Maintenance device for use during maintenance and / or repair of a storage and retrieval unit in a cold store

Abstract

The invention relates to a maintenance device (1) for use during maintenance and / or repair of a storage and retrieval unit (100) in a cold store. According to the invention, the maintenance device (1) has a frame (2), which can be releasably fastened to a main switchgear cabinet (200) of the storage and retrieval unit (100), and a tarpaulin (10), which can be releasably fastened to the frame (2), and the frame (2) and the tarpaulin (10) are formed and can be arranged with respect to one another in such a way that a maintenance space (50) can be produced thereby on the main switchgear cabinet (200) of the storage and retrieval unit (100). The invention is also directed to a multi-level storage and retrieval unit (100') for use in a cold store and to an arrangement comprising a maintenance device (1) according to the invention and a main switchgear cabinet (200) of a storage and retrieval unit (100).

Description

[0001] Maintenance equipment for use in maintenance and / or repair of a

[0002] Storage and retrieval machine in a cold storage warehouse

[0003] The invention relates to a maintenance device for use in the maintenance and / or repair of a storage and retrieval machine in a cold storage facility according to claim 1, a multi-level storage and retrieval machine for use in a cold storage facility according to claim 6 and an arrangement with a maintenance device and a main control cabinet of a storage and retrieval machine according to claim 8.

[0004] When using a storage and retrieval machine in a cold storage facility, the adverse environmental conditions, particularly the low temperatures, make it difficult to perform maintenance or repairs on the machine. These adverse environmental conditions can be particularly challenging when performing maintenance or repairs on the components located in the main control cabinet of the storage and retrieval machine.

[0005] From DE 102013 102 778 A1, it is known to relocate a storage and retrieval machine used in a cold storage facility for maintenance or repair into a maintenance area that is sealed off from the cold storage facility and accessible only through a lock. This has the disadvantage that maintenance is very time-consuming, as the storage and retrieval machine must be relocated to the maintenance area and carefully warmed up to avoid damage. The storage and retrieval machine is therefore out of service for a correspondingly long period, reducing the throughput of the cold storage facility. Furthermore, providing such a maintenance area is very costly and requires a corresponding amount of space within the storage facility surrounding the cold storage facility.

[0006] It is also known to equip a multi-level storage and retrieval machine used within a cold storage facility for maintenance or repair purposes with a cabin that is directly connected to the main control cabinet and forms a single unit with the main control cabinet. This cabin is heated and accessible to maintenance personnel. Such a unit consisting of a main control cabinet and cabin can also be referred to as a walk-in main control cabinet. However, the cabin or unit has the disadvantage that it is heavy and therefore the energy required to operate the multi-level storage and retrieval machine is higher than for a multi-level storage and retrieval machine without such a cabin or unit. In addition, the provision of such a cabin or unit is necessary on every multi-level storage and retrieval machine used in the cold storage facility, which results in high costs.Another disadvantage of the unit is that it occupies the entire width between two adjacent storage racks, i.e., the entire width of the rack aisle. To comply with the prescribed escape routes for personnel working in the cold storage facility, the unit must be mounted sufficiently high on the multi-level storage and retrieval machine to ensure a sufficient escape route through the rack aisle. However, with this arrangement, maintenance personnel must climb a ladder to reach the cabin, which compromises their safety, for example, due to the risk of falls.

[0007] Maintenance or repair without a maintenance area or cabin also has the disadvantage, among other things, that the personal protective equipment required then restricts the freedom of movement and, particularly due to thick gloves, the tactile sensitivity of the maintenance personnel and makes maintenance or repair more difficult.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a maintenance device, a multi-level storage and retrieval machine and an arrangement with a maintenance device and a main control cabinet of a storage and retrieval machine, with which the time and cost expenditure for the maintenance and / or repair of a storage and retrieval machine used in a cold storage facility can be reduced and at the same time the conditions for the maintenance personnel can be improved.

[0009] This object is achieved by the maintenance device having the features of claim 1, the multi-level storage and retrieval machine having the features of claim 6, and the arrangement having the features of claim 8. Advantageous embodiments emerge from the subclaims and the description.

[0010] According to the invention, a maintenance device for use in the maintenance and / or repair of a storage and retrieval machine in a cold storage facility is provided, wherein the maintenance device has a frame that can be releasably fastened to a main control cabinet of the storage and retrieval machine and a tarpaulin that can be releasably fastened to the frame, and the frame and the tarpaulin are designed and can be arranged relative to one another in such a way that a maintenance space can be created on the main control cabinet of the storage and retrieval machine. In an assembled state, the maintenance device resembles a tent, which is why it can also be described as tent-like. The frame is a rigid structural element which, in the assembled state, supports the tarpaulin and with which the external shape of the maintenance space can essentially be predetermined.Compared to the frame and a side wall used for a known cabin, the tarpaulin is a flexible and lightweight barrier element with which a climatic barrier can be created between the cold storage area and the maintenance room.

[0011] The tarpaulin is preferably constructed in one piece, but a multi-piece tarpaulin can also be provided. The tarpaulin can be made of a transparent or opaque material. The tarpaulin material is preferably a reinforced plastic, which is generally also used for truck tarpaulins. If the tarpaulin material is opaque, a viewing window can be provided in the tarpaulin.

[0012] The maintenance space created with the maintenance equipment is defined as a closed space. However, the maintenance space is accessible to maintenance personnel through an opening that can be closed, for example, with a zipper and / or Velcro fastener and / or magnetic strip. The size of the maintenance space is preferably selected such that it can accommodate both a person and the tools required for maintenance and / or repair.

[0013] A temperature can be created in the maintenance room that differs from the temperature prevailing in the cold storage area. In the cold storage area, also known as a cold storage area, deep-freeze storage area, or deep-freeze storage area, temperatures typically range between approximately -18 and -32 degrees Celsius. In the maintenance room, however, temperatures between -5 and +5 degrees Celsius are preferably achieved. For this purpose, the air in the maintenance room can be heated using a fan heater, for example. The maintenance room can be heated specifically for the duration of maintenance and / or repair work.

[0014] With the maintenance device according to the invention, maintenance personnel can be effectively protected from the ambient conditions prevailing in cold storage, especially the low temperatures. This allows even more complex or longer maintenance work and repairs on the main control cabinet to be carried out while complying with occupational health and safety regulations.

[0015] When the maintenance equipment is assembled, the tarpaulin hangs from the frame or a component of the frame. At a lower end, the tarpaulin preferably connects to a structure located beneath the maintenance equipment in such a way that heat convection between the cold storage area and the heated maintenance room, and thus the energy required to heat the maintenance room, is minimized.

[0016] The structure arranged beneath the maintenance equipment can be a support element on which the main control cabinet is also located. The nature of such a support element depends on the design of the storage and retrieval machine. For example, the support element can be a support frame on a multi-level storage and retrieval machine. However, if the storage and retrieval machine is designed as a single-level storage and retrieval machine and then—as described below—the main control cabinet is arranged separately from the storage and retrieval machine, the support element can be, for example, a storage floor of the cold storage area. The support element or the support frame are preferably designed in such a way that heat convection between the cold storage area and the heated maintenance room is kept as low as possible.

[0017] The components housed in the main control cabinet preferably include electronic components for a control system of the storage and retrieval machine. In addition, other electronic components and / or electrical components and / or mechanical components and / or hydraulic components and / or pneumatic components can be stored in the main control cabinet.

[0018] Due to its subdivision into a frame and tarpaulin, the maintenance device according to the invention can be easily installed on the main control cabinet and can also be easily dismantled and removed from the main control cabinet. The time required for maintenance can thus be reduced compared to the known solution with a maintenance area. This increases the productivity of the storage and retrieval machine and the throughput of the cold storage facility. Furthermore, there is no need to provide a separate maintenance area in the warehouse facility, which can save costs. The maintenance device can also be specifically set up only for the duration of maintenance and / or repair work and can be stored separately from the main control cabinet between maintenance and / or repair work or - in the case of a multi-level storage and retrieval machine - separately from the storage and retrieval machine, for example, outside the rack aisle.Compared to the conventional cabin solution, the weight of a multi-level stacker crane can be reduced, reducing the energy required for acceleration and making the multi-level stacker crane more agile. This increases the productivity of the stacker crane and also the throughput of the cold storage facility. A single maintenance unit can also be used for multiple main control cabinets or multi-level stacker cranes, resulting in cost savings compared to the conventional cabin solution.

[0019] Advantageously, the frame and the tarpaulin are designed and arranged relative to one another in such a way that three side walls and a roof can be formed by means of them to create the maintenance space.

[0020] A fourth side wall of the maintenance compartment can be formed by a suitable surface on the main control cabinet when the maintenance device is installed. When the main control cabinet is closed, this is particularly one or more doors of the main control cabinet. When the main control cabinet is open, this is particularly its rear wall. In other words, the frame and the tarpaulin are then arranged on the main control cabinet such that the main control cabinet closes off the maintenance compartment on one side. A floor area of ​​the maintenance compartment is then quadrangular and preferably rectangular.

[0021] The three side walls can, for example, be provided with magnetic strips along their edges, whereby the magnetic strips can be used to detachably connect the side walls to each other or to the storage and retrieval machine, in particular the main control cabinet. The connection can be removed to allow the maintenance room to be opened, for example, to allow maintenance personnel to enter.

[0022] In the case of a one-piece design of the tarpaulin, it is preferably cut in such a way that the three side walls and the roof, in the assembled state, are formed essentially without distortions and without unnecessary overlap.

[0023] It is also conceivable that the frame and the tarpaulin are designed and arranged in such a way that two or four or more side walls can be formed to create the maintenance space, so that the maintenance space then has a triangular or pentagonal or polygonal base area.

[0024] It is particularly advantageous that the frame comprises at least one pivoting element which is provided with a first pivoting means, in particular a groove, a slot or a bolt, for establishing a detachable pivoting connection with the main switch cabinet.

[0025] The pivot element can be U-shaped, L-shaped, T-shaped, or I-shaped, for example. The frame can also comprise two or more pivot elements, which can be of the same or different shapes.

[0026] The first pivoting means can be connected to a second pivoting means arranged on the main switch cabinet and corresponding to the first pivoting means to establish the detachable pivoting connection. The at least one pivoting element can thus be detachably fastened to the main switch cabinet. The first pivoting means, designed as a groove or elongated hole, can be suspended from a second pivoting means designed as a bolt. The reverse applies if the first pivoting means is a bolt.

[0027] The second swivel mechanism does not necessarily belong to the maintenance equipment. It can also belong to the storage and retrieval machine or the main control cabinet and, in particular, is not intended exclusively for the maintenance equipment.

[0028] It is provided that the at least one pivoting element, when attached to the main switch cabinet, is initially aligned parallel to an upward direction of extension of the main switch cabinet. The pivoting element is then in a non-pivoted position. The pivoting element is subsequently pivoted about an axis formed by the first and / or second pivoting means until the pivoting element is aligned substantially vertically to the upward direction of extension of the main switch cabinet. The pivoting element is then in a pivoted position. This simplifies the assembly of the frame.

[0029] Alternatively or in addition to the at least one pivoting element, the frame can also have a generally non-pivoting frame element to which the tarpaulin can be attached.

[0030] It is also particularly advantageous that the frame comprises at least one support element, wherein the at least one pivoting element can preferably be supported in a pivoted position by means of the support element.

[0031] Alternatively, the support element can also be used to support the generally non-pivoting frame element, particularly to relieve the load on the fastening points on the main control cabinet.

[0032] The support element is arranged, in particular, at an end of the pivoting element or the generally non-pivoting frame element facing away from the main control cabinet. The support element can be supported on the support element or support frame. When using the maintenance device on a main control cabinet of a multi-level storage and retrieval machine, the support element can also be supported on a railing of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine.

[0033] The support element can also be used to move the swivel element from the unswivelled position to the swivelled position.

[0034] The frame can also comprise two or more support elements, wherein each support element, in the assembled state of the maintenance device, supports, in particular, a pivoting element or a generally non-pivoting frame element. It is also conceivable for one support element to support several pivoting elements or generally non-pivoting frame elements, or for one pivoting element or generally non-pivoting frame element to be supported by several support elements.

[0035] It is also conceivable that the frame is designed in one piece, so that the support element forms a unit with the pivoting element or generally non-pivoting frame element.

[0036] In an advantageous and structurally simple manner, the frame, preferably the pivoting element, is provided with at least one first fastening means, in particular a pin or hook, and the tarpaulin is provided with at least one second fastening means corresponding to the first fastening means, in particular an eyelet, wherein the tarpaulin is detachably fastenable to the frame by connecting the first fastening means to the second fastening means.

[0037] Preferably, the frame has several, in particular four, first fastening means, and the tarpaulin has several, in particular four, corresponding second fastening means. The fastening means are preferably arranged such that the tarpaulin can be fastened to the frame evenly distributed over the frame.

[0038] If the frame includes a pivoting element, the tarpaulin is preferably attached to the pivoting element when it is in the non-pivoted position. The connection between the first and second fastening means prevents the tarpaulin from sliding down.

[0039] The invention further relates to a multi-level storage and retrieval machine for use in a cold storage facility, wherein the multi-level storage and retrieval machine comprises a lower chassis, at least one mast, and a lifting carriage movable along the mast with a load-handling device. According to the invention, the multi-level storage and retrieval machine has a main control cabinet, which is arranged directly above the lower chassis and is inaccessible.

[0040] In the context of the invention, the term "direct" means that there is no escape route between the lower chassis and the main control cabinet in the multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention. In particular, there is no structure arranged between the lower chassis and the main control cabinet that would require climbing up to the main control cabinet, as is the case with the known solution with a cabin.

[0041] Nevertheless, it is not excluded that the multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention has a component, such as the support frame for the main control cabinet, between the lower chassis and the main control cabinet.

[0042] In the context of the invention, the term "inaccessible" means that the main control cabinet is not large enough to accommodate a person next to the components housed therein, as is the case, for example, with the known solution comprising a cabin and main control cabinet. In other words, the main control cabinet cannot be entered. Nevertheless, the main control cabinet of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention is accessible via a door and / or flap, allowing work to be carried out on the components housed therein for maintenance and / or repair.

[0043] The main control cabinet of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine houses, in particular, the control device of the storage and retrieval machine, also referred to as the onboard control device, or its electronic components. As described above, further components can be housed in the main control cabinet. The maintenance device according to the invention can be mounted on the main control cabinet of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention. It is possible for a further control cabinet and / or control box to be provided on the multi-level storage and retrieval machine in addition to the main control cabinet, in which further components are arranged. The multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention can also be assigned a further main control cabinet, which is arranged separately from the multi-level storage and retrieval machine in the cold storage area, in particular outside the rack aisle.

[0044] The multi-level storage and retrieval machine is a single-track, rail-guided vehicle for storing and retrieving stored goods from many, preferably four or more, or all, levels of a storage rack. Storage goods can be, for example, pallets, containers, crates, boxes, bags, and / or individual items. The multi-level storage and retrieval machine can also serve multiple storage racks, for example, adjacent to one rack aisle or arranged in several rack aisles.

[0045] The multi-level storage and retrieval unit, also known as a stacker crane or storage and retrieval unit, may have an upper chassis in addition to the lower chassis, which is located at an end of the mast facing away from the lower chassis. The multi-level storage and retrieval unit can be guided along a head beam via guide rollers provided on the upper chassis. The multi-level storage and retrieval unit may include additional components, such as a hoist with a rope or chain drive, access ladders, and power supplies.

[0046] The multi-level storage and retrieval machine is movable in three spatial directions or axes. The lower chassis, in particular with the wheels provided thereon, serves to move the multi-level storage and retrieval machine along a rail, which is arranged in particular in a rack aisle. The mast, arranged on the lower chassis and essentially vertically to the rail, serves to raise and lower the lifting carriage along the mast. The load handling device of the lifting carriage can be moved essentially vertically to the rail and essentially vertically to the mast, i.e., transversely to a direction of travel of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine, and serves to pick up and deliver the stored goods.

[0047] The multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention is specially designed for use in cold storage and comprises, for example, materials and lubricants suitable for this use.

[0048] A main horizontal extension of the main control cabinet runs parallel to a travel direction of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine, i.e., parallel to a main extension of the storage rack. A platform of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine, also known as a pedestal, is preferably arranged in front of the main control cabinet, i.e., next to the main control cabinet in the main extension of the storage rack. The maintenance equipment is installed above this platform, so that maintenance personnel can "stand" on the platform and in the maintenance space created by the maintenance equipment.

[0049] The multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention has the advantage of increasing the safety of maintenance personnel by eliminating the need to climb ladders. Furthermore, the elimination of the cabin reduces the weight of the storage and retrieval machine compared to the conventional solution.

[0050] It is particularly advantageous that the main control cabinet is unheated inside. The electronic components housed in the main control cabinet are designed to be cold-resistant for this purpose. In this case, cold-resistant electronic components are electronic components that can withstand the low temperatures prevailing in the cold storage area when switched off. Heating the main control cabinet to prevent damage to switched-off electronic components is therefore unnecessary.

[0051] The invention further relates to an arrangement comprising the maintenance device according to the invention and a main control cabinet of a storage and retrieval machine in a cold storage facility, wherein the maintenance device is mounted on the main control cabinet.

[0052] In the arrangement according to the invention, the maintenance compartment is thus created in the main switch cabinet. Due to the simple assembly and disassembly of the maintenance device on the main switch cabinet, it is possible for the maintenance device according to the invention to be mounted on the main switch cabinet exclusively for the duration of the maintenance and / or repair, and for the arrangement according to the invention to also be formed only for the duration of the maintenance and / or repair.

[0053] In a first particularly advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the storage and retrieval machine is a multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention and the maintenance device is mounted on the main control cabinet arranged on the storage and retrieval machine.

[0054] In other words, the maintenance device, in the assembled state, is then arranged on or at the multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention. Thus, the maintenance space is formed on the multi-level storage and retrieval machine, in particular above the platform.

[0055] In a further advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the storage and retrieval machine is a multi-level storage and retrieval machine and the main control cabinet, on which the maintenance device is mounted, is arranged separately from the multi-level storage and retrieval machine in the cold storage facility.

[0056] The multi-level storage and retrieval machine can be the multi-level storage and retrieval machine according to the invention or a multi-level storage and retrieval machine known from the prior art.

[0057] In this embodiment, the main control cabinet is located outside the rack aisle. The support element on which the main control cabinet stands is formed, in particular, by the warehouse floor, on which the storage racks also stand.

[0058] The main control cabinet is assigned to at least one multi-level storage and retrieval machine, i.e. it is connected to it in terms of control and / or power supply.

[0059] In a further advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the storage and retrieval machine is a single-level storage and retrieval machine and the main control cabinet, on which the maintenance device is mounted, is arranged separately from the single-level storage and retrieval machine in the cold storage facility.

[0060] In contrast to the previously described embodiment of the storage and retrieval machine, the single-level storage and retrieval machine, also known as a shuttle, preferably serves only a single storage rack level. However, the single-level storage and retrieval machine can also be designed to serve a few, in particular two or three, storage rack levels.

[0061] The single-level stacker crane moves along the rack aisle on two rails. The rails are located in one of the storage rack levels assigned to the single-level stacker crane. Each rail is attached to, or is part of, a storage rack located opposite each other and separated by the rack aisle.

[0062] The single-level storage and retrieval machine can load and unload goods on both sides of the rack aisle using a load handling device. Using an optional lift provided in the storage rack, the single-level storage and retrieval machine can move between storage rack levels.

[0063] The single-level storage and retrieval machine is also specially designed for use in cold storage and, for example, features materials and lubricants suitable for this application.

[0064] The main control cabinet belonging to one or more single-level storage and retrieval machines is located separately from the single-level storage and retrieval machines, particularly outside the rack aisle. The supporting element on which the main control cabinet stands is formed, in particular, by the warehouse floor, on which the storage racks also stand.

[0065] The main control cabinet preferably houses electronic components of a control device for the single-level storage and retrieval machine(s). Each single-level storage and retrieval machine is connected to the main control cabinet for transmitting control commands, in particular via conductor lines. As described above, additional components can be housed in the main control cabinet. In particular, electrical components for supplying power to the at least one single-level storage and retrieval machine are also stored in the main control cabinet, with each single-level storage and retrieval machine being connected to the main control cabinet, in particular also via conductor lines.

[0066] In addition to the components located in the main control cabinet, the single-level storage and retrieval machine may have additional components on itself, such as an onboard control device. These are arranged, in particular, in a control box on the single-level storage and retrieval machine.

[0067] The invention also relates to a cold storage facility with an arrangement according to the invention, at least one storage and retrieval machine, and at least one storage rack. The cold storage facility preferably comprises several storage racks and storage and retrieval machines.

[0068] Further details of the invention emerge from the following description of embodiments with reference to the drawing, in which

[0069] Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention with an embodiment of the maintenance device according to the invention,

[0070] Fig. 2 is a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Fig. 1 during a first step of mounting the maintenance device on a main switch cabinet,

[0071] Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Fig. 1 in a second step of mounting the maintenance device on the main switch cabinet,

[0072] Fig. 4 is a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Fig. 1 in a third step of mounting the maintenance device on the main switch cabinet,

[0073] Fig. 5 is a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Fig. 1 in a fourth step of mounting the maintenance device on the main switch cabinet,

[0074] Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention,

[0075] Fig. 7 is a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Fig. 6,

[0076] Fig. 8 is a schematic front view of the arrangement according to Fig. 6 and

[0077] Fig. 9 shows a schematic folding view of an embodiment of the maintenance device according to the invention.

[0078] Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention with an embodiment of the maintenance device 1 according to the invention.

[0079] The arrangement according to the invention comprises, in addition to the maintenance device 1, a main control cabinet 200, wherein the maintenance device 1 is mounted on the main control cabinet 200. The main control cabinet 200 belongs to a storage and retrieval machine 100 that is used in a cold storage facility. The main control cabinet 200 can be that of a multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100' (see also Figures 6 to 8) or that of a single-level storage and retrieval machine or multiple single-level storage and retrieval machines.

[0080] If the main control cabinet 200 belongs to a multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100, the main control cabinet 200 is arranged on the storage and retrieval machine 100 itself. If the main control cabinet 200 belongs to one or more single-level storage and retrieval machines, the main control cabinet 200 is arranged separately from the storage and retrieval machine 100 in the cold storage area.

[0081] The main control cabinet 200 stands on a support element 201. If the main control cabinet 200 belongs to at least one single-level storage and retrieval machine, the support element 201 is formed, in particular, by a storage floor of the cold storage facility. If the main control cabinet 200 belongs to a multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100', the support element 201 is, in particular, a support frame 20T on the multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100' (see also Figures 6 to 8).

[0082] The maintenance device 1 comprises a frame 2 detachably attached to the main control cabinet 200 and a tarpaulin 10 detachably attached to the frame 2. The frame 2 and the tarpaulin 10 are designed and arranged relative to one another in such a way that a maintenance space 50 is created on the main control cabinet 200.

[0083] The frame 2 is a rigid structural element with which the external shape of the maintenance room 50 can be essentially predetermined. The tarpaulin 10, on the other hand, is a flexible and lightweight barrier element with which a climatic barrier can be created between the cold storage area and the maintenance room 50. In the illustrated assembled state, the maintenance facility 1 resembles a tent, which is why it can also be described as tent-like.

[0084] To create the maintenance compartment 50, three side walls 51 and a roof 52 are formed with the maintenance device 1. Of the side walls 51, only one side wall 51 is shown in the present view. A fourth side wall 51 of the maintenance compartment 50 is formed by a suitable surface on the main control cabinet 200. When the main control cabinet 200 is closed, this is a door of the main control cabinet 200. When the main control cabinet 200 is open, this is its rear wall. The maintenance compartment 50 has a rectangular base area.

[0085] The maintenance compartment 50 is a closed space, but is accessible to maintenance personnel through an opening (not shown) that can be closed, for example, with a zipper and / or Velcro fastener and / or magnetic strip. The size of the maintenance compartment 50 is selected such that it can accommodate not only a person but also the tools required for maintenance and / or repair. The maintenance compartment 50 can be heated to facilitate maintenance and / or repair of the components arranged in the main control cabinet 200.

[0086] In the embodiment shown, the frame 2 is formed by a pivot element 3 and a support element 4. Alternatively, multiple support elements 4 can be provided. The pivot element 3 is supported by the support element 4 against the support element 201.

[0087] The pivot element 3 is U-shaped in this case and has a first pivoting means 3a formed as a groove at two leg ends. The first pivoting means 3a is connected to second pivoting means 20, which are fastened to both sides of the main switch cabinet 200 and are formed as bolts.

[0088] The pivoting element 3 also has four first fastening means 5 designed as pins, only two of which are shown. Instead of the pin, a hook can also be provided as the first fastening means 5. The two first fastening means 5 shown, like the two first fastening means 5 arranged behind it in this view, are arranged at a distance from one another on the pivoting element 3. In a plan view, this results in a rectangular pattern. The first fastening means 5 are thus arranged such that the tarpaulin 10 can be attached to the frame 2 evenly distributed over the frame 2.

[0089] The tarpaulin 10 is detachably fastened to the pivoting element 3 by means of the first fastening means 5 and second fastening means (not shown) corresponding to the first fastening means.

[0090] As an alternative to the one-piece design of the pivot element 3, the frame 2 can also comprise two pivot elements 3, each of which is pivotably connected to the main switch cabinet 200 on one side of the latter. Each of the pivot elements 3 can then be supported by a support element 4, or both pivot elements 3 together by a single support element 4. It is possible for the first pivoting means 3a, with two pivot elements, to be designed as an elongated hole. Alternatively or in addition to the at least one pivot element 3, the frame 2 can also comprise a generally non-pivoting frame element to which the tarpaulin 10 can be attached.

[0091] The tarpaulin 10 hangs down from the pivoting element 3 and terminates at a lower end with the support element 201. As a result, the maintenance space 50 is closed in this area and heat convection between the cold storage and the heated maintenance space 50 is minimized.

[0092] Figure 2 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Figure 1 during a first step of mounting the maintenance device 1 on the main control cabinet 200.

[0093] In the first step of assembly, the pivoting element 3 is brought in a non-pivoted position toward the main switch cabinet 200 and releasably secured thereto. For this purpose, the pivoting element 3 is pushed onto the second pivoting element 20, formed as a bolt, in the region of the first pivoting element 3a, which is designed as a groove, thereby establishing a pivoting connection. In the non-pivoted position, the pivoting element 3 is aligned parallel to an upward extension direction of the main switch cabinet 200.

[0094] Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Figure 1 during a second step of mounting the maintenance device 1 on the main switch cabinet 200.

[0095] In the second step of assembly, the tarpaulin 10 is releasably fastened to the pivot element 3 or the first fastening means 5 provided thereon by means of the second fastening means provided thereon (not shown). The second fastening means, designed as eyelets in this case, are pushed onto the first fastening means 5, designed as pins.

[0096] Figure 4 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Figure 1 during a third step of assembling the maintenance device 1 to the main switch cabinet 200. During the third assembly step, the pivoting element 3, with the tarpaulin 10 detachably attached thereto, is pivoted about a pivot axis formed by the second pivoting means 20, designed as a bolt, from the unpivoted position to a pivoted position (see Figure 5). The support element 4 can also be used for pivoting.

[0097] Figure 5 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Figure 1 in a fourth step of mounting the maintenance device 1 on the main switch cabinet 200.

[0098] The pivoting element 3 is shown here in the pivoted position, wherein the pivoting element 3 is oriented substantially perpendicular to an upward extension direction of the main switch cabinet 200. The tarpaulin 10, which is detachably attached thereto, hangs down from the pivoting element 3.

[0099] In the fourth and final assembly step, the support element 4 is positioned beneath the pivoting element 3 to support the pivoting element 3 in the pivoted position on the support element 201. The support element 4 is arranged at an end of the pivoting element 3 facing away from the main control cabinet 200 to ensure the best possible access to the maintenance space 50. Furthermore, if the main control cabinet 200 belongs to a multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100' and is thus arranged on the multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100', a sufficient escape route through the maintenance device 1 is provided (see Figures 6 to 8).

[0100] Figure 6 shows a schematic perspective view of a further embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention.

[0101] In the embodiment of the arrangement shown here, the main control cabinet 200 belongs to a storage and retrieval machine 100 designed as a multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100'. The main control cabinet 200 is thus arranged on the storage and retrieval machine 100 itself and directly above a lower chassis 102 (see Figure 7) of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100'. In addition, the main control cabinet 200 is not walkable. The main control cabinet 200 has two doors 200a through which it is accessible to maintenance personnel. Optionally, the main control cabinet 200 is unheated inside. The support element 201 on which the main control cabinet 200 stands is designed as a support frame 20T in this case. The multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100' in this case has a platform 104, which forms a coherent assembly with the support frame 20T. A railing 103 is arranged at the end of the platform 104 facing away from the main control cabinet 200.

[0102] The maintenance device 1 is shown here without the tarpaulin 10 so that the frame 2 and the attachment of the maintenance device 1 to the main control cabinet 200 can be seen. However, the dimensions of a manufacturable maintenance space 50 can be guessed from the arrangement and shape of the frame.

[0103] The frame 2 comprises a pivot element 3 and a support element 4. The support element 4 supports the pivot element 3 against the railing 103 of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100'. This creates a support point 4a. However, such a support point 4a can also be arranged at a different location on the multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100', so that the pivot element 3 is supported by the support element 4, for example, against the platform 104 arranged in front of the main control cabinet 200.

[0104] Maintenance personnel can stand on platform 104 to perform maintenance and / or repairs on the main control cabinet 200 or the components housed therein. Two steps 105 are provided on platform 104, making it easier for maintenance personnel to access platform 104, which is located at a low height above a storage floor of the cold storage facility. Unlike the known design of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100' with a high-level cabin, maintenance personnel do not have to climb a ladder to reach the main control cabinet 200. Falls that endanger the safety of maintenance personnel are thus avoided.

[0105] The pivoting element 3, in the pivoted position, is U-shaped and has stiffening struts 3b at its two corners and in the area of ​​the attachment points. However, the stiffening struts 3b are merely optional within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the pivoting element 3 has a total of four first attachment means 5. Figure 7 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement according to Figure 6.

[0106] This view clearly shows that a sufficient escape route for personnel working in the cold storage facility is provided between the main control cabinet 200 and the railing 103, as well as between the main control cabinet 200 and the support element 4. The tarpaulin 10 (not shown) has closable openings on both sides, so that the escape route is not restricted or is tolerably restricted by the tarpaulin 10. Alternatively, the tarpaulin 10 can be quickly removed from the frame 2 or the pivoting element 3 for escape.

[0107] The dashed box schematically shows the lower chassis 102 of the multi-level storage and retrieval machine 100', above which the main control cabinet 200 is arranged directly.

[0108] Figure 8 shows a schematic front view of the arrangement according to Figure 6.

[0109] In this view, it can be seen how the pivot connection formed by the first pivoting means 3a and the second pivoting means 20 is designed between the pivoting element 3 and the main control cabinet 200.

[0110] Figure 9 shows a schematic perspective folding view of an embodiment of the maintenance device 1 according to the invention.

[0111] The tarpaulin 10 is shown unfolded in this view, although in the assembled state of the maintenance device 1, it hangs from the pivoting element 3 to form a climatic barrier between the maintenance room 50 and the cold storage area. The unfolded view clearly shows the outline of the tarpaulin 10, i.e., how the tarpaulin 10 is cut to form the side walls 51 and the roof 52.

[0112] In this embodiment, the tarpaulin 10 is formed in one piece. However, a multi-part design of the tarpaulin 10 is also possible. Magnetic strips 11 are attached to the edges of the side walls 51, which serve to detachably connect the side walls 51 to one another or a side wall 51 to the main control cabinet 200. The magnetic strips 11 make it possible for the maintenance room 50 to be closed and thus efficiently heated, but also to be temporarily opened for access by maintenance personnel. As an alternative to the magnetic strips 11, a zipper or Velcro fastener is also conceivable.

[0113] Since the tarpaulin 10 is opaque in this case, viewing windows 10a are provided therein. These are merely optional within the scope of the invention and can therefore also be omitted. Also clearly visible in this illustration are the four first fastening means 5 and their arrangement on the pivoting element 3.

[0114] List of reference symbols

[0115] 1 maintenance facility

[0116] 2 frames

[0117] 3 Swivel element

[0118] 3a first swivel means

[0119] 3b Stiffening strut

[0120] 4 Support element

[0121] 4a Support point

[0122] 5 first fastening means

[0123] 10 tarpaulins

[0124] 10a Viewing window

[0125] 11 magnetic strips

[0126] 12 second fastener

[0127] 20 second swivel means

[0128] 50 Maintenance room

[0129] 51 side wall

[0130] 52 roof

[0131] 100 storage and retrieval machines

[0132] 100' multi-level stacker crane

[0133] 102 lower chassis

[0134] 103 railings

[0135] 104 Platform

[0136] 105 Step

[0137] 200 main control cabinet

[0138] 200a door

[0139] 201 supporting element

[0140] 20T support frame

Claims

Patent claims 1. Maintenance device (1) for use in the maintenance and / or repair of a storage and retrieval machine (100) in a cold storage facility, characterized in that the maintenance device (1) has a frame (2) which can be detachably fastened to a main control cabinet (200) of the storage and retrieval machine (100) and a tarpaulin (10) which can be detachably fastened to the frame (2), and the frame (2) and the tarpaulin (10) are designed and can be arranged relative to one another in such a way that a maintenance space (50) can be produced on the main control cabinet (200) of the storage and retrieval machine (100).

2. Maintenance device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the frame (2) and the tarpaulin (10) are designed and can be arranged relative to one another in such a way that three side walls (51) and a roof (52) can be formed by means of them to produce the maintenance space (50).

3. Maintenance device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the frame (2) comprises at least one pivoting element (3) which is provided with a first pivoting means (3a), in particular a groove, an elongated hole or a bolt, for establishing a detachable pivoting connection with the main switch cabinet (200).

4. Maintenance device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the frame (2) comprises at least one support element (4), wherein by means of the support element (4) preferably the at least one pivoting element (3) can be supported in a pivoted position.

5. Maintenance device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the frame (2), preferably the pivoting element (3), is provided with at least one first fastening means (5), in particular a pin or hook, and the tarpaulin (10) is provided with at least one second fastening means (11) corresponding to the first fastening means (5), in particular an eyelet, wherein the tarpaulin (10) is detachably fastenable to the frame (2) by a connection of the first fastening means (5) to the second fastening means (11).

6. Multi-level storage and retrieval machine (100') for use in a cold storage facility, wherein the storage and retrieval machine (100) comprises a lower chassis (102), at least one mast and a lifting carriage movable on the mast with a load-handling means, characterized in that the storage and retrieval machine (100) has a main control cabinet (200) which is arranged directly above the lower chassis (102) and is impassable.

7. Multi-level storage and retrieval machine (100') according to claim 6, characterized in that the main control cabinet is unheated in its interior.

8. Arrangement with a maintenance device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5 and a main control cabinet (200) of a storage and retrieval machine (100) in a cold storage facility, wherein the maintenance device (1) is mounted on the main control cabinet (200).

9. Arrangement according to claim 8, characterized in that the storage and retrieval machine (100) is a multi-level storage and retrieval machine (100') according to claim 6 and the maintenance device (1) is mounted on the main control cabinet (200) arranged on the storage and retrieval machine (100).

10. Arrangement according to claim 8, characterized in that the storage and retrieval machine (100) is a multi-level storage and retrieval machine (100') or a single-level storage and retrieval machine and the main control cabinet (200) on which the maintenance device (1) is mounted is arranged separately from the storage and retrieval machine (100) in the cold storage facility.

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