address signals and/or light source control signals specifically to selected or to all of the light strips. The distribution device can have at least one splitter and/or at least one switch. According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, the light strip is aligned vertically and the control device is designed to display the storage height provided for a storage item in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the first section.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the maximum available storage height in the goods storage device or in one of the storage locations of the goods storage device can be optimally used.

According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, the light strip is aligned horizontally and the control device is designed to display the storage width or depth available for stored goods in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the first section.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the maximum available storage width, depth or area in the goods storage device or in one of the storage locations of the goods storage device can be optimally used.

According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, the light strip is aligned horizontally in segments or sections and vertically in segments or sections. The control device can be designed to determine the storage height provided for a storage item in one of the storage locations by the position and length of the first section and/or the storage width or depth available for storage items in one of the storage locations by the position and length of the to present the first section.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the system can be adapted even more flexibly to different circumstances of the goods storage device.

According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, the system has a plurality of light strips, with selected ones of the light strips being aligned horizontally and others of the light strips being aligned vertically. The control device can be designed to determine the storage height provided for a storage item in one of the storage locations by the position and length of the first section and/or the storage width or depth available for storage items in one of the storage locations by the position and length of the to present the first section.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the system can be adapted even more flexibly to different circumstances of the goods storage device. According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, the goods storage device has a storage shelf, with the light strip being attached to a shelf and/or to a shelf support.

An advantage of this embodiment may be that the system, and in particular the retrofit kit comprising the system, can be used with common storage racks.

According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, the goods storage device has at least one drawer, with the light strip being attached to an inside of at least the drawer.

One advantage of this embodiment can be that when the drawer is open, the operator or user can easily see where storage goods to be placed are to be placed in the drawer or which storage goods are to be removed from the drawer for picking.

According to a further embodiment of the goods storage device, the drawer has two side walls and a partition arranged between the side walls, the light strip being attached to at least one of the side walls and/or to the partition.

An advantage of this embodiment can be that the system can be used even more flexibly with differently subdivided drawers.

At least selected lighting elements of the light strip can be arranged one behind the other along the longitudinal direction of the light strip. For example, the light-emitting elements can be light-emitting diodes.

According to a further embodiment, the control device of the system can be connected or can be connected to a warehouse management computer so that it transmits warehouse data. Alternatively, the control device can have a warehouse management computer, which can be in the form of software.

According to a further embodiment, the control device of the system can have a user interface for interacting with a user or operator of the system. Alternatively, the system may have a user interface device providing the user interface and signal-transmittingly connected to the controller. More than just the one user interface element can be connected to the controller through the signal line. For example, several user interface elements can be jointly connected to the control device by the one signal line. Alternatively or additionally, other elements can also be connected to the control device together via the one signal line. For example, several of the position goods detection sensors can be connected together to the control device via the one signal line. Alternatively, a plurality of signal lines can be provided, each of which connects at least one element (for example one of the user interface elements and/or one of the item detection sensors) to the control device.

According to a further embodiment of the system, the system can have at least one splitter and/or at least one switch, which can route data in parallel or in succession to a large number of light strips. The data are, for example, control and/or operating data for the lighting elements.

In other words, the following is disclosed regarding the invention:

The goods storage device may include a server. Product information, including identification code (barcode), stock number, location, width of space occupied by the product, address of product confirmation button (stored goods can each have a confirmation button or as a group a common confirmation button) etc. can be stored on the server.

The system may include a controller. The control unit can have an addressable light strip with a control device, such as an LED strip controller, and optionally a display and/or a confirmation button, as well as a communication unit. The communication unit can be connected to the server in a data-transmitting manner. The control unit can be designed as a single device. The control unit can be designed to control at least the light strip and to transmit data via the light strip. Optionally, the control unit can display product information and confirm product picking or placement and establish wireless (or wired) connections to the server.

The controller may include a multiplexer chip that can send lamp operating parameters to different light strips when a splitter is used.

Splitter: The lamp operating parameters for the light strips can be transmitted from the control unit to the splitter via a cable. The splitter can access this information divide several light strips, for example by multiplexing. D splitter can be integrated in the control unit.

Switch: This is a digital switch that can logically address addressable lamps using the lamp communication protocol. Known

Light source communication protocols that the light strip according to the invention can use are, for example, WS2812, WS2813, WS2815, APA.

Addressable light strips, such as LED strips: These are addressable light strips (WS2812, WS2813, WS2815, APA, SKU6812, etc.) which, based on the invention of this patent, not only have the ability to display different colors with the specified light sources, but also to transmit data to the user interface element, as well as to provide the power supply of the user interface element.

The user interface element (display and confirmation modules) can have confirmation buttons, displays and sensors for detecting the picking.

Product information such as product number, stock code, name, etc. can be displayed on the control unit. Depending on the needs, the control unit can also include a button to confirm the removal or insertion process or by detection by the sensor.

The control unit is designed in such a way that it does not require a battery or separate supply lines because it is connected via the light strip. The light strip provides the required operating energy and data for the control unit.

When information is sent to the user interface element whose destination address matches the logical address of the user interface element, the control unit can send the information to the user interface element through the light stripe.

Since each connection point on the light strip can have its own address, the data can be sent to a specific connection point and the light source and/or user interface element assigned to this connection point only receive the data that is sent to them. The lamps can be addressable, and their logical address can be stored in them or in a control element. The control element can be designed separately from the light source or as part of the light source. Depending on the position on the light strip, the light source can be given a predetermined address. Changing the position also changes the logical address. And this function is a special function: when user interface elements need to be exchanged, no addresses need to be set on the user interface element. This feature significantly reduces the hassle of repairing and setting up the system.

In order to send a response to the server, the user interface element can transmit part of its address to the control unit together with command code (transmission via radio waves). The control unit can send the data received from the user interface element to the server. The server thus knows from which address or from which confirmation button the data was sent.

Possible definition of the use of the invention:

In order to pick or place a product, product information can be sent from the server to the control unit.

The product information may include the identification code (barcode), inventory number, location, width of the space occupied by the product, address of user interface elements (confirmation button) (products may each have a confirmation button or as a group may have a common confirmation button).

After receiving this information, the control unit can display part of it on its screen. The control unit can then send the product information to the light strip or to the splitter and/or switch. The splitter and/or switch can send the information from there to the desired display address on the light strip. Thus, at the location where the stored goods are to be picked or removed, the light strip lights up in the desired color and the display of the user interface element shows the product information.

After activating the confirmation button (or the confirmation sensor), the user interface element can optionally send at least part of its logical address together with the command code to the control unit. The control unit can send this information to the server. The user interface element can thus send the information to the server via the control unit, so that the server knows from which address the button or sensor has sent this data. The information may be transmitted over the air from the user interface element (or confirmation buttons/sensors).

The server then sends the command to turn off the lights to the control unit and the control unit (optionally via the switch or splitter) to the light strips.

The determination of the position of each storage item and the associated storage space or location can be specified by software. In order to be able to change the position of the stored goods, the control unit can be used in such a way that the start and end positions of the storage location can be clicked in order to change the address of a stored goods.

The communication protocol can be used to transmit data for the user interface element. The light strip can be used to power the user interface element. No additional cables or busbars are required.

In addressable light strips, each light source (e.g. an LED) has a predetermined address, for example in relation to a predetermined first light source of the light strip. When a series of color information is sent to the illuminants, each illuminant takes its own information and sends the rest of the data to the next illuminant, and this process continues until the color information reaches the predetermined last illuminant.

There may be multiple conductors in the light strip that are used to transfer electrical power and data between light sources. These conductors and communication protocols between lamps can be used to provide the necessary power for the at least one user interface element and the lamps, thereby requiring no additional wiring or external power supply or batteries for the control unit or the user interface element.

The user interface element may have spring contact pins that contact the light strip. The control unit may correspond to the controller.

The software can be configured to have the user interface element confirm a specific item or perform a confirmation process for a group of stock items. Brief description of the drawings

For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the drawings below. These only show exemplary embodiments of the subject matter of the invention. Features of these exemplary embodiments can be combined independently of one another. In the figures and the associated description, parts that are the same or have the same effect are provided with the same reference symbols.

FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a system according to the invention for supporting a person when placing and/or picking stored goods, for a goods storage device in a schematic representation,

Figure 2 shows a first embodiment of a goods storage device according to the invention in a schematic representation,

Figure 3 shows another embodiment of a goods storage device according to the invention in a schematic representation, Figure 4 shows another embodiment of a goods storage device according to the invention with a drawer schematically in a perspective representation,

FIG. 5 shows the exemplary embodiment of the goods storage device according to the invention from FIG. 3 with a further exemplary embodiment of the system according to the invention in a schematic representation,

Figure 6 shows another embodiment of the system according to the invention with a mounting channel and a user interface element schematically in a perspective view,

FIG. 7 shows the embodiment of FIG. 6 schematically in a side view

Figure 8 shows another embodiment of a goods storage device according to the invention in a schematic representation,

Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a user interface device in a schematic representation, FIG. 10 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a system according to the invention for supporting a person when placing and/or picking stored goods, for a goods storage device in a schematic representation, FIG. 11 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a goods storage device according to the invention in a schematic representation,

Figure 12 shows another embodiment of a goods storage device according to the invention in a schematic representation,

FIG. 13 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a goods storage device according to the invention in a schematic representation,

Figure 14 shows an embodiment of a user interface device in a schematic representation,

Figure 15 shows another embodiment of the system according to the invention with a mounting channel and a user interface element schematically in a perspective view,

Figure 16 shows another embodiment of the user interface element according to the invention schematically in a perspective view,

FIG. 17 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a goods storage device according to the invention in a schematic representation,

FIG. 18 shows two exemplary embodiments of a distribution device, and

FIG. 19 shows an exemplary embodiment of a control device in a schematic representation.

WAYS OF IMPLEMENTING THE INVENTION A first possible exemplary embodiment of a system 1 according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG. The system 1 is a system for use with a goods storage device and is designed to support a person, for example a user or operator of the goods storage device, in placing stored goods, i.e. storing them or loading the goods storage device with the stored goods, and/or storing goods for picking removed from the goods storage device. The system 1 has a light strip 2 with a large number of light elements. Of the Luminous strips 2 can be designed, for example, as a flexible luminous strip or as a rigid luminous stick. The light elements of the light strip can be designed as LEDs, for example. Furthermore, the system 1 has a control device 3 for controlling the light strip 2 .

The control device 3 is designed to control a first section 2a of the light strip 2 in such a way that the first section 2a lights up differently than a second section 2b, c of the light strip 2, with the control device 3 being designed to measure the length of the first section 2a along the Light strip 2 to the size and / or the position of the first portion 2a along the light strip 2 to adapt to the storage location of an item to be placed or picked. Along the light strip 2 can mean along a longitudinal direction L of the light strip 2 .

In addition to the system 1, FIG. 1 schematically shows a storage location 4 of a goods storage device 5. The storage location 4 is shown as an example as a substantially horizontally aligned storage rack, on the upper side of which storage goods can be placed. The light strip 2 is attached to the storage location in such a way that the light emitted by the light strip 2 during operation can be seen by the person. For example, the light strip 2 is arranged on an end face of the storage location 4 . In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1, the luminous strip 2 is arranged on an underside opposite the upper side, with the luminous strip 2 emitting light forward during operation, ie in the direction of a person standing in front of the goods storage device.

The light strip 2 can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that the first section 2a lights up where a storage item is to be removed or stored. Additionally or alternatively, the light strip 2 can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that the length of the first section 2a essentially corresponds to the length or width of a storage item that is to be removed or stored.

The control device 3 can be designed to control further sections 2b, c of the light strip 2 in addition to the first section 2a in such a way that selected or all of the further sections 2b, c light up differently than at least one other section 2a of the light strip 2. Furthermore, the control device 3 be designed to adapt the length of each of the sections 2a, b, c along the light strip 2 to the size and/or the position of each of the sections 2a, b, c along the light strip 2 to the storage location of a storage item to be placed or picked . The storage location can be an intended storage location for a storage item in the storage location. The system 1 can have at least one stored goods identification sensor 6a, b, c, the sensor signal being connected to the control device 3. The control device 2 can be designed to recognize correct picking or correct placement of a storage item based on the sensor signal of the storage item detection sensor 6a, b, c and, by activating section 2a, b, c, to inform the person whether the storage item has been picked correctly or incorrectly or was placed.

The storage goods detection sensor 6a, b, c can be any sensor that is designed to detect removal or addition of storage goods from or to the storage location. For example, the storage goods detection sensor 6a, b, c can be an optical sensor that can have a light barrier. As an alternative or in addition, the storage goods identification sensor 6a, b, c can be designed to identify storage goods and for this purpose have a one-dimensional or a two-dimensional identification sensor, for example a barcode sensor or a camera. The system 1 can have a plurality of storage goods detection sensors 6a, b, c, which can each monitor at least one storage location 4 at least in sections for changes in the inventory, ie whether storage goods are being removed or added.

The light strip 2 can extend beyond the storage space 4 also. Alternatively or additionally, the system can have several light strips 2 that are arranged at different storage locations 4 .

The system 1 can be designed as a retrofit kit for a goods storage device 5 with a plurality of storage locations 4 .

FIG. 2 shows the goods storage device 5 according to the invention with the system 1 according to the invention in operation as an example. The goods storage device 5 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. The boxes K represent storage locations in which stored goods are or are to be stored. The storage locations have different lengths along the respective storage level, with the exemplary embodiment in Figure 2 showing three different storage lengths or storage widths, namely a first storage length or storage width L, a second storage length or storage width 2L, which is twice as long as the first storage length or storage width L and a third bearing length or bearing width 3L which is three times as long as the first bearing length or bearing width L. The lengths do not have to be integer multiples of a base length. If a person is now to pick a stored item, the control device 3 can, for example, control the section 2a in such a way that it lights up. The luminous section 2a can signal to the person that the stored goods that are present in the storage location that the section 2a illuminates or represents are to be removed. The stored goods require a storage location with a storage length or storage width of 3L. Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations whose stored goods are not to be removed for order picking can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections light up differently or not at all.

Furthermore, the control device 3 can control the section 2b, for example, in such a way that it lights up. The illuminated section 2b can signal to the person that a storage item is to be added to the storage location which the section 2b illuminates or represents. A storage location with a simple storage length or storage width L is provided for the storage goods to be stored. Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations to which no storage goods are to be added for storage can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections light up differently or not at all.

The control device 3 can control the sections 2a and 2b in such a way that they light up differently. For example, the section 2a can flash with a different brightness or a different color or a different lighting frequency than the section 2b.

The section 2a can be a section of a first light strip and the section 2b can be a section of a further light strip. In the exemplary embodiment shown, however, sections 2a and 2b are sections of a continuous light strip.

The light strip or strips 2 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 2 are aligned horizontally, for example, ie along the respective storage plane. The control device 3 can be designed to represent the storage width available for storage goods in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the first section. Alternatively or additionally, the light strip 2 or another light strip 2 can be arranged running perpendicular to the front side of the shelf, wherein the control device 3 can be designed to determine the storage depth available for stored goods in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the first section to represent

If the goods storage device 5 has a storage shelf with at least one storage level, the at least one light strip can be attached to a shelf and/or to a shelf support. In addition, FIG. 2 shows that the system 1 can have a device V for providing a user interface for the person. The control device 3 can be provided separately from the device V or combined with the device V as one device.

The control device 3 can control a plurality of light strips 2, for example if the control device 3 is designed to control the light strips 2 in parallel or one after the other, for example by so-called multiplexing.

FIG. 3 shows the goods storage device 5 according to the invention with the system 1 according to the invention in operation as an example. The goods storage device 5 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. The boxes K represent storage locations in which stored goods are or are to be stored. The storage locations have different heights along the respective storage level, with three different storage heights in the exemplary embodiment in FIG. which is three times as long as the first bearing height H are shown. The camp heights do not have to be integer multiples of a base camp height.

If one person is now to pick several, for example two, stored goods, the control device 3 can control the sections 2a and 2b, for example, in such a way that they light up. The luminous sections 2a and 2b can signal to the person that the stored goods present in the storage locations which the sections 2a and 2b illuminate or represent are to be removed. The stored goods occupy a storage location with a storage height of 3H and a storage location with a storage height of 2H. Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations whose stored goods are not to be removed for order picking can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections light up differently or not at all.

Furthermore, the control device 3 can control the section 2c, for example, in such a way that it lights up. The illuminated section 2c can signal to the person that a storage item is to be added to the storage location which the section 2c illuminates or represents. A storage location with a simple storage height H is provided for the storage goods to be stored. Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations to which no storage goods are to be added for storage can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections light up differently or not at all. The control device 3 can control the sections 2a and 2b in such a way that they light up differently than section 2c. For example, the sections 2a and 2b can flash with a different brightness or a different color or a different lighting frequency than the section 2c.

Sections 2a, b, c can each be sections of a separate light strip. In the illustrated embodiment, however, sections 2a, b, c are sections of a continuous light strip 2.

The light strip or strips 2 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 3 are oriented vertically, for example, ie along the respective bearing column. The control device 3 can be designed to represent the storage height available for a storage item in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the respectively controlled section. Alternatively or additionally, the light strip 2 or another light strip 2 can be arranged running perpendicular to the vertical direction of the storage gap, in which case the control device 3 can be designed to determine the storage depth available for stored goods in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the controlled section to represent.

If the goods storage device 5 has a storage rack with at least one storage column, the at least one light strip can be attached to a shelf and/or a rack support.

FIG. 4 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the goods storage device according to the invention, the goods storage device having at least one drawer 7 for accommodating stored goods. For example, the drawer 7 can be assigned to a storage level or a storage column of the goods storage device.

The light strip 2 can be attached to an inside 8 of the drawer 7 .

If the drawer 7 has two side walls 9, 10 or side panels and a partition 11 arranged between the side walls 9, 10, the at least one light strip 2 can be attached to at least one of the side walls 9, 19 and/or to the partition 11. If the system 1 has a plurality of light strips 2, at least one light strip 2 can be arranged on at least one of the side walls 9, 10 and/or the partition wall 11.

The drawer 7 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 4 can be viewed as a storage space 4 having a number of storage locations. The boxes K represent storage locations in which stored goods are or are to be stored. The storage locations have different storage areas, with three different storage areas in the exemplary embodiment in FIG is like the first bearing surface W, are shown. The storage areas need not be integral multiples of a base storage area.

If the goods storage device 5 according to the invention and having the drawer 7 is in operation with the system 1 according to the invention and if one person is to pick several, for example two, stored goods, the control device 3 can control the sections 2a and 2b, for example, so that they light up. The luminous sections 2a and 2b can signal to the person that the stored goods present in the storage locations which the sections 2a and 2b illuminate or represent are to be removed. The stored goods occupy a storage location with a storage area of 3W and a storage location with a storage area of 2W. Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations whose stored goods are not to be removed for order picking can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections light up differently or not at all.

Furthermore, the control device 3 can control the section 2c, for example, in such a way that it lights up. The illuminated section 2c can signal to the person that a storage item is to be added to the storage location which the section 2c illuminates or represents. A storage location with a simple storage area W is provided for the stored goods. Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations to which no storage goods are to be added for storage can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections light up differently or not at all.

The control device 3 can control the sections 2a and 2b in such a way that they light up differently than section 2c. For example, the sections 2a and 2b can flash with a different brightness or a different color or a different lighting frequency than the section 2c.

FIG. 5 shows a section of the exemplary embodiment of the goods storage device 5 according to the invention from FIG. 3 with a further exemplary embodiment of the system 1 according to the invention in a schematic representation. That However, the exemplary embodiment of the system according to the invention in FIG. 5 can also be combined with any other goods storage device and in particular with any other exemplary embodiment of the goods storage device according to the invention. Furthermore, the retrofit kit can be designed according to the exemplary embodiment of the system according to the invention in FIG.

In particular, FIG. 5, like FIGS. 6 and 7, also described below, shows an exemplary embodiment of the light strip 2 according to the invention. The system 1 can have at least one user interface element 12 for interaction with the person. For example, the at least one user interface element 12 can be arranged such that it is within reach of the person when the person is in front of one of the storage locations 4 and when the goods storage device 5 has the system 1 or the retrofit kit. If the system 1 has a plurality of user interface elements 12, these can be assigned to different storage locations 4 or to storage locations 4 combined into groups and possibly adjacent to one another.

In particular, the at least one user interface element 12 can be spatially assigned to the light strip 2 and even mounted together with it.

The control device, not shown in Figure 5 for the sake of simplicity, can be designed to inform the person whether a storage item was picked or placed correctly or incorrectly, or whether the storage item is the storage item to be picked, or whether a storage location of the goods storage device 5 is the storage location to be used for the storage item to be placed after the person has actuated the user interface element 12 .

FIGS. 6 and 7 show a further exemplary embodiment of the system 1 according to the invention schematically in a perspective view and a side view.

The system 1 can have a mounting channel 13 with a floor 14 and two side walls 15 . The user interface element 12 and the mounting channel 13 can be configured such that the user interface element 12 can be arranged or mounted in the mounting channel 13 or in a mounting groove provided by the mounting channel 13 .

In order to be able to mount the user interface element 12 easily and captively in the mounting channel 13, the mounting channel 13 can have a latching device at the free ends of the side walls 15, for example, and the user interface element 12 can have a counter-latching device designed essentially complementary to the latching device. For example, the locking device at least one locking projection 16 and for example, have two latching projections 16. The at least one latching projection 16 can be arranged on an inner side of one of the side walls 15 . If the mounting channel 13 has two latching projections 16, these can be provided opposite one another and extending towards one another.

The counter-locking device of the user interface element 12 can have a counter-locking element on at least one side face of the user interface element 12 . The counter-locking element can, for example, be in the form of a counter-locking recess extending into the side surface. In the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 6 and 7, however, the counter-locking element is designed as a counter-locking projection 17, with the user interface element 12 being designed, for example, with two counter-locking projections 17 which are arranged on side surfaces of the user interface element 12 pointing away from one another.

The at least one latching projection 16 and/or the at least one counter-latching projection 17 can be provided with an entry bevel on their outer sides, which slide past one another during assembly, so that at least one of the side walls 15 is elastically deformed away from the assembly groove when the user interface element 12 is assembled in the assembly channel 13.

The user interface element 12 can have a front face 18 with which the person can interact. For example, a button that can be easily reached by the person can be arranged on the front side 18 . Adjacent to the front side 18, the user interface element 12 can have a flange or stop 19, which protrudes beyond at least one of the side surfaces and optionally also the at least one counter-locking projection 17.

The light strip 2 can be arranged on the bottom 14 of the mounting channel 13 and fastened there. As an alternative or in addition to being attached to the floor 14 , the user interface element 12 can press the light strip 2 against the floor 14 in its installed state in the mounting channel 13 .

For example, the user interface element 12 can have at least one pressing element 20 pressing the light strip 2 against the floor 14 , the pressing element 20 being designed to be elastically deformed or elastically deflected when it presses the light strip 2 against the floor 14 .

In the assembled state of the user interface element 12, the user interface element 12 can be connected to the control device in a signal-transmitting manner. For example, the light strip 2, the user interface element 12 signal transmit to the controller. For this purpose, the at least one pressing element 20 can be designed as an electrical contact and, for example, as a spring contact or pogo pin. The light strip 2 can have at least one electrical mating contact 21 which makes contact with the pressing element 20 when the user interface element 12 is in the installed state.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the lighting elements of the light strip 2 are in the form of LEDs 22 .

In order to control only the light-emitting elements of the selected section, the light-emitting strip 2 can have a light-emitting element control element 23 which, for example, provides addressing of the light-emitting elements.

The user interface element 12 can be a button element, which can optionally also have an indicator element. The display element can, for example, be a matrix display, an LCD, an OLED, a segment display or an e-paper and/or have an actuating lamp.

The light strip 2 has a number of light-emitting element contact points for contacting light-emitting elements, ie for example a number of LEDs. Furthermore, the light strip 2 has a plurality of connection lines for connecting the light-emitting element contact points to the control device 3, the connection lines being electrically conductively connected to the light-emitting element contact points. The user interface element 12 is provided on at least one of the light-emitting element contact points instead of one of the light-emitting elements and is electrically conductively connected to the light-emitting element contact point.

The light strip 2 can have a signal line S, which is connected to a signal output of the user interface element 12 when the user interface element 12 is in the installed state.

The signal line S can be integrated into the light strip, for example like the connecting lines, or it can be provided separately from the light strip. For example, the signal line S runs through the mounting channel 13 and can be captively fastened in it. The signal line S can be arranged in a corner of the mounting channel 13 in which the base 14 meets one of the side walls 15 in a particularly space-saving manner.

The user interface element 12 may include a display representing user data and/or a switch. The light strip 2 can have a plurality of light elements and can be designed in such a way that at least selected ones of the light elements can be logically addressed, with the user interface element 12 being logically addressable like the selected light elements. The logical addressing can be done by the control device or by a warehouse management computer.

In particular, if the user interface element 12 is merely pressed into the mounting rail 13 for assembly, the user interface element 12 can automatically contact the signal line S when it is pressed in, for example if its signal output is in the form of an insulation displacement contact.

More elements than just the one user interface element 12 can be connected to the control device 3 by the signal line S. For example, a plurality of user interface elements 12 can be connected to the control device 3 together by the one signal line S. Alternatively or additionally, other elements can also be connected to the control device 3 together via the one signal line S. For example, the plurality of position goods detection sensors 6a, b, c shown in FIG. 1 can be connected together via the one signal line S to the control device 3. Alternatively and as shown by way of example in FIG.

FIG. 8 shows the system 1 with two goods storage devices 5. The system 1 has at least one signal distribution device 24, which distributes the control signal from the control device 3 to the light strips 2 of the respective goods storage device 5. In the exemplary embodiment shown, two light strips 2 are logically assigned to two storage levels of the two goods storage devices 5 that are essentially aligned with one another by one of the signal distribution devices 24 . It can therefore be sufficient for only one user interface element 12 to be assigned to each storage level.

Figure 8 shows an example of two goods storage devices 5 of the embodiment in Figure 3 in combination with a further embodiment of the system 1 according to the invention. However, the embodiment of the system according to the invention in Figure 5 can also be used with any other goods storage device and in particular with any other embodiment or with combinations of different embodiments of Goods storage device 5 according to the invention are combined. Furthermore, the retrofit kit can be designed according to the exemplary embodiment of the system according to the invention in FIG. FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the device V, which provides a user interface for a person operating or using the system 1, in a front view and a rear view.

The device V can have the control device 3 or can be connected to it so that it transmits a signal. Furthermore, the device V can have a display 25 on its front side, for example an LCD, a segment display, an OLED or an e-paper. Furthermore, the device V can have an operating button 26, which can be designed to be pressed and/or rotated for operation. In order to provide a further display option, the device V can have a luminous area 27 which lights up, for example, when the person uses the operating button 26 . In order to provide the luminous surface 27 in a space-saving manner and to provide the person with feedback that can be easily assigned to the operation of the operating button 26 , the luminous surface 27 can run around the operating button 26 and be designed, for example, as a luminous ring.

On its rear side, the device V can have at least one connection 28 for connecting the control device 3 or the light strip 2 . The device can have a further connection 29 for connecting the control device 3 or the signal distribution device 24 . In order to be able to connect a voltage supply to the device V, the device V can have at least one further connection 30 .

The device V and, for example, the control device 3 can be designed to generate address and control signals and/or to output them to a connecting line of the light strip 2, wherein the connecting line can be a connecting line for signal transport, i.e. a signal transport line.

A possible exemplary embodiment of a system 1 according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG. The system 1 is a system for use with a goods storage device and is designed to support a person, for example a user or operator of the goods storage device, in placing stored goods, i.e. storing them or loading the goods storage device with the stored goods, and/or storing goods for picking removed from the goods storage device. The system 1 has a light strip 2 with a large number of light elements. The light strip 2 can be designed, for example, as a flexible light strip or as a rigid light stick. The light elements of the light strip can be designed as LEDs, for example. Furthermore, the system 1 has a control device 3 for controlling the light strip 2 . The control device 3 is designed to control a first section 2a of the light strip 2 in such a way that the first section 2a lights up differently than a second section 2b, c of the light strip 2, with the control device 3 being designed to measure the length of the first section 2a along the Light strip 2 to the size and / or the position of the first portion 2a along the light strip 2 to adapt to the storage location of an item to be placed or picked. Along the light strip 2 can mean along a longitudinal direction L of the light strip 2 .

In addition to the system 1, FIG. 10 schematically shows a storage location 4 of a goods storage device 5. The storage location 4 is shown as an example as a substantially horizontally aligned storage rack, on the upper side of which storage goods can be placed. The light strip 2 is attached to the storage location in such a way that the light emitted by the light strip 2 during operation can be seen by the person. For example, the light strip 2 is arranged on an end face of the storage location 4 . In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 10, the luminous strip 2 is arranged on an underside opposite the upper side, with the luminous strip 2 emitting light forward during operation, ie in the direction of a person standing in front of the goods storage device.

The light strip 2 can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that the first section 2a lights up where a storage item is to be removed or stored.

Additionally or alternatively, the light strip 2 can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that the length of the first section 2a essentially corresponds to the length or width of a storage item that is to be removed or stored.

The control device 3 can be designed to control further sections 2b, c of the light strip 2 in addition to the first section 2a in such a way that selected or all of the further sections 2b, c light up differently than at least one other section 2a of the light strip 2. Furthermore, the control device 3 be designed to adapt the length of each of the sections 2a, b, c along the light strip 2 to the size and/or the position of each of the sections 2a, b, c along the light strip 2 to the storage location of a storage item to be placed or picked . The storage location can be an intended storage location for a storage item in the storage location.

The system 1 can have at least one user interface element 12a,b,c which is signal-transmittingly connected to the control device 3. The control device 3 can be designed to recognize correct picking or correct placement of a storage item based on the signal from the user interface element 12a, b, c and by activating section 2a, b, c to inform the person whether the stored goods have been picked or placed correctly or incorrectly.

The user interface element 12a, b, c can be a confirmation button or any sensor that is designed to detect a removal or addition of a storage item from or to the storage location. For example, the user interface element 12a, b, c can be an optical sensor that can have a light barrier.

The system 1 can have several user interface elements 12a, b, c, each of which can monitor at least one storage location 4 at least in sections for changes in the inventory, ie whether a storage item is removed or added.

FIG. 11 shows the goods storage device 5 according to the invention with the system 1 according to the invention in operation as an example. The goods storage device 5 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. The boxes represent storage locations or locations 4 in which storage goods are or are to be stored. The storage locations have different lengths along the respective storage level, with the exemplary embodiment in Figure 2 showing three different storage lengths or storage widths, namely a first storage length or storage width L, a second storage length or storage width 2L, which is twice as long as the first storage length or storage width L and a third bearing length or bearing width 3L which is three times as long as the first bearing length or bearing width L. The lengths do not have to be integer multiples of a base length.

If a person is now to pick a stored item, the control device 3 can, for example, control the section 2a in such a way that it lights up. The luminous section 2a can signal to the person that the stored goods that are present in the storage location that the section 2a illuminates or represents are to be removed. The stored goods require a storage location with a storage length or storage width of 3L. Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations whose stored goods are not to be removed for order picking can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections glow differently or not at all. Furthermore, the control device 3 can control the section 2b, for example, in such a way that it lights up. The illuminated section 2b can signal to the person that a storage item is to be added to the storage location which the section 2b illuminates or represents.

A storage location with a simple storage length or storage width L is provided for the storage goods to be stored. Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations to which no storage goods are to be added for storage can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections light up differently or not at all.

The control device 3 can control the sections 2a and 2b in such a way that they light up differently. For example, the section 2a can flash with a different brightness or a different color or a different lighting frequency than the section 2b. The section 2a can be a section of a first light strip and the section 2b can be a section of a further light strip. In the exemplary embodiment shown, however, sections 2a and 2b are sections of a continuous light strip.

The light strip or strips 2 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 2 are aligned horizontally, for example, ie along the respective storage plane. The control device 3 can be designed to represent the storage width available for storage goods in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the first section. Alternatively or additionally, the light strip 2 or another light strip 2 can be arranged running perpendicular to the front side of the shelf, in which case the control device 3 can be designed to determine the storage depth available for stored goods in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the first section to represent

If the goods storage device 5 has a storage shelf with at least one storage level, the at least one light strip 2 can be attached to a shelf and/or to a shelf support.

The control device 3 can control a plurality of light strips 2, for example if the control device 3 is designed to control the light strips 2 in parallel or one after the other, for example by so-called multiplexing. A switch or a splitter can be provided for this purpose.

FIG. 12 shows the goods storage device 5 according to the invention with the system 1 according to the invention in operation as an example. The goods storage device 5 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. the boxes represent storage locations or locations 4 in which storage goods are or are to be stored. The storage locations have different heights along the respective storage level, with three different storage heights in the exemplary embodiment in FIG. which is three times as long as the first bearing height H are shown. The camp heights do not have to be integer multiples of a base camp height.

Furthermore, the control device 3 can control the section 2c, for example, in such a way that it lights up. The illuminated section 2c can signal to the person that a storage item is to be added to the storage location which the section 2c illuminates or represents. A storage location with a simple storage height H is provided for the storage goods to be stored.

Sections of the light strip 2 that represent storage locations to which no storage goods are to be added for storage can be controlled by the control device 3 in such a way that these sections light up differently or not at all.

The light strip or strips 2 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 12 are oriented vertically, for example, ie along the respective bearing column. The control device 3 can be designed, the available for a storage item storage height in one of Display storage locations by the position and the length of the respective controlled section. Alternatively or additionally, the light strip 2 or another light strip 2 can be arranged running perpendicular to the vertical direction of the storage gap, in which case the control device 3 can be designed to determine the storage depth available for stored goods in one of the storage locations by the position and the length of the controlled section to represent.

If the goods storage device 5 has a storage rack with at least one storage column, the at least one light strip 2 can be attached to a shelf and/or a rack support.

FIG. 13 shows a section of the exemplary embodiment of the goods storage device (5) according to the invention from FIG. 12 with a further exemplary embodiment of the system (1) according to the invention in a schematic representation. However, the exemplary embodiment of the system according to the invention in FIG. 14 can also be combined with any other goods storage device and in particular with any other exemplary embodiment of the goods storage device according to the invention. Furthermore, the retrofit kit can be designed according to the exemplary embodiment of the system according to the invention in FIG.

In particular, FIG. 14, like FIGS. 15 and 16, which are also described below, shows exemplary embodiments of the light strip 2 according to the invention. The system 1 can have at least one user interface element 12 for interaction with the person.

For example, the at least one user interface element 12 can be arranged such that it is within reach of the person when the person is in front of one of the storage locations 4 and when the goods storage device 5 has the system 1 or the retrofit kit N. If the system 1 has a plurality of user interface elements 12, these different storage locations 4, sections 39a or grouped sections 39b can be combined and possibly assigned to storage locations 4 that are horizontally and/or vertically adjacent to one another.

The control device, not shown in Figure 14 for the sake of simplicity, can be designed to inform the person whether a storage item was picked or placed correctly or incorrectly, or whether the storage item is the storage item to be picked, or whether a storage location of the goods storage device 5 is the storage location to be used for that too storage goods to be placed after the person has actuated the user interface element 12 .

FIG. 14 shows the contact point 37 of the light strip 2, two of which can be used to supply power to the user interface element 12 and the third can be used to transmit data to the user interface element 12.

Depending on the type of addressable light strips 2, the number of these contact points 37 can be three or more. The reference number 38 relates to the areas between two lighting means 22 that directly follow one another or are adjacent. The user interface element 12 can be arranged or can be arranged in each of the areas. Each of the areas 38 has a unique logical address that is used to address the user interface element 12 and/or to transmit information to the user interface element 12 where it is located. A peculiarity of this addressing method is that the address of the user interface element 12 is not stored in them and the addressing is based on its position on the light strip 2. This has the advantage that if the user interface element 12 is replaced, for example in the event of a breakdown or a change of position, the correct information arrives at the user interface element 12 and address planning (manual configuration) is no longer necessary. When a product is to be picked or placed, the information is sent to the user interface element 12 first. Then the light sources 22 indicate the storage location or place 4 . Upon pick or place confirmation by the operator or sensor, the product location address and part of the information received from the user interface element 12 may be sent to the controller 3 along with the confirmation code. Then a confirmation code of the user interface element 12 and a switch-off signal for the affected lighting means 22 can be sent by the control device 3 .

FIGS. 15 and 16 show a further exemplary embodiment of the system 1 according to the invention schematically in a perspective and a lateral representation.

The system 1 can have a mounting channel 13 with a floor 14 and two side walls 15 . The user interface element 12 and the mounting channel 13 can be configured such that the user interface element 12 can be arranged or mounted in the mounting channel 13 or in a mounting groove provided by the mounting channel 13 . In order to be able to mount the user interface element 12 easily and captively in the mounting channel 13, the mounting channel 13 can have a latching projection 16 on the free ends of the side walls 15, for example, and the user interface element 12 can have a counter-latching projection 17 that is essentially complementary to the latching projection 16. The at least one latching projection 16 can be arranged on an inner side of one of the side walls 15 . If the mounting channel 13 has two latching projections 16, these can be provided opposite one another and extending towards one another.

The counter-locking projection 17 of the user interface element 12 can have a counter-locking element on at least one side face of the user interface element 12 . The counter-locking element can, for example, be in the form of a counter-locking recess extending into the side surface. In the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 15 and 16, however, the counter-locking element is designed as a counter-locking projection 17, with the user interface element 12 being designed, for example, with two counter-locking projections 17 which are arranged on side surfaces of the user interface element 12 pointing away from one another.

The at least one latching projection 16 and/or the at least one counter-latching projection 17 can be provided with an entry slope on their outer sides, which slide past one another during assembly, so that at least one of the side walls 15 is elastically deformed away from the assembly groove when the user interface element 12 is assembled in the assembly channel 13.

The user interface element 12 can have a front face 18 with which the person can interact. For example, a button that can be easily reached by the person can be arranged on the front side 18 . Adjacent to the front side 18, the user interface element 12 can have a flange, collar or stop 19, which protrudes beyond at least one of the side surfaces and optionally also the at least one counter-locking projection 17.

For example, the user interface element 12 can have at least one pressing element 20 that presses the light strip 2 against the floor 14, wherein the Pressing element 20 is designed to be elastically deformed or elastically deflected when it presses the light strip 2 against the floor 14 .

In the installed state of the user interface element 12, the user interface element 12 can be connected to the control device in a signal-transmitting manner. For example, the light strip 2 can connect the user interface element 12 to the control device 3 in a signal-transmitting manner. For this purpose, the at least one pressing element 20 can be designed as an electrical contact and, for example, as a spring contact or what is known as a pogo pin. The light strip 2 can have at least one electrical counter-contact 21, which the pressing element 20 makes contact with when the user interface element 12 is in the installed state.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the light-emitting elements 22 of the light strip 2 are in the form of LEDs.

In order to control only the light-emitting elements 22 of the selected section, the light-emitting strip 2 can have a light-emitting element control element 23 which, for example, provides addressing of the light-emitting elements.

The user interface element 12 can be a button element, which can optionally also have an indicator element. The display element can, for example, be a matrix display, an LCD, an OLED, a segment display or an e-paper and/or have an actuating lamp. The display element can also be referred to as a display.

The light strip 2 can have a number of contact points 37 for contacting light-emitting elements, ie for example a number of LEDs. Furthermore, the light strip 2 can have several connection lines for connecting the addressable light elements 22, optionally via a connection cable of the light strip 2, to the control device 3, the connection lines being electrically conductively connected to the contact points 37. The user interface element 12 is provided at at least one of the contact points 37 instead of one of the light-emitting elements 22 and is electrically conductively connected to the contact point.

The user interface element 12 may include a display representing user data and/or a switch.

The light strip 2 can have a plurality of light elements 22 and can be designed in such a way that at least selected ones of the light elements 22 can be logically addressed, the user interface element 12 being logical like the selected light elements 22 is addressable. The logical addressing can be done by the control device 3 or by a warehouse management computer 33 .

Another possible method for installing the user interface element 12 can be magnetic installation, in which case at least one magnet 41 can be installed on an underside of the user interface element 12 . Magnet 41 can facilitate installation on iron and steel plate or in iron and steel duct. Below the user interface element 12 there may be a positioning element 40, such as a hole or a protrusion. The positioning element 40 may be part of a support base 43 for the user interface element 12 . The holding base 42 can be arranged on the light strip 2 and optionally have a receiving groove for this, the receiving groove not only saving space but also being able to specify the position of the holding base 42 on the light strip 2 .

The positioning element 40 can be designed to complement one of the light-emitting elements 22 so that the light-emitting element 22 can specify the position of the holding base 42 on the light strip 2 even more precisely or instead of the light strip 2 .

The support base 42 may be magnetically or snap-fastened or otherwise, such as by a screw connection, either to a panel or in a channel or surface provided by the shelf.

FIG. 17 shows the system 1 with a goods storage device 5. The system 1 can have at least one signal distribution device 24a, b, which distributes the control signal from the control device 3 to the luminous strips 2 of the respective goods storage device 5. The signal distribution device 24a, b can be a switch or a splitter.

The server 31 can contain the list information of the parts to be picked up from an online shop 32 or the warehouse management computer 33 and send the corresponding information to the control device 3 via an optional network switch 34 based on the location of the shelf 5 .

Product information can optionally be directed to the at least one signal distribution device 24 and to the at least one user interface element 12 and the at least one light strip 2.

Product information can be sent to the appropriate user interface elements 12, which can be addressed in groups or individually. The assigned light strip sections 2a, b, c are, as predefined, illuminated at the location of the stored goods. Information can be displayed on a separate large screen if required.

A signal tower 36 can also be provided on selected or all shelves 5 and when a product is to be removed or placed on that shelf 5, the signal tower 36 is illuminated in the same colour. This helps the operator to easily find the desired shelf from multiple shelves.

After removing or placing the product, the operator confirms the process through the user interface element 12. The user interface element 12 outputs a confirmation signal to the control device 3, for example via radio. Optionally or alternatively, a button on the control device 3 can be pressed for confirmation.

The controller 3 can send this signal to the server by radio or cable and command the lights associated with the user interface element 12 to turn off.

After receiving the confirmation, the server performs the same operation for the next product from the product list to the last product.

The power pack 35 can provide the required energy for the control device 3 and/or the light strips 2 and/or the user interface elements 12 and/or the displays and/or the signaling columns 36 and/or the splitter or splitters 24a or the switch or switches 24b .

Figure 18 is discussed below.

FIG. 18 shows an example of the function of the splitter 24a and the switch 24b.

Splitter 24a may be configured to receive information signals relating to light strip(s) 2 and user interface element 12 or user interface elements 12 . Furthermore, the splitter 24a can be designed to receive information signals relating to the power supply and the addressing in order to multiplex the signals via a cable 46 and to send the information to one of the connected light strips 2 in parallel 45 depending on the address received.

The splitter 24a can have a multiplexer chip and obtain its operating energy from at least one of the connected light strips 2.

The switch 24b can have a digitally addressable LED signal switch and an addressing switch 47 . By addressing the addressing switch (47), each switch can be assigned an address. The switch can upon receipt of information, a destination address can be compared with an address of the light strip 2 set via the addressing switch 47 . If the addresses match, the switch opens the way to the light strip 2 and the information is transmitted to the light strip 2 connected to the switch. Otherwise the information is transferred to the next switch and this process is repeated again.

The switch can have a microcontroller, a high-speed transistor and an addressing switch and be designed to obtain its operating energy from the light strip 2 to which it is directly or indirectly connected.

FIG. 19 shows an exemplary embodiment of the control device 3. The control device 3 can have an encoder, an operating button and/or a rotary switch 26 for adjusting or confirming the placement and removal process. The control device 3 can have an LED ring light area 27 to indicate different situations by light and color.

The control device 3 can have a display 25 that can display product information and device settings and can be OLED, LCD, e-paper, segment (14), data matrix, etc.

The control device 3 can have a light strip connection 28 which can be designed as a cable connection for the light strip connection 28 or for the splitter 24a or for the switch 24b.

The control device 3 can have a network connection 29 in order to enable a data connection to the server 31 . The network connection 29 can be designed for connecting a network cable. Alternatively, the network connection 29 can be a wireless network connection 29 . If the network connection 29 is wireless, the control device 3 can have an antenna 51 which can provide the wireless connection to the server.

The control device 3 can have a connection 50 for a power supply.

The control device 3 can be a microcontroller and/or one or two or more wireless and/or wired network connections and/or a multiplexer chip and/or control button and/or a rotary switch 26 and/or a display and/or a memory for storing of settings and network address. Reference List

1 systems

2 light strips

2a,b,c section

3 controller

4 storage space

5 goods storage device 6a,b,c storage goods detection sensor

7 drawer

8 inside

9,10 side walls

11 partition

12a,b,c user interface element

13 mounting channel

14 floor

15 side walls

16 locking projection

17 counter-locking projection

18 front

19 stop

20 pressing element

21 mating contact

22 LEDs

23 light element controls

24 signal distribution device

24a splitter

24b switch/addressable signal switch

25 ad

26 control knob or rotary switch

27 luminous surface

28 light strip connector

29 network connector

30 Connection signal distribution device

32 online store

33 warehouse management computers

34 network switch/router

35 power pack 36 signal tower

37 contact points

38 Area for User Acknowledgment Element Unique Address 39a,b Section 40 Positioning element

41 magnets

42 guide pin

43 support base

44 screw hole 45 light strip connection cable

46 flat cables (LED signal + control signal)

47 addressing switch

48 antenna

49 Power supply connection 50 Power supply connection

51 antenna

N retrofit kit

S signal line

V User Interface Device

Claims

patent claims

1. Luminous strips (2) with a plurality of luminous element contact points for contacting luminous elements, and with a plurality of luminous element connecting lines for connecting the luminous element contact points to a control device (3), the luminous element connecting lines being electrically conductively connected to the luminous element contact points, characterized in that at least one of the luminous element contact points is a lighting element, a user interface element (12) is provided and is electrically conductively connected to the lighting element contact point.

2. Light strip (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the light strip (2) is designed to supply the user interface element (12) with operating energy and with control and/or data signals through the light element contact point.

3. Light strip (2) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the light strip has light-emitting element control elements which are designed to receive light-emitting element control signals and to operate at least one of the light-emitting elements in accordance with the light-emitting element control signals, the user interface element (12) signaling one of the light-emitting element control elements receiving downstream.

4. light strips (2) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the user interface element (12) is set up to take address, control and / or display data for the user interface element (12) from a predetermined light element communication protocol.

5. light strips (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the user interface element (12) is designed to provide a return signal channel.

6. Light strips (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the signal return channel comprises a signal line (S) which is integrated into the light strip (2) or provided separately from the light strip (2), or that the signal return channel has a wireless signal return channel is.

7. light strips (2) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the user interface element (12) is designed to output its address and / or a confirmation signal via the return signal channel.

8. System (1) for supporting a person when placing and/or picking stored goods, for a goods storage device (5), with a light strip (2) having a large number of light elements and with a control device (3) for the light strip (2) , characterized in that the light strip (2) is the light strip according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. System (1) according to Claim 8, characterized in that the light strip is designed to logically address at least selected ones of the light elements and the control device (3) is designed to address the selected light elements individually or jointly using the logical address, with the User interface element (12) is logically addressable as the selected lighting elements and the control device (3) is designed to send data to be displayed to a user of the system via the electrical lines of the light strip.

10. System (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the system (1) has a mounting channel (13) with a bottom (14) and with two side walls (15), wherein the user interface element (12) in the mounting channel ( 13) can be mounted, and wherein the user interface element (12) is connected to the control device (3) in a signal-transmitting manner, wherein the user interface element (12) in its mounted state in the mounting channel (13) presses the light strip (2) against the floor (14). .

11. System (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the user interface element (12) has a pressing element (20) pressing the light strip (2) against the floor (14), the pressing element (20) being designed, elastically deformed or to be deflected when it presses the light strip (2) against the floor (14).

12. System (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the at least one pressing element (20) is designed as an electrical contact, the light strip (2) having at least one electrical mating contact (21) which the pressing element (20) in mounted state of the user interface element (12) contacted.

13. Goods storage device (5) with a plurality of storage locations (4), characterized in that the goods storage device (5) has the system (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the light strip (2) at one of the storage locations (4) of the Goods storage device (5) is attached.

14. Goods storage device (5) according to claim 13, characterized in that the system (1) has a plurality of light strips (2) which are arranged at different storage locations (4), the goods storage device (5) having a distribution device (24a, 24b). , which is designed to output light source address signals and/or light source control signals according to a predetermined light element communication protocol in a targeted manner to selected or to all of the light strips (2).

15. Retrofit kit for a goods storage device (5) with a plurality of storage locations (4) to support a person when placing and/or picking stored goods, characterized in that the retrofit kit has the system (1) according to one of claims 8 to 11.