Two-part storage container having assembled configuration and split configuration

Abstract

The invention relates to a two-part storage container (10) for storing product items (80) in an automated storage and retrieval system (1). The storage container (10), when in an assembled configuration, comprises a base panel (11) and four side panels (12) extending from the base panel (11). The base panel (11) and the four side panels (12) define a storage space. The storage container (10) has a top opening (13) to provide access to the storage space. The two parts of the storage container (10) comprise: an upper container section (20) comprising at least two of the side panels (12a); and a lower container section (30) comprising at least a base panel (11). The upper container section (20) and the lower container section (30) are configured to allow vertical movement of the upper container section (20) relative to the lower container section (30). The storage container (10) is in a split configuration when the upper container section (20) is moved vertically relative to the lower container section (30).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a two-part storage container for storing product items in an automatic storage and retrieval system. The invention also relates to an automatic storage and retrieval system for storing the two-part storage container, the automatic storage and retrieval system comprising a frame structure and a storage volume, the storage volume comprising a storage row. The invention also relates to a method for loading and unloading items from a container space of a two-part storage container. 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 vehicles 201 , 301 , 401 suitable for operating on the system 1 are disclosed.

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

[0004] The frame structure 100 of the automated storage and retrieval system 1 includes a rail system 108 arranged across the top of the frame structure 100, on which a plurality of container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can operate to lift and lower storage containers 106 from and into the storage array 105, and also to transport storage containers 106 over the storage array 105. The rail system 108 includes: a first set of parallel rails 110 arranged to guide the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 to move in a first direction X across the top of the frame structure 100; and a second set of parallel rails 111 arranged perpendicular to the first set of rails 110 to guide the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 to move in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X. The containers 106 stored in the array 105 are accessed by the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 through access openings 112 in the rail system 108. The container handling vehicles 201 , 301 , 401 can move laterally above the storage row 105 , ie in a plane parallel to the horizontal XY plane.

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

[0006] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 includes a body 201a, 301a, 401a and a first set of wheels and a second set of wheels 201b, 201c, 301b, 301c, 401b, 401c that enable the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 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 201b, 301b, 401b is arranged to engage with two adjacent rails in the first set of rails 110, and the second set of wheels 201c, 301c, 401c is arranged to engage with two adjacent rails in the second set of rails 111. At least one of the sets of wheels 201b, 201c, 301b, 301c, 401b, 401c can be raised and lowered so that the first set of wheels 201b, 301b, 401b and / or the second set of wheels 201c, 301c, 401c can engage with the corresponding set of rails 110, 111 at any time.

[0007] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 also includes a lifting device for vertical transportation of storage containers 106, such as lifting storage containers 106 from storage column 105 and lowering storage containers 106 into storage column. The lifting device includes one or more clamping / engaging devices adapted to engage with storage containers 106, and the clamping / engaging devices can be lowered from the vehicle 201, 301, 401 so that the position of the clamping / engaging devices relative to the vehicle 201, 301, 401 can be adjusted in a third direction Z orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y. Part of the clamping device of the container handling vehicle 301, 401 is Figure 3 and Figure 4 304, 404. Figure 2 In FIG. 2 , the gripping device of the container handling vehicle 201 is located within the vehicle body 201 a and is therefore not shown.

[0008] Conventionally and for purposes of this application, Z=1 identifies the uppermost level of storage containers available below rails 110, 111, i.e., the level immediately below rail system 108, Z=2 identifies the second level below rail system 108, Z=3 identifies the third level, etc. Figure 1 In the exemplary prior art disclosed in , Z=8 identifies the bottommost layer of the storage container. Similarly, X=1...n and Y=1...n identify the position of each storage column 105 in the horizontal plane. Thus, as an example, and using Figure 1 The Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z shown in Figure 1The storage container identified as 106' in FIG. 1 occupies the storage position X=17, Y=1, Z=6. It can be said that the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 travel in the layer Z=0, and each storage column 105 can be identified by its X-coordinate and Y-coordinate. Therefore, Figure 1 The storage containers shown in FIG. 1 extending above the rail system 108 are also referred to as being arranged in the layer with Z=0.

[0009] The storage volume of the frame structure 100 is generally referred to as a grid 104, wherein the possible storage positions within the grid are referred to as storage units. Each storage column can be identified by a position in the X-direction and the Y-direction, and each storage unit can be identified by a container number in the X-direction, the Y-direction, and the Z-direction.

[0010] Each of the prior art container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 includes a storage compartment or storage space for receiving and loading the storage container 106 when transporting the storage container 106 across the rail system 108. The storage space may include a cavity arranged inside the vehicle body 201a, 401a, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown in and described, for example, in WO 2015 / 193278 A1 and WO 2019 / 206487 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0011] Figure 3 An alternative configuration of a container handling vehicle 301 having a cantilever structure is shown. Such a vehicle is described in detail in, for example, NO 317,366, the contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference.

[0012] Figure 2 The occupied area of ​​the chamber container handling vehicle 201 shown in the figure can cover an area with dimensions in the X-direction and the Y-direction substantially equal to the lateral extent of the storage column 105, for example, as described in WO2015 / 193278A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The term "lateral" as used herein can mean "horizontal".

[0013] Alternatively, the footprint of the cavity container handling vehicle 401 may be larger than the lateral area defined by the storage row 105, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown in and disclosed, for example, in WO 2014 / 090684 A1 or WO 2019 / 206487 A1.

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

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

[0016] In the frame structure 100, most of the rows 105 are storage rows 105, i.e. rows 105 in which storage containers 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 vehicles 201, 301, 401 to unload and / or pick up the storage containers 106, so that the storage containers can be transported to the access station (not shown), where the storage containers 106 can be accessed from the outside of the frame structure 100 or moved out of 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. The transportation to the access station can be carried out in any direction (i.e., horizontal, inclined and / or vertical). For example, the storage container 106 can be placed in a random or special column 105 within the frame structure 100, and then the storage container can be picked up by any container handling vehicle and transported to the port columns 119, 120 for further transportation to the access station. The transportation from the port to the access station may need to be moved in various directions by means such as a delivery vehicle, a cart or other transportation lines. Note that the term "inclined" refers to the transport of storage container 106 with a general transport orientation somewhere between horizontal and vertical.

[0017] exist Figure 1In the embodiment, the first port column 119 can be, for example, a dedicated unloading port column, at which the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can unload the storage containers 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, at which the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can pick up the storage containers 106 that have been transported from the access station or the transfer station.

[0018] The access station may typically be a pick-up station or a staging station at which the product items are removed from or positioned in the storage container 106. In the pick-up station or staging station, the storage container 106 is typically not removed from the automated storage and retrieval system 1, but is returned to the frame structure 100 after access. The port may also be used to transfer the storage container 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 storage containers 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 vertically transporting the storage containers 106 between the port rows 119, 120 and the access station.

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

[0022] When accessing data stored in Figure 1When a storage container 106 in one of the plurality of rows 105 disclosed in the embodiment of the present invention is removed, one of the plurality of container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 is instructed to take out the target storage container from the position of the target storage container 106 and transport the target storage container to the unloading port row 119. This operation involves moving the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 to a position above the storage row 105 where the target storage container 106 is located, taking out the storage container 106 from the storage row 105 using a lifting device (not shown) of the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401, and transporting the storage container 106 to the unloading port row 119. If the target storage container 106 is located deep in the stack 107, that is, one or more other storage containers 106 are located above the target storage container 106, the operation also involves temporarily moving the storage container located above before lifting the target storage container 106 from the storage row 105. This step (sometimes referred to in the art as "digging") can be performed using the same container handling vehicle that is subsequently used to transport the target storage container to the unloading port row 119, or using one or more other cooperating container handling vehicles. Alternatively or additionally, the automated storage and retrieval system 1 can have container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 that are specifically designed for the task of temporarily removing storage containers 106 from the storage row 105. After the target storage container 106 is removed from the storage row 105, the temporarily removed storage container 106 can be relocated to the original storage row 105. However, the removed storage container 106 can be relocated to other storage rows 105 instead.

[0023] When a storage container 106 is to be stored in a row 105, a container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 is instructed to pick up a storage container 106 from the pick port row 120 and transport the storage container to a position above the storage row 105 where the storage container will be stored. After removing any storage container 106 located at or above the target position within the stack 107, the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 positions the storage container 106 to the desired position. The removed storage container 106 can then be lowered back into the storage row 105 or repositioned to another storage row 105.

[0024] In order to monitor and control the automatic storage and retrieval system 1, for example, to monitor and control the position of each storage container 106 within the frame structure 100, the contents of each storage container 106, and the movement of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401, so that the required storage containers 106 can be transported to the required locations at the required time without the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 colliding with each other, the automatic storage and retrieval system 1 includes a control system 500, which is typically computerized and typically includes a database for keeping track of the storage containers 106.

[0025] WO 2021 / 089305 describes a set of shaped panels that can be assembled together to form a storage container for an automatic storage and retrieval system. When used in an automatic storage and retrieval system, these panels are always assembled into a storage container.

[0026] WO 2019 / 238642 and WO 2020 / 109495 describe an unloading device, an unloading station and a method for unloading items from a storage container. Storage containers with side openings are also described, wherein product items stored in the storage container can be removed laterally through the side openings of the storage container. Summary of the invention

[0027] The present invention relates to a two-part storage container for storing product items in an automated storage and retrieval system, wherein the storage container, when in an assembled configuration, comprises:

[0028] - base panels; and

[0029] - Four side panels extending from the base panel;

[0030] wherein the base panel and the four side panels define a storage space, the storage container has a top opening to provide access to the storage space, and wherein the two portions of the storage container include:

[0031] - an upper container section including at least two of the side panels; and

[0032] - a lower container section, comprising at least a base panel;

[0033] wherein the upper container section and the lower container section are configured to allow the upper container section to move vertically relative to the lower container section;

[0034] Therein, the storage container is in a split configuration when the upper container section is moved vertically relative to the lower container section.

[0035] In one aspect, the storage container prevents product items from leaving the storage space when in the assembled configuration; and wherein the storage container allows product items to be removed laterally from the storage space when in the disassembled configuration.

[0036] In one aspect, a two-part storage container includes an interface configured to enable the two-part storage container to be converted between an assembled configuration and a separated configuration.

[0037] In one aspect, product items are stored in a shipping container within a storage container, and wherein the storage container, when in an assembled configuration, prevents the shipping container from leaving the storage space; and wherein the storage container, when in a disassembled configuration, allows the shipping container to be laterally removed from the storage space.

[0038] In one aspect, in the split configuration, the upper container section is at least partially separated from the lower container section.

[0039] In one aspect, in the split configuration, the upper container section is completely separated from the lower container section.

[0040] In one aspect, the upper container section includes all four side panels.

[0041] In one aspect, the lower container section comprises only the base panel.

[0042] In one aspect, the upper container section comprises two side panels.

[0043] In one aspect, the two side panels of the upper container section have the same size and are arranged on opposite sides of the container space.

[0044] In one aspect, the lower container section comprises two side panels.

[0045] In one aspect, the two side panels of the lower container section have the same size and are arranged on opposite sides of the container space.

[0046] In one aspect, the upper container section comprises a cross member connecting two side panels of the upper container section to each other.

[0047] In one aspect, upper edges of the two side panels of the upper container section and the cross member define a top opening.

[0048] In one aspect, at least in the assembled configuration, two side panels of the upper container section are slidingly engaged with two side panels of the lower container section.

[0049] In one aspect, the two side panels of the upper container section are slidingly engaged in recesses in the two side panels of the lower container section.

[0050] In one aspect, the junction comprises:

[0051] - a first opening provided in the upper container section;

[0052] - A second opening is arranged in the lower container section; wherein the first opening is arranged above the second opening.

[0053] In one aspect, at least in the assembled configuration, the second opening is vertically aligned below the first opening.

[0054] In one aspect, the engagement portion includes four first openings and four second openings.

[0055] In one aspect, at least in the assembled configuration, each of the first openings is vertically aligned over a corresponding one of the second openings.

[0056] In one aspect, the first opening is provided in the cross member of the upper container section and the second opening is provided in the side wall of the lower container section.

[0057] In one aspect, the junction comprises:

[0058] - a first opening provided in the upper container section;

[0059] - locking means integrated in the base panel, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the locking means releasably lock the base panel to at least two of the side walls.

[0060] In one aspect, the base panel comprises an aperture, wherein the side wall comprises a lug insertable into the aperture, wherein the locking means comprises a pin for releasably locking the lug in the aperture.

[0061] In one aspect, the pin is spring biased into its locked position.

[0062] In one aspect, the first opening is engageable by a clamp of a lifting device of a container handling vehicle.

[0063] In one aspect, the second opening is engageable by a clamp of a lifting device of a container handling vehicle.

[0064] The invention also relates to an automatic storage and retrieval system comprising a frame structure and a storage volume, the storage volume comprising a storage column, wherein product items are stored in two-part storage containers according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the storage containers can be stacked in the storage column in the form of a stack; wherein the automatic storage and retrieval system comprises:

[0065] - loading and / or unloading stations, including actuators;

[0066] - a lifting device, including a gripper, for lifting the upper container section relative to the lower container section;

[0067] The system is configured as follows:

[0068] - conversion of the two-part storage container from the assembled configuration to the separated configuration by means of a lifting device at the loading and / or unloading station;

[0069] - Loading of product items into the lower container section by means of the first actuator, or unloading of product items from the lower container section by means of the first actuator.

[0070] In one aspect, the lifting device is arranged on a container handling vehicle.

[0071] In one aspect, a frame structure includes upright members defining storage rows and a rail system disposed across a top of the frame structure, wherein a container handling vehicle travels on the rail system.

[0072] In one aspect, the clamp is arranged to engage a first opening provided in the upper container section.

[0073] In one aspect, the clamp is arranged to selectively engage a first opening in the upper container section and / or a second opening provided in the lower container section.

[0074] In one aspect, the second opening is aligned vertically below the first opening, at least in the assembled configuration, and wherein the clip has a height sufficient to be insertable into the first opening and the second opening in the assembled configuration.

[0075] In one aspect, the loading and / or unloading station comprises a second actuator for operating a locking device integrated in the base panel, wherein the system is configured to:

[0076] - At the loading and / or unloading station, the storage container is converted from the assembled configuration to the split configuration by lifting the upper container section relative to the lower container section by the lifting device and by operating the locking device by the second actuator.

[0077] In one aspect, the loading and / or unloading station includes a base on which the storage container is received. The base can be located at the lower end of one of the plurality of storage columns of the frame structure. Thus, a container handling vehicle can move the two-part storage container in an assembled configuration from a storage position within the frame structure to the base of the loading and / or unloading station. The same container handling vehicle can then split the two-part storage container to be in its split configuration, thereby allowing the actuator of the station to unload or load product items or shipping containers from the two-part storage container into the two-part storage container. The same container handling vehicle can then convert the two-part storage container to its assembled configuration and then move the two-part storage container again to a storage position within the frame structure.

[0078] The invention also relates to a method for loading and unloading objects from the container space of a two-part storage container as described above, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0079] - transport of two-part storage containers to loading and / or unloading stations;

[0080] - at the loading and / or unloading station, the two-part storage container is converted from the assembled configuration to the separated configuration by means of a lifting device comprising a gripper;

[0081] - Loading of product items into the lower container section by means of the first actuator, or unloading of product items from the lower container section by means of the first actuator. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] The following drawings are attached to facilitate understanding of the present invention. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the present invention which will now be described by way of example only, in which:

[0083] Figure 1 It is a stereogram of the framework structure of the automatic storage and retrieval system of the prior art.

[0084] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having an interiorly disposed cavity for carrying storage containers therein.

[0085] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having a cantilever arm for carrying a storage container underneath.

[0086] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle viewed from below, the container handling vehicle having an internally disposed cavity for carrying a storage container therein.

[0087] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a prior art storage container containing product items.

[0088] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an assembly line with a shipping container.

[0089] Figure 7a is a perspective view of a two-part storage container in an assembled configuration.

[0090] Figure 7b is a perspective view of a two-part storage container in a split configuration.

[0091] Figure 8a is a cross-sectional view of a shipping container when stored in a two-part storage container.

[0092] Figure 8b The shipping container is Figure 8a Schematic side view of the way in which a two-part storage container is removed.

[0093] Figure 9a is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a two-part storage container in an assembled configuration.

[0094] Figure 9b It is in split configuration Figure 9a A three-dimensional view of a two-part storage container.

[0095] Fig.10a A top view of the locking device integrated in the base panel is shown in the locked state.

[0096] Fig.10b Shows the unlocked state Fig.10a A locking device integrated into the base panel.

[0097] Fig.11a The prior art clamping device is shown inserted into Figure 5 A method of connecting a storage container in the prior art.

[0098] Fig.11b The prior art clamping device is shown engaging the connecting joint to lift Figure 5 The method of storing containers in.

[0099] Fig.12a The clamping device is shown inserted into Figure 7a and Figure 7b A method of connecting a storage container in a joint.

[0100] Figure 12b Shown is lifting by clamping device Figure 7a and Figure 7b In the manner of the upper section and the lower section of the storage container.

[0101] Fig.12c The clamping device only lifts Figure 7a and Figure 7b In the upper section of the storage container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0102] In the following, embodiments of the present invention will be discussed in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. It should be understood, however, that the drawings are not intended to limit the invention to the subject matter depicted in the drawings.

[0103] The frame structure 100 of the automatic storage and retrieval system 1 is integrated with the above Figures 1 to 4 The prior art frame structure 100 described is constructed in a similar manner. That is, the frame structure 100 includes a plurality of upright members 102 and includes a first upper rail system 108 extending in the X-direction and the Y-direction.

[0104] The frame structure 100 further comprises storage compartments in the form of storage rows 105 arranged between the components 102 , wherein storage containers 106 can be stacked in the form of stacks 107 within the storage rows 105 .

[0105] The frame structure 100 may be of any size. In particular, it should be understood that the frame structure may be larger than Figure 1 The frame structures disclosed in are wider and / or longer and / or deeper. For example, the frame structure 100 can have a horizontal extent of more than 700×700 columns and a storage depth of more than twelve containers.

[0106] First, refer to Figure 5 , shows a prior art storage container 106 having a base panel 106a and side panels 106b, 106c extending from the base panel 106a. The base panel 106a and the side panels 106b, 106c define a storage compartment in which product items 80 can be stored. The upper edges of the side panels 106b, 106c define a rectangular top opening 106d through which product items 80 can be inserted into the storage compartment and through which product items 80 can be removed from the storage compartment.

[0107] Figure 6 Two conveyors are shown, on which a plurality of transport containers 70 are arranged. The transport containers 70 also contain product items 80. One transport container 70 can be stored in one storage container 106.

[0108] Typically, storage containers 106 are used to store product items 80 within the automated storage and retrieval system 1 or to store shipping containers 70 containing product items 80. Therefore, these storage containers 106 are designed to be stacked on top of each other and to be lifted by container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401. Shipping containers 70 are used to transport product items 80 from the automated storage and retrieval system 1 to a target destination. Shipping containers 70 may be designed, for example, based on the requirements of the target destination.

[0109] Reference now Figure 7a , which shows a two-part storage container 10. The two-part storage container 10 can be used with Figure 5 The two-part storage container 10 is used in a similar manner to the prior art storage container 106 in that the two-part storage container can be stacked in the form of a stack 107 in a storage row 105 within the frame structure 100, can be lifted by the lifting device of the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401, and can be used to store product items 80 or transport containers 70. In addition, the two-part storage container 10 has some other features, which will be apparent from the following description.

[0110] The two-part storage container 10 may be in Figure 7a . In the assembled configuration, the storage container 10 includes a base panel 11 and four side panels 12 extending from the base panel 11. The base panel 11 and the four side panels 12 define a storage space for product items 80 or shipping containers 70. The storage container 10 has a top opening 13 to provide access to the storage space. In the assembled configuration, the side panels 12 prevent product items 80 and / or shipping containers 70 from leaving the storage space.

[0111] The two-part storage container 10 includes two parts. The first part is an upper container section 20, which includes at least two side panels 12a. The second part is a lower container section 30, which includes at least a base panel 11. The upper container section 20 and the lower container section 30 are configured to allow the upper container section 20 to move vertically relative to the lower container section 30.

[0112] The two-part storage container 10 can also be in Figure 7b In the split configuration, the upper container section 20 moves vertically relative to the lower container section 30.

[0113] The two-part storage container 10 has a lower stacking joint similar to the lower stacking joint of the prior art storage container 106, and has an upper stacking joint similar to the upper stacking joint of the prior art storage container 106. Therefore, the storage container can be stacked on top of another storage container 10 or a prior art storage container 106, and other two-part storage containers 10 or prior art storage containers 106 can be stacked on top of the two-part storage container 10.

[0114] The storage container 10 can prevent product items 80 or shipping containers 70 from leaving the storage space when in the assembled configuration; and wherein the storage container 10 allows product items 80 or shipping containers 70 to be removed laterally from the storage space when in the separated configuration.

[0115] The two-part storage container 10 also includes a joint 40 configured to enable the two-part storage container 10 to be converted between an assembled configuration and a separated configuration.

[0116] As will be apparent from the following description, portions of the engagement portion 40 can also be engaged by the clamping member 404b of the lifting device 404 for converting the storage container between the assembled configuration and the separated configuration. This will be described in further detail below.

[0117] First embodiment

[0118] The first embodiment is Figure 7a , Figure 7b as well as Figures 12a to 12c Shown in.

[0119] exist Figure 7b , it is shown that the upper container section 20 includes two side panels 12a and a cross member 15 connecting the two side panels 12a of the upper container section 20 to each other. The two side panels 12a of the upper container section have the same size and are arranged on opposite sides of the container space. The upper edges of the two side panels 12a and the cross member 15 define a top opening 13.

[0120] The lower container section 30 includes two side panels 12b connected to each other via the base panel 11. In addition, the two side panels 12b of the lower container section have the same size and are arranged on opposite sides of the container space. As shown, the side panels 12a of the upper container section are perpendicular to the side panels 12b of the lower container section. It is also shown that the two side panels 12b of the lower container section 30 include recesses 16 (at Figure 7b The two side panels 12a of the upper container section 20 and the two side panels 12b of the lower container section 30 are slidably engaged with these recesses 16.

[0121] It should be noted that in the split configuration, the upper container section 20 can be completely separated from the lower container section 20. In this way, the two side panels 12a of the upper container section 20 are no longer slidably engaged with the recess. Therefore, the two side panels 12a of the upper container section 20 are only slidably engaged with the recess in the assembled configuration and during the movement of the upper container section 20 to and from the split configuration.

[0122] However, it should be noted that in the split configuration, the upper container section 20 may not be completely separated from the lower container section 20. Thus, both side panels 12a of the upper container section 20 can always be slidably engaged with the recess 16 in both the split configuration and the assembled configuration. This can be achieved by a mechanical feature such as a stopper of the two-part storage container 10, or by controlling a lifting device for moving the upper container section 20 relative to the lower container section 30.

[0123] In this embodiment, the joint 40 includes four first openings 41 provided in the cross member 15 of the upper container section 20 and four second openings 42 provided in the upper ends of the two side walls 12b of the lower container section 30. Figure 9a , Figure 9b As shown in FIG. 9 c , each second opening 42 is vertically aligned below its corresponding first opening 41 .

[0124] Second embodiment

[0125] The second embodiment is Figure 9a , Figure 9b , Fig.10a and Fig.10b Shown in.

[0126] exist Figure 9b In FIG. 1 , it is shown that the upper container section 20 comprises all four side panels 12a, 12b. The upper edges of the four side panels 12a, 12b define the top opening 13. The side wall 12b comprises four lugs 18 protruding downwardly towards the base panel 11.

[0127] exist Figure 9b In FIG. 3 , it is also shown that the lower container section 30 comprises only the base panel 11 . The base panel 11 comprises four apertures 17 in which lugs 18 can be received, ie the lugs 18 can be inserted into the apertures 17 .

[0128] In this embodiment, the joint 40 includes four openings 41 arranged in the upper container section 20, which are similar to the first openings of the first embodiment. The joint 40 does not include a second opening aligned directly below the first opening. Instead, the joint 40 includes a locking device 45 integrated in the base panel 11.

[0129] The locking means 45 comprises a pin 47 for releasably locking the lug 18 in the corresponding aperture 17. The pin 47 is spring biased into its locking position. Fig.10a and Fig.10b In the embodiment, the pins are connected to each other via a bracket structure 48 .

[0130] When the lug 18 is inserted into the corresponding opening 17 and the lug 18 is locked in the corresponding opening (the pin 47 is in Fig.10a ), the two-part storage container is in the assembled configuration (as shown in Figure 9a The entire storage container can now be lifted via the opening 41.

[0131] When the lug 18 is not locked in the corresponding opening (the pin 47 is in Fig.10b When the upper section 20 with the lugs 18 is in the position shown in FIG. 1 , the upper section 20 with the lugs 18 can be lifted from the opening 17. Thus, the upper section can be lifted from the lower section and the storage container can be placed in a split configuration (such as FIG. Figure 9b ).

[0132] Lifting device with clamping member

[0133] Reference now Fig.12a , Figure 12b , Fig.12c, wherein a lifting device 504 having a clamping member 504b is shown. It should be noted that due to the four first openings 41 and the four second openings 42 in the first embodiment and the four openings 41 in the second embodiment, the lifting device 504 includes four such clamping members 504b in order to operate the above-mentioned two-part storage container.

[0134] The clamping member 504b has two L-shaped elements that can move horizontally relative to each other. Fig.11a and Fig.11b The L-shaped elements of the prior art clamping member 404b of the prior art lifting device 404 in the prior art are similar. However, the two L-shaped elements of the clamping member 504b have a sufficiently large height to be inserted into the first opening 41 and the second opening 42 of the first embodiment described above when the two-part storage container 10 is in the assembled configuration, as shown in FIG. Fig.12a and Figure 12b as shown in .

[0135] The clamping member 504b may be Figure 12b 41 and the second opening 42, and then engage with the lower opening 42 by moving the L-shaped elements away from each other. When the lifting device 504 is lifted upwards, the upper container section 20 and the lower container section 30 are lifted together, i.e. the two-part storage container 10 is lifted when in the assembled configuration.

[0136] The clamping member 504b may also be Fig.12c 4 and then engage with the first opening 41 by moving the L-shaped elements away from each other. When the lifting device 504 is lifted upwards, the upper container section 20 is lifted relative to the lower container section 30, i.e. the two-part storage container 10 is converted to its split configuration.

[0137] The lifting device 504 with the gripper 504b may be a lifting device of a container handling vehicle similar to the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401. However, the lifting device 504 may also be a loading and / or unloading station 50 (e.g. Figure 8b A separate lifting device installed as part of the

[0138] Loading and / or unloading station 50

[0139] Reference now Figure 8a In this figure, a shipping container 70 is shown within a two-part container 10. As shown, product items 80 may be inserted into and / or removed from the shipping container via the top opening 13.

[0140] The dashed box 50 generally represents a loading and / or unloading station 50, which is used to load one or more product items 80 or a transport container containing one or more product items 80 into a two-part storage container 10, or to unload one or more product items 80 or a transport container containing one or more product items 80 from a two-part storage container 10.

[0141] In a first embodiment of the loading and / or unloading station 50, it is assumed that a first embodiment of a two-part storage container 10 is used. Here, the loading and / or unloading station 50 comprises a base 51 on which the storage container 10 is received. The base can be located at the lower end of one of the plurality of storage rows 105 of the frame structure 100. Thus, a container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 running on the rail system 108 can move the two-part storage container in an assembled configuration from a storage position within the frame structure to the base of the loading and / or unloading station. It is assumed that the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 has a structure such as Fig.12a With the lifting device 504 having the clamping member 504b shown in FIG. 4 , the joint 40 can be operated by the same container handling vehicle 201 , 301 , 401 .

[0142] When the storage container is moved to the base 51, the two-part storage container is converted to its split configuration by the lifting device 504, as described above. In a preferred embodiment, the base 51 includes a retaining mechanism for retaining the base panel 11 of the lower container section 30 on the base 51 while the upper container section 20 is lifted.

[0143] The loading and / or unloading station 50 includes an actuator 52 for unloading product items or shipping containers from the storage space or loading product items or shipping containers into the storage space.

[0144] The same container handling vehicle can subsequently convert the two-part storage container back into its assembled configuration and then move the two-part storage container again into the storage position within the frame structure.

[0145] In the second embodiment of the loading and / or unloading station 50 , it is assumed that the second embodiment of the two-part storage container 10 is used.

[0146] The loading and / or unloading station 50 has two main differences. First, the loading and / or unloading station 50 comprises a second actuator 53 for operating the locking device 45 integrated in the base panel 11 to switch it between the locked state and the unlocked state. The second actuator 53 is usually integrated in the base 51. Secondly, a dedicated lifting device 504 with a clamping member 504b is not necessary, because a second actuator 53 can be used. Fig.11a and Fig.11bThe prior art lifting device 404 with a clamping member 404b shown in FIG. 1 is used to operate the opening 41.

[0147] The operation of the second embodiment of the loading and / or unloading station 50 is similar to the first embodiment. When the storage container is located on the base, the second actuator 53 unlocks the locking device 45 of the joint 40, while the container handling vehicle operates the opening 41 of the joint 40 to convert the storage container to its split configuration, and then loads / unloads using the first actuator 52. After loading / unloading, the upper container section 20 is lowered by the lifting device of the container handling vehicle, and the second actuator 53 locks the locking device 45 of the joint 40 to convert the storage container to its assembled configuration, and then the storage container is moved again to the storage position within the frame structure.

[0148] In the foregoing description, the storage container according to the present invention and the multiple aspects of the automatic storage and retrieval system have been described with reference to illustrative embodiments. For ease of description, specific numbers, systems and configurations are set forth in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the system and its operating principle. However, this description is not intended to be interpreted in a limiting sense. Each modification and variation of the illustrative embodiments that are obvious to those skilled in the art of the disclosed subject matter and other embodiments of the system are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

[0149] Reference Numbers List

[0150] 1 Remove the system

[0151] 10 Two-part storage container

[0152] 11 Base Panel

[0153] 12 Side Panel

[0154] 12a Side panel

[0155] 12b Side Panel

[0156] 13 Top opening

[0157] 15 Transverse member

[0158] 16 recess

[0159] 17 Orifice

[0160] 18 Lugs

[0161] 20 Upper container section

[0162] 25 Locking device

[0163] 27 Pins

[0164] 30 Lower container section

[0165] 40 Joint

[0166] 41 First Opening

[0167] 42 Second Opening

[0168] 45 Locking device

[0169] 47 Pins

[0170] 48 Support structure

[0171] 50 Loading and / or unloading stations

[0172] 51 Base

[0173] 52 First Actuator

[0174] 53 Second actuator

[0175] 70 Shipping Container

[0176] 70to shipping container

[0177] 80 Product Items

[0178] 1. Automatic storage and retrieval system of the prior art

[0179] 100 Frame structure

[0180] 102 Vertical members of frame structure

[0181] 104 Storage Grid

[0182] 105 Storage Rows

[0183] 106 Storage Container

[0184] 106' Specific location of storage container

[0185] 107 Stacking

[0186] 108 Rail System

[0187] 110 Parallel guides in the first direction (x)

[0188] 112 Access opening

[0189] 119 First port column

[0190] 120 Second port column

[0191] 201 Container handling vehicle of the prior art

[0192] 201a Body of container transport vehicle 201

[0193] 201b Driving device / wheel arrangement / first set of wheels in first direction (x)

[0194] 201c Drive means / wheel arrangement / second set of wheels in second direction (y)

[0195] 301 Prior art cantilever container handling vehicle

[0196] 301a Body of the container transport vehicle 301

[0197] 301b Driving device / first set of wheels in first direction (x)

[0198] 301c Driving device / second set of wheels in the second direction (y)

[0199] 304 Clamping device

[0200] 401 Container handling vehicle of the prior art

[0201] 401a Body of container transport vehicle 401

[0202] 401b Driving device / first set of wheels in first direction (x)

[0203] 401c Driving device / second set of wheels in the second direction (y)

[0204] 404 Clamping device

[0205] 404a Lifting belt

[0206] 404b Clamp

[0207] 404c Guide pin

[0208] 404d lifting frame

[0209] 504 Special lifting device

[0210] 504b Clamp

[0211] 500 Control System

[0212] X first direction

[0213] Y Second direction

[0214] Z third direction

Claims

1. A two-part storage container (10) for storing product items (80) in an automated storage and retrieval system (1), wherein: The storage container (10) comprises, when in an assembled configuration: - a base panel (11); and - four side panels (12) extending from the base panel (11); wherein the base panel (11) and the four side panels (12) define a storage space, the storage container (10) has a top opening (13) to provide access to the storage space, and wherein the two parts of the storage container (10) include: - an upper container section (20) comprising at least two of said side panels (12a); and - a lower container section (30) comprising at least said base panel (11); wherein the upper container section (20) and the lower container section (30) are configured to allow the upper container section (20) to move vertically relative to the lower container section (30); Wherein, when the upper container section (20) moves vertically relative to the lower container section (30), the storage container (10) is in a split configuration.

2. The two-part storage container (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The storage container (10) is capable of preventing the product item (80) from leaving the storage space when in the assembled configuration; and wherein the storage container (10) allows the product item (80) to be removed laterally from the storage space when in the split configuration.

3. The two-part storage container (10) according to claim 2, wherein: The two-part storage container (10) comprises a joint (40) configured to enable the two-part storage container (10) to be converted between an assembled configuration and a separated configuration.

4. The storage container (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The product items (80) are stored in a transport container (70) within the storage container (10), wherein the storage container (10) is capable of preventing the transport container (70) from leaving the storage space when in the assembled configuration; and wherein the storage container (10) allows the transport container (70) to be moved laterally out of the storage space when in the split configuration.

5. The two-part storage container (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: In the split configuration, the upper container section (20) is at least partially separated from the lower container section (30).

6. The two-part storage container (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The upper container section (20) includes all four side panels (12a, 12b).

7. The two-part storage container (10) according to claim 6, wherein: The lower container section (30) comprises only the base panel (11).

8. The two-part storage container (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The upper container section (20) comprises two side panels (12a).

9. The two-part storage container (10) according to claim 8, wherein: The lower container section (30) comprises two side panels (12b).

10. The two-part storage container (10) according to claim 7, wherein: The upper container section (20) comprises a plurality of cross members (15) connecting two side panels (12a) of the upper container section (20) to each other.

11. The two-part storage container (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein: At least in the assembled configuration, the two side panels (12a) of the upper container section (20) are slidingly engaged with the two side panels (12b) of the lower container section (30).

12. The two-part storage container (10) according to claim 11, wherein: The two side panels (12a) of the upper container section (20) are slidingly engaged in recesses (16) in the two side panels (12b) of the lower container section (30).

13. A two-part storage container (10) according to any of the preceding claims when dependent on claim 3, wherein: The joint portion (40) comprises: - a first opening (41) provided in the upper container section (20); - a second opening (42) arranged in the lower container section (30); wherein the first opening (41) is arranged above the second opening (42).

14. The two-part storage container (10) according to claim 13, wherein: At least in the assembled configuration, the second opening (42) is vertically aligned below the first opening (41).

15. The two-part storage container (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The joint portion (40) comprises: - a first opening (41) provided in the upper container section (20); - locking means (45) integrated in the base panel (11), wherein, in the assembled configuration, the locking means (45) releasably lock the base panel (11) to at least two of the side walls (12a, 12b).

16. The two-part storage container (10) according to claim 12, wherein: The base panel (11) comprises an aperture (17), wherein the side walls (12a, 12b) comprise lugs (18) insertable into the aperture (17), wherein the locking means (45) comprises a pin (47) for releasably locking the lugs (18) in the aperture (17).

17. An automatic storage and retrieval system (1), comprising a frame structure (100) and a storage volume, the storage volume comprising a plurality of storage columns (105), wherein: The product items (80) are stored in two-part storage containers (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage containers (10) can be stacked in the form of stacks (107) in the storage row (105); wherein the automatic storage and retrieval system (1) comprises: - a loading and / or unloading station (50) comprising an actuator (52); - a lifting device (404; 504), comprising a clamping member (404b; 504b), for lifting the upper container section (20) relative to the lower container section (30); Wherein, the system (1) is configured as follows: - at the loading and / or unloading station (50), the two-part storage container (10) is converted from the assembled configuration to the separated configuration by means of the lifting device (404; 504); - loading the product items (80) into the lower container section (30) by means of the first actuator (52), or unloading the product items (80) from the lower container section (30) by means of the first actuator (52).

18. The automatic storage and retrieval system (1) according to claim 17, wherein: The lifting device (404; 504) is arranged on a container handling vehicle (201, 301, 401).

19. The automatic storage and retrieval system (1) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein: The clamp (404b; 504b) is arranged to engage the first opening (41) provided in the upper container section (20).

20. The automatic storage and retrieval system (1) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein: The clamp (504b) is arranged to selectively engage the first opening (41) in the upper container section (20) and / or the second opening (42) provided in the lower container section (30).

21. The automatic storage and retrieval system (1) according to claim 20, wherein: At least in the assembled configuration, the second opening (42) is vertically aligned below the first opening (41), and wherein the clamp (504b) has a height sufficient to be insertable into the first opening (41) and the second opening (42) in the assembled configuration.

22. The automatic storage and retrieval system (1) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein: The loading and / or unloading station (50) comprises a second actuator (53) for operating the locking device (45) integrated in the base panel (11), wherein the system (1) is configured to: - at the loading and / or unloading station (50), the storage container (10) is converted from the assembled configuration to the split configuration by lifting the upper container section (20) relative to the lower container section (30) by the lifting device (404; 504) and operating the locking device (45) by the second actuator (53).

23. A method for loading and unloading objects from a container space of a two-part storage container (10) according to claims 1 to 16, wherein: The method comprises the following steps: - transporting the two-part storage container (10) to a loading and / or unloading station (50); - at the loading and / or unloading station (50), the two-part storage container (10) is converted from the assembled configuration to the separated configuration by means of a lifting device (404; 504) comprising a gripper (404b; 504b); - loading the product items (80) into the lower container section (30) by means of a first actuator (52), or unloading the product items (80) from the lower container section (30) by means of the first actuator (52).

Images