Automated storage system with frame-mounted modular panel system and reinforcement device

Abstract

A modular panel system in which panel members (16) of various functions can be easily inserted between upright members of a frame structure of a storage and retrieval system. The modular panel system of the present invention can be used as a stabilizing device for a frame structure. According to this aspect of the invention, the plate members (16) of the system are reinforced plate members that can be connected between adjacent upright members (102) of the frame structure (100). In another aspect, the panel member may provide functionality other than or in addition to stability, for example, the functional panel member may be a thermal insulation panel, a fire barrier panel, a sound insulation panel, or the like, whereby the panel may be used to form an area or barrier in the frame, such as a fire barrier wall for forming a refrigeration zone, a sound insulation zone, or for creating a fire zone.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated storage and retrieval system for storage and retrieval of containers, and more particularly to a device for stabilizing the frame structure of such a storage and retrieval system. Background Art

[0002] General automated storage and retrieval systems

[0003] Figure 1 A typical prior art automated storage and retrieval system 1 having a frame structure 100 is disclosed, and Figure 2 and Figure 3 Two different prior art container handling vehicles 201, 301 suitable for operating on such a system 1 are disclosed.

[0004] The frame structure 100 comprises upright members 102, horizontal members 103 and a storage volume comprising storage columns 105 arranged in rows between the upright members 102 and the horizontal members 103. In these storage columns 105, storage containers 106 (also called boxes) are stacked one on top of the other to form a stack 107. The members 102, 103 may typically be made of metal, such as extruded aluminum profiles.

[0005] The frame structure 100 of the automated storage and retrieval system 1 includes a rail system 108 arranged on the top of the frame structure 100, on which a plurality of container handling vehicles 201, 301 operate to lift and lower storage containers 106 from storage columns 105 and also to transport storage containers 106 over the storage columns 105. The rail system 108 includes a first set of parallel rails 110 arranged to guide the container handling vehicles 201, 301 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 parallel rails 110 to guide the container handling vehicles 201, 301 to move in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X. The container handling vehicles access the containers 106 stored in the columns 105 through access openings 112 in the rail system 108. The container handling vehicles 201, 301 can move laterally above the storage columns 105, ie in a plane parallel to the horizontal XY plane.

[0006] 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 to the uprights 105. The stack 107 of containers 106 is generally self-supporting.

[0007] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301 comprises a body 201a, 301a and first and second sets of wheels 201b, 301b, 201c, 301c which enable the container handling vehicle 201, 301 to move laterally in the X and Y directions, respectively. Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the two wheels in each set are fully visible. The first set of wheels 201b, 301b is arranged to engage with two adjacent tracks of the first set of tracks 110, and the second set of wheels 201c, 301c is arranged to engage with two adjacent tracks of the second set of tracks 111. At least one of the sets of wheels 201b, 301b, 201c, 301c can be raised and lowered so that the first set of wheels 201b, 301b and / or the second set of wheels 201c, 301c can engage with the corresponding set of wheel tracks 110, 111 at any time.

[0008] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301 also includes a lifting device (not shown) for vertically transporting the storage container 106, such as lifting the storage container 106 from the storage column 105 and lowering the storage container 106 into the storage column 105. The lifting device includes one or more clamping / engaging devices that are suitable for engaging the storage container 106 and can be lowered from the vehicle 201, 301 so that the position of the clamping / engaging devices relative to the vehicle 201, 301 can be adjusted in a third direction Z orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y. The parts of the clamping device of the container handling vehicle 301 are shown in FIG. Figure 3 304. The gripping device of the container handling device 201 is located at Figure 2 In the vehicle body 301a.

[0009] Conventionally, and also for the purposes of this application, Z=1 identifies the uppermost level of the storage container, i.e., the level immediately below the rail system 108, Z=2 identifies the second level below the rail system 108, and Z=3 identifies the third level. Figure 1 In the exemplary prior art disclosed in , Z=8 identifies the lowest layer, the bottom layer, of the storage container. Similarly, X=l...n and Y=l...n identify the position of each storage column 105 in the horizontal plane. Thus, as an example, using Figure 1 The Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z indicated in can be said to be Figure 1 The storage container identified as 106' in FIG. occupies storage location X = 10, Y = 2, Z = 3. The container handling vehicle 201, 301 can be said to be travelling in the Z = 0 level, and each storage column 105 can be identified by its X and Y coordinates.

[0010] The storage volume of the frame structure 100 is often 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 its position in the X and Y directions, and each storage unit can be identified by the container number in the X, Y and Z directions.

[0011] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301 includes a storage compartment or space for receiving and storing the storage container 106 while transporting the storage container 106 across the track system 108. The storage space may include a cavity disposed in the center of the vehicle body 201a, such as Figure 2 As shown and described in, for example, WO 2015 / 193278 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0012] Figure 3 An alternative configuration of a container handling vehicle 301 having a cantilever configuration 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.

[0013] Figure 2 The central cavity container handling vehicle 201 shown in can have a footprint with dimensions in the X and Y directions generally equal to the lateral extent of the storage column 105, such as described in WO2015 / 193278A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The term "lateral" as used herein can mean "horizontal".

[0014] Alternatively, the central cavity container handling vehicle 101 may have a footprint that is larger than the transverse area defined by the storage columns 105, for example, as disclosed in WO 2014 / 090684 A1.

[0015] The track system 108 typically includes a track with grooves in which the wheels of the vehicle travel. Alternatively, the track may include upwardly protruding elements, wherein the wheels of the vehicle include flanges to prevent derailment. These grooves and upwardly protruding elements are collectively referred to as guide rails. Each track may include one guide rail, or each track may include two parallel guide rails.

[0016] WO2018146304 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference) shows a typical configuration of the track system 108, including tracks and parallel guides in the X and Y directions.

[0017] In the frame structure 100, most of the columns 105 are storage columns 105, i.e. columns 105 in which storage containers 106 are stored in stacks 107. However, some of the columns 105 may have other uses. Figure 1In the embodiment, columns 119 and 120 are such special columns that container handling vehicles 201, 301 use to unload and / or pick up storage containers 106 so as to transport the storage containers to a storage and access station (not shown), where the storage containers 106 can be accessed from the outside of the frame structure 100 or transported out of or into the frame structure 100. In the art, such a position is generally referred to as a "port", 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 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 picked up by any container handling vehicle and transported to the port columns 119, 120 for further transportation to the access station. Note that the term "inclined" refers to the transportation of the storage container 106, and its overall transportation direction is between horizontal and vertical.

[0018] exist Figure 1 For example, the first port column 119 can be a dedicated unloading port column, where the container loading and unloading vehicle 201, 301 can unload the container 106 to be transported to the access station or transfer station, and the second port column 120 can be a dedicated pick-up port column, where the container loading and unloading vehicle 201, 301 can pick up the storage container 106 that has been transported from the access station or transfer station.

[0019] The access station may typically be a pick-up or deposit station where products are removed from or positioned in a storage container 106. In a pick-up or deposit station, the storage container 106 is typically not removed from the automated storage and retrieval system 1, but once accessed, is returned again to the frame structure 100. The port may also be used to transfer the storage container to another storage facility (e.g., another frame structure or another automated storage and retrieval system), a delivery vehicle (e.g., a train or truck), or a production facility.

[0020] A conveyor system including a plurality of conveyors is typically used to transport storage containers between the port columns 119, 120 and the access station.

[0021] If the port columns 119, 120 and the access station are located at different heights, the conveyor system may include a lifting device with a vertical component for vertically transporting the storage container 106 between the port columns 119, 120 and the access station.

[0022] 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.

[0023] When accessing data stored in Figure 1When a storage container 106 is located in one of the columns 105 disclosed in the stack 107, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 is instructed to retrieve the target storage container from the location of the target storage container 106 and transport it to the unloading port column 119. The operation includes moving the container handling vehicle 201, 301 to a position above the storage column 105 where the target storage container 106 is located, using the lifting equipment (not shown) of the container handling vehicle 201, 301 to retrieve the storage container 106 from the storage column 105, and transporting the storage container 106 to the unloading port column 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 includes temporarily moving the above-mentioned positioned storage container before lifting the target storage container 106 from the storage column 105. This step, sometimes referred to in the art as "digging," may be performed using the same container handling vehicle that is subsequently used to deliver the target storage container to the discharge port column 119, or using one or more other cooperating container handling vehicles.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, the automated storage and retrieval system 1 may have a container handling vehicle dedicated to the task of temporarily retrieving a storage container from a storage column 105. Once the target storage container 106 has been retrieved from the storage column 105, the temporarily retrieved storage container may be relocated to the original storage column 105. However, the retrieved storage container may alternatively be relocated to another storage column.

[0025] When a storage container 106 is to be stored in one of the columns 105, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 is instructed to pick up the storage container 106 from the pick-up port column 120 and transport it to a location above the storage column 105 where it is to be stored. After any storage container located at or above the target location within the storage column stack 107 has been retrieved, the container handling vehicle 201, 301 positions the storage container 106 at the desired location. The retrieved storage container may then be lowered back into the storage column 105, or repositioned to another storage column.

[0026] In order to monitor and control the automated storage and retrieval system 1, for example, to monitor and control the positions of the corresponding storage containers 106 within the frame structure 100, the contents of each storage container 106; and the movement of the container loading and unloading vehicles 201, 301, so that the required storage containers 106 can be delivered to the required locations at the required time without the container loading and unloading vehicles 201, 301 colliding with each other, the automated storage and retrieval system 1 includes a control system 500, which is typically computerized and typically includes a database for tracking the storage containers 106.

[0027] Stability of the frame structure of the storage and retrieval system

[0028] The frame of an automated storage and retrieval system as described above must of course be able to support the weight of the frame itself, as well as the combined weight of the storage container and its contents, the container handling vehicle and other equipment of the system. In addition, the frame must also be able to withstand lateral forces, such as those caused by acceleration and braking of the vehicle, uneven weight distribution, earthquakes, etc.

[0029] Prior art storage systems have employed various means to ensure adequate stability of the frame structure 100. In some installations, the frame structure is connected to and supported by a wall of a building housing the storage system. Where this is not possible, prior art storage systems may rely on auxiliary support structures (not shown) constructed at least partially along the periphery of the frame structure 100. The requirement to have an auxiliary support structure is disadvantageous for a number of reasons. The support structure occupies space / area that could otherwise be utilized by the storage system, i.e. it prevents optimal utilization of the available space / area for storage; the need for an auxiliary support structure may limit the available options for positioning the storage system, i.e. the auxiliary support structure may hinder optimal positioning of the storage system because the auxiliary support structure itself typically needs to be connected to surrounding structures, such as interior walls of a building; and the requirement for a support structure is not cost-effective.

[0030] In another example from the prior art, the present applicant previously described in WO 2019101367 a system of inclined support struts connected to upright members 102 of a frame structure. While the struts from WO 2019101367 provide stability and allow the frame structure to be self-supporting, there is still room for improvement in providing a simpler and more flexible means for stabilizing the frame structure 100. The solution described in WO 20191010367 does not provide a modular system in which functional panel members performing various functions can be installed.

[0031] A particular disadvantage of the device described in WO 2019101367 is that the installation of the pillars depends on the new and slightly more complex profile of the upright members 102 of the frame structure. In the above-mentioned prior art storage system, four adjacent upright members 102 of the frame structure 100 define the storage pillars 105. The upright members themselves are hollow extruded aluminum profiles. The upright members have four corners 8, each of which has two vertical container guides 9. When in use, the corners 11 of the container slide up and down along the storage pillars 105 under the guidance of the corners 8 of the upright members. However, in order to install its stabilizing pillars, WO requires grooves or ridges in the space between the container guides 9, to which the attachment device for the pillars is connected. This requirement for a more complex profile of the upright members increases costs and prohibits the use of pillars in existing settings.

[0032] Therefore, there is a need for a modular device capable of stabilizing the frame structure of a storage system (and providing a modular system for creating functional areas in the frame structure of a storage system), which is an improvement over the device described in WO 2019101367 by being compatible with the simpler profile of the upright members 102 provided in the existing prior art storage system as described above.

[0033] Another example of the prior art is WO2016 / 172793. The application describes a storage and retrieval system that includes a frame structure that defines storage columns in which storage containers are stacked. An empty column is arranged adjacent to one of the four sides of the storage column. A container retrieval vehicle travels up and down the empty column and removes the storage container laterally from the adjacent side of the storage column. The application describes panels installed along the other three faces of the storage column, which are described as providing structural stability to the frame. Each of the panels has an inwardly facing lip so that three panels of a given vertical height of the column form a shelf on which the container rests and from which the container is removed laterally by the vehicle. Since the lips of the panels form a shelf on which the container is placed, the panels in WO2016 / 172793 must be installed as part of the original construction of the frame. The panels also cannot be removed or replaced when the containers are arranged in storage columns, and WO2016 / 172793 does not provide a modular system in which functional panels can be installed at different positions of the frame to create functional areas, because the support panels of WO2016 / 172793 must be located at each storage column. Summary of the invention

[0034] The invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claim, while the dependent claims describe further characteristics of the invention.

[0035] According to one aspect, the present invention is a modular panel system wherein panel members of various functions may be readily inserted between upright members of the frame structure of a storage and retrieval system as described above.

[0036] In another aspect, the modular panel system of the present invention can be used as a stabilizing device for a frame structure. According to this aspect of the invention, the panel members of the system are reinforcing panel members that can be connected between adjacent upright members 102 of a frame structure 100 as described above to provide structural stability to the frame.

[0037] On the other hand, the panel members may provide some functionality other than or in addition to stabilization, for example, the functional panel members may be thermal insulation panels, fire barrier panels, sound insulation panels, etc., whereby the panels may be used to form zones or barriers in the frame, such as for forming cold storage areas, sound insulation areas, or fire partitions for creating fire zones. These panels may be easily installed and removed, so that functional zones may be created, expanded, or repurposed at will.

[0038] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of stabilizing a frame structure of a storage and retrieval system.

[0039] In another aspect, the invention is directed to a method of creating functional areas within a frame structure of a storage and retrieval system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention. The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present invention, which will now be described by way of example only, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a frame structure of a prior art automated storage and retrieval system.

[0042] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having a centrally disposed cavity for carrying storage containers therein.

[0043] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having a cantilever for carrying storage containers underneath.

[0044] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a frame structure for an automated storage and retrieval system wherein the preferred modular panel system of the present invention includes reinforced panel members that serve as stabilizing means for the frame.

[0045] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Detailed view of the .

[0046] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred reinforcing plate member according to the present invention.

[0047] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B is a cross-sectional perspective view of a reinforcement plate member installed in an upright member of a frame structure.

[0048] Figure 8 is a detailed perspective view of a retaining profile of a panel member of a modular panel system inserted between adjacent container guide panels of an upright member.

[0049] Fig. 9is a perspective view showing the bottom of the reinforcing plate member attached to the bottom of the frame structure.

[0050] Fig.10 is a perspective view showing vertically adjacent reinforcement plate members attached to each other along their upper and lower edges.

[0051] Fig.11 is a perspective exploded view showing the side of the reinforcing plate member attached to the upright member.

[0052] Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B and Fig. 12C It is a display Fig.10 and Fig.11 Exploded view of the accessories.

[0053] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B is a track interface plate for connecting a modular panel system to a track system on which a storage container vehicle travels.

[0054] Fig.14 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the panel components of the modular panel system are functional panel components, such as fire barrier panels, insulation panels, etc., for forming functional areas in the frame structure of an automated storage and retrieval system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] In the following, embodiments of the present invention will be discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the drawings are not intended to limit the present invention to the subject matter depicted in the drawings.

[0056] The frame structure 100 of the automated storage and retrieval system 1 is combined with the above Figures 1 to 3 The described prior art frame structure 100 is constructed of a plurality of upright members 102 and a plurality of horizontal members 103 supported by the upright members 102, and further, the frame structure 100 includes a first upper rail system 108 in the X-direction and the Y-direction.

[0057] The frame structure 100 further comprises storage compartments in the form of storage columns 105 arranged between the members 102 , 103 , wherein storage containers 106 are stackable in stacks 107 within the storage columns 105 .

[0058] The frame structure 100 may have any size. In particular, it should be understood that the frame structure may be larger than Figure 1 The frame structure disclosed in is wider and / or longer and / or deeper. For example, the frame structure 100 can have a horizontal range of more than 700x700 columns and a storage depth of more than twelve containers.

[0059] In the foregoing description, various aspects of the delivery vehicle and automated storage and retrieval system according to the present invention have been described with reference to illustrative embodiments. For purposes of explanation, specific numbers, systems, and configurations are listed to provide a thorough understanding of the system and its operation. However, this description is not intended to be construed as limiting. Various modifications and variations of the illustrative embodiments and other embodiments of the system that are apparent to those skilled in the art to which the disclosed subject matter belongs are deemed to fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0060] Now refer to Figures 4 to 14 One embodiment of an automated storage and retrieval system and other aspects of the invention are discussed in greater detail.

[0061] Figure 4 and Figure 5 A frame structure 100 including a plurality of upright members 102 is shown. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Further illustrated is a frame structure 100 having a modular panel system 12 including a plurality of panel members 14 mounted between adjacent upright members 102. Figures 4 to 13B In the illustrated embodiment, the plate member 14 is a bracing plate member 16. As used herein, the term "bracing plate" refers to a plate member having a certain shape and configuration, made of a material specifically used to provide structural stability to the frame, so that a plurality of such bracing plates can provide sufficient stability so that the frame does not need to be affected by external structures. A sufficient number and location of bracing members are installed to provide structural stability to the frame structure. As shown in the figure, the bracing plate members can be installed along the outer row of upright members 102, or can be installed between upright members located inside the frame structure.

[0062] Figures 6 to 13B The reinforcing plate members 16 and the manner in which the plate members 14 are generally mounted between the upright members 102 are shown. Figure 6 As shown, the plate element, in this case a reinforcing plate element 16 , comprises a plate section 18 connected in the middle of two retaining profiles 20 . Fig.11 The assembly of the plate segment to the retaining profile is shown in an exploded view. As shown, the retaining profile 20 has a flange 21 to which the plate segment 18 is connected, for example, by bolts 30.

[0063] like Fig. 9As shown, in the case of the reinforcing plate member 16, the plate segment 18 is a plate with preferably four substantially triangular cutouts 22 to form an X-shaped pattern, but any shape that provides structural stability can be adopted. Other examples of this shape can be a plate with multiple circular cutouts, a plate in the shape of a triangular pillar, or a solid plate, but a plate with cutouts is preferred. This cutout reduces the weight of the plate segment, while the shape of the plate is intended to provide stability. For example, the X-shape shown provides excellent structural stability. In the case of the reinforcing plate member 16, the material of the plate segment 18 is preferably metal, most preferably aluminum. In the case where the plate member is a functional plate member, the plate segment 18 will be made of a material suitable for the desired function. For example, a fireproof plate member, and an insulating plate member, etc.

[0064] The retaining profile 20 is preferably an extruded aluminum profile, the length of which is equal to all or at least part of the side length of the plate segment 18. The retaining profile 20 has a cross-sectional shape that is particularly suitable for fitting between two adjacent container guide plates of the corner 8, such as Fig. 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 As shown. In one embodiment, the upright members 102 are extruded aluminum profiles having a box shape that fit securely and substantially occupy the space between the corner guide plates 9, wherein the corner guide plates 9 are relatively thin extruded aluminum with a certain degree of flexibility so that they can be slightly separated to allow the insertion of the retaining profile 20. In one embodiment, the guide plates 9 have inwardly protruding ribs 24. The retaining profile 20 has two corresponding grooves 25, which are arranged to receive the inwardly protruding ribs 24, thereby laterally fixing the plate member between the two upright members, for example in a snap-fit ​​manner. It should be understood that other interactive shapes of the container guide plates 9 and the retaining profiles 20 can be adopted to provide a secure joint, as long as the retaining profiles 20 can be easily attached to the upright members between adjacent container guide plates.

[0065] like Fig. 9 As shown, at least in the embodiment where the plate member is a reinforcement plate member 16, the plate segment 18 includes a lower flange 26. The lower flange 26 is equipped with a plurality of bolt holes 28, and the bolts 30 passing through these bolt holes 28 can be used to fix the reinforcement plate member to the floor 32 on which the frame structure rests. Other attachment methods can also be adopted. As will be discussed below in conjunction with another embodiment of the present invention, the plate member can have a function different from or in addition to providing stability for the frame structure in certain uses. The plate member with this additional or different function is referred to as a "functional" plate member in this article. In some embodiments, it is not necessary to bolt the functional plate member to the floor or frame structure.

[0066] The installation of the panel system will now be described. It should be understood that the order of the following steps may be rearranged.

[0067] The panel system is installed by attaching two retaining profiles 20 to two adjacent upright members 102 at the lowest level of the frame structure. The retaining profiles 20 are connected to the upright members 102 by inserting them between the guide plates 9, which is possible due to the relative flexibility of the guide plates 9. In one embodiment, the guide plates 9 have ribs that snap into corresponding grooves in the retaining profiles.

[0068] like Fig.11 As shown, the panel section is then connected to the retaining profile 20 by passing bolts 30 through pre-drilled aligned holes in the flange 21. The pre-installation of the retaining profile together with the flange 21 facilitates the attachment of the panel section. The panel section is then bolted to the floor through the pre-drilled holes in the lower flange portion 26.

[0069] The next highest plate member is then installed above the first plate member that has been installed. In the case of the reinforcement means, vertically adjacent plate members are preferably bolted together. Fig. 12A as well as Fig. 12B and Fig. 12C Alternative embodiments for connecting vertically adjacent plate members are presented.

[0070] like Fig. 12A As shown, in one embodiment, the plate segment 18 is provided with a lower flange 26 and an upper flange 34 that protrude at about 90 degrees. Fig.10 As shown in Figure 12, vertically adjacent plate sections can be bolted together by pre-drilling aligned holes. Fig. 12B and Fig. 12C In the alternative embodiment shown, the panel segment 18 has an offset lip 35 that is arranged to overlap an adjacent panel segment 18 .

[0071] In order to attach the modular panel system 12 to the upper track system 108 of the frame 100, at least in the case where the panel system has a stabilizing function, a method such as Fig.13A and Fig. 13B The track interface plate 36 shown. The track interface plate 36 has an offset upper portion 38 and has a lower portion 37, the upper portion being arranged to engage and connect to the track system 108 and the lower portion being arranged to overlap the uppermost plate member 16. Self-drilling screws 40 are used to secure the lower portion 37 of the interface plate 36 to the uppermost plate member 16, rather than using pre-drilled holes, as misalignment or height differences would typically prevent the upper holes from being properly aligned. The self-drilling screws allow any height differences or other misalignments of the frame structure to be addressed by the interface plate. As discussed below, in the case where the plate member 14 has a function that does not necessarily provide stability, it may not be necessary to secure the modular panel system 12 to the track system 108.

[0072] As from Figures 5 to 13B As can be appreciated, according to one aspect, the present invention provides a method for stabilizing a frame structure of an automated storage and retrieval system. According to the method, a plurality of reinforcing plate members 16 are installed, comprising a plate segment 18 attached between two retaining profiles 20. The retaining profiles 20 are inserted between the guide plates 9 of adjacent upright members 102 of the assembled frame structure 100 and the plate segments 18 bolted to the retaining profiles. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C As shown, the lowermost reinforcement plate member is attached to the floor 32 of the frame structure, and the vertically adjacent reinforcement plate members are bolted together. At the uppermost level, the track interface plate 36 connects the plate system to the track system 108, wherein the track interface plate 36 and self-drilling screws 40 are used to compensate for any misalignment of the frame structure.

[0073] Fig.14 An embodiment of a modular panel system 12 is shown, in which the panel member 14 is a functional panel member 42, which is defined as a panel member having a function other than or in addition to a stabilizing function. For example, the functional panel member 42 may be an insulating panel having the function of creating a cold storage area in a storage and retrieval system. The functional panel member 42 may also be a flame retardant panel having the function of creating a fire barrier. In this embodiment, the panel segment 18 is made of or includes a material suitable for a given function and is attached between the retaining profiles 20 as described above.

[0074] According to one aspect, by providing a plurality of functional panel segments 18 to form a plurality of functional panel members 42 together with the retaining profile 20, the present invention thus provides a method for creating a functional zone 44 in a storage and retrieval system. The functional panel members 42 can be retrofitted to an existing storage structure, for example, in order to provide some new functionality or to reconfigure some previously installed functionality. As described above, a sufficient number of functional panel members 42 are installed between the upright members 102 to form the desired size and shape of the functional zone 44. The functional zone 44 can be, for example, an insulating zone, a refrigerated zone, a fire barrier or fireproof zone, a soundproof zone, or any zone that can be defined by the functional properties of the panel member.

[0075] Since the functional panel members may not always perform a stabilizing function, it may not be necessary in all cases to bolt the functional panel members 42 together and / or to the frame structure or floor as described above, but it should be understood that the functional panel members may also have a stabilizing function at the same time, in which case bolting would be preferred. Because the functional panel members can be easily inserted into place, functional areas can be created, removed, resized and repurposed at will even in an operating storage system, by programming the storage vehicle to avoid areas that are being created, resized or repurposed.

[0076] Reference Number List

[0077] Prior art ( Figures 1 to 4 ):

[0078] 1: Automated storage and retrieval systems of the prior art

[0079] 100: Framework structure

[0080] 102: Vertical members of frame structure

[0081] 103: Horizontal members of frame structures

[0082] 104: Storage Grid

[0083] 105: Storage column

[0084] 106: Storage Container

[0085] 106': Specific location of storage container

[0086] 107: Stack

[0087] 108: Track system

[0088] 110: Parallel tracks in the first direction (X)

[0089] 110a: first track in the first direction (X)

[0090] 110b: Second track in the first direction (X)

[0091] 111: Parallel tracks in the second direction (Y)

[0092] 111a: first track in the second direction (Y)

[0093] 111b: second track in the second direction (Y)

[0094] 112: Access opening

[0095] 119: First port column

[0096] 120: Second port column

[0097] 201: Prior Art Storage Container Vehicle

[0098] 201a: body of storage container vehicle 201

[0099] 201b: driving device / wheel device, first direction (X)

[0100] 201c: Driving device / wheel device, second direction (Y)

[0101] 301: Prior Art Cantilever Storage Container Vehicle

[0102] 301a: Body of storage container vehicle 301

[0103] 301b: driving device in the first direction (X)

[0104] 301c: driving device in the second direction (Y)

[0105] 304: Clamping equipment

[0106] 500: Control system

[0107] X: First direction

[0108] Y: Second direction

[0109] Z: Third direction

[0110] 8: Corner

[0111] 9: Container guide plate

[0112] 11: Corner of storage container

[0113] 12: Modular board system

[0114] 14: Plate components

[0115] 16: Reinforcement plate components

[0116] 18: Board section

[0117] 20: Maintain profile

[0118] 21: Flange

[0119] 22: Incision

[0120] 24: Ribs protruding inwards

[0121] 25: Groove

[0122] 26: Lower flange

[0123] 28: Bolt hole

[0124] 30: Bolt

[0125] 32: Floor

[0126] 34: Upper flange

[0127] 36: Track interface board

[0128] 37: Lower part of the interface board

[0129] 38: Biased upper part of the interface board

[0130] 40: Self-drilling screws

[0131] 42: Functional board components

[0132] 44: Functional area

Claims

1. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) comprising a frame structure (100) constructed from a plurality of upright members (102) connected by horizontal members (103) to define a storage grid (104) of storage columns (105) within which a plurality of storage containers (106) can be stacked, the frame structure having an orbital system (108) disposed at an upper level of the frame structure, the orbital system having parallel tracks (110) in a first direction X and parallel tracks in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction, the tracks being arranged such that a plurality of wheeled container handling vehicles (201, 301) can travel thereon, the container handling vehicles being equipped with gripping and lifting equipment (304) for removing storage containers from the storage columns and repositioning the storage containers in the storage columns. Characterized in that, the automated storage and retrieval system (1) further comprises a modular panel system (12), the modular panel system comprising: a. A plurality of panel members (14) mounted between adjacent upright members (102), b. The panel members comprising panel segments (18) removably mounted between two retaining profiles (20), each retaining profile (20) having a shape adapted to engage an upright member (102), and wherein the panel members (14) of the modular panel system (12) are functional panel members (42) having a function different from or in addition to providing stability to the frame structure, the functional panel members being adapted to create functional zones (44) within the frame structure (100).

2. The automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to claim 1, wherein, the upright members (102) of the frame structure have corners (8) pointing into the interior of a particular storage column (105), the corners comprising two vertically elongated perpendicular corner guide plates (9), the corner guide plates (9) of the upright members (102) being adjacent to the storage column (105) so as to form guides for the corners of the storage containers (106) stored in the storage column (105), characterized in that the retaining profiles (20) of the panel members (14) have a box shape adapted to be firmly inserted into and substantially occupy the space between the corner guide plates (9) of two adjacent corners (8) of the upright member (102), and further wherein the panel segments (18) of the panel members (14) are arranged to be connected to flanges (21) of the inserted retaining profiles (20).

3. The automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to claim 2, wherein, the guide plates (9) have inwardly projecting ribs (24) which engage corresponding grooves (25) of the retaining profiles (20) by snap fit.

4. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, the plate member (14) is a reinforced plate member (16).

5. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the plate member (16) includes an X-shaped plate section (18) connected between two holding profiles (20).

6. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, vertically adjacent plate members are fastened together, preferably by bolts 30, and the lowermost plate member is fastened to the floor (32) on which the frame structure (100) rests.

7. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, the plate section (18) has a lower flange and an upper flange (26, 34), and the upper and lower flanges of vertically adjacent plate sections are fastened together.

8. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the plate member (16) has a lower offset lip portion (35) which is arranged to overlap and be fastened to a vertically adjacent plate member.

9. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, the modular plate system (12) includes a plurality of track interface plates (36) which are adapted to fix the modular plate system (12) to the track system (108) of the frame structure (100), the track interface plate (36) having a lower part (37) which is arranged to overlap the uppermost plate member and is connected to the uppermost plate member by self-drilling screws.

10. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, the functional plate member (42) is a fireproof plate for creating a fireproof barrier, and the functional area (44) is a fireproof area.

11. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, the functional plate member (42) is an insulating plate, and the functional area (44) is a refrigerated area.

12. A method of stabilizing a frame structure (100) of the automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to claim 1, comprising the steps of: a. providing a plurality of reinforced plate members (16), the reinforced plate members including two holding profiles (20) and a plate section (18) detachably connected between the two holding profiles; b. installing the two holding profiles (20) between two adjacent upright members (102) at the lowermost layer of the frame, c. connecting the plate section (18) to the two installed holding profiles; d. installing additional reinforced plate members (16) along the storage columns above the first plate member to a desired height; and e. arranging the reinforced plate members in a desired quantity and pattern to stabilize the frame.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The retaining profile (20) and the upright member (102) have an interaction shape that allows a snap fit between the retaining profile and the upright member, and wherein the retaining profile has a flange to which the plate section is fastened.

14. A method of creating a functional zone in a frame structure (100) of an automated storage and retrieval system (1) according to claim 1, comprising the steps of: a. providing a plurality of functional plate members (42), the functional plate members comprising two retaining profiles (20) and a plate section (18) detachably connected between the two retaining profiles; b. installing a first plate member by connecting the two retaining profiles between two adjacent upright members (102) at the lowest level of the frame and connecting the plate section to the two installed retaining profiles; c. installing additional functional plate members along the storage columns above the first plate member to a desired height; and d. arranging the plate members in a desired number and pattern to create a desired functional zone.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the functional plate member (42) is an insulating plate member and the functional zone is a refrigerated zone, or wherein the functional plate member (42) is a fireproof plate arranged to create a fire barrier and the functional zone is a fireproof area of the frame.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein when the storage and retrieval system is in operation, installing the plate member in a construction area of the frame includes the step of guiding the vehicle (201, 301) away from the construction area when installing the plate member.

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