Automatic storage and retrieval system with container transfer system and method thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to an automatic storage and retrieval system and a method of using the same. The system includes a wall separating the storage system into a first space and a second space, a tunnel extending through the wall, and a partition vehicle movably disposed within the tunnel. The tunnel may be configured to allow the storage container to be transported between the first space and the second space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic storage and retrieval system, a container transfer system using such a system and a method for transporting storage containers via the container transfer system. Background Art

[0002] Figure 1 A prior art automatic storage and retrieval system 1 having a frame structure 100 is disclosed, and Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 Three different prior art container handling devices 200, 300, 400 suitable for operating on such a system 1 are disclosed.

[0003] The frame structure 100 comprises upright members 102 and a storage volume 104 comprising storage columns 105 arranged in rows between the upright members 102. In these storage columns 105, storage containers 106 (also called boxes) are stacked one on top of the other to form stacks 107. The members 102 may typically be made of metal, for example extruded aluminum profiles.

[0004] The frame structure 100 of the automated storage and retrieval system 1 comprises a rail system 108 arranged across the top of the storage volume 104, on which a plurality of container handling devices 200, 300, 400 can be operated to lift and lower boxes 106 from and into a storage row 105, and also to transport boxes 106 over the storage row 105. The rail system 108 comprises: a first set of parallel rails 110 arranged to guide the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 to move across the top of the frame structure 100 in a first direction X; and a second set of parallel rails 111 arranged perpendicular to the first set of rails 110 to guide the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 to move in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X. The containers 106 stored in the row 105 are accessed by the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 through access openings 112 in the rail system 108. The container handling devices 200 , 300 , 400 may move laterally (ie, in a plane parallel to the horizontal XY plane) over the storage row 105 .

[0005] The upright members 102 of the frame structure 100 may be used to guide the boxes 106 during the raising and lowering of the boxes 106 from the column 105. The stack 107 of boxes 106 is generally self-supporting.

[0006] Each prior art container handling device 200, 300, 400 includes a handling device body / vehicle 201, 301, 401 and a first set of wheels 202a, 302a, 402a and a second set of wheels 202b, 302b, 402b that enable the container handling device 200, 300, 400 to move laterally in the X direction and the Y direction, respectively. Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the two wheels in each set are fully visible. The first set of wheels 202a, 302a, 402a is arranged to engage with two adjacent tracks in the first set of tracks 110, and the second set of wheels 202b, 302b, 402b is arranged to engage with two adjacent tracks in the second set of tracks 111. At least one of these sets of wheels 202a, 202b, 302a, 302b, 402a, 402b can be raised and lowered so that the first set of wheels 202a, 302a, 402a and / or the second set of wheels 202b, 302b, 402b can engage with the corresponding set of tracks 110, 111 at any one time.

[0007] Each prior art container handling device 200, 300, 400 also includes a lifting device 303, 403 for vertically transporting the box 106 (e.g., lifting the box 106 from the storage row 105 and lowering the box 106 into the storage row). The lifting device 303, 403 includes one or more clamping / engaging devices 404, which are suitable for engaging the box 106 and the clamping / engaging devices 404 can be lowered from the vehicle 200, 300, 400 so that the position of the clamping / engaging devices 404 relative to the vehicle 200, 300, 400 can be adjusted in a third direction Z orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y. The clamping device 404 of the container handling device / vehicle 400 in the form of a plurality of claws is Figure 4 The lifting device of the container handling device 200 is located inside the vehicle body 201a and is therefore not shown.

[0008] Conventionally, and also for the purposes of this application, Z=1 identifies the uppermost level of boxes available below the rails 110, 111 (i.e., the level immediately below the rail system 108), Z=2 identifies the second level below the rail system 108, Z=3 identifies the third level, and so on. Figure 1 In the exemplary prior art disclosed in , Z=8 identifies the bottommost layer of the box. Similarly, X=1...n and Y=1...n identify the position of each storage column 105 in the horizontal plane. Therefore, as an example, and using Figure 1 The Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z shown can be considered as Figure 1The box identified as 106' in FIG. 1 occupies storage position X=17, Y=1, Z=6. It can be considered that the container handling device 200, 300, 400 is traveling in the Z=0 layer, and each storage column 105 can be identified by its X coordinate and Y coordinate. Therefore, it can also be considered that Figure 1 The box shown extending above the rail system 108 is arranged in the Z=0 level.

[0009] The storage volume of the frame structure 100 is usually referred to as a grid, wherein the possible storage positions within the grid are referred to as storage units. Each storage column can be identified by the position in the X-direction and the Y-direction, and each storage unit can be identified by the container number in the X-direction, the Y-direction and the Z-direction.

[0010] Each of the prior art container handling devices 200, 300, 400 includes a storage compartment or space for receiving and loading the container 106 when transporting the container 106 across the track system 108. The storage space may include a cavity disposed internally within the vehicle body 201, 301, 401, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, and for example as described in WO2015 / 193278A1 and WO2019 / 206487A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0011] Figure 3 An alternative construction of a container handling device / vehicle 300 having a cantilever structure is shown. Such a vehicle is described in detail, for example, in NO 317366, the contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference.

[0012] Figure 2 The center cavity vehicle 200 shown in can have a footprint covering an area having dimensions in the X-direction and the Y-direction that are generally equal to the lateral extent of the storage row 105, such as described in WO 2015 / 193278 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The term "lateral" as used herein may mean "horizontal".

[0013] Alternatively, the cavity container handling device / vehicle 400 may have a footprint that is larger than the lateral area defined by the storage row 105, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, for example, as disclosed in WO 2014 / 090684 A1 or WO 2019 / 206487 A1.

[0014] The track system 108 typically includes a track with a groove in which the wheels of the vehicle travel. Alternatively, the track may include an element extending upward, wherein the wheels of the vehicle include flanges to prevent derailment. These grooves and the elements extending upward are collectively referred to as guide rails. Each track may include a guide rail, or each track 110, 111 may include two parallel guide rails. In other track systems 108, each track may include a guide rail in one direction (e.g., X direction), and each track may include two guide rails in another vertical direction (e.g., Y direction). Each track 110, 111 may also include two guide rail members fastened together, each guide rail member providing one of a pair of guide rails provided by each track.

[0015] WO 2018 / 146304 A1 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference) describes a typical construction of a track system 108, which includes tracks in the X-direction and the Y-direction and parallel guide rails.

[0016] In the frame structure 100, most of the rows 105 are storage rows 105, i.e. rows 105 in which boxes 106 are stored in stacks 107. However, some of the rows 105 may have other purposes. Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the columns 119 and 120 are such special columns used by the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 to unload and / or pick up the boxes 106 so that the boxes can be transported to the access station (not shown), at which the boxes 106 can be accessed from the outside of the frame structure 100 or transferred from or into the frame structure 100. In the art, such positions are generally referred to as "ports", and the columns where the ports are located can be referred to as "port columns" 119, 120. Transportation to the access station can be in any direction, that is, horizontal, inclined and / or vertical. For example, the box 106 can be placed in a random or special column 105 within the frame structure 100, and then picked up by any container handling device and transported to the port columns 119, 120 for further transportation to the access station. Transportation from the port to the access station may need to be moved along a variety of different directions by a device (such as a delivery vehicle, a cart or other transportation line). Note that the term "inclined" means that the transport of the crate 106 has an overall transport orientation that is somewhere between horizontal and vertical.

[0017] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the first port column 119 can be, for example, a dedicated unloading port column, in which the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 can unload the boxes 106 to be transported to the access station or the transfer station, and the second port column 120 can be a dedicated picking port column, in which the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 can pick up the boxes 106 that have been transported from the access station or the transfer station.

[0018] The access station can generally be a pick-up station or inventory station that removes product items from the box 106 or positions the product items in a storage container. In the pick-up station or inventory station, the box 106 is generally not removed from the automated storage and retrieval system 1, but is returned again to the frame structure 100 after access. The port can also be used to transfer the box to another storage facility (e.g., to another frame structure or to another automated storage and retrieval system), to a transport vehicle (e.g., a train or truck), or to a production facility.

[0019] A conveyor system including conveyors is typically employed to transport boxes between the port rows 119, 120 and the access station.

[0020] If the port rows 119, 120 and the access station are located at different levels, the conveyor system may include a lifting device with a vertical component for transporting the boxes 106 vertically between the port rows 119, 120 and the access station.

[0021] The conveyor system may be arranged to transfer boxes 106 between different frame structures, such as described in WO 2014 / 075937 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0022] When accessing data stored in Figure 1 106 in one of the rows 105 disclosed in the disclosure, one of the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 will be instructed to take the target box 106 from the location of the target box 106 and transport it to the unloading port row 119. This operation involves moving the container handling device 200, 300, 400 to a position above the storage row 105 where the target box 106 is located, taking the box 106 from the storage row 105 using the lifting device of the container handling device 200, 300, 400, and transporting the box 106 to the unloading port row 119. If the target box 106 is located deep in the stack 107, that is, one or more other boxes 106 are positioned above the target box 106, the operation also involves temporarily moving the boxes positioned above before lifting the target box 106 from the storage row 105. This step is sometimes referred to in the art as "digging" and can be performed using the same container handling device that is subsequently used to transport the target box to the unloading port row 119, or using one or more other cooperating container handling devices. Alternatively or additionally, the automatic storage and retrieval system 1 may have a container handling device 200, 300, 400 dedicated to the task of temporarily removing a box 106 from a storage column 105. After the target box 106 has been removed from the storage column 105, the temporarily removed box 106 may be relocated to the original storage column 105. However, alternatively, the removed box 106 may be relocated to another storage column 105.

[0023] When a case 106 is to be stored in one of the columns 105, one of the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 is instructed to pick up the case 106 from the pick port column 120 and transport it to a location above the storage column 105 where the case is to be stored. The container handling device 200, 300, 400 positions the case 106 at the desired location after any case 106 positioned at or above a target location within the stack 107 has been removed. The removed case 106 may then be lowered back into the storage column 105 or relocated to another storage column 105.

[0024] In order to monitor and control the automatic storage and retrieval system 1, for example, to monitor and control the positions of the corresponding boxes 106 within the frame structure 100, the contents of each box 106, and the movement of the container handling devices 200, 300, 400, so that the desired boxes 106 can be transported to the desired positions at the desired time without causing the container handling devices 200, 300, 400 to collide with each other, the automatic storage and retrieval system 1 includes a control system 700, which is typically computerized and typically includes a database for tracking the boxes 106.

[0025] The automatic storage and retrieval system as described above is generally configured to operate in an area at ambient temperature (e.g., about 20°C). However, for certain types of products, the optimal storage temperature may be different. For example, it may be desirable to store food at refrigeration temperatures (usually between 1 and 4°C) or freezer temperatures (usually below -18°C or below -20°C).

[0026] Furthermore, there may be situations surrounding automated storage and retrieval systems with an atmosphere that differs from the ambient air, for example to reduce the risk of fire by lowering the oxygen concentration in the surrounding air environment.

[0027] Automatic storage and retrieval systems with different temperature zones and controllable temperature are known. For example, patent publication WO2015 / 124610A1 describes a system for receiving and storing processed refrigerated and frozen food products using multiple container handling vehicles operating on a track system. In this prior art solution, boxes are stacked under a common track system in two different storage volumes separated by a wall. The container handling vehicles are allowed to move freely over the two storage volumes at operating temperatures (such as room temperature).

[0028] One disadvantage of this prior art solution is that the container handling vehicle is exposed to colder temperatures when storing or retrieving boxes at colder areas. This can lead to the formation of condensation, which can interfere with electronic equipment.

[0029] The prior art storage system described in WO2019 / 001816A1 shows a system with different temperature zones and a device for transporting containers between different temperature zones. In order to reduce the temporary exposure of container handling vehicles to cold air, the solution includes a lift that allows the box to be lowered and raised between the access point to the transfer area.

[0030] However, this solution is complex and costly.

[0031] In the article "Wagnerlmpulse" in the magazine "The Wagner Group Customer Magazine" (March 2018), a storage facility is described in which the oxygen concentration can be reduced in order to prevent fires. The low oxygen concentration is achieved by forcing low-oxygen air throughout the storage facility.

[0032] The article does not suggest any solution for maintaining such low oxygen concentrations over long periods of time, such as days. For example, the article does not give any indication of how the storage system can be operated to transport boxes into or out of the storage system without increasing the oxygen concentration. Such operation would require frequent exposure of the storage system to atmospheric air.

[0033] It is an object of the present invention to provide an automated storage and retrieval system and method for operating such a system which solves or at least alleviates one or more of the aforementioned problems associated with the use of prior art storage and retrieval systems.

[0034] Another object of the invention is to provide a solution allowing handling of boxes within a storage system that are located in a space with an environment different from the surrounding environment.

[0035] Another object of the present invention is to provide an automatic storage and retrieval system that allows the storage of products whose optimal storage temperature may deviate from the ambient temperature. Summary of the invention

[0036] The invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims, while the dependent claims describe other preferred / optional features.

[0037] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to an automated storage and retrieval system comprising a wall dividing a storage system into at least a first space and a second space, a tunnel extending through the wall, and a partition vehicle disposed within the tunnel.

[0038] The storage and retrieval system may include: a first storage volume section, allowing storage containers to be stored in the form of vertical stacks, the storage volume section including a rail system arranged above the position where the vertical stacks of storage containers are stored; a container transfer space, extending from one side of the first storage volume section or arranged to be adjacent to the first storage volume section, and configured to hold at least one storage container; a first container handling vehicle, configured to lift the storage container from the first storage volume section by using a lifting device and transport the storage container along the rail system to the container transfer space; and a container transport device (such as a multi-joint robot arm and / or a second container handling vehicle), configured to lift the storage container from the container transfer space and transport the storage container to another position farther away from the first space.

[0039] Transport of the storage containers along the rail system may be achieved by equipping the first container handling vehicle with suitable rolling means, such as wheels that engage the rails of the rail system.

[0040] The first storage volume may house a plurality of vertical upright members defining a plurality of storage rows for storing stacks of storage containers.

[0041] The track system includes a first set of tracks and a second set of tracks oriented perpendicular to the first set of tracks, the intersecting tracks forming a grid of grid cells defining grid openings that allow a first container handling vehicle to pass therethrough to lift a storage container. The track system may continue into the second space.

[0042] The container transfer space may have a horizontal extent corresponding to a specific number of grid units, for example, extending two grid units in a direction parallel to the wall and one grid unit perpendicular to the wall. The container transfer space may be located along the middle of the tunnel, for example, in a space of two grid units in a direction parallel to the wall and three grid units perpendicular to the wall.

[0043] A tunnel extending through the wall is located at the level of the rail system and may be configured to allow transportation of storage containers between the first space and the second space.

[0044] The partition vehicle is configured to move between at least a first position in the first space and a second position in the second space. The first position and the second position may be a first partition position and a second partition position relative to a wall, wherein the partition positions are located in a tunnel.

[0045] The purpose of the partition vehicle is to provide a partition between the first space and the second space, which partition can be moved across the container transfer space between the first position and the second position. In this way, the partition vehicle provides a partition that can be moved within a tunnel located in a wall.

[0046] Therefore, the inner cross-sectional area of ​​the tunnel perpendicular to the track system should be equal to or larger than the corresponding cross-sectional area of ​​the partitioned vehicle. When these two areas are equal or approximately equal, the blockage between the first space and the second space is best achieved. In addition, the inner cross-sectional area should be larger than the storage container to be transported.

[0047] In order to avoid or reduce gas exchange and / or temperature equalization between the first space and the second space, or to avoid or reduce contamination of the first space, the cross-sectional area of ​​the partition vehicle is preferably equal to or approximately equal to the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the tunnel. For example, if the width of the tunnel extends across two grid units, the partition vehicle can be made two grid units wide. The height of the partition vehicle can extend to block or at least substantially block (e.g., 90% of the area or more) the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the tunnel. The partition vehicle can be arranged to expand in area when reaching the first position or the second position to more effectively block the tunnel.

[0048] The automatic storage and retrieval system can also be designed so that the partition vehicle can sometimes move beyond the confines of the tunnel, for example into the first space a distance that allows the first container handling vehicle to move through the tunnel into the second space, for example, when the first container vehicle requires maintenance or repair.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, the automatic storage and retrieval system can be designed so that the partition vehicle can be moved into the second space to allow any second container handling vehicle to move through the tunnel into the first space. Therefore, the partition vehicle is configured so that when it is transferred from the first space to the second space, it can reciprocate back and forth in the direction of movement of the storage container (i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the tunnel) while being able to maintain blocking, or at least substantially blocking the lateral area. Thereby, the partition vehicle can separate the first space from the second space in at least one of the positions above the container transfer space, and preferably at the same time the partition vehicle reciprocates between the first partition space and the second partition space.

[0050] In an exemplary configuration, the first space is closed so as to avoid the entry of surrounding fluids (such as gases) in an uncontrolled manner. Therefore, such closure should not be understood as a completely gas-isolated space, but rather as being sufficiently closed to achieve the specific purpose of the automatic storage and retrieval system, for example, to avoid significant temperature changes between the first space and the second space and / or to avoid significant gas leakage between the first space and the second space. Therefore, the closed structure that closes the first space can include various openings / ventilation systems, such as a gas inlet with a valve, so as to control the surrounding fluid of the first space in a controlled manner, for example, to create a more inert air environment and / or to set the temperature of the first space to a temperature different from the ambient temperature.

[0051] The term "enclosed first space" is defined herein as a space separated from the surrounding environment by a wall. For example, if the first space is formed as a cuboid, the term "enclosed" means six walls separating the space from the surrounding environment, and the term "wall" includes a floor and a ceiling.

[0052] In another exemplary configuration, the container transport device is a second container handling vehicle configured to transport the storage container from the container transfer space along the rail system.The second container handling vehicle and the first container handling vehicle may have the same design.

[0053] In yet another exemplary configuration, the storage and retrieval system may include a second storage volume contained within the second space, allowing storage containers to be stored in a vertical stack. In this configuration, the container transfer space is arranged between the first storage volume and the second storage volume. The rail system may extend above the second storage volume.

[0054] In a further exemplary configuration, the container transfer space is arranged below the rail system.

[0055] In yet another exemplary configuration, the container transfer space is positioned such that a center plane of the wall is associated with a center of the container transfer space.

[0056] In yet another exemplary configuration, the container transfer space is configured to hold a plurality of storage containers simultaneously, for example, horizontally distributed at the same height or approximately the same height as the top level of the storage containers within the first storage volume (e.g., the level of Z=1, the level of Z=2, or somewhere in between) and / or can be stored in one or more vertical stacks of two or more storage containers. In the latter case, the container transfer space can include vertical uprights defining at least one storage column, and the stack of storage containers can be contained in the at least one storage column.

[0057] In another exemplary configuration, the automatic storage and retrieval system includes a cooling unit configured to provide a lower temperature in the first space than in the second space. In addition, the wall can be provided with an insulating portion (such as expanded polystyrene or similar foam material) to reduce the thermal conductivity between the first space and the second space.

[0058] The cooling unit may be an air conditioning system that allows the compressed cooling chemical to evaporate from a liquid to a gas, absorbing heat in the process.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, the cooling unit may be a refrigeration unit having a heat pump which transfers heat from inside the first space to the outside space.

[0060] In this document, air conditioning systems and refrigeration units are broadly defined as covering a large temperature range, such as between temperatures below -20°C and ambient temperature (20°C to 25°C, such as 23°C), or between -20°C and ambient temperature, or between -5°C and ambient temperature.

[0061] In yet another exemplary configuration, the first space may be provided at a different gas pressure than the gas pressure within the second space, for example to reduce the risk of gas leakage.

[0062] In yet another exemplary configuration, the first space may be filled with a gas different from the gas in the second space, such as a gas that is less flammable than air, to reduce the risk of fire.

[0063] In yet another exemplary configuration, the partition vehicle may include a drive device for driving the partition vehicle between the first position and the second position.

[0064] Furthermore, the movement of the partition vehicle is preferably achieved by using a remote control system in signal communication with a controller arranged on the vertical extension structure / vertical plate of the vehicle. The partition vehicle may also include a sensor configured to detect the position of the partition vehicle relative to the tunnel, wherein the sensor is in signal communication with the drive means directly or via the remote control system. The tunnel may also carry such a sensor.

[0065] In yet another exemplary configuration, the partition vehicle includes wheels configured to move along the first set of tracks. In such a configuration, the wheels should be designed to provide the necessary stability for the partition vehicle while also avoiding obstruction to the cooperating first container handling vehicle and container transport device. Alternatively or additionally, the partition vehicle may be suspended from the ceiling of the tunnel and / or supported on tracks at the sides of the tunnel.

[0066] The wheels may include a first set of wheels (e.g., a pair of wheels) located at one side of the partition vehicle and a second set of wheels (e.g., a second pair of wheels) located at a second opposite side of the partition vehicle (viewing the partition vehicle along the longitudinal direction of the tunnel), wherein the first set of wheels and the second set of wheels are offset by at least one grid opening (i.e., a rail-to-rail separation of a grid cell). In addition, the wheels are adapted to move along the first set of tracks.

[0067] In yet another exemplary configuration, the width of the partition separating the vehicle is equal to n times the width of the grid unit, where n is a positive integer and a typical value of n is 2 or 3.

[0068] In yet another exemplary configuration, the partition vehicle comprises a member (such as a plate) oriented parallel to the central plane of the wall and a seal at least partially surrounding the edge of the member / plate. When the partition vehicle moves between the first position and the second position, the seal can contact the inner wall and the track system of the tunnel, thereby ensuring that the partition vehicle forms a sealed fit with the interior of the tunnel. The seal is also present when the partition vehicle is in the first position and the second position.

[0069] For example, if the panel has a rectangular cross-section, the seal should preferably cover at least the vertical edges and the top horizontal edge.

[0070] The required seals to the tunnel walls may be achieved by various means, such as brush seals, flaps, roll seals and / or air seals.

[0071] Instead of or in addition to seals on the partition vehicle, seals (eg brush seals, flaps, rolling seals and / or air seals) may also be provided on the inner surface of the tunnel.

[0072] In yet another exemplary configuration, the partition vehicle includes a battery configured to provide power to the drive device. The battery is rechargeable.

[0073] In yet another exemplary configuration, the partition vehicle is provided with insulation (such as expanded polystyrene or similar foam material) to reduce thermal conductivity through the tunnel between the first space and the second space. Such insulation can be configured for the specific design of the partition vehicle, for example by providing an insulating structure between the wheels.

[0074] In yet another exemplary configuration, wherein the automated storage and retrieval system includes a floor extending along the rail system, for example, at least across an opening of the tunnel, for example, at the first location and / or the second location.

[0075] The floor may include a plurality of floor-type panels, each floor-type panel having a length and width corresponding to the grid openings of the track system.

[0076] Furthermore, the bottom plate may be provided with a heat insulating portion to reduce the thermal conductivity between the first space and the second space through the container transfer space.

[0077] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a container transfer system for transferring storage containers between a first space of an automatic storage and retrieval system having a first temperature and a second space of the automatic storage and retrieval system having a second temperature higher than the first temperature.

[0078] The container transfer system includes: a wall that separates the automated storage and retrieval system into a first space and a second space; a tunnel that extends through the wall, wherein the tunnel is configured to allow storage containers to be transported between the first space and the second space; and a partition vehicle disposed within the tunnel.

[0079] The partition vehicle is preferably provided with insulation to reduce thermal conductivity through the tunnel between the first space and the second space.

[0080] Furthermore, the partition vehicle comprises drive means for allowing the partition vehicle to move along the tunnel, for example four wheels motorized by means of one or more external motors or one or more in-wheel motors.

[0081] The partition vehicle preferably extends across the transverse direction of the tunnel.For example, the partition vehicle may be arranged in a close-fitting manner, ie wherein the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the vehicle is equal to or slightly smaller than the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the tunnel.

[0082] In an exemplary configuration, the partition vehicle comprises a member / wall portion and a seal around the edge of the member. When the partition vehicle is moving along the tunnel, the seal may contact the inner side wall of the tunnel.

[0083] In another exemplary configuration, the partition vehicle includes a sensor configured to detect the position of the partition vehicle relative to the tunnel. The sensor may be in signal communication with a drive device of the partition vehicle directly or via a remote control system.

[0084] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a partition vehicle that can be arranged in a tunnel, wherein the partition vehicle is provided with an insulation portion to reduce the thermal conductivity between a first space and a second space located on opposite sides of the tunnel, and wherein the partition vehicle includes a drive device, such as a belt and / or shaft drive wheel, or two or four wheels with a motor to allow the partition vehicle to move along the tunnel. If the body of the partition vehicle has a rectangular design, the partition vehicle may include four wheels, which may be placed at or near the lower corners of the body. The wheels allow the partition vehicle to move in the X direction. The motor driving the wheels may be a DC motor.

[0085] The partition vehicle may comprise a vertically extending structure / wall member / upright partition and a seal around the edge of the wall member, wherein the seal contacts the inner wall of the tunnel when the partition vehicle moves along the tunnel. Furthermore, the partition vehicle may be configured according to any of the features as described above in relation to the first or second aspects of the invention. The wheels may be placed at or near the corners of the vertically extending structure.

[0086] In a fourth aspect, the invention relates to an assembly of a tunnel and partition vehicle which can be mounted into a hole in a wall separating a first space from a second space. The tunnel and partition vehicle may include any of the features as described above in relation to the first, second and / or third aspects of the invention.

[0087] In a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a partition vehicle which may include any of the features associated with the partition vehicle of the first or second aspect of the invention, namely including a plurality of wheels (such as four or more wheels allowing movement in the X direction), and including a body comprising a wall member and a seal around the edge of the wall member, wherein the wall member forms a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the X direction set by the wheels. In addition, the body may include an upright partition oriented perpendicular to the X direction. At least two of the wheels located on each side of the partition vehicle may be driven by a motor, such as a DC motor fixed to the body and / or within the wheel. The wheels may be placed at or near the corners of the body.

[0088] In a sixth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for transferring storage containers between a first space and a second space within an automated storage and retrieval system as described in the first aspect.

[0089] The method comprises the following steps:

[0090] - moving the partition vehicle into a second position so that the first container handling vehicle can access the container transfer space;

[0091] - lifting a storage container stored in the first storage volume using a lifting device forming part of the first container handling vehicle;

[0092] - transport of storage containers into the tunnel;

[0093] - Unloading of storage containers into the container transfer space;

[0094] - moving the partition vehicle into a first position so that the container transport device can access the container transfer space;

[0095] - lifting storage containers from the container transfer space;

[0096] - Transporting the storage container to another location within the second space.

[0097] The method may then include:

[0098] - Returning the storage container from the second space to the first space. The method may perform the above-mentioned steps in reverse.

[0099] In the exemplary method of the sixth aspect, the container transport device is a second container handling vehicle configured to transport at least one storage container along the rail system. In the exemplary method, the storage and retrieval system includes a second storage volume portion accommodated in the second space and allowing the storage containers to be stored in the form of a vertical stack, and transporting the storage container to another location in the second space is performed along the rail system.

[0100] The exemplary method may also include the step of placing a storage container onto the stack within the second storage volume.

[0101] In addition to solving or at least alleviating the problems described above and providing a solution for allowing handling of boxes within a storage system that are located in a space having an environment different from the surrounding environment, at least some of the exemplary configurations have additional advantages:

[0102] - Providing an automated storage and retrieval system that allows safe long-term storage of biological species and / or fresh food;

[0103] -Provide an automated storage and retrieval system that prevents condensation of electronic equipment within a container handling vehicle during transfer of boxes between multiple zones;

[0104] - To provide an automated storage and retrieval system which significantly reduces the risk of fire in or on the storage system during operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0105] The following drawings depict embodiments of the present invention by way of example only and are attached to facilitate understanding of the present invention.

[0106] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a prior art automated storage and retrieval system including a track system on which a plurality of remotely operated container handling vehicles operate and a storage volume for storing stacks of containers.

[0107] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a prior art remotely operated vehicle having a centrally disposed cavity for carrying a container therein.

[0108] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a prior art remotely operated vehicle having a boom for carrying a container underneath.

[0109] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a prior art remotely operated vehicle having a cavity disposed internally for carrying a container therein, wherein the cavity is off-center relative to the X-direction.

[0110] Figure 5is a side view of an exemplary automated storage and retrieval system according to the present invention, which includes a track system on which multiple remotely operated container handling vehicles operate and two storage volumes for storing stacks of containers, wherein the two storage volumes are separated by a wall.

[0111] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a container handling vehicle and a portion of an exemplary container transfer system including a wall, tunnel, and partition vehicle.

[0112] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of a portion of a container transfer system in which: Figure 7 A shows a partition vehicle in position outside the tunnel, and Figure 7 B shows a detailed view of a portion of the drive unit of a partitioned vehicle.

[0113] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a portion of a container handling vehicle and an exemplary container transfer system, wherein: Figure 8 A and Figure 8 B shows container handling vehicles located on both sides of the wall.

[0114] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a container handling vehicle and a portion of an exemplary container transfer system, wherein a partition vehicle is arranged in a tunnel.

[0115] Fig.10 is a perspective view of two container handling vehicles and a portion of an exemplary container transfer system, wherein: Fig.10 A shows that the partition vehicle is located at the opening of the tunnel towards the first space, Fig.10 B shows the container handling vehicle moving from the second space to a position within the tunnel to allow the storage container to be delivered to the container transfer space, Fig.10 C shows that the partition vehicle is located at the opening of the tunnel toward the second space, and Fig.10 D shows the container handling vehicle moving from the first space to a position within the tunnel to allow the storage container to be picked up from the container transfer space. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0116] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the drawings are not intended to limit the invention to the subject matter depicted in the drawings. Furthermore, even if some of the features are described only for the system, the partition vehicle, the components of the tunnel and the partition vehicle, or the container transfer system, it is obvious that they are also valid for the related methods, and vice versa.

[0117] Figure 5A side view of an automatic storage and retrieval system 1 according to the invention is shown. The positive X-, Y- and Z-directions point from left to right of the drawing, outwards of the drawing and from top to bottom of the drawing respectively.

[0118] The system 1 of the invention is divided into a first space 2 and a second space 3 by a partition wall 6 and a box transfer space 40 (container transfer space). Both the first space 2 and the second space 3 contain a storage volume 104, 104' with a common bottom plate 14, with boxes 106 (storage containers) in the form of a vertical stack 107. Figure 1 The rail system 108 described in the prior art system extends above all three spaces 2, 3, 40. The part of the system 1 located in the second space 3 also includes one or more port rows 119 for unloading or picking up boxes 106 to be transported to / from the access station 150. Further handling of the boxes 106 can be performed by operators 151. The box transfer space 40 is located in the second space 3. Figure 5 106. However, the box transfer space 40 can be configured to accept a stack of boxes 107 having a depth deeper than one box 106, for example, extending some (e.g., two or three box depths) or even extending all the way down to the depth of the floor 14.

[0119] If the aim is to maintain the first space 2 at a different temperature than the second space 3, the dividing wall 6 may comprise an insulating material, such as polystyrene or fiberglass.

[0120] If the aim is to prevent the spread of fire from the first space 2 to the second space (or vice versa), the dividing wall 6 may comprise (in addition to or instead of insulation) a fire-resistant material such as fire-resistant glass, concrete, plaster, stucco and brick.

[0121] The system 1 also includes a box handling vehicle 300 (container handling vehicle) running on top of the rail system 108 in the first space 2 and the second space 3 .

[0122] The box transfer space 40 is configured to allow boxes 106 to be picked up and unloaded from both sides of the wall by box handling vehicles 300, and Figure 5 It is arranged below the rail system 108 and between the first space 2 and the second space 3 and is centered with respect to the partition wall 6 along the X-axis.

[0123] In addition to the floor 14, the storage system 1 comprises a ceiling / top plate 15, a second vertical wall 16 arranged to be oriented in the YZ plane and opposite the storage volume 104 in the first space 2, and two additional walls ( Figure 5 ), thereby closing the first space 2.

[0124] One or more through tunnels 10 are arranged through the wall 6, just above the part of the rail system 108 covering the box transfer space 40. The dimensions of the tunnel 10 are large enough to allow the transport of the box 106 between the first space 2 and the second space 3. Therefore, the hole that needs to be made in the wall 6 to accommodate the box transfer system should be equal to or greater than the height of the tunnel 10 and the height of the box transfer space 40.

[0125] In order to allow closure between the two spaces 2 , 3 , a partition vehicle 20 is arranged on a rail system 108 and is configured to move through the tunnel 10 while in contact or nearly in contact with the inner side walls of the tunnel 10 .

[0126] When the system 1 is used to maintain an environment within the first space 2 that is different from that of the second space 3, for example, an environment with a lower temperature and / or containing different gases, the enclosed first space 2 can be made fluid-tight or nearly fluid-tight during a period of time when the partition vehicle 20 is placed in a closed position within the tunnel 10 (for example, at one of the two openings of the tunnel 10 (referred to herein as the first partition position and the second partition position)).

[0127] In the following, fluid-tight means that there is no or insignificant uncontrolled leakage of gaseous substances during the closed state.

[0128] Figure 6 An example of a container transfer system 6, 10, 11, 20 is shown that allows a box 106 to be transferred between the first space 2 and the second space 3. The tunnel 10 comprises a horizontal tunnel ceiling 10a oriented parallel to the rail system 108 and two vertical side walls 10b oriented along the X direction. Thus, the tunnel 10 forms two openings with a cross section along the Y direction. Figure 6 In FIG. 1 , one of the two side walls 10b has been removed to better illustrate the inner volume of the tunnel.

[0129] exist Figure 6 , the partition vehicle 20 has moved to the opening of the tunnel 10 closest to the second space 3, thereby allowing the box handling vehicle 300 (container handling vehicle) operating in the first space 2 to move to a position where the box handling vehicle 300 can unload the box 106 into the centrally arranged box transfer space 40. After the partition vehicle 20 is unloaded and moved to the opposite opening of the tunnel 10, another box handling vehicle 300 operating in the second space 3 is in a suitable position to pick up the box 106.

[0130] exist Figure 6In the specific example shown, the size of the box transfer space 40 corresponds to two grid cells defining two grid openings 115 in the Y direction. In this example, the width of the tunnel 10 is slightly wider than two grid cells. Note, however, that the box transfer space 40 can have any size in the X and Y directions and can have any depth (Z direction). If the box receiving space 40 extends in the Y direction (width) and / or the X direction (length), the size of the tunnel 10 should extend accordingly.

[0131] Specific reference Figure 7 The partition vehicle 20 includes a drive device 22-26 that enables the vehicle 20 to move along the tunnel 10 in the X direction, a vertical rectangular plate 21 oriented along the Y direction, a sealing portion 28 arranged along the top edge and the side edge of the plate 21, and a sensor system 30, 31 that allows monitoring of the position of the partition vehicle relative to the tunnel 10 and / or the rail system 108.

[0132] In order to further prevent leakage of heat energy and / or gas components between the first space 2 and the second space 3 during operation, a seal 28 may also be arranged along the lower edge of the plate 21 .

[0133] Effective sealing between the partition vehicle 20 and the tunnel 10 (and alternatively also towards the track system 108) may be achieved using different types of seals 28, such as rubber seals, brush seals, flaps, rolling seals, air seals, etc.

[0134] like Figure 7 As shown, when necessary, the partition vehicle 20 can be moved beyond the tunnel 10 to provide direct access through the wall 6. For example, if the tunnel 10 has a cross-sectional area that is larger than the corresponding cross-sectional area of ​​the box handling vehicle 300, the box handling vehicle can move between the first space 2 and the second space 3 when the partition vehicle 20 has been moved sufficiently away from the tunnel opening.

[0135] In order to further reduce the risk of heat leakage and / or gas leakage, specifically during the transfer of the box 106, the inner volume portion of the tunnel 10 may include a transfer floor 11, which is arranged on both sides of the box transfer space 40 in the form of a floor plate arranged in adjacent grid openings 115.

[0136] If the storage system 1 is intended to maintain the first space 2 and the second space 3 at different temperatures, the partition wall 6, the partition vehicle 20, the floor plate 11 and / or the tunnel 10 may comprise insulating material such as polystyrene, fiberglass or polyurethane foam.

[0137] If fire protection is intended, fire protection materials may also be included in one or more of the space dividing components (partition walls 6, partition vehicles 20, floor panels 11, tunnel 10). Examples of fire protection materials that may be used are fire-resistant glass, concrete, plaster, stucco and brick.

[0138] Still refer to Figure 7 , the drive device 22-26 of the partition vehicle 20 may include:

[0139] - four isolation vehicle wheels 22 allowing the isolation vehicle 20 to move in the X direction along the rail system 108,

[0140] - four wheel mountings 26 rotatably connecting the partition vehicle wheels 22 to the frame of the partition vehicle 20,

[0141] - Motor 24,

[0142] - a controller 27 in signal communication with the motor 24,

[0143] a drive shaft 23 rotatably coupled to at least two of the four partition vehicle wheels 22 , and

[0144] A drive belt 25 configured to transmit power from the motor 24 to rotate the drive shaft 23 and thereby move the partition vehicle 20 in the X direction by a desired length.

[0145] The controller 27 may communicate wireless signals with a control system 109 that controls the box handling vehicle 300 on the track system 108 .

[0146] The sensor system 30, 31 typically comprises two position sensors 30 which are arranged on both sides of the plate 21, thereby allowing the position of the partition vehicle 20 relative to external structures (such as the underlying track system 108 and / or the tunnel 10) to be monitored. Figure 6 and Figure 7 2 and 3 are shown in signal communication with each other via sensor wire 31 , and further in signal communication with controller 27 .

[0147] When the intention of the system is to maintain a temperature in the first space 2 that is different from the temperature in the second space 3 (for example, the first space 2 is a refrigerated space and the second space 3 is an ambient space), the partition vehicle 20 may also include temperature sensors 30 located on both sides of the plate 21, allowing real-time monitoring of the temperature difference. This again will allow quick detection of undesirable temperature equalization during box transfer through the tunnel 10, for example due to damage to the seal 28.

[0148] Figure 8A case where a box 106 is transported from the first space 2 to the second space 3 through the tunnel 10 by using a box handling vehicle 300 is shown.

[0149] exist Figure 8 In A, a box handling vehicle 300 is moving on a rail system 108 toward a tunnel opening in a first space 2 with a box 106 to be transported. A partition vehicle 20 is arranged in the tunnel opening, thereby preventing the box handling vehicle 300 from entering a box transfer space 40 located centrally in the tunnel 10 relative to the X direction.

[0150] As in Figure 8 As can be clearly seen in FIG. 4A , the partition vehicle 20 arranged in the tunnel opening forms a fluid-tight or almost fluid-tight closure into the tunnel 10 due to the seal 28 and the floor plate 11 .

[0151] Figure 8 B shows the situation on the other side of the wall 6, that is, in the second space 3, where the box transport vehicle 300 is heading towards Figure 8 The opening shown in A is moved relative to the tunnel opening.

[0152] Fig. 9 Shows something like Figure 8 , but wherein the partition vehicle 20 has moved to the other side of the tunnel 10 , and wherein the box handling vehicle 300 has moved to the interior of the tunnel 10 so that the box 106 is aligned with the grid opening 115 above the box transfer space 40 .

[0153] Fig.10 AD shows an exemplary sequence of transporting the box 106 from the second space 3 (eg, an ambient space at room temperature) to the first space 2 (eg, a refrigerated space with a temperature below 5°C).

[0154] -( Fig.10 A) The partition vehicle 20 moves to the opening located in the first space 2 of the tunnel 10.

[0155] -( Fig.10 B) The box handling vehicle 300 in the second space 3 transports the box 106 into the tunnel 106 so that the box 106 is located directly above the grid opening 115 that provides box access to the box transfer space 40 arranged below the rail system 108.

[0156] -( Fig.10 C) the box 106 falls into the box transfer space 40 through the grid opening 115 , the box handling vehicle 300 moves out of the tunnel 10 , and the partition vehicle 20 moves to the opening of the tunnel 10 located in the second space 3 .

[0157] -( Fig.10D) The box handling vehicle 300 in the first space 2 moves into the tunnel so that its lifting device 303 is vertically aligned with the grid opening 115, and the box 106 is lifted above the rail system 108 by using the lifting device 303.

[0158] In order to at least reduce the risk of fire in the first space 2, the system can be equipped with a gas regulating device (not shown). The gas regulating device may include a gas container located outside the first space 2, a gas inlet leading to the first space 2, and a gas pipeline in fluid communication between the gas container and the gas inlet. Through this arrangement, gas is allowed to flow between the gas container and the first space 2.

[0159] The gas container may include a device for reducing the percentage of a gas element in a gas mixture, such as O2 gas in air. Such a device is known in the art and therefore will not be further explained herein.

[0160] In dry air, the concentration of oxygen, a combustion-supporting gas, is about 21%. If the oxygen concentration is reduced to 16% or less, the risk of fire is significantly reduced. In air, a fire could theoretically occur, for example, due to sparks generated by the movement of the box handling vehicle 300 and / or sparks generated by a charging station (not shown) for charging the batteries in the vehicle 300 and / or combustion and / or accidental heating of the contents in the box 106 (such as may be caused by sunlight shining on flammable materials in the storage system 1).

[0161] The airtight separation between the first space 2 and the second space 3 ensures that the box handling vehicle 300 can store and retrieve boxes 106 located in an oxygen-reduced air environment (which has a reduced or insignificant fire risk, but which may pose a risk to human health), and receive the boxes 106 and transport them to a work area where humans can work safely.

[0162] Another example of a range of uses for the storage system 1 that allows control of gas concentration is the storage of fresh food. Prior art tests have shown that fruit (such as apples) can be optimally stored for long periods of time in an air environment comprising 1% O2 and 1% to 2.5% CO2. The O2 gas can be replaced with N2 gas.

[0163] The storage system 1 with the cooling facility for cooling the first space 2 to a temperature below 10° C. and the gas conditioning device can create nearly ideal conditions for the storage of fresh food.

[0164] This fresh food provision of the storage facility may be supplemented by fire suppression equipment to reduce the risk of fire.

[0165] In addition to the advantages mentioned above, the storage system 1 of the present invention is easy to install and maintain, because all sensor technologies 30, 31 and drive devices 22-26 can be placed on the easily removable partition vehicle 20 instead of on the fixed tunnel 10, the box transfer space 40 or the wall 6 (which is also a possible solution). The controller 27 of the partition vehicle 20 can be connected to the control system 109 via WIFI or a wired network.

[0166] To further reduce complexity, the partition vehicle 20 may alternatively be equipped with a motor 24 having an internal motor controller. A programmable logic controller (PLC) sends direction and speed commands to the motor 24. The sensor system 30, 31 sends commands to the motor 24 to stop the partition vehicle 20 when it reaches the terminal position (e.g., the opening of the tunnel 10).

[0167] Mechanical stops may be provided at one or both tunnel openings to prevent the blocking vehicle 20 from moving out of the tunnel 10 .

[0168] In the foregoing description, various aspects of the automatic storage and retrieval system according to the present invention have been described with reference to illustrative embodiments. For the purpose of explanation, specific quantities, systems and configurations are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the system and its operation. However, this description is not intended to be interpreted in a restrictive sense. Various modifications and variations of the illustrative embodiments and other embodiments of the system that are obvious to those skilled in the art of the disclosed subject matter are considered to fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0169] Reference numerals / letter list

[0170] 1 Automatic storage and retrieval system

[0171] 2 First Space / Refrigerated Space

[0172] 3 Second Space / Environmental Space

[0173] 4 Cooling system / refrigerator

[0174] 6. Partition wall

[0175] 10. Tunnel

[0176] 10a Tunnel roof

[0177] 10b Tunnel side wall

[0178] 11 Transfer floor 40 / floor plate for container transfer space

[0179] 14 Base Plate

[0180] 15 Top Plate

[0181] 16 outer wall

[0182] 20. Partition vehicles

[0183] 21 Plate

[0184] 22. Block vehicle wheels

[0185] 23 Drive shaft

[0186] 24 Motor

[0187] 25 Transmission belt

[0188] 26 Wheel mounting section

[0189] 27 Controller

[0190] 28 Sealing part / rubber frame

[0191] 30 Position sensor

[0192] 31 Sensor wire

[0193] 40 Container transfer space / Box transfer space

[0194] 100 Frame structure

[0195] 102 Upright member in storage volume

[0196] 103 Horizontal member in storage volume

[0197] 104 first storage volume portion

[0198] 104' Second storage volume

[0199] 105 Storage Rows

[0200] 106 Containers / Storage Containers / Boxes

[0201] 106' Specific location container / target container / target box

[0202] 106” of free storage space for containers / boxes

[0203] 107 Stacking

[0204] 108 Track System

[0205] 109 Control System

[0206] 110 Parallel tracks in the first direction (X)

[0207] 111 Parallel tracks in the second direction (Y)

[0208] 112 Grid opening

[0209] 119 First port column / unload column

[0210] 120 Second port column / pickup column

[0211] 150 Access Station

[0212] 151 Operator

[0213] 200 Prior Art Container Handler / Remotely Operated Vehicle with Central Cavity

[0214] 201 Handling device body / body

[0215] 202a Driving device in the first direction (X)

[0216] 202b Driving device in the second direction (Y)

[0217] 300 Prior art container handling vehicle / teleoperated vehicle / box handling vehicle with cantilever

[0218] 301 Handling device body / body

[0219] 302a Drive / wheel arrangement, first direction (X)

[0220] 303b Drive / wheel arrangement, second direction (Y)

[0221] 303 Lifting device

[0222] 304 Gripper element

[0223] 305 Guide pin

[0224] 400 Prior Art Container Handler / Remotely Operated Vehicle with Offset Cavity 401 Handling device body / body

[0225] 402a Drive / wheel arrangement, first direction (X)

[0226] 402b Drive / wheel arrangement, second direction (Y)

[0227] 403 Lifting device

[0228] 404 Gripper Element

[0229] 405 Guide pin

[0230] X first direction

[0231] Y Second direction

[0232] Z third direction

Claims

1. An automatic storage and retrieval system (1), comprising: a first storage volume (104) allowing the storage containers (106) to be stored in the form of a vertical stack (107), - a rail system (108) arranged above the location where the vertical stack (107) of storage containers (106) is stored; - a container transfer space (40) extending from one side of the first storage volume (104) and configured to hold at least one storage container (106); a first container handling vehicle (200, 300, 400) configured to lift a storage container (106) from the first storage volume (104) and to transport the storage container (106) along the rail system (108) to the container transfer space (40); and - a container transport device (200, 300, 400) configured to lift a storage container (106) from the container transfer space (40) and transport the storage container (106) to another location, wherein the track system (108) comprises a first set of tracks (110) and a second set of tracks (111) oriented perpendicularly to the first set of tracks (110), the intersecting tracks (110, 111) forming a grid of grid cells defining grid openings (115), the grid openings allowing the first container handling vehicle (200, 300, 400) to lift a storage container (106) through the grid openings, - a wall (6), wherein the wall (6) separates a first space (2) of the automatic storage and retrieval system containing the first storage volume (104) from a second space (3) of the automatic storage and retrieval system, the rail system (108) continuing in the second space (3), a tunnel (10) extending through the wall (6) at the level of the rail system (108), wherein the tunnel (10) is configured to allow transport of storage containers (106) between the first space (2) and the second space (3), and - a partition vehicle (20) arranged in the tunnel (10), wherein the partition vehicle (20) is configured to move between a first position in the first space (2) and a second position in the second space (3) of the automated storage and retrieval system.

2. The automatic storage and retrieval system according to claim 1, wherein: The first space (2) is closed to prevent the ambient gas from entering in an uncontrolled manner.

3. The automatic storage and retrieval system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The container transport device is a second container handling vehicle (200, 300, 400) configured to transport a storage container (106) from the container transfer space (40) along the track system (108).

4. The automatic storage and retrieval system according to claim 3, wherein: The storage and retrieval system (1) further comprises: a second storage volume (104') housed in said second space (3) and allowing the storage of storage containers (106) in the form of a vertical stack (107), Therein, the container transfer space (40) extends through the wall (6) located between the first storage volume (104) and the second storage volume (104).

5. An automatic storage and retrieval system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The container transfer space (40) is arranged below the rail system (108).

6. An automatic storage and retrieval system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The container transfer space (40) is positioned such that the center plane of the wall (6) is associated with the center of the container transfer space (40).

7. An automatic storage and retrieval system according to any one of the preceding claims, - wherein the automatic storage and retrieval system (1) comprises a cooling unit (4) configured to make the temperature in the first space (2) lower than the temperature in the second space (3), and -in, The wall (6) is provided with a heat insulating portion to reduce the thermal conductivity between the first space and the second space (2, 3).

8. An automatic storage and retrieval system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The partition vehicle (20) comprises a drive device (22-26) for driving the partition vehicle (20) between the first position and the second position.

9. The automatic storage and retrieval system according to claim 8, wherein: The partition vehicle (20) comprises: - a sensor (30, 31) configured to detect the position of the partition vehicle (20) relative to the tunnel (10), wherein the sensor (30, 31) is in signal communication with the drive device (22-26).

10. An automatic storage and retrieval system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The isolation vehicle (20) includes wheels (22) configured to move along the first set of tracks (110).

11. An automatic storage and retrieval system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The partition width of the partitioned vehicle (20) is equal to n times the width of the grid unit, wherein n is a positive integer.

12. An automatic storage and retrieval system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The partition vehicle (20) comprises: - a member (21) oriented parallel to the central plane of said wall (6); and - a seal (28) around the edge of the plate (21), The sealing portion (28) is arranged to contact the inner side walls (10a, 10b) of the tunnel (10) and the rail system (108) when the partition vehicle (20) moves between the first position and the second position.

13. The automatic storage and retrieval system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The storage facilities include: A floor (11) extending along the rail system (108) at least over an opening of the tunnel (10) in at least the first position or in the second position.

14. A method for transferring a storage container (106) between a first space (2) and a second space (3) in an automatic storage and retrieval system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The method comprises the following steps: - moving the partition vehicle (20) into the second space (3) so that the first container handling vehicle (200, 300, 400) can approach the container transfer space (40); - lifting a storage container (106) stored in the first storage volume (104) using a lifting device (303, 403) forming part of the first container handling vehicle (200, 300, 400); - transporting the storage container (106) into the tunnel (10); - unloading the storage container (106) into the container transfer space (40); - moving the partition vehicle (20) into the first space (2) so that the container transport device (200, 300, 400) can approach the container transfer space (40); - lifting the storage container (106) from the container transfer space (40); and - transporting the storage container (106) to another location within the second space (3).

15. The method according to claim 14, in, The container transport device is a second container handling vehicle (200, 300, 400) configured to transport at least one storage container (106) along the track system (108), The storage and retrieval system (1) further comprises a second storage volume (104') which is accommodated in the second space (3) and allows the storage containers (106) to be stored in the form of a vertical stack (107). wherein transporting the storage container (106) to another location within the second space (3) is performed along the track system (108), and The method further comprises the following steps: - placing the storage container (106) onto the stack (107) in the second storage volume (104').

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