Workbench

Abstract

A workbench includes a set of individual platforms for supporting a user. Each platform is movable between a storage position and a usable position. In the usable position, each platform is positioned at a different height above the floor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a height-adjustable workbench, a worktable incorporating such a workbench, and an automated storage and retrieval system including such a workbench or worktable. Background Technology

[0002] Figure 1 A prior art automated storage and retrieval system 1 with a frame structure 100 is disclosed, and Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 Three different prior art container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 suitable for operation on such system 1 are disclosed.

[0003] The frame structure 100 includes upright members 102 and storage volumes comprising storage rows 105 arranged between the upright members 102. In these storage rows 105, storage containers 106 (also referred to as boxes) are stacked one on top of another to form a stack 107. Members 102 can 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 guide rail system 108 arranged across the top of the frame structure 100, through which multiple container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 can operate to lift storage containers 106 from and lower storage containers 106 into the storage column 105, and also transport storage containers 106 above the storage column 105. The guide rail system 108 includes a first set of parallel guide rails 110 and a second set of parallel guide rails 111. The first set of parallel guide rails is arranged to guide the container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 across the top of the frame structure 100 in a first direction X. The second set of parallel guide rails is arranged perpendicular to the first set of guide rails 110 to guide the container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 in a second direction Y, perpendicular to the first direction X. The containers 106 stored in column 105 are accessed by container transport vehicles 201, 301, and 401 through access openings 112 in the guide rail system 108. The container transport vehicles 201, 301, and 401 can move laterally above the storage column 105, that is, laterally in a plane parallel to the horizontal XY plane.

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

[0006] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 includes a vehicle body 201a, 301a, 401a and a first set of wheels and a second set of wheels 201b, 201c, 301b, 301c, 401b, 401c, which enable the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 to move laterally in the X and Y directions, respectively. Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this configuration, two wheels in each group are fully visible. The first group of wheels 201b, 301b, and 401b are arranged to engage with two adjacent rails in the first group of guide rails 110, and the second group of wheels 201c, 301c, and 401c are arranged to engage with two adjacent rails in the second group of guide rails 111. At least one group of wheels 201b, 201c, 301b, 301c, 401b, and 401c can be raised and lowered, such that the first group of wheels 201b, 301b, and 401b and / or the second group of wheels 201c, 301c, and 401c can engage with the corresponding group of guide rails 110 and 111 at any given time.

[0007] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 also includes a lifting device 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. The lifting device includes one or more clamping / engaging devices adapted to engage the storage container 106, and these clamping / engaging devices can be lowered from the vehicles 201, 301, 401, allowing the position of the clamping / engaging devices relative to the vehicles 201, 301, 401 to be adjusted in a third direction Z orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y. The clamping devices of the container handling vehicles 301, 401 are... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The container handling device 201 is shown and indicated by reference numerals 304 and 404. The clamping device of the container handling device 201 is... Figure 2 It is located within the vehicle body 201a and is therefore not shown.

[0008] Conventionally, and also for the purposes of this application, Z=1 indicates the uppermost layer below guide rails 110 and 111 that can be used for storage containers, i.e., the layer immediately below guide rail system 108; Z=2 indicates the second layer below guide rail system 108; Z=3 indicates the third layer, and so on. Figure 1 In the exemplary prior art disclosed herein, 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. Therefore, as an example, and using… Figure 1 The Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z shown can be said to be in Figure 1The storage container labeled 106 occupies storage positions X=17, Y=1, Z=6. It can be said that container transport vehicles 201, 301, and 401 travel in layer Z=0, and each storage column 105 can be identified by its X and Y coordinates. Therefore, Figure 1 The storage container shown extending above the guide rail system 108 is also referred to as being arranged in the layer at Z=0.

[0009] The storage volume of the frame structure 100 is typically referred to as grid 104, and the possible storage locations within this grid are called storage cells. Each storage column can be identified by its position in the X and Y directions, while each storage cell can be identified by its container number in the X, Y, and Z directions.

[0010] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 includes a storage compartment or storage space for receiving and loading the storage container 106 when transporting it across the guide rail system 108. The storage space may include cavities arranged inside the vehicle bodies 201a, 401a, such as… Figure 2 and Figure 4 The contents of these applications, as shown in, and described, for example, in WO 2015 / 193278 A1 and WO2019 / 206487 A1, are incorporated herein by reference.

[0011] Figure 3 An alternative configuration of a container handling vehicle 301 with a cantilever structure is shown. Such a vehicle is described in detail, for example, in NO 317366, the contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference.

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

[0013] Alternatively, the area occupied by the cavity container transport vehicle 401 can be larger than the lateral area defined by the storage column 105, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, for example, in WO2014 / 090684A1 or WO2019 / 206487A1.

[0014] The guide rail system 108 typically includes guide rails with grooves in which the wheels of a vehicle travel. Alternatively, the guide rails may include upwardly projecting elements, where the wheels of the vehicle include flanges to prevent derailment. These grooves and upwardly projecting 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., the X direction) may include one track, while each guide rail in another perpendicular direction (e.g., the Y direction) may include two tracks. Each guide rail 110, 111 may also include two track members fastened together, each track member providing one of the two 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 tracks in both the X and Y directions.

[0016] In the frame structure 100, most columns are storage columns 105, meaning that the storage containers 106 store data in columns 105 in the form of stacks 107. Besides the storage columns 105, there are also dedicated columns within the frame structure. Figure 1 In this context, columns 119 and 120 are dedicated columns used by container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 to unload and / or pick up storage containers 106, enabling the storage containers to be transported to retrieval stations (not shown) where they can be accessed from outside the frame structure 100, or moved in or out of the frame structure 100. In the art, such locations are commonly referred to as "ports," and the columns containing the ports may be referred to as "port columns" 119 and 120. Transport to the retrieval station can take place in any direction (i.e., horizontal, inclined, and / or vertical). For example, storage containers 106 can be placed in random or dedicated columns 105 within the frame structure 100, and then picked up by any container handling vehicle and transported to port columns 119 and 120 for further transport to the retrieval station. Transport from the port to the retrieval station may require movement in various directions via transport vehicles, trolleys, or other transport routes. Note that the term "inclined" refers to the transport of storage container 106 having a general transport orientation in a direction between horizontal and vertical.

[0017] exist Figure 1In the first port column 119, for example, it can be a dedicated unloading port column, at which container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 can unload storage containers 106 to be transported to the storage or transfer station, and the second port column 120 can be a dedicated pick-up port column, at which container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 can pick up storage containers 106 that have been transported from the storage or transfer station.

[0018] The storage and retrieval station is typically a pick-up or stocking station where product items are removed from or positioned into storage container 106. At the pick-up or stocking station, storage container 106 is not typically removed from the automated storage and retrieval system 1, but rather returned to frame structure 100 after retrieval. Ports can also be used to transfer storage containers to another storage facility (e.g., to another frame structure or another automated storage and retrieval system), to transport vehicles (e.g., trains or trucks), or to production facilities.

[0019] Storage containers are typically transported between port lines 119, 120 and the access station using a transport system that includes multiple transmitters.

[0020] If port columns 119, 120 and access stations are located at different horizontal levels, the conveying system may include a lifting device with vertical components for vertically transporting storage container 106 between port columns 119, 120 and access stations.

[0021] The transfer system can be arranged to transfer storage container 106 between different frame structures, such as those described in WO2014 / 075937A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0022] When you need to access the stored Figure 1When a storage container 106 is in one of the multiple columns 105 disclosed herein, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 is instructed to remove the target storage container 106 from its location and transport it to the unloading port column 119. This operation involves moving the container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 to a position above the storage column 105 where the target storage container 106 is located, removing the storage container 106 from the storage column 105 using the lifting devices (not shown) of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401, and transporting the storage container 106 to the unloading port column 119. If the target storage container 106 is located deep within the stack 107, i.e., one or more other storage containers 106 are positioned above the target storage container 106, the operation also involves temporarily moving the storage container positioned above it before lifting the target storage container 106 from the storage column 105. This step (sometimes referred to in the art as "digging") can be performed using the same container handling vehicle subsequently used to transport the target storage container to unloading port column 119, or using one or more other cooperating container handling vehicles. Alternatively or additionally, the automated storage and retrieval system 1 may have container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 specifically for the task of temporarily removing storage container 106 from storage column 105. After the target storage container 106 has been removed from storage column 105, the temporarily removed storage container 106 can be repositioned back into the original storage column 105. However, the removed storage container 106 can alternatively be repositioned to another storage column 105.

[0023] When storage container 106 is to be stored in one of the multiple columns 105, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 is instructed to pick up storage container 106 from pick-up port column 120 and transport the storage container to a position above the storage column 105 in which it is to be stored. After any storage container 106 located at or above the target position within the stack 107 has been removed, container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 position the storage container 106 in the desired location. The removed storage container 106 can then be lowered back into storage column 105 or repositioned to another storage column 105.

[0024] In order to monitor and control the automated storage and retrieval system 1, such as monitoring and controlling the position of each storage container 106 within the frame structure 100, the contents of each storage container 106, and the movement of container transport vehicles 201, 301, 401, so that the required storage container 106 can be transported to the required location at the required time without the container transport vehicles 201, 301, 401 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 keeping track of the storage containers 106.

[0025] In order to handle storage containers at these access stations, ports, or pick-up and preparation stations in automated storage and retrieval systems, users stand next to a workbench to move products from inside the container onto the work surface of the workbench.

[0026] The workbench may include a work surface arranged to support goods to be processed by a user, who stands beside the work surface on the floor (with a base device ready to support the workbench on the floor). Preferably, the work surface is horizontally arranged at a height between 80 cm and 110 cm above the floor. Therefore, the workbench is designed to allow users of a certain height to stand beside it on the floor and work using their hands on the work surface.

[0027] Workbench users can have varying heights. When the height of the work surface does not match the user's height, it makes it difficult to ergonomically handle products on top of the work surface.

[0028] The present invention aims to solve or at least improve upon the problems associated with the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0029] The present invention relates to a workbench that can be used with the workbenches of the storage stations, ports, or pick-up and preparation stations of automated storage and retrieval systems described in the background art.

[0030] According to a first aspect, a workbench is provided, comprising: a set of independent platforms for supporting a user, wherein each platform is movable between a storage position and a usable position, and wherein, in the usable position, each platform is arranged at a different height above the floor.

[0031] The workbench can be positioned next to the workbench, allowing the user to work on the work surface using their hands while standing on the platform. The workbench frame is typically supported directly on the floor, but it can also be supported at a predetermined distance from the floor, for example, to allow cleaning underneath the workbench frame.

[0032] Optionally, a guiding device is provided to guide the stand-alone platform to move between its storage location and its usable location.

[0033] The platforms and / or guiding devices are arranged such that, in the usable position, a set of platforms are horizontally positioned at different heights above the floor, preferably each platform at its own different height. Thus, the respective platforms are prepared to allow a user of a relatively short stature (a user of relatively short height) to stand on the platform in the usable position, the height of the platform above the floor (or in other words, the depth of the platform below the work surface) such that, for a user of that corresponding height, the height of the work surface above this respective platform is ergonomic, and therefore allows for ergonomic and comfortable work on the work surface. In other words, platforms can be selected from a set of platforms, and these platforms can then preferably be moved from the storage position to the usable position by means of the guiding devices. It is worth noting that the smaller the user, the higher the platform should be above the floor to utilize the solution according to the invention.

[0034] Optionally, the guiding device includes guides such as rails, slides, or telescopic arms to allow the standalone platform to move generally linearly between its stored position and its usable position. The guiding device may include pairs of guides that can be used to ensure the platform is laterally fixed or stable as it moves between the stored and usable positions. Guides may be positioned on each platform, for example, on the longitudinal edge of each platform. Guides may function between adjacent platforms or between a platform and a frame that at least partially surrounds the platform.

[0035] Optionally, the guiding device includes a hinge or pivot about which the independent platform can rotate between its retracted position and its usable position. The platform can move in a horizontal plane about the hinge or pivot, or can tilt into the usable position.

[0036] Alternatively, the stand-alone platform can be arranged horizontally in its storage location.

[0037] Alternatively, the freestanding platform can be arranged approximately vertically or upright at an angle between 80° and 100° in its storage location. This arrangement can be useful when floor space is limited.

[0038] When arranged vertically, the platforms are arranged parallel to each other, vertically, or upright at an angle preferably between 80° and 100° relative to the horizontal floor.

[0039] Optionally, the workbench includes two or more independent platforms, preferably three or more. The number of platforms can be selected to provide adjustment for users of different heights.

[0040] Optionally, the stand-alone platform includes a handle for user operation to move the platform between its stored position and its usable position. This movement can be manual or driven by a motor and gear drive.

[0041] Alternatively, the stand-alone platform is independently self-supporting when in its usable position. For example, a guide device can provide sufficient support to allow the platform to extend itself into the usable position and maintain stable support for the user.

[0042] Alternatively, the standalone platform may be supported by one or more underlying platforms when it is in its usable location.

[0043] Optionally, when in their storage position, at least some platforms are stacked adjacent to each other or stacked on top of each other on their outer edges.

[0044] "Stacked on top of each other" means that platforms of a flat shape are stacked on top of each other. Preferably, the flat-shaped platform is supported by contacting the corresponding next platform from below. Most preferably, the shape of the platform includes a flat surface on its upper side (which then serves as a surface for the user to stand on and thus can carry corresponding patterns for better grip and to prevent slippage), and then preferably also includes a planar lowermost structure parallel to the planar surface on the upper side, such as an edge or the entire planar lower side. Preferably, the platforms have the same outer contour, preferably a rectangular outer contour, and when "stacked on top of each other," it preferably means that these platforms are stacked on top of each other in such a way that their contours overlap each other.

[0045] Optionally, a locking device is provided to lock the stand-alone platform in either or both of its stored and usable positions. The locking device may be, for example, a bolt or latch that engages the platform to prevent accidental movement.

[0046] According to a second aspect, a workbench is provided, comprising a workbench frame according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein a set of individual platforms, when in their retracted position, are positioned beneath the workbench. This advantageously allows users of different heights to use the workbench in an ergonomic manner, while the platforms can be (preferably) completely retracted beneath the workbench.

[0047] In the storage position, the platforms can be stacked on top of each other, and most preferably, located below the workbench. In the latter case, the platforms are ready to move like drawers (pulled out of the storage position) to the usable position (manually by means of a handle, or driven by means of a motor and gear drive). In other words, the platforms can then move linearly in the horizontal direction or in a plane (substantially) parallel to the work surface.

[0048] Alternatively, the workbench is an access station, port, or pick-up and preparation station for an automated storage and retrieval system. The workbench may be provided with access openings to facilitate access to containers transported to the workbench.

[0049] According to a third aspect, an automated storage and retrieval system is provided, comprising a workbench according to the first aspect or any optional feature, or comprising a worktable according to the second aspect or any optional feature. The adaptability of the workbench to different users can facilitate the ability of users of different body types to work efficiently at the worktable. Attached Figure Description

[0050] The following figures are attached to aid in understanding the present invention. The figures illustrate embodiments of the invention, which will now be described by way of example only, in which: Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the framework structure of an existing automated storage and retrieval system.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having an internal cavity for carrying storage containers therein.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having a cantilever for supporting storage containers below.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle, seen from below, having an internal cavity for carrying storage containers therein.

[0054] Figure 5a It is a side view of an access station of an automated storage and retrieval system, including a workbench that comprises a set of platforms in a storage position.

[0055] Figure 5b and Figure 5c yes Figure 5a A side view of the access station, showing the platform in two alternative usable locations.

[0056] Figure 6a It is a side view of an alternative storage station for an automated storage and retrieval system, including a workbench comprising a set of alternative platforms in a storage position.

[0057] Figure 6b and Figure 6c yes Figure 6a A side view of the access station, showing the platform in two alternative usable locations.

[0058] Figure 7a It is a side view of an alternative storage station for an automated storage and retrieval system, including a workbench comprising a set of alternative platforms in a storage position.

[0059] Figure 7b yes Figure 7a A side view of the access station, showing the platform group in a usable position.

[0060] Figure 8a It is a perspective view of a workbench with a workbench frame, which includes a set of platforms in a storage position.

[0061] Figure 8b yes Figure 8a A 3D view of the workbench, in which the platform is arranged in a stepped manner.

[0062] Figure 8c yes Figure 8a and Figure 8b A 3D view of the workbench, in which the user stands on an extended platform.

[0063] Figure 9a It is a perspective view of a workbench with a workbench frame, which includes a set of platforms in a storage position.

[0064] Figure 9b Yes Figure 9a A 3D view of the workbench, in which the platform is arranged in a stepped manner.

[0065] Figure 9c yes Figure 9a and Figure 9b A 3D view of the workbench, in which the user stands on an extended platform. Detailed Implementation

[0066] In the following discussion, embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the drawings are not intended to limit the invention to the subject matter depicted in the drawings.

[0067] Figures 5 to 7 illustrate an access station 2 of the automated storage and retrieval system 1 described in the background art. This access station has a base device 4 prepared to support the access station. In this example, the base device takes the form of a workbench 2 on which the containers (not shown) of system 1 can be handled by a user located on a horizontal floor 6. In this example, the base device 4 is a device for supporting legs 4, the supporting surfaces of which lie in a plane formed by the floor 6 in the figures.

[0068] Furthermore, the workbench 2 includes a work surface 8 arranged to support items (not shown) to be moved by a user, who stands beside the work surface, which is horizontally arranged at a fixed height above the floor. Therefore, the workbench is configured to allow users (not shown) of a specific height to approach the workbench 2 (in... Figure 5a , Figure 6a and Figure 7a In the corresponding arrangement, there is no platform extending out) standing on the floor 6 and working on the work surface 8 in an ergonomic and comfortable manner.

[0069] Figures 5a to 5c An exemplary workbench includes a workbench frame 3, which includes a set of individual platforms 10. In this embodiment, the set of individual platforms is planar and generally rectangular in shape. Each individual platform 10 is guided by a guide device 12 so as... Figure 5a The storage location shown is similar to... Figure 5b and Figure 5c The platform can be moved between the indicated usable positions, with the storage position located below or inside the workbench. Depending on the user's height, the appropriate platform 10' can be extended to the usable position, allowing the user to stand at a suitable height near the workbench. Each individual platform, when in the usable position, is positioned protruding from the workbench 2, allowing the user (not shown) to perform manual operations on the work surface 8 of the workbench 2 while standing on the platform 10' in the usable position.

[0070] A guide device 12 is provided so that, in the usable position, the different platforms 10' are held horizontally at different heights above the floor, with each platform 10' positioned at its own different height, such as... Figure 5a and Figure 5b As shown in the diagram. The guide device 12 may include guides such as guide rails, telescopic arms, or other guides to allow the platform to extend relative to the worktable. The guide device 12 may be arranged, for example, between the planar surfaces of the platform, or between opposite sides of the platform and the worktable or frame, to allow linear movement of the platform between a retracted position and a usable position. Alternatively, guides such as hinges or pivots may be provided to allow the platform to rotate horizontally into its usable position. The guide device may also include legs or other support devices that support the platform on the floor when extended, such as... Figure 5bAs shown in the diagram. Pairs of guides can be provided to ensure that the platforms remain aligned with each other and with the workbench associated with them as they move between the storage and usable positions. The guide device 12 can also be used to provide lateral stability to the platforms when they are in the usable position, thus providing a fixed and secure work platform for the user to stand on. Locking devices can also be provided to lock the respective platforms in their storage and / or extended positions. Thus, when the respective platforms 10 are positioned in their respective usable positions, they are prepared to allow a user of a relatively short stature (a user of a relatively short stature, not shown) to stand on the platform 10' in the usable position, the height of the platform above the floor such that the height of the work surface 8 above the respective platform 10' is ergonomic for the user of that relatively short stature, and thus allows the user to work on the work surface 8 in an ergonomic and comfortable manner.

[0071] In other words, it can be obtained from Figure 5a Platform 10 is selected from a group of platforms in the storage position, and can then be moved from the storage position to the usable position by means of the guide device 12. Figure 5b and Figure 5c It is worth noting that the smaller the user, the higher the platform should be above the floor to take advantage of this arrangement.

[0072] Different embodiments of the arrangement of platform 10 in both storage and usable locations will now be described.

[0073] exist Figure 5a In the storage location, the platform 10 of the workbench 3 is stacked on top of each other on its outer edge below the workbench 2. In this embodiment, the platform 10 is configured to move (pull out from the storage location) like a drawer. Figure 5b or Figure 5c In a usable location (e.g., manually using a handle, or with the aid of a motor and gear drive (not shown)).

[0074] exist Figure 5b In one embodiment, platform 10 is configured to be pulled out individually (one platform 10' is shown correspondingly in the figures), wherein each platform is self-supporting, for example, supported on floor 6 by guide device 12, so that only the platform of the required height can be extended. Alternatively, such as Figure 5c As shown, when platform 10' extends, it stacks on the other platforms below to properly support the platform of the required height.

[0075] Figures 6a to 6c It shows Figures 5a to 5c Alternative arrangement methods, in which, Figure 6aIn the storage location, a set of platforms 10 are stacked on top of each other at a location away from the workbench 2 and close to the area where the user (not shown) intends to stand when moving items (not shown) onto the work surface 8.

[0076] In addition to the fact that these platforms are located separately from workbench 2, the platform 10 of workbench frame 3 is also connected to... Figures 5a to 5c It operates in a similar way to other platforms. Figure 6a The image shows platform 10 in its storage location, stacked on top of each other.

[0077] and Figures 5a to 5c Like Platform 10, Platform 10 is configured to move like a drawer (from...). Figure 6a (In this embodiment only, the platform is positioned away from workbench 2 and not below workbench 2 as shown in Figure 5) to... Figure 6b or Figure 6c In a usable location (e.g., manually using a handle, or by means of a motor and gear drive (not shown).

[0078] exist Figure 6b In one embodiment, platform 10 is configured to be pulled out individually (one platform 10' is shown correspondingly in the figures), wherein each platform is self-supporting, for example, supported on floor 6 by guide device 12, so that only the platform of the required height can be extended. Alternatively, such as Figure 6c As shown, when platform 10' extends, it stacks on the other platforms below to properly support the platform of the required height.

[0079] As an alternative, the stacking of platform 10 can be arranged for vertical storage, such as... Figure 7a As shown in the diagram. In this embodiment, the platforms 10 are arranged parallel to each other, vertically, or upright at an angle of 90° relative to the horizontal floor 6. One or more platforms 10 are configured to tilt or rotate about the guide device 12 (here, a pivot or hinge). Figure 7b In its usable position (which can also be done manually or with the aid of a motor drive (not shown)). The desired height of the platform in its usable position can be achieved by pivoting an appropriate number of platforms 10.

[0080] exist Figure 7a In the embodiments, when in Figure 7b When in a usable position, platforms 10' are stacked on top of each other, and the corresponding lower platform can (but not necessarily must) support the corresponding next platform above it (as is the case in the embodiment shown).

[0081] Figures 8a to 8c as well as Figures 9a to 9c As shown Figures 5a to 5c A slight variation of the arrangement shown.

[0082] exist Figure 8a The diagram shows a workbench 2 with an access opening 13 on its working surface 8. In use, the access opening 13 allows the user to access, for example, a container delivered to the workbench 2. The workbench 2 has a workbench frame 3 comprising a set of three independent platforms 10 arranged in a storage location beneath the workbench 2. It should be understood that any number of platforms can be provided, depending on the desired degree of adjustment. These platforms may each have the same thickness or different thicknesses. Each platform has a handle 14 for extending one or more platforms into a usable position.

[0083] exist Figure 8b In the diagram, platform 10 is shown in a staggered extension configuration. This configuration allows the user to approach the uppermost platform 10, which the user will stand on, in a progressive, stepped manner. Guiding devices 12 are disposed on the longitudinally opposite side edges of each platform 10 and may include, for example, guide rails. The guiding devices can be used to maintain alignment between the platform 10 and the workstation 2, thereby providing the user with a stable and fixed platform.

[0084] Figure 8c The intermediate platform 10' is shown in an extended usable position, with the user / operator 15 at the desired height relative to the working surface 8 of the workbench 2. The guide device 12 allows the platform 10' to be in a cantilever configuration without additional support.

[0085] exist Figure 9a The diagram shows a workbench 2 with an access opening 13 on its working surface 8. In use, the access opening 13 allows the user to access, for example, a container delivered to the workbench 2. The workbench 2 has a workbench frame 3 comprising a set of three platforms 10 arranged in a storage location beneath the workbench 2. It should be understood that any number of platforms can be provided. These platforms may each have the same thickness or different thicknesses. Each platform has a handle 14 for extending one or more platforms into a usable position.

[0086] exist Figure 9bIn the diagram, platform 10 is shown in a staggered extension configuration. This configuration allows the user to approach the uppermost platform 10, which the user will stand on, in a progressive, stepped manner. In this example, guide devices 12 are extensions extending vertically downward from the longitudinally opposite side edges of each platform 10, extending to and supporting the ground to support each platform. These extensions can be seen nested around adjacent platforms. The guide devices can be used to maintain alignment between the platform 10 and the workstation 2, thereby providing the user with a stable and fixed platform.

[0087] Figure 9c The intermediate platform 10' is shown in its extended usable position, with the user / operator 15 at the desired height relative to the working surface 8 of the workbench 2. The guide device 12 supports the platform 10' on the ground, allowing only the required extension of the platform 10' to be achieved.

[0088] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many other implementations will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. Although this disclosure has been described with reference to specific exemplary implementations, it should be recognized that this disclosure is not limited to the described implementations but can be practiced with modifications and variations within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the specification and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative and not restrictive. Consequently, the scope of this disclosure should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents.

[0089] Reference number list

[0090] 1. Automatic storage and retrieval system

[0091] 2. Storage station; workbench

[0092] 3. Workbench

[0093] 4. Base assembly; support legs

[0094] 6 Floors

[0095] 8 Working surfaces

[0096] 10, 10' platform

[0097] 10' Platform in its usable location

[0098] 12 Guiding Device

[0099] 13 Access Openings

[0100] 14 handles

[0101] 15 users

[0102] 100 Frame Structure

[0103] 102. Upright members of a frame structure

[0104] 104 Storage Grid

[0105] 105 Storage Columns

[0106] 106 Storage Containers

[0107] 106' Specific location of the storage container

[0108] 107 Stacking

[0109] 108 guide rail system

[0110] 110 Parallel guide rails in the first direction (X)

[0111] 112 Access Opening

[0112] 119 First Port Column

[0113] 120 Second Port Column

[0114] 201 Container handling vehicles of the prior art

[0115] 201a Container handling vehicle 201 vehicle body

[0116] 201b Drive unit / wheel assembly / first set of wheels in the first direction (X)

[0117] 201c Drive unit / wheel unit / second set of wheels in the second direction (Y)

[0118] 301 Prior art cantilever container handling vehicles

[0119] 301a Container handling vehicle 301 vehicle body

[0120] 301b Drive unit / first set of wheels in the first direction (X)

[0121] 301c Drive unit / second set of wheels in the second direction (Y)

[0122] 304 clamping device

[0123] 401 Container handling vehicles of the prior art

[0124] 401a Container handling vehicle 401 vehicle body

[0125] 401b Drive unit / first set of wheels in the first direction (X)

[0126] 401c Drive unit / second set of wheels in the second direction (Y)

[0127] 404 clamping device

[0128] 404a lifting belt

[0129] 404b clamp

[0130] 404C pilot pin

[0131] 404d lifting frame

[0132] 500 Control System

[0133] X First Direction

[0134] Y Second Direction

[0135] Z is the third direction.

Claims

1. A workbench (3), comprising: A set of independent platforms (10, 10') for supporting the user, wherein each platform (10') is movable between a storage position (10) and a usable position (10'), and wherein, in the usable position, each platform is positioned at a different height above the floor.

2. The workbench according to claim 1, wherein, A guiding device is provided to guide the independent platform to move between the storage location and the usable location.

3. The workbench according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The guiding device includes guides such as rails, slides, or telescopic arms to allow the independent platform to move in a generally linear manner between the storage position and the usable position.

4. The workbench according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The guiding device includes a hinge or pivot, and the independent platform is rotatable about the hinge or pivot between the storage position and the usable position.

5. The workbench according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The independent platform is arranged horizontally in the storage location.

6. The workbench according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The independent platform is arranged approximately vertically or upright at an angle between 80° and 100° in the storage location.

7. The workbench according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The workbench includes two or more independent platforms, preferably three or more independent platforms.

8. The workbench according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The stand-alone platform includes a handle for user operation, allowing the stand-alone platform to move between the storage location and the usable location.

9. The workbench according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The standalone platform is independent and self-supporting when it is in the aforementioned usable location.

10. The workbench according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The standalone platform is supported by one or more underlying platforms when it is in the usable location.

11. The workbench according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, When in the storage position, at least some of the platforms (10) are stacked adjacent to each other or stacked on top of each other on their outer edges.

12. The workbench according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, A locking device is provided to lock the independent platform in one or both of the storage location and the usable location.

13. A workbench comprising a workbench frame according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The set of independent platforms is positioned below the workbench when in the storage location.

14. The workbench (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The workbench is a storage station, port, or pick-up and preparation station of an automated storage and retrieval system (1).

15. An automated storage and retrieval system (1) comprising a workbench (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 or comprising a workbench (2) according to claim 13 or 14.

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