Inventory management system using image processing of codes on shelving and storage bins

An apparatus for monitoring and replenishing an inventory of goods disposed within an inventory storage space, the apparatus comprising:

• a first distinct inventory area within the inventory storage space, the first distinct inventory area configured to store a supply of a first type of goods;
• a first movable replenishment signaling structure associated with the first distinct inventory area, the first movable replenishment signaling structure including a first optical code attached thereto, the first optical code encoding a first unique identification number that identifies the first type of goods that need to be replenished in the first distinct inventory area, wherein the first movable replenishment signaling structure comprises an empty bin to which the first optical code is attached, a bookend to which the first optical code is attached, a card to which the first optical code is attached, or a sliding panel to which the first optical code is attached;
• a replenishment signaling area within the inventory storage space, wherein the replenishment signaling area is:
• separated from the first distinct inventory area by at least one boundary;
• devoid of the first type of goods;
• and
• configured to receive the first movable replenishment signaling structure that is placed therein only after the supply of the first type of goods stored in the first distinct inventory area has been depleted;
• one or more boundary optical codes that define the at least one boundary separating the replenishment signaling area from the first distinct inventory area;
• one or more cameras that each have a field of view at least partially encompassing the replenishment signaling area and the one or more boundary optical codes, the one or more cameras for generating periodic images of the replenishment signaling area and the one or more boundary optical codes;
• one or more processors in electrical communication with the one or more cameras, the one or more processors operable to execute programmed instructions to:
• detect the one or more boundary optical codes present within the images generated by the one or more cameras;
• determine location coordinates of the one or more boundary optical codes detected within the images generated by the one or more cameras;
• based on the location coordinates of the one or more boundary optical codes, determine a boundary line associated with the at least one boundary of the replenishment signaling area;
• detect the first optical code present within the images generated by the one or more cameras;
• determine location coordinates of the first optical code detected within the images generated by the one or more cameras;
• based on the location coordinates of the first optical code, determine a spatial relationship between a location of the first optical code and the boundary line;
• and
• generate a replenishment notification based at least in part on the spatial relationship between the location of the first optical code and the boundary line, wherein the replenishment notification indicates that the supply of the first type of goods in the first distinct inventory area needs to be replenished.