Storage device

Abstract

A storage device 100 comprising a pair of foldable units 102a, 102b pivotably connected at a first end 104 and at a second end 106 to form a frame 108. Each foldable unit comprises a fixed-length member 110 pivotably connected to a telescopic member 112. The frame comprises a single-walled configuration, where the telescopic member is the same length as the fixed-length member; and the telescopic member is arranged perpendicular to the fixed-length member providing a four-sided storage box. The frame further comprises a double-walled configuration, where the telescopic member is retracted so that a length of the telescopic member is less than a length of the fixed-length member; the telescopic member is arranged parallel and adjacent to the fixed length member, and a first foldable unit of the pair foldable units is arranged perpendicular to a second foldable unit of the pair foldable units, providing an L-shaped storage box element (Fig 1B). A storage device assembly comprising four L-shaped elements coupled together to provide a large square storage box; a robotic storage rack; and a pallet configured to receive the storage device and / or the storage device assembly are also claimed.

Description

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to storage devices. In particular, the present invention relates to reconfigurable storage devices and storage device standardisation. Background of the Invention Recent trends in consumer expectations of next-day or same-day delivery of goods bought online has highlighted a need for a reduction in fulfilment time. Approaches to this problem have produced many diverse solutions, which, itself, has caused compatibility issues leading to frustration and delay as producers, retailers, fulfilment centres, delivery providers and consumers grapple with a large number of conflicting systems. Accordingly, there is a need for standardisation within the consumer logistics industry. Standardisation revolutionised international shipping with containerisation improving the efficiency of international shipping thereby improving availability, price and lead time of goods. Further, as the logistics industry increasingly relies on automation and technology in fulfilment processes, there is a need to consider automation in the standardisation of any aspect of the industry. Existing standardisation solutions in the fulfilment industry are unable to accommodate goods at both extremes of mass and size. For example, a standardised, automated system that appropriately handles goods ranging from a five-seater sofa to a single needle is lacking. Currently, to address these issues, warehouse workers intervene to assist with the logistics of the smallest and largest items. This is expensive, time consuming and inefficient. Further, this holds back the efficiency of a fulfilment centre as a whole, as the items requiring non-standard, nonautomated processing must be identified, located, and separated from other goods in a further process step. Accordingly a standardisation and automation solution that is appropriate for a broad spectrum of consumer goods is required. Objects and aspects of the present claimed invention seek to alleviate at least these problems with the prior art. Summary of the Invention At its most general, the present disclosure describes a storage device, storage device assembly, robotic storage rack and pallet configured to provide an efficient standardisation and automation solution that is appropriate for a broad spectrum of consumer goods. The storage device of the present invention is formed of a pair of substantially identical foldable units and is reconfigurable between a single-walled configuration configured to provide a four-sided storage box and a double-walled configuration configured to provide an L-shaped storage box element. Four L-shaped storage box elements may be coupled together to form a storage device assembly. The storage device and / or storage device assembly may be received upon the robotic storage rack or a pallet. In this way, an efficient, inexpensive and versatile storage solution is provided. According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a storage device comprising: a pair of foldable units pivotably connected together at a first end and at a second end to form a substantially continuous frame; each foldable unit of the pair of foldable units comprising a fixed-length member pivotably connected to a telescopic member; the substantially continuous frame comprising a single-walled configuration, wherein, for each foldable unit, the telescopic member is telescopically extended such that a length of the telescopic member is substantially identical to a length of the fixed-length member; and the telescopic member is arranged perpendicular to the fixed-length member thereby providing a four-sided storage box; and the substantially continuous frame comprising a double-walled configuration wherein, for each foldable unit, the telescopic member is telescopically retracted such that a length of the telescopic member is less than a length of the fixed-length member; and the telescopic member is arranged parallel and adjacent to the fixed length member; and wherein a first foldable unit of the pair foldable units is arranged perpendicular to a second foldable unit of the pair foldable units, thereby providing an L-shaped storage box element. The pair of foldable units, each comprising a fixed-length member and a telescopic member, are connected together to form a substantially continuous frame. Each foldable unit comprises a first end and a second end by which the pair of foldable units are connected to form the substantially continuous frame. For example, a first end of a first foldable unit of the pair of foldable units may be connected to a first end of a second foldable unit of the pair of foldable units, while a second end of a first foldable unit of the pair of foldable units may be connected to a second end of a second foldable unit of the pair of foldable units to form the substantially continuous frame. Alternatively, a first end of each of the foldable units may be connected to a second end of the other foldable unit to form the substantially continuous frame. The foldable units may be substantially identical. Accordingly, the storage device may be inexpensive due to economies of scale achieved through bulk manufacturing of a single component. The fixed-length member is pivotably connected to the telescopic member such that each of the foldable units is foldable. In other words, foldable unit may be folded about a pivotable connection point. The fixed-length member and the telescopic member may rotate relative to one another about the pivotable connection point. The fixed-length member may be pivotably connected to the telescopic member such that the fixed-length member and the telescopic member may rotate relative to one another about an axis arranged perpendicular to the fixed-length member and the telescopic member. In the single-walled configuration of the substantially continuous frame, each member of the pair of foldable units acts as a wall. Accordingly, four walls are provided, each wall having a thickness of one member. Each member may be arranged at right angles to adjacent members to provide a square delineated by the members to form a four-sided storage box. In the single-walled configuration of the substantially continuous frame, for each foldable unit, a length of the telescopic member is identical to a length of the fixed-length member. This is achieved by a telescopic adjustment of a length, e.g. an extension, of the telescopic member to match a length of the fixed-length member. In this way, in the single-walled configuration, all members of the pair of foldable units may comprise an identical length. In the double-walled configuration of the substantially continuous frame, each foldable unit of the pair of foldable units acts as a wall. Accordingly, two walls are provided, each wall having a thickness of two members. For each foldable unit, the telescopic member is arranged parallel and adjacent to the fixed-length member. The foldable units may be arranged at a right angle to one another to provide a corner delineated by the foldable units to form an L-shaped storage box element. In the double-walled configuration of the substantially continuous frame, for each foldable unit, a length of the telescopic member is less than a length of the fixed-length member. This is achieved by a telescopic adjustment of a length, e.g. a retraction, of the telescopic member to be less than, i.e. not meet or exceed, a length of the fixed-length member. Accordingly, in the double-walled configuration, the members of each foldable unit may comprise different lengths. In this way, when the foldable units are arranged at a right angle to one another, the telescopic members may lie on an inside of the right angle while the fixed-length members may lie on an outside of the right angle. In the double-walled configuration, a sum of the lengths of the telescopic members may be less than a sum of the lengths of the fixed-length members. This may make the telescopic members suitable for occupying the inside of a right angle formed by the fixed-length members when the foldable units are arranged at a right angle to one another. Accordingly, an adjustability of the length of the telescopic members enables the substantially continuous frame to comprise the single-walled configuration and the double-walled configuration alternately. Such a substantially continuous frame may provide a versatile device and improve an efficiency of the storage device. To achieve the double-walled configuration from the single-walled configuration and vice versa, the foldable units of the substantially continuous frame may be disconnected from one another at one or both of the first end and the second end, and reconnected such that the substantially continuous frame comprises the desired configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the members of each of the pair of foldable units may be disconnected from one another and reconnected such that the substantially continuous frame comprises the desired configuration. That is to say, the substantially continuous frame comprises the single-walled configuration and the double-walled configuration, but the substantially continuous frame may be taken apart, becoming substantially discontinuous, during a transition between configurations. For each foldable unit, the fixed-length member may be pivotably connected to the telescopic member by a hinge. Accordingly, the fixed-length member and the telescopic member may be configured to rotate relative to one another about an axis of the hinge. In this way, the telescopic member may be rotated towards the fixed-length member to approach and become parallel and adjacent to the fixed-length member during a transition into the double-walled configuration of the substantially continuous frame. In the same way, the telescopic member may be rotated away from the fixed-length member to become perpendicular to the fixed-length member during a transition into the single-walled configuration of the substantially continuous frame. In this way, each of the foldable units is foldable. The pair of foldable units may be pivotably connected together at a first end by a first hinge and at a second end by a second hinge. For example, a fixed-length member of each of the foldable units may be connected by a first hinge, while a telescopic member of each of the foldable units may be connected by a second hinge. Alternatively, a fixed-length member of a first foldable unit may be connected by a first hinge to a telescopic member of a second foldable unit, while a fixed-length member of the second foldable unit may be connected by a second hinge to the telescopic member of a first foldable unit. By being hingedly connected, the pair of foldable units may rotate relative to one another about the first and second hinges. In this way, the substantially continuous frame is provided with pivotable joints at every connection between members of the foldable units. When the fixed-length member is pivotably connected to the telescopic member by a hinge, the substantially continuous frame may be provided with hinges at every connection between members of the foldable units. Accordingly the substantially continuous frame may be flexible, i.e. a shape of the substantially continuous frame may be adjusted by rotation of the members of the foldable units relative to one another, enabled by the hinges. In this way, a shape of the substantially continuous frame may be adjusted without the substantially continuous frame being taken apart, i.e. becoming substantially discontinuous. The first hinge may comprise a limiter configured to limit rotation of each of the fixed-length members with respect to one another; the limiter comprising a first hinge knuckle connected to a first fixed-length member, a second hinge knuckle connected to a second fixed-length member and a shaft configured to engage with the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle; wherein the shaft comprises a first engagement portion configured to engage with the first hinge knuckle and a second engagement portion configured to engage with the second hinge knuckle; wherein, when the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle are urged into engagement with the first and second engagement portions, further motion of the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle is blocked by the engagement portions. The fixed-length members of the foldable units may be connected by the first hinge and an extent of their relative rotation may be limited by a limiter of the hinge. The limiter may comprise two hinge knuckles, each connected to a different fixed-length member, and a shaft comprising engagement portions configured to engage the hinge knuckles. By blocking motion of the hinge knuckles after they are urged into engagement with the engagement portions of the shaft, the shaft of the limiter limits an extent of rotation of the fixed-length members relative to one another. In so doing, the limiter limits a flexibility of the substantially continuous frame by blocking a range of relative positions of the fixed-length members. Accordingly, the substantially continuous frame may be inhibited from occupying a shape that is not required in use. For example, the substantially continuous frame may be inhibited from collapsing or from folding back on itself such that the fixed-length members are disposed on an inside of a right angle formed by the telescopic members, as occupying such a shape may damage the substantially continuous frame. The shaft may comprise a third engagement portion configured to engage with the first hinge knuckle and a fourth engagement portion configured to engage with the second hinge knuckle; wherein, when the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle are urged into engagement with the third and fourth engagement portions, further motion of the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle is blocked by the engagement portions. In other words, two pairs of engagement portions may be provided on the shaft, each pair of engagement portions acting to limit motion of the fixed-length members. For example, a first pair of engagement portions may set a maximum angle between the fixed-length members, e.g. may prevent a reflex angle being achieved, while a second pair of engagement portions may set a minimum angle between the fixed-length members, e.g. may prevent a collapsing of the frame. The fixed-length members may be free to move between the maximum and minimum angles set by the pairs of engagement portions. The limiter may limit the rotation of each of the fixed-length members with respect to one another to a range of 90 degrees. In other words, a difference between a maximum permitted angle between the fixed-length members and a minimum permitted angle between the fixed-length members may be 90 degrees. For example, a maximum permitted angle may be 180 degrees, and a minimum permitted angle may be 90 degrees. In this way, the fixed-length members may be inhibited by the limiter from collapsing together. Further, in this way, the fixed-length member may be inhibited from collapsing away from one another to form a reflex angle relative to one another which may damage the substantially continuous frame. Also in this way, the fixed-length members may be permitted to open away from one another during a transition of the substantially continuous frame between the single-walled configuration and the double-walled configuration. The telescopic members of the pair of foldable units may be pivotably connected together at the second end. In other words, the telescopic members may be connected together, and rotatable relative to one another, via the second hinge. While being extended or collapsed, the telescopic members may rotate relative to one another around an axis of the second hinge. For each foldable unit, the telescopic member may comprise a protruding element and a receiving element, the receiving element comprising a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the protruding element. The cavity may be configured to receive a varying portion of the protruding element. In this way, the portion of the protruding element may be telescopically received within the receiving element. Accordingly, the cavity may receive a small length or a large length of the portion of the protruding element. When the cavity receives a small length of the portion of the protruding element, the overall length of the telescopic member may be large. When the cavity receive a large length of the portion of the protruding element, the overall length of the telescopic member may be small. In this way, the telescopic member is telescopic. The receiving element may be configured to receive a greater portion of the protruding element in the double walled configuration than in the single walled configuration such that the telescopic member is telescopically adjustable. In the single-walled configuration, for each foldable unit, a length of the telescopic member is identical to a length of the fixed length member. In the doublewalled configuration, for each foldable unit, a length of the telescopic member is less than to a length of the fixed length member. Accordingly, the telescopic member must be extended during a transition from the double-walled configuration to the single-walled configuration, and the telescopic member must be collapsed during a transition from the single-walled configuration to the double-walled configuration. The storage device may comprise a base disposed at or near a lower end of the substantially continuous frame. The base may provide a floor for the four-sided storage box formed when the substantially continuous frame is in the single-walled configuration. The floor may allow the storage device to support items received within the four-sided storage box from below. A base may not be needed when a storage device is used over an existing base, e.g. a pallet or another storage device. The base may be laced to the substantially continuous frame. In this way, the base may be removably retained at or near a lower end of substantially continuous frame. Lacing may provide a connection between the base and the substantially continuous frame that has many contact points. Accordingly, loads acting on one of the base and the substantially continuous frame may be distributed generally evenly through the lacing to the other of the base and the substantially continuous frame through the many contact points to reduce a maximum point loading. Accordingly, a mass of an item supported by the base may be distributed evenly through the lacing to the substantially continuous frame. In this way, greater loads, e.g. a mass of box contents, may be accommodated by the storage device. The base may comprise a first fabric element, a second fabric element and a fastener configured to fasten the first fabric element to the second fabric element. By being formed of two fabric elements, the base may be flexible and durable. The base may be formed of a canvas, tarpaulin and / or a polyester material. By being fastened together by a fastener, the first and second fabric elements may form a substantially continuous base for the substantially continuous frame in the single-walled configuration. The first fabric element and the second fabric element may be configured to be received inside a recess arranged on an inside of the substantially continuous frame when the substantially continuous frame occupies the double-walled configuration. In other words, members of the foldable units of the substantially continuous frame may each comprise a recess arranged on an inward facing side of the members. During a transition of the substantially continuous frame from a single-walled configuration to a double-walled configuration, the first and second fabric elements may be unfastened and folded up between the fixed-length members and the telescopic members of each of the foldable units. Accordingly, when the substantially continuous frame is in the double-walled configuration such that the fixed-length members and the telescopic members are parallel and adjacent, the recesses may receive the folded first fabric element and the folded second fabric element between the fixed-length members and the telescopic members. In this way, the fabric elements may be out of the way and may not be a hindrance to the storage device in use as an L-shaped storage box element. Further, the fabric elements may be protected from damage by being stored between the fixed-length members and the telescopic members when the substantially continuous frame is in the double-walled configuration. The first fabric element and the second fabric element may comprise orthogonal triangles of fabric; and the fastener is configured to fasten the first fabric element to the second fabric element along a hypotenuse of each of the orthogonal triangles of fabric. I n other words, the fastener may run diagonally across the base of the four-sided storage box when the substantially continuous frame is in the single-walled configuration. By being arranged diagonally across the base of the four-sided storage box, the fastener may separate the base such that first fabric element and the second fabric element are two orthogonal triangles, i.e. right angled isosceles triangles. Accordingly, one foldable unit may be connected to one orthogonal triangle. When the foldable unit is fully folded such that the fixed-length member and the telescopic member are parallel and adjacent, the base may be neatly folded between the members. The fastener may comprise a zip. By using a zip to fasten the first and second fabric elements together, the fastening may be quick, simple and repeatable to fasten and unfasten, secure when fastened, and hard-wearing in use. A pull of the zip may be configured to be coupled to a holder arranged on an inside of the substantially continuous frame to inhibit an unintentional unfastening of the zip when the substantially continuous frame occupies the single-walled configuration. A member of the foldable units of the substantially continuous frame may comprise a holder arranged on an inward facing side of the member. The holder may be configured to receive a pull of the zip and inhibit movement of the zip until the pull is removed from the holder. In this way, a backsliding of the zip may be inhibited. Accordingly, a risk of an unintentional unfastening of the zip may be reduced by the holder. An outer surface of the substantially continuous frame may comprise a groove configured to receive a tongue for supporting the storage device. A tongue may be found, for example on a shelf. Accordingly, the storage device may be received on a shelf and supported via the groove arranged in an outer surface of the substantially continuous frame. Additionally or alternatively, a tongue may be found on racking, on a trolley, in a vehicle, or on an end effector of a robot. In this way, the storage device may be compatible with a number of supporting systems. The groove may comprise an L-shape. In other words, a cross-sectional shape of the groove may comprise an L-shape. In this way, a tongue may be retained securely in the groove. For example, to exit the groove, the tongue may need to slide out in a direction parallel with the groove, or the storage device may need to be translated vertically before the tongue may disengage with the groove, allowing horizontal translation. The substantially continuous frame may comprise an inter-connecting element arranged on a first outer surface of the substantially continuous frame; wherein, in the double-walled configuration, the inter-connecting element is configured to connect the substantially continuous frame to a substantially continuous frame of a further storage device according to the first aspect of the invention. In other words, when in the double-walled configuration, the storage device may be connected to other storage devices by an inter-connecting element arranged on a first outer surface of the substantially continuous frame. In this way, a plurality of storage devices in the double walled configuration may be connected together to form a large storage device. The inter-connecting element may be a protrusion configured to be received into a hole, slot or loop. The protrusion may be a pin, peg, or hook. The protrusion may be pressed or slid into place to connect two storage devices. The inter-connecting element may be operated to connect two substantially continuous frames together without tools. Further, the inter-connecting element may connect the substantially continuous frame to a substantially continuous frame of a further storage device in a boltless manner. This may improve a speed of connection, reduce a number of parts required, and eliminate a need for any parts extra to the substantially continuous frames. A second inter-connecting element may be arranged on a second outer surface of the substantially continuous frame, and configured to receive the inter-connecting element arranged on a first outer surface of another substantially continuous frame. In this case, the interconnecting element arranged on a first outer surface may be a first inter-connecting element. The second inter-connecting element may be a hole, slot or loop. The substantially continuous frame may comprise an intra-connecting element arranged on an inside surface of the substantially continuous frame; wherein the intra-connecting element is configured to secure, for a foldable unit, a telescopic member parallel and adjacent to a fixed-length member when the substantially continuous frame is in the double-walled configuration. In other words, when in the double-walled configuration, the fixed-length member and telescopic member of each foldable unit may be connected together by an intra-connecting element arranged on an inside surface of the foldable unit. In this way, the foldable units may be secured in the double walled configuration such that, for each foldable unit, the fixed-length member and telescopic member are parallel and adjacent. The intra-connecting element may share features of the inter-connecting element described above. The intra-connecting element may be a protrusion configured to be received into a hole, slot or loop. The protrusion may be a pin, peg, or hook. The protrusion may be pressed or slid into place to secure, for a foldable unit, a telescopic member parallel and adjacent to a fixed-length member. The intra-connecting element may be operated to secure the members of a foldable unit together without tools. Further, the intra-connecting element may secure the members of a foldable unit together in a boltless manner. This may improve a speed of connection, reduce a number of parts required, and eliminate a need for any parts extra to the foldable unit. The substantially continuous frame may comprise a pair of intra-connecting elements arranged on an inside surface of the substantially continuous frame. One intra-connecting element of the pair of intra-connecting elements may be arranged on an inside surface of a fixed-length member, while another intra-connecting element of the pair of intra-connecting elements may be arranged on an inside surface of an associated telescopic member. One intra-connecting element of the pair of intra-connecting elements may comprise a protrusion, while another intra-connecting element of the pair of intra-connecting elements may comprise a receiving portion, such as a hole or slot. The protrusion may be configured to be received in the receiving portion to secure the telescopic member parallel and adjacent to the fixed-length member when the substantially continuous frame is in the double-walled configuration. The storage device may comprise a vertical connecting element arranged on an underside of the substantially continuous frame and configured to connect the substantially continuous frame to a substantially continuous frame of a further storage device according to the first aspect of the invention. In other words, the storage device may be connected to other storage devices by a vertical connecting element arranged on an underside of the substantially continuous frame. In this way, a plurality of storage devices may be connected together to form a large storage device. The vertical connecting element may share features of the inter-connecting element and / or the intra-connecting element described above. The vertical connecting element may be a protrusion configured to be received into a hole, slot or loop. The protrusion may be a pin, peg, or hook. The protrusion may be pressed or slid into place to connect two storage devices. The vertical connecting element may be operated to connect two substantially continuous frames together without tools. Further, the vertical connecting element may connect the substantially continuous frame to a substantially continuous frame of a further storage device in a boltless manner. This may improve a speed of connection, reduce a number of parts required, and eliminate a need for any parts extra to the substantially continuous frames. A second vertical connecting element may be arranged on a top side of the substantially continuous frame, and configured to receive the vertical connecting element arranged on an underside of the substantially continuous frame. In this case, the vertical connecting element arranged on an underside of the substantially continuous frame may be a first vertical connecting element. The second vertical connecting element may be a hole, slot or loop. The storage device may comprise an electromagnetic tag arranged on the substantially continuous frame to provide the storage device with a unique identity. In this way, a storage device may be reliably and repeatedly distinguished from other storage devices. By recording the unique identity of storage devices in use, a storage device and any contents may be monitored. For example, the identity of a storage device may be recorded when it is filled, moved from one location to another or emptied. In addition, the identity of a storage device may be recorded when it is reconfigured between the single-walled and double-walled configurations, connected to or disconnected from other storage devices etc. Further data may be recorded when the identity of a storage device is recorded. For example, a time and / or a location may be recorded to provide a log of when and where the storage device was identified. In addition, a change in status of the storage device, e.g. filled / emptied / reconfigured, may be recorded. In this way, goods may be processed through a warehouse utilising storage devices with tracking provided by the electromagnetic tags of the storage devices. The electromagnetic tag may comprise encoded information corresponding to an identity of the storage device. The electromagnetic tag may be a radio frequency identification, RFID, tag or a near field communication, NFC, tag. Such an electromagnetic tag may be energy efficient, having a lower power consumption. The encoded identity of the storage device stored on an RFID or NFC tag may be decoded by scanning the tag. The tag may pass in close proximity to a scanner during scanning. In this way, a scanner may be used to record the identity of a storage device in use. The electromagnetic tag may be configured to communicate via short-range wireless technologies to broadcast a locating signal. For example, the electromagnetic tag may communicate via Wi-Fi ® or Bluetooth ®. In this way, the tag may broadcast a signal that may be used to locate the storage device. Accordingly, the tag may be used to locate goods within a warehouse, rack of vehicle. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a storage device assembly comprising four storage devices according to the first aspect of the invention; wherein the storage devices comprise the double-walled configuration; and wherein the storage devices are configured to be coupled together by a first outer surface and a second outer surface of the substantially continuous frame of each storage device to form a further substantially continuous frame, thereby providing a large square storage box. In other words, a large square box may be formed from four storage devices according to the first aspect of the invention arranged in the double-walled configuration by coupling the storage devices together by first and second outer surfaces. Each storage device, when arranged in the double-walled configuration, forms an L-shaped storage box element. Four L-shaped storage box elements may be assembled together to form a large square storage box. The storage devices may be connected together via inter-connecting elements arranged at first and / or second outer surfaces of the substantially continuous frames of the storage devices. Alternatively, the storage devices may be connected together via a base. The storage devices may engage with the base via vertical connecting elements. The base may be a stiff board or plate to which the four storage devices are configured to connect. The base may support the four storage devices and hold them in place to form a substantially continuous frame, thereby providing a large square storage box. According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a robotic storage rack configured to receive a storage device according to the first aspect of the invention, and / or a storage device assembly according to the second aspect of the invention. In other words, the four-sided storage box formed by the storage device of the first aspect of the invention when in the single-walled configuration, or the large square storage box provided by the storage device assembly of the second aspect of the invention may be received upon a robotic storage rack. The robotic storage rack may comprise a robotic jaw configured to support a storage device. The robotic jaw may be moveable to move the storage device around the robotic storage rack. The robotic jaw may be configured to stack a storage device on top of another storage device within the robotic storage rack. The robotic jaw may be configured to add storage devices to the robotic storage rack and to remove storage devices from the robotic storage rack. The robotic storage device may comprise a plurality of shelves configured to receive storage devices. The robotic storage device may comprise a plurality of robotic jaws configured to add, adjust or remove storage devices from the shelves. For example, each shelf may be served by a pair of robotic jaws arranged at either side of the shelf to support storage devices. Each shelf may comprise a tongue configured to be received in a groove disposed on a side of a storage device. The robotic jaws may be configured to follow a path to position the storage device such that the tongue is secure in the groove when adding a storage device to a shelf, and to follow a path to disengage the tongue from the groove when removing the storage device from the shelf. The robotic storage rack may be autonomously moveable such that it may move around a warehouse. The robotic storage rack may comprise wheels, an energy store and a powertrain to enable movement around a warehouse. The wheels may be omnidirectional wheels, such as mecanum wheels, such that the robotic storage rack may move around a floor of a warehouse in any direction. The robotic storage rack may comprise an electromagnetic tag configured to communicate via short-range wireless technologies to broadcast a locating signal. In this way, a robotic storage rack may be easily located within a warehouse. The robotic storage rack comprise a scanner configured to scan an electromagnetic tag of a storage device. For example, when a storage device is loaded onto a shelf of the robotic storage rack, the scanner may scan the electromagnetic tag to obtain information corresponding to an identity of the storage device. The robotic storage rack may store a time, an identity of the storage device and a status change of the storage device in a centralised log to enable tracking of goods through a delivery system. In this way, the robotic storage rack may contribute to a goods tracking system or inventory management system of a warehouse. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a pallet configured to receive a storage device according to the first aspect of the invention, and / or a storage device assembly according to the second aspect of the invention. In other words, the four-sided storage box formed by the storage device of the first aspect of the invention when in the single-walled configuration, or the large square storage box provided by the storage device assembly of the second aspect of the invention may be received upon a pallet. The pallet may comprise vertical connecting elements configured to engage with an underside surface of a storage device to secure the storage device in place on the pallet. The vertical connecting element may be a protrusion configured to be received into a hole, slot or loop. The protrusion may be a pin, peg, or hook. The protrusion may be pressed or slid into place to connect a storage device to the pallet. The pallet may be autonomously moveable such that it may move around a warehouse. The pallet may comprise wheels, an energy store and a powertrain to enable movement around a warehouse. The wheels may be omnidirectional wheels, such as mecanum wheels, such that the pallet may move around a floor of a warehouse in any direction. The pallet may comprise an electromagnetic tag configured to communicate via short-range wireless technologies to broadcast a locating signal. In this way, a pallet may be easily located within a warehouse. The pallet comprise a scanner configured to scan an electromagnetic tag of a storage device. For example, when a storage device is loaded onto the pallet, the scanner may scan the electromagnetic tag to obtain information corresponding to an identity of the storage device. The pallet may store a time, an identity of the storage device and a status change of the storage device in a centralised log to enable tracking of goods through a delivery system. In this way, the pallet may contribute to a goods tracking system or inventory management system of a warehouse. Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A depicts a schematic plan view of a storage device according to a first embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the storage device comprising the single-walled configuration; Figure 1B depicts a schematic plan view of the storage device of Fig. 1A, the storage device comprising the double-walled configuration; Figures 2A-2E depict schematic plan views of five storage devices of Fig. 1 A, showing a transition between the single-walled configuration and the double-walled configuration; Figure 3 depicts a schematic isometric view of a storage device according to a second embodiment of the first aspect of the invention: Figure 4 depicts a schematic isometric view of a limiter of the storage device of Fig. 2; Figure 5 depicts a schematic plan view of a storage device assembly according to a second aspect of the invention; Figure 6 depicts a schematic isometric view of a robotic storage rack according to a third aspect of the invention; Figure 7 depicts a schematic side view of a pallet according to a fourth aspect of the invention; and Figure 8 depicts a schematic isometric view of contents of a warehouse comprising the storage device of Fig. 1A, the storage device assembly of Fig. 5, the robotic storage rack of Fig. 6 and the pallet of Fig. 7. Detailed Description With reference to Figures 1A and 1B, a storage device 100 according to a first embodiment of a first aspect of the invention is illustrated. The storage device 100 of Fig. 1A comprises a singlewalled configuration. The storage device 100 of Fig. 1B comprises a double-walled configuration. Each storage device 100 comprises: a pair of foldable units 102a, 102b pivotably connected together at a first end 104 and at a second end 106 to form a substantially continuous frame 108; each foldable unit 102a, 102b of the pair of foldable units 102a, 102b comprising a fixed-length member 110 pivotably connected to a telescopic member 112; the substantially continuous frame 108 comprising a single-walled configuration, shown in Fig. 1A, wherein, for each foldable unit 102a, 102b, the telescopic member 112 is telescopically extended such that a length of the telescopic member 112 is substantially identical to a length of the fixed-length member 110; and the telescopic member 112 is arranged perpendicular to the fixed-length member 110 thereby providing a four-sided storage box; and the substantially continuous frame 108 comprising a double-walled configuration, shown in Fig. 1B, wherein, for each foldable unit 1021, 102b, the telescopic member 112 is telescopically retracted such that a length of the telescopic member 112 is less than a length of the fixed-length member 110; and the telescopic member 112 is arranged parallel and adjacent to the fixed length member 110; and wherein a first foldable unit 102a of the pair foldable units 102a, 102b is arranged perpendicular to a second foldable unit 102b of the pair foldable units 102a, 102b, thereby providing an L-shaped storage box element. The storage device 100 is formed of four members 110, 112 arranged into a pair of foldable units 102a, 102b. Each foldable unit 102a, 102b comprises a fixed-length member 110 and the telescopic member 112. In the single-walled configuration, see Fig. 1A, all four members 110, 112 have lengths that are substantially identical. In the double-walled configuration, see Fig. 1B, each foldable unit 102a, 102b comprises one member 112 having a length than it less than a length of the other member 110. Between the single-walled configuration and the double-walled configuration, the telescopic member 112 of each of the foldable units 102a, 102b has changed length, a length of the fixed-length member 110 has not changed. In the single-walled configuration, the four members 110, 112 form a substantially continuous frame 108 having a square shape. Accordingly all four members 110,112 must have substantially identical lengths. The telescopic members 112 are extended. In the double-walled configuration, the four members 110, 112 form a substantially continuous frame 108 having an L-shape. In this L-shape, the telescopic members 112 are arranged on an inside of a right angle formed by the fixed-length members 110. The telescopic members 112 are collapsed to a shorter length to be accommodated on the inside of the right angle. With respect to Figures 2A-2E, a transition of the substantially continuous frame 108 of the storage device 100 between the single-walled configuration and the double-walled configuration is illustrated. Each member 110, 112 of the substantially continuous frame 108 is connected to adjacent members 110, 112 by a hinge. Accordingly, the substantially continuous frame 108 comprises four hinges. The hinges allow the substantially continuous frame 108 to change shape without becoming substantially discontinuous, e.g. being taken apart. To transition between the single-walled configuration, Fig. 2A, and the double-walled configuration Fig. 2E, the substantially continuous frame 108 is adjusted into an intermediate configuration, as shown in Fig. 2C. In the intermediate configuration, the substantially continuous frame 108 is flattened such that, for each foldable unit 102a, 102b, the fixed-length member 110 and the telescopic member 112 are arranged parallel and adjacent to one another, and the foldable units 102a, 102b are arranged in parallel with one another such that they form a straight line. In the intermediate configuration, the telescopic members 112 partially extended. Fig. 2B shows a stage of transition between the single-walled configuration and the intermediate configuration. In this stage, an obtuse angle is formed between the fixed-length members 110, an obtuse angle is formed between the telescopic members 112, and, for each foldable unit 102a, 102b, and an acute angle is formed between the fixed-length member 110 and each telescopic member 112. The telescopic members 112 are extended. Accordingly, the substantially continuous frame 108 forms a rhombus shape. Fig. 2D shows a stage of transition between the intermediate configuration and the double-walled configuration. In this stage, for each foldable unit 102a, 102b, the fixed-length member 110 and the telescopic member 112 are arranged parallel and adjacent to one another, and the foldable units 102a, 102b are arranged at an obtuse angle to one another. The telescopic members 112 are partially collapsed. Accordingly, the substantially continuous frame 108 forms a loose elbow shape. With reference to Figure 3, a storage device 300 is illustrated. Each foldable unit 302a, 302b of the storage device 300 comprises a fixed-length member 310 and a telescopic member 312. For each foldable unit 302a, 302b, the fixed-length member 310 is pivotably connected to the telescopic member 312 by a hinge 314. The fixed-length members 310 are pivotably connected together at a first end 304 by a first hinge 316 and the telescopic members 312 are pivotably connected together at a second end 306 by a second hinge 318. The telescopic members 312 each comprise a protruding element 320 and a receiving element 322. The receiving elements 322 each comprise a cavity, not shown, configured to receive at least a portion of the respective protruding element 320. By the portion of the protruding element 320 moving into and out of the cavity, the telescopic member 312 is extended and collapsed telescopically. To enable telescopic action, the protruding elements 320 have a smaller size than the receiving elements 322. For example, the protruding elements 320 may have a smaller width than the receiving elements 322. The storage device 300 comprises a base 324 disposed at a lower end of the device 300. The base 324 is laced to the storage device 300. A series of laces, not shown, is configured to attach the base 324 to lower ends of the fixed-length members 310 and the telescopic members 312 via eyelets 326 provided in the members 310, 312. The base 324 comprises a first fabric element 328, a second fabric element 330 and a fastener 332 configured to fasten the first fabric element 328 to the second fabric element 330. The first fabric element 328 and the second fabric element 330 are orthogonal triangles of fabric, i.e. they are right angled isosceles triangles of fabric, fastened together by a zip 332. The zip 332 runs along the hypotenuse of each of the first fabric element 328 and the second fabric element 330. When the substantially continuous frame occupies the double-walled configuration, i.e. when, for each foldable unit, the fixed-length element 310 is parallel and adjacent with the telescopic element 312, the first fabric element 328 and the second fabric element 330 are configured to be received inside recesses, not shown, provided on inside surfaces of the fixed-length element 310 and the telescopic element 312. A pull, not shown, of the zip 332, is connected to a holder arranged on an inside surface of a fixed-length element 310. The holder inhibits motion of the pull to avoid accidental unfastening of the zip. The outer surfaces of each of the fixed-length members 310 and the telescopic members 312 comprise a groove 334. The grooves 334 are L-shaped in cross section. The grooves 334 are configured to receive tongues for supporting the storage device 300. The storage device 300 comprises a plurality of connecting elements. Inter-connecting elements, not shown, are arranged on a surface of each foldable unit between the fixed-length element 310 and the telescopic element 312 and configured to connect two storage devices 300 together in the double-walled configuration. Intra-connecting elements 336 are arranged on inside surfaces of the fixed-length elements 310 and the telescopic elements 312 and are configured to connect the fixed-length elements 310 and the telescopic elements 312 together in the double-walled configuration. Vertical connecting elements 338 are arranged on an underside and a top side of the storage device and are configured to connect two storage devices 300 together in either configuration. The connecting elements are cylindrical protrusions or depressions configured to co-operate with one another. The storage device 300 comprises an electromagnetic tag 340 arranged on an outer surface of a fixed-length member 310 and provides the storage device 300 with a unique identity. The electromagnetic tag comprises a battery configured to power a Wi-Fi transmitter configured to broadcast a locating signal for the storage device 300. The storage device 300 of Fig. 3 comprises a limiter 342 configured to limit rotation of each of the fixed-length members 310 with respect to one another. Figure 4 depicts the limiter 342 in more detail. The limiter 342 comprises a first hinge knuckle 402 connected to a first fixed-length member 310a, a second hinge knuckle 404 connected to a second fixed-length member 310b and a shaft 406 configured to engage with the first hinge knuckle 402 and the second hinge knuckle 404. The hinge knuckles 402, 404, and by extension the fixed-length members 310a, 310b, are configured to rotate around the shaft 406. The first hinge knuckle 402 comprises a first protrusion 403 and the second hinge knuckle 404 comprises a second protrusion 405. The shaft 406 comprises a first quadrant 408 comprising two engagement portions 409a, 409b. A first engagement portion 409a is configured to engage with the first protrusion 403 of the first hinge knuckle 402 and the second engagement portion 409b is configured to engage with the second protrusion 405 of the second hinge knuckle 404. The shaft 406 comprises a second quadrant 410 comprising two further engagement portions 411a, 411b. A third engagement portion 411a is configured to engage with the first protrusion 403 of the first hinge knuckle 402 and a fourth engagement portion 411b is configured to engage with the second protrusion 405 of the second hinge knuckle 404. When the first protrusion 403 of the first hinge knuckle 402 and the second protrusion 405 of the second hinge knuckle 404 are each urged into engagement with engagement portions of a same quadrant, further motion of the first hinge knuckle 402 and the second hinge knuckle 404 is blocked by the quadrant. The shaft 406 is located between the two hinge knuckles 402, 404 in a vertical stack. The knuckles 402, 404 share an axis of rotation that passes through a centre of the shaft 406. A pin 407 is provided to hold the vertical stack together. The pin 407 passes through a central axis of the two hinge knuckles 402, 404 and the shaft 406 to inhibit a collapsing of the vertical stack. The first and second protrusions 403, 405 are wedge shaped portions of the knuckles 402, 404 and extend from top and underside surfaces of the knuckles 402, 404 towards the shaft 406 to engage with the engagement portions 409a, 409b, 411a, 411b of the quadrants 408, 410. The engagement portions 409a, 409b, 411a, 411b are surfaces that are flat and vertical. The surfaces are each configured to engage with a protrusion 403, 405 of a hinge knuckle 402, 404 to block a rotational motion of the hinge knuckle 402, 404 when the protrusions 403, 405 are urged into engagement with engagement portions 409a, 409b, 411a, 411b of a same quadrant 408, 410. The limiter 342 limits the rotation of each of the first hinge knuckle 402 and the second hinge knuckle 404, and by extension the fixed-length members 310a, 310b, with respect to one another to a range of 90 degrees. With respect to Figure 5, a storage device assembly 500 according to a second aspect of the invention is illustrated. The storage device assembly 500 is formed from four storage devices 100 of Fig. 1. The storage devices 100 are arranged in the double-walled configuration. The storage devices 100 are coupled together by inter-connecting elements, not shown, located on the ends of the L-shape formed by the storage devices in the double-walled configuration. Accordingly, the storage devices 100 are connected together by a first outer surface and a second outer surface of each storage device to form a large square storage box. The storage device assembly 500 has an area that is approximately four times the area of a storage device 100 arranged in the single-walled configuration. With respect to Figure 6, a robotic storage rack 600 according to a third aspect of the invention is illustrated. The robotic storage rack 600 is storing the storage device 100 of Fig. 3 arranged in the single-walled configuration. The robotic storage rack 600 has a robotic jaw 602 that is supported at a corner tower 604 of the robotic storage rack 600. A plurality of shelves 606 are arranged between adjacent corner towers 604 of the robotic storage rack 600. The shelves 606 each have tongues 608 configured to be received in a groove 334 of the storage device 100. The tongues 608 have L-shaped cross-sectional shapes to provide a secure support for the storage device 100. In Fig. 6, the robotic jaw 602 supports the storage device 100. The robotic jaw 602 is articulated to be able to adjust a position the storage device 100, i.e. translate and / or rotate the storage device 100 with respect to the corner tower 604. The robotic jaw 602 places the storage device 100 onto a shelf 606 so that the tongue 608 is disposed inside the groove 334 and the storage device is supported by the shelf. In addition, the robotic jaw 602 may remove the storage device 100 from the shelf 606. During replacement or removal of a storage device 100 from a shelf 606, the storage device 100 may be moved along a path by the robotic jaw 602. The path may comprise a change of direction. In other words, the path may comprise motion in at least two directions. In Fig. 6, the storage device 100 may be secured on the tongue 608 of the shelf 606 by a horizontal translation of the storage device 100 to position the tongue 608 in a lower portion of the groove 334, followed by a vertical translation of the storage device 100 to position the tongue 608 in an upper portion of the groove 334. For example, the path may go left, then down. When positioned in the upper portion of the groove 334, the tongue 608 may be inhibited from being translated horizontally by an over-hanging portion of the side of the fixed-length member 310. In this way, the storage device 100 may be secured on a shelf 606 of the robotic storage rack 600. To remove the storage device 100 from the shelf 606, a reverse path may be followed, i.e. a reverse direction vertical translation, followed by a reverse direction horizontal translation. For example, the path may go up, then right. With respect to Figure 7, a pallet 700 according to the fourth aspect of the invention is illustrated. The pallet 700 supports five storage device assemblies 500 of Fig. 5 stacked one on top of another. The pallet 700 has a supporting surface 702 upon which goods may be placed inside the storage device assemblies 500. The supporting surface 702 of the pallet 700 comprises vertical connecting elements, not shown, configured to engage with an underside surface of the lowest storage device assembly 500 to secure the storage device assembly 500 in place on the pallet. The pallet 700 has mecanum wheels 704, such that the pallet 700 may move around a floor of a warehouse in any direction. Figure 8 depicts a schematic isometric view of contents of a warehouse 800 comprising the storage device 100, the storage device assembly 500, the robotic storage rack 600 and the pallet 700. Further, a robotic arm 802 facilitates moving goods around the warehouse 800. In addition, a van 804, which may be self-driving, is ready to be loaded / unloaded at the warehouse 800. A robot vehicle 806 is configured to carry one storage box 100 and enters / exits the warehouse via a dedicated door 808. Figure 8 illustrates how the aspects of the present invention may together enable efficient utilisation of warehousing space. By implementing the aspects of the present invention in a fulfilment centre, or otherwise in the delivery supply chain, goods may be processed autonomously and in a standardised way. In this way, fulfilment may be inexpensive, fast and efficient. Further embodiments within the scope of the present invention may be envisaged that have not been described above. For example, in use, a limiter may be used in the second hinge at the second end of the foldable units, between the telescopic members. Further, storage devices may be combined in any suitable number or configuration. Further, a storage device may comprise 5 any suitable combination of fixed-length and telescopic members. A storage device may be any suitable size. A storage device may comprise any suitable connecting elements. The robotic storage rack may support a storage device in any suitable manner. Further, the pallet may support a storage device in any suitable manner. The pallet may be moveable in any suitable manner. Any suitable tag may be used to identify a storage device. Goods stored by the storage 10 device may be any suitable goods. In addition, the components of the invention may be formed of any suitable material. To provide an efficient, inexpensive and versatile standardisation and automation solution that is appropriate for a broad spectrum of consumer goods, a storage device, storage device assembly, 15 robotic storage rack and pallet are required. The present invention provides improvements to the efficiency of a fulfilment centre system, thereby improving cost and lead time of fulfilment for consumer goods. The invention is not limited to the specific examples or structures illustrated, a greater number of components than are illustrated in the figures could be used, for example.

Claims

1. A storage device comprising:a pair of foldable units pivotably connected together at a first end and at a second end to form a substantially continuous frame;each foldable unit of the pair of foldable units comprising a fixed-length member pivotably connected to a telescopic member;the substantially continuous frame comprising a single-walled configuration, wherein, for each foldable unit, the telescopic member is telescopically extended such that a length of the telescopic member is substantially identical to a length of the fixed-length member; and the telescopic member is arranged perpendicular to the fixed-length member thereby providing a foursided storage box; andthe substantially continuous frame comprising a double-walled configuration wherein, for each foldable unit, the telescopic member is telescopically retracted such that a length of the telescopic member is less than a length of the fixed-length member; and the telescopic member is arranged parallel and adjacent to the fixed length member; andwherein a first foldable unit of the pair foldable units is arranged perpendicular to a second foldable unit of the pair foldable units, thereby providing an L-shaped storage box element.

2. A storage device according to claim 1, wherein, for each foldable unit, the fixed-length member is pivotably connected to the telescopic member by a hinge.

3. A storage device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the pair of foldable units are pivotably connected together at a first end by a first hinge and at a second end by a second hinge.

4. A storage device according to claim 3, wherein the first hinge comprises a limiter configured to limit rotation of each of the fixed-length members with respect to one another;the limiter comprising a first hinge knuckle connected to a first fixed-length member, a second hinge knuckle connected to a second fixed-length member and a shaft configured to engage with the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle;wherein the shaft comprises a first engagement portion configured to engage with the first hinge knuckle and a second engagement portion configured to engage with the second hinge knuckle;wherein, when the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle are urged into engagement with the first and second engagement portions, further motion of the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle is blocked by the engagement portions.

5. A storage device according to claim 4, wherein the shaft comprises a third engagement portion configured to engage with the first hinge knuckle and a fourth engagement portion configured to engage with the second hinge knuckle;wherein, when the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle are urged into engagement with the third and fourth engagement portions, further motion of the first hinge knuckle and the second hinge knuckle is blocked by the engagement portions.

6. A storage device according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the limiter limits the rotation of each of the fixed-length members with respect to one another to a range of 90 degrees.

7. A storage device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the telescopic members of the pair of foldable units are pivotably connected together at the second end.

8. A storage device according to any preceding claim, wherein, for each foldable unit, the telescopic member comprises a protruding element and a receiving element, the receiving element comprising a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the protruding element.

9. A storage device according to claim 8, wherein the receiving element is configured to receive a greater portion of the protruding element in the double walled configuration than in the single walled configuration such that the telescopic member is telescopically adjustable.

10. A storage device according to any preceding claim, the storage device comprising a base disposed at or near a lower end of the substantially continuous frame.

11. A storage device according to claim 10, wherein the base is laced to the substantially continuous frame.

12. A storage device according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the base comprises a first fabric element, a second fabric element and a fastener configured to fasten the first fabric element to the second fabric element.

13. A storage device according to claim 12, wherein the first fabric element and the second fabric element are configured to be received inside a recess arranged on an inside of the substantially continuous frame when the substantially continuous frame occupies the double-walled configuration.

14. A storage device according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the first fabric element and the second fabric element comprise orthogonal triangles of fabric; and the fastener is configured to fasten the first fabric element to the second fabric element along a hypotenuse of each of the orthogonal triangles of fabric.

15. A storage device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the fastener comprises a zip.

16. A storage device according to claim 15, wherein a pull of the zip is configured to be coupled to a holder arranged on an inside of the substantially continuous frame to inhibit an unintentional unfastening of the zip when the substantially continuous frame occupies the single-walled configuration.

17. A storage device according to any preceding claim, wherein an outer surface of the substantially continuous frame comprises a groove configured to receive a tongue for supporting the storage device.

18. A storage device according to claim 17; wherein the groove comprises an L-shape.

19. A storage device according to any preceding claim, wherein the substantially continuous frame may comprise an inter-connecting element arranged on a first outer surface of the substantially continuous frame; wherein, in the double-walled configuration, the inter-connecting element is configured to connect the substantially continuous frame to a substantially continuous frame of a further storage device according to any preceding claim.

20. A storage device according to any preceding claim, wherein the substantially continuous frame comprises an intra-connecting element arranged on an inside surface of the substantially continuous frame; wherein the intra-connecting element is configured to secure, for a foldable unit, a telescopic member parallel and adjacent to a fixed-length member when the substantially continuous frame is in the double-walled configuration.

21. A storage device according to any preceding claim, wherein the storage device comprises a vertical connecting element arranged on an underside of the substantially continuous frame and configured to connect the substantially continuous frame to a substantially continuous frame of a further storage device according to any preceding claim.

22. A storage device according to any preceding claim, wherein the storage device comprises an electromagnetic tag arranged on the substantially continuous frame to provide the storage device with a unique identity.23 A storage device according to claim 22, wherein the electromagnetic tag is configured to communicate via short-range wireless technologies to broadcast a locating signal.

24. A storage device assembly comprising four storage devices according to any preceding claim; wherein the storage devices comprise the double-walled configuration; and wherein the storage devices are configured to be coupled together by a first outer surface and a second outer surface of the substantially continuous frame of each storage device to form a further substantially continuous frame, thereby providing a large square storage box.

25. A robotic storage rack configured to receive a storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, and / or a storage device assembly according to claim 24.

26. A pallet configured to receive a storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, and / or a storage device assembly according to claim 24.

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