Container handling vehicle elevator

Abstract

The present invention relates to an automated warehouse system (1) for storing storage containers (106), in which container handling vehicles (201, 301) are configured to lift storage containers (106) from storage columns (105), lower storage containers (106) into storage columns (105), and transport storage containers (106) horizontally above the storage columns (105). Specifically, the present invention relates to such a system comprising a container handling vehicle elevator (600) having vertically extending supports (612), a platform (602), and a lift mechanism (604).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to automated warehouse systems for the storage and retrieval of containers, and more particularly to a vehicle elevator for transporting container handling vehicles to an access area for performing maintenance on the container handling vehicles. [Background technology]

[0002] FIG. 1 discloses a typical prior art automated warehouse system 1 with a framework structure 100, and FIGS. 2 and 3 disclose two different prior art container handling vehicles 201, 301 suitable for operating on such a system 1.

[0003] The skeleton structure 100 comprises upright members 102, horizontal members 103, and a storage volume comprising storage columns 105 arranged in rows between the upright members 102 and the horizontal members 103. In these storage columns 105, storage containers 106, also known as receptacles, are stacked on top of each other to form stacks 107. The members 102, 103 may typically consist of metal, for example extruded aluminum profiles.

[0004] The skeleton structure 100 of the automated warehouse system 1 includes a rail system 108 arranged across the top of the skeleton structure 100, on which a plurality of container handling vehicles 201, 301 are operated to lift storage containers 106 from, lower storage containers 106 into, and transport storage containers 106 up the storage columns 105. The rail system 108 includes a first set of parallel rails 110 arranged to guide movement of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 in a first direction X across the top of the skeleton structure 100, and a second set of parallel rails 111 arranged perpendicular to the first set of rails 110 for guiding movement of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 in a second direction Y that is perpendicular to the first direction X. Containers 106 stored in columns 105 are accessed by container handling vehicles through access openings 112 in rail system 108. Container handling vehicles 201, 301 can move laterally above storage columns 105, i.e., in a plane that is parallel to the horizontal XY plane.

[0005] The uprights 102 of the skeletal structure 100 may be used to guide the storage containers during lifting and lowering of the containers out of and into the columns 105. The stacks 107 of containers 106 are typically freestanding.

[0006] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301 includes a body 201a, 301a and first and second sets of wheels 201b, 301b, 201c, 301c, which allow lateral movement of the container handling vehicle 201, 301 in the X and Y directions, respectively. In Figures 2 and 3, two wheels in each set are fully visible. The first set of wheels 201b, 301b are arranged to engage two adjacent rails of the first set of rails 110, and the second set of wheels 201c, 301c are arranged to engage two adjacent rails of the second set of rails 111. At least one of the first and second sets of wheels 201b, 301b, 201c, 301c can be raised and lowered so that the first set of wheels 201b, 301b and / or the second set of wheels 201c, 301c can be engaged with a respective set of rails 110, 111 at any one time.

[0007] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301 also includes a lifting device (not shown) for vertical transportation of the storage container 106, e.g., lifting the storage container 106 from the storage column 105 and lowering it into the storage column 105. The lifting device includes one or more gripping / engaging devices adapted to engage the storage container 106, and the gripping / engaging device can be lowered from the vehicle 201, 301, such that the position of the gripping / engaging device relative to the vehicle 201, 301 can be adjusted in a third direction Z that is orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y. A portion of the gripping device of the container handling vehicle 301 is shown in FIG. 3 and designated with reference numeral 304. The gripping device of the container handling device 201 is located within the vehicle body 201a of FIG. 2.

[0008] Conventionally, and for purposes of this application, Z=1 identifies the top layer of a storage container, i.e., the layer immediately below rail system 108; Z=2 identifies the second layer below rail system 108; Z=3 identifies the third layer, and so on. In the prior art disclosed in FIG. 1, Z=8 identifies the lowest bottom layer of a storage container. Similarly, X=1...n and Y=1...n identify the position of each storage column 105 in the horizontal plane. Consequently, using the Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z shown in FIG. 1 as an example, the storage container identified as 106' in FIG. 1 may be said to occupy storage location X=10, Y=2, Z=3. Container handling vehicles 201, 301 may be said to travel in layer Z=0, and each storage column 105 may be identified by its X and Y coordinates.

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

[0010] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301 includes a storage compartment or space for receiving and containing the storage container 106 as it is transported across the rail system 108. The storage space may include a cavity centrally arranged within the vehicle body 201a, as shown in FIG. 2 and as described, for example, in WO 2015 / 193278 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

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

[0012] 2 may have a footprint covering an area with dimensions in the X and Y directions generally equal to the lateral extent of the storage column 105, as described, for example, in WO 2015 / 193278 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. As used herein, the term "lateral" may mean "horizontal."

[0013] Alternatively, the central hollow container handling vehicles 201, 301 may have a footprint that is greater than the lateral area defined by the storage columns 105, for example as disclosed in WO2014 / 090684A1.

[0014] Rail system 108 typically includes rails with grooves along which vehicle wheels run. Alternatively, the rails may include upwardly protruding elements, and the vehicle wheels may include flanges to prevent derailment. These grooves and upwardly protruding elements are collectively known as tracks. Each rail may include one track, or each rail may include two parallel tracks.

[0015] WO2018146304 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference) illustrates a typical configuration of a rail system 108, comprising rails and parallel tracks in both the X and Y directions.

[0016] In the skeleton structure 100, the majority of the columns 105 are storage columns 105, i.e., columns 105 where storage containers 106 are stored in stacks 107. However, some columns 105 may have other purposes. In FIG. 1 , columns 119 and 120 are such special-purpose columns used by container handling vehicles 201, 301 to unload and / or load storage containers 106 so that they can be accessed from outside the skeleton structure 100 or transported to an access station (not shown) where they can be transferred out of or into the skeleton structure 100. Within the art, such locations are typically referred to as "ports," and the columns in which the ports are located may be referred to as "port columns" 119, 120. Transport to the access station may be in any direction, horizontal, diagonal, and / or vertical. For example, storage containers 106 may be installed in random or dedicated columns 105 within the framework structure 100, then loaded by any container handling vehicle and transported to port columns 119, 120 for further transport to an access station. Note that the term "diagonal" refers to the transportation of storage containers 106 having a general transport orientation somewhere between horizontal and vertical.

[0017] In FIG. 1, the first port column 119 may be, for example, a dedicated loading port column where container handling vehicles 201, 301 may unload storage containers 106 to be transported to an access or transfer station, and the second port column 120 may be a dedicated loading port column where container handling vehicles 201, 301 may load storage containers 106 being transported from an access or transfer station.

[0018] An access station may typically be a picking station or a stockpiling station where product items are removed from or placed into storage containers 106. At a picking or stockpiling station, the storage containers 106 are typically not removed from the automated warehousing system 1, but once accessed, are placed back into the backbone structure 100. Ports can also be used to transfer storage containers to another storage facility (e.g., another backbone structure or another automated warehousing system), to a transport vehicle (e.g., a train or large truck), or to a production facility.

[0019] A conveyor system comprising conveyors is typically employed to transport storage containers between the port columns 119, 120 and the access stations.

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

[0021] The conveyor system may be arranged to transfer storage containers 106 between different skeletal structures, for example as described in WO2014 / 075937A1 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference).

[0022] 1 is to be accessed, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 is commanded to retrieve the target storage container 106 from its location and transport it to the unloading port column 119. This operation involves moving the container handling vehicle 201, 301 to a location above the storage column 105 in which the target storage container 106 is located, using a lifting device (not shown) on the container handling vehicle to retrieve the storage container 106 from the storage column 105, and transporting the storage container 106 to the unloading port column 119. If the target storage container 106 is located deep within the stack 107, i.e., one or more other storage containers 106 are positioned above the target storage container 106, the operation also involves temporarily moving the above-positioned storage container prior to raising the target storage container 106 from the storage column 105. This step, sometimes referred to within the art as "digging," may be performed using the same container handling vehicle used to subsequently transport the target storage container to the unloading port column 119, or using one or more other cooperating container handling vehicles. Alternatively, or in addition, the automated warehouse system 1 may have container handling vehicles 201, 301 specifically dedicated to the task of temporarily removing the storage container 106 from the storage column 105. Once the target storage container 106 has been removed from the storage column 105, the temporarily removed storage container 106 can be repositioned in the original storage column 105. However, the removed storage container 106 may alternatively be relocated to another storage column 105.

[0023] When a storage container 106 is to be stored in one of the columns 105, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 is commanded to load the storage container 106 from the load port column 120 and transport it to a location above the storage column 105 where it is to be stored. After any storage container 106 located at or above the target location in the stack 107 is removed, the container handling vehicle 201, 301 positions the storage container 106 in the desired location. The removed storage container 106 may then be lowered back into the storage column 105 or relocated to another storage column 105.

[0024] To monitor and control the automated storage system 1, the automated storage system 1 typically includes a control system 500 that is computerized and typically includes a database for tracking the storage containers 106. Monitoring and controlling the automated storage system 1 may include monitoring and controlling the locations of the individual storage containers 106 within the skeletal structure 100, the contents of each storage container 106, and the movements of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 so that the desired storage containers 106 can be delivered to the desired locations at the desired times without the container handling vehicles 201, 301 colliding with each other.

[0025] A problem with known automated warehouse systems is, inter alia, the difficulty of performing inspections on malfunctioning container handling vehicles in a space-efficient / conservative manner and without shutting down the entire system.

[0026] It is known to perform an on-site inspection at the location of a malfunctioning container handling vehicle when it is aligned on a rail system above a storage column by using an inspection vehicle that can be manually driven by an operator, for example, by inspection personnel, to reach the malfunctioning vehicle's destination. In another embodiment, the inspection vehicle can load the malfunctioning vehicle and transport it to an inspection area that is level with the rail system of the automated warehouse system's framework.

[0027] However, such performance requires that the inspection vehicle be able to operate onto the rail system of the malfunctioning container handling vehicle from an area that is aligned at the same height as the rail system of the malfunctioning container handling vehicle, preferably on rails that are aligned with the rail system of the framework, which requires a large area for storing the inspection vehicle and equipment for inspecting the vehicle at the level of the rail system of the framework.

[0028] Furthermore, the described activities may cause unnecessary delays in the overall performance of the system because operating container handling vehicles may need to be shut down so that operators can conduct on-site inspections of malfunctioning container handling vehicles and / or for inspection vehicles to safely proceed on the rail system.

[0029] In light of the above, it would be desirable to provide an automated warehousing system and method thereof that overcomes or at least alleviates one or more of the aforementioned problems associated with the use of prior art warehousing systems.

[0030] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a space-efficient warehousing system that does not require, for example, a large area and / or mezzanine floor for inspection vehicles and / or equipment for servicing malfunctioning container handling vehicles that would be arranged at the level of the rail system of the skeletal structure of the warehousing system.

[0031] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a warehousing system in which container handling vehicles can be easily added to or removed from the rail system of the system.

[0032] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a safe system for accessing malfunctioning container handling vehicles that provides a safe working environment for inspection personnel, among other things. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0033] The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims, while the dependent claims describe further characteristics of the invention.

[0034] In one aspect, the present invention relates to an automated storage system comprising a skeletal structure having a plurality of interior uprights and peripheral uprights arranged to define a storage grid comprising a plurality of storage columns for storing storage containers on top of one another in a vertical stack. The uprights are interconnected at their upper ends by a rail system arranged to guide at least one container handling vehicle thereon. The container handling vehicle is configured to lift storage containers from the storage columns, lower them into them, and transport them horizontally up the storage columns. The peripheral uprights of the skeletal structure define a horizontal perimeter of the skeletal structure.

[0035] The rail system may include a first set of parallel rails arranged in a horizontal plane and extending in a first direction X, and a second set of parallel rails arranged in the horizontal plane and extending in a second direction Y orthogonal to the first direction X. The first and second sets of rails form a grid pattern in the horizontal plane comprising a plurality of adjacent grid cells, each grid cell comprising a grid opening defined by a pair of adjacent rails of the first set of rails and a pair of adjacent rails of the second set of rails. Each storage column is positioned vertically below a grid opening. As noted above, a container handling vehicle is configured to travel laterally on the rail system above the storage columns to access the storage containers through the grid opening.

[0036] The automated warehouse system further includes a vehicle elevator for transporting container handling vehicles. The vehicle elevator includes a vertically extending support, a platform, and an elevator mechanism. The platform includes a horizontally extending structure (i.e., parallel to the plane established by the rail system) arranged to transport / support the container handling vehicle, and a connection device movably attached to the vertically extending support. The vehicle elevator also includes an elevator mechanism arranged to move the platform between a first elevator stop position that establishes access between the platform and the rail system and a second elevator stop position arranged within the access area so that a human operator / inspection personnel and / or a robot can perform field maintenance on the container handling vehicle while it is arranged on the platform. The first and second elevator stop positions are arranged, for example, vertically offset between the floor level of the framework structure and the rail system.

[0037] If an operable container handling vehicle operating on the rail system described above ceases to function normally and therefore requires maintenance or inspection, the malfunctioning container handling vehicle can be moved or moved from its position on the rail system onto the vehicle elevator platform once the platform is aligned with the first elevator stop. The malfunctioning container handling vehicle can then be transported to a second elevator stop in the access area where a human operator and / or robot can perform on-site maintenance or inspection on the container handling vehicle at the second elevator stop. After maintenance is performed, the container handling vehicle can be sent back to the first elevator stop so that the vehicle can be moved back onto the rail system of the storage grid.

[0038] If the damage to the container handling vehicle is severe, i.e., inspection cannot be performed on-site at the second elevator stop, the container handling vehicle may be removed from the second elevator stop with the assistance of a human operator and / or robot, for example, on a wheeled stretcher or the like for moving the container handling vehicle to the inspection area. Another functioning container handling vehicle may then be moved to the second elevator stop with the assistance of a human operator and / or robot, and then moved by a vehicle elevator to the first elevator stop so that the functioning container handling vehicle may be moved onto the skeletal rail system.

[0039] The vertically extending support of the vehicle elevator may comprise at least two guide rails for guiding the platform of the vehicle elevator, and the platform connection device may comprise linear bearings or rollers movably mounted on the guide rails and allowing the platform to move in the vertical direction Z, i.e., perpendicular to the XY plane established by the rail system.

[0040] The horizontally extending structure of the platform may comprise an underlying support structure secured to the horizontally extending structure, and the underlying support structure may comprise a vertically extending structure secured to a connection device that is movably mounted to the guide rails (e.g., via wheels) and provides support to the container handling vehicles when they are arranged on the platform.

[0041] The horizontal structure of the vehicle elevator platform may include a platform rail array having at least one set of parallel rails configured to allow a container handling vehicle to move between the platform rail array and the rail system when the platform rail array is vertically level with the rail system and the platform is in the first elevator stop position, with the platform rail array thus in this position vertically aligned with the rails of the rail system of the skeletal structure.

[0042] The elevator mechanism may be a simple and conventional manual or electric hoist / pulley system. The elevator mechanism may, for example, include a winch and cable for raising the platform. The elevator mechanism may be arranged on the upper end of a vertically extending support of the car elevator with a cable or wire connecting to the platform. Both the hoist / pulley system and the winch may be automated using transmitters in signal communication with a control system, such as the control system that operates the container handling vehicle.

[0043] The system may further comprise a movable barrier configured to prevent container handling vehicles from entering the first elevator stop position when the platform is positioned away from the first elevator stop position and to allow container handling vehicles to enter the platform when the platform is aligned with the first elevator stop position. The movable barrier may be in the form of a beam barrier, a slidable gate, or it may be a vertically movable blocking structure, for example.

[0044] In a further exemplary embodiment, the vehicle elevator may comprise an elevator frame arranged to enclose the periphery / frame / opposite side of the container handling vehicle when the container handling vehicle is being transported on the platform. The elevator frame may be connected to cables or wires of an elevator mechanism, for example, to raise the platform.

[0045] The elevator frame may be used to suspend the platform from the elevator mechanism, for example, by the cables of a winch to raise the platform. The cables or wires of the elevator mechanism may raise the platform from a suspension point on the elevator frame that is arranged at or near the center of gravity of the platform when the container handling vehicle is arranged on the platform. Furthermore, because the elevator frame may extend around the container handling vehicle, this may provide safety in terms of keeping the container handling vehicle securely on the platform when moving the platform between the first and second elevator stops.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, the elevator frame may form a passageway for the container handling vehicle. The elevator frame may include two vertically aligned poles extending from opposite sides of the perimeter of the platform. The two poles may be interconnected at their distal ends from the platform by horizontally aligned beams having suspension points.

[0047] In another exemplary embodiment, the platform may be arranged within a shaft when moved between the first and second elevator stop positions, and the shaft may be configured to prevent the container handling vehicle from falling off the platform.

[0048] The shaft may be a cover that encloses the platform when traveling between the first and second elevator stops. Additionally, the shaft may enclose the upper elevator stop to prevent the container handling vehicle from falling off the platform when moving the container handling vehicle onto or off the platform at the upper elevator stop.

[0049] The system may further comprise a shield, such as a door, arranged to block access to the second elevator stop position when the shield is closed, and further, the shield may only be openable once the platform has reached the second elevator position.

[0050] The shield may further be configured so that it can only be opened when the movable barrier is in the closed position, thereby preventing container handling vehicles from entering the upper elevator stop position.

[0051] Additionally, the vehicle elevator may be operable only while the shield is closed to prevent personnel from entering the lower elevator stop position while the platform is moving between the upper elevator stop position and the lower elevator stop position and while the platform is aligned to the first elevator stop position.

[0052] The system of the present invention may further comprise a locking mechanism provided on the framework structure and arranged to lock or hold the platform at a set height so that it is vertically aligned with the rail system when aligned at the first elevator stop position.

[0053] The locking mechanism may be any arrangement that provides the platform with a displaceable catch / fastener that, when aligned with the first elevator stop position, can be releasably opened when the car elevator is operational. The displaceable catch may be an actuated bolt, hasp, or lug, or it comprises a bracket positioned on the platform that is arranged to lock and unlock with biased pawls arranged on the horizontal periphery of the skeletal structure. The pawls may be spring-loaded or gravity-loaded, for example.

[0054] During operation of the automated warehouse system, errors may occur that require a human operator to access the rail system. This may be necessary, for example, if a malfunctioning container handling vehicle cannot move to the vehicle elevator.

[0055] Thus, in an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the system may further comprise a staircase / ladder or the like to allow a human operator access to the rail system.

[0056] The stairs may span from the level of the access area / floor level to the level of the rail system, the two levels being arranged vertically offset.

[0057] The stairs may be advantageously arranged in the vicinity of the vehicle elevator, such as adjacent to the vehicle elevator, thereby allowing a human operator to attach a malfunctioning container handling vehicle to the elevator at the level of the rail system.

[0058] It is beneficial for the vehicle elevators and stairs to occupy as little space in the automated storage system as possible, as the system should be as compact as possible.

[0059] To reduce the risk of injury to personnel, the staircase should be accessible by a human operator only when the system is shut down. Thus, a shield, such as a door or gate, may be arranged near the staircase to prevent access to the staircase by a human operator during operation of the system, and to allow access when the system is shut down.

[0060] The rail system and / or the stairs at the level of the rail system may be provided with barriers to prevent operating container handling vehicles from accessing the stairs.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, the stairs may be constructed narrower than any width of the container handling vehicle so that the container handling vehicle is protected from entering the stairs.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, the stairs may be arranged such that the position of the rails of the rail system prevents container handling vehicles from entering the stairs.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, both the vehicle elevator and the staircase can be integrated into the framework structure. For example, the vehicle elevator and the staircase may occupy an area of ​​3x3 storage columns.

[0064] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an access area for accessing a container handling vehicle on a vehicle elevator may be arranged at or within a floor / level above the storage grid. In this embodiment, a first elevator stop is arranged vertically below a second elevator stop, and the vehicle elevator passes through a floor opening in the floor above the storage grid. The access area may therefore be arranged at a level similar to the level of a human operator accessing an access station as disclosed in FIG. 6A of WO 2019 / 238661 A1 (incorporated herein by reference).

[0065] In another exemplary embodiment, the access area may be arranged on a floor / level below the storage grid, similar to the arrangement of delivery stations shown in Figure 2 of WO 2014 / 075937 A1 (incorporated herein by reference). In this exemplary embodiment, the framework structure may be arranged directly above the access area, which may be arranged at the level of the delivery stations shown, below the storage grid. In this embodiment, the car elevators may be arranged within recesses in the framework or protrude from the periphery of the framework structure.

[0066] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the access areas may be arranged within areas of the storage grid environment such that the access areas are arranged within areas of the storage grid environment such as, for example, a quad courtyard.

[0067] Additionally, in further exemplary embodiments, the vehicle elevator may protrude from the periphery of the storage grid of the framework structure. Thus, the horizontally extending structure of the platform may protrude or have a horizontal extension outside the periphery of the storage grid such that the access area is aligned outside the periphery of the storage grid of the framework structure.

[0068] For embodiments in which the second elevator stop position is aligned vertically below the first elevator stop position, the vertically extending support may comprise at least two of the plurality of peripheral upright members of the skeletal structure that act as guide rails for guiding the vehicle elevator platform in the vertical direction Z between the first and second elevator stop positions.

[0069] In such an embodiment, the movable barriers may be attached to the same peripheral upright members of the skeletal structure which act as guide rails for the movable barriers to move them in the vertical direction Z.

[0070] Additionally, the movable barrier may include a connection device having the same or similar configuration as the connection device of the platform of the car elevator.

[0071] Further, the elevator frame may be configured to engage and raise the movable barrier to allow a container handling vehicle to enter the platform when the platform is aligned at the first elevator stop position.

[0072] The beam of the elevator frame may be configured, for example, to push the movable barrier away from the upper elevator stop position when the platform enters the upper elevator stop position. The movable barrier may include a horizontal bar extending from the base of the movable barrier. The bar may rest against the beam of the elevator frame when the beam is aligned at or above the first elevator stop position, regardless of whether the platform is carrying a container handling vehicle. Thus, the beam of the elevator frame engages the bar of the movable barrier and displaces the movable barrier upward as the platform is hoisted upward to the first stop position. Furthermore, the movable barrier is lowered to or near the level / height of the first elevator stop position as the platform including the elevator frame is lowered toward the second elevator stop position. Furthermore, a stationary structure may be arranged at the base of the movable barrier, for example an extension / extension of the above-mentioned horizontal bar extending in the opposite direction, which may rest on the rail system of the skeletal structure and thereby prevent the movable barrier from moving below the height / level of the rail system. When the stationary structure of the barrier is resting on the rail system, the barrier prevents operating container handling vehicles on the rail system from entering the first elevator stop position.

[0073] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a method of operating an automated warehouse system, as discussed above, comprising the steps of moving a container handling vehicle from a rail system onto a platform located at a first elevator position, and then moving the platform to a second elevator stop position to allow access for a human operator and / or a robot to perform field maintenance on the container handling vehicle.

[0074] If the system includes the locking mechanism described above, the method may further include an initial step of locking the platform in vertical alignment with the rail system when aligned with the first elevator stop position.

[0075] The term "vertically offset" should be understood as having a distance in the vertical direction Z.

[0076] The term "access area" should be understood as the area including at least the area of ​​the second elevator stop location and the area of ​​the location where a human operator and / or robot performs inspection / maintenance on the container handling vehicle.

[0077] Even when the disclosed vehicle elevator is said to be arranged to transport / support one or more container handling vehicles, it should be understood that the present invention is also suitable for transporting one or more inspection vehicles intended to inspect and / or transport a malfunctioning container handling vehicle. Thus, the vehicle elevator may be suitable for transporting manned or unmanned inspection vehicles for performing on-site inspections on malfunctioning container handling vehicles and / or for transporting manned or unmanned inspection vehicles that may load and transport a malfunctioning container handling vehicle. For example, the present application provides the following: (Item 1) An automated warehouse system (1), A framework (100) having a plurality of interior and peripheral uprights (102, 102') arranged to define a storage grid comprising a plurality of storage columns (105) for storing storage containers (106) on top of one another in a vertical stack (107), said uprights (102, 102') being supported thereon by a rail system (108) arranged to guide at least one container handling vehicle (201, 301) thereover. a framework structure (100) interconnected at their upper ends, the container handling vehicles (201, 301) configured to lift storage containers (106) from the storage columns (105), lower storage containers (106) into the storage columns (105), and transport the storage containers (106) horizontally up the storage columns (105), the peripheral uprights (102') of the framework structure (100) defining a horizontal perimeter (101) of the framework structure (100); A car elevator (600), a vertically extending support (612); A platform (602), a horizontally extending structure (608) arranged to carry the container handling vehicles (201, 301); a connection device (609) for movably attaching said platform (602) to said vertically extending support (612); a platform (602) comprising: an elevator mechanism (604) arranged to move the platform (602) between a first elevator stop (P1) establishing access between the platform (602) and the rail system (108) and a second elevator stop (P2) arranged within an access area (700) so that a human operator / inspection personnel (800) and / or a robot may perform field maintenance on the container handling vehicle (201, 301) while the container handling vehicle (201, 301) is arranged on the platform (602), the first and second elevator stop positions (P1, P2) being arranged vertically offset; a car elevator (600) comprising: An automated warehouse system (1) comprising: (Item 2) Item 2. The system (1) according to item 1, wherein the elevator mechanism (604) comprises a winch and a cable for raising the platform (602). (Item 3) The horizontally extending structure (608) of the platform (602) comprises a platform rail arrangement (610), the platform rail arrangement (610) comprising: 3. The system (1) described in item 1 or 2, wherein the container handling vehicle (201, 301) comprises at least one set (610a, 610b) of parallel rails configured to enable movement between the platform rail array (610) and the rail system (108) when the platform rail array (610) is at the same vertical height as the rail system (108) and the platform (602) is in the first elevator stop position (P1). (Item 4) The system (1) described in any one of the above items comprises a movable barrier (620) configured to prevent the container handling vehicle (201, 301) from entering the first elevator stop position (P1) when the platform (602) is positioned away from the first elevator stop position (P1), and to allow the container handling vehicle (201, 301) to enter the platform (602) when the platform (602) is aligned with the first elevator stop position (P1). (Item 5) A system (1) described in any one of the above items, wherein the platform (602) of the vehicle elevator (600) is provided with an elevator frame (603) arranged to reach around the opposite side of the container handling vehicle (201, 301) when it is being transported on the platform (602), and the elevator frame is connected to an elevator mechanism (604) for raising the platform (602). (Item 6) 10. The system (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the vehicle elevator (600) protrudes from the periphery (101) of the storage grid of the framework structure (100). (Item 7) Item 6. The system (1) described in item 6, wherein the vertically extending support (612) comprises at least two of the plurality of peripheral upright members (102') that serve as guide rails (102a, 102b) for guiding the platform (602) of the vehicle elevator (600) in the vertical direction (Z) between the first and second elevator stop positions (P1, P2). (Item 8) Item 6. A system (1) according to item 5, wherein the elevator frame (603) is configured to engage with and raise the movable barrier (620) when the platform (602) is arranged at the first elevator stop position (P1), so that the movable barrier (620) allows the container handling vehicle (201, 301) to enter the platform (602). (Item 9) A system (1) described in any one of the above items, wherein the platform (602) is arranged within a shaft (630) when moved between the first and second elevator stop positions (P1, P2), and the shaft (630) is configured to prevent the container handling vehicle (201, 301) from falling from the platform (602). (Item 10) A system (1) described in any one of the above items, wherein a shield (640) is arranged to block access to the second elevator stop position (P2) when the shield (640) is closed, and the shield (640) can only be opened when the platform (602) reaches the second elevator position (P2). (Item 11) A system (1) as described in any one of the preceding items, comprising a locking mechanism (650) provided on the framework structure and arranged to lock the platform (602) at a set height in vertical alignment with the rail system (108) when aligned with the first elevator stop position (P1). (Item 12) Item 12. The system (1) of item 11, wherein the locking mechanism (650) comprises a bracket (651) positioned on the platform (602) and arranged to lock and unlock biased pawls (652) arranged on the horizontal periphery (101) of the skeletal structure (100). (Item 13) A method for operating an automated warehouse system (1), comprising: A framework (100) having a plurality of interior and peripheral uprights (102, 102') arranged to define a storage grid comprising a plurality of storage columns (105) for storing storage containers (106) on top of one another in a vertical stack (107), said uprights (102, 102') being supported thereon by a rail system (108) arranged to guide at least one container handling vehicle (201, 301) thereover. a framework structure (100) interconnected at their upper ends, the container handling vehicles (201, 301) configured to lift storage containers (106) from the storage columns (105), lower storage containers (106) into the storage columns (105), and transport the storage containers (106) horizontally up the storage columns (105), the peripheral uprights (102') of the framework structure (100) defining a horizontal perimeter (101) of the framework structure (100); A car elevator (600), a vertically extending support (612); a platform (602) comprising a horizontally extending structure (608) arranged to carry said container handling vehicle (201, 301) and a connection device (609) for movably attaching said platform (602) to said vertically extending support (612); an elevator mechanism (604) arranged to move the platform (602) between a first elevator stop (P1) establishing access between the platform (602) and the rail system (108) and a second elevator stop (P2) arranged within an access area (700) so that a human operator / inspection personnel (800) and / or a robot may perform field maintenance on the container handling vehicle (201, 301) while the container handling vehicle (201, 301) is arranged on the platform (602), the first and second elevator stop positions (P1, P2) being arranged vertically offset; a car elevator (600) comprising: The method comprises the following steps: i) moving the container handling vehicle (201, 301) from the rail system (108) onto the platform (602) located at the first elevator position (P1); ii) moving the platform (602) to the second elevator stop position (P2) to allow a human operator (800) and / or a robot access to the container handling vehicle (201, 301) to perform on-site maintenance on the container handling vehicle (201, 301); A method comprising: (Item 14) Item 14. The method according to item 13, wherein the system (1) further comprises a locking mechanism (650) provided on the skeletal structure, the method including an initial step of locking the platform (602) in vertical alignment with the rail system (108) when aligned with the first elevator stop position (P1). (Item 15) The automated warehouse system (1) is a method according to any one of items 1 to 12, as described in item 13 or 14. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0078] The following drawings are included to facilitate an understanding of the invention: The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention, which will now be described by way of example only. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the skeleton structure of a prior art automated warehouse system.

[0079] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having a centrally arranged cavity for carrying storage containers therein.

[0080] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having a cantilever beam for carrying storage containers underneath.

[0081] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an automated warehouse system according to the present invention.

[0082] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is the same perspective view as shown in FIG. 4 with an open view of the car elevator.

[0083] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is the same perspective view as shown in FIG. 4, with the shield closed.

[0084] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the first elevator stop position shown in FIG.

[0085] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the second elevator stop position shown in FIG.

[0086] [Figure 9A] 9A-C are close-up perspective views of the movable barrier of the present invention. [Figure 9B] 9A-C are close-up perspective views of the movable barrier of the present invention. [Figure 9C] 9A-C are close-up perspective views of the movable barrier of the present invention.

[0087] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an illustration of the components of a car elevator, shield, and shaft according to the present invention.

[0088] [Figure 11A] 11A-D are close-up views of the locking mechanism of the present invention. [Figure 11B] 11A-D are close-up views of the locking mechanism of the present invention. [Figure 11C] 11A-D are close-up views of the locking mechanism of the present invention. [Figure 11D] 11A-D are close-up views of the locking mechanism of the present invention.

[0089] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an automated warehouse system according to the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an automated warehouse system according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0090] Detailed Description of the Invention In the following, embodiments of the present invention will be discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which it should be understood, however, that the drawings are not intended to limit the invention to the subject matter depicted in the drawings.

[0091] The skeleton structure 100 of the automated warehouse system 1 is constructed in accordance with the prior art skeleton structure 100 described above in connection with Figures 1-3, i.e., several upright members 102 and several horizontal members 103 supported by the upright members 102, and the skeleton structure 100 further comprises a first upper rail system 108 in the X and Y directions.

[0092] The skeleton structure 100 further comprises storage compartments in the form of storage columns 105 provided between the members 102, 103, with storage containers 106 stackable in stacks 107 within the storage columns 105.

[0093] Skeleton structure 100 can be any size. In particular, it should be understood that skeletal structure 100 can be significantly smaller than the skeletal structure disclosed in FIG. 1. Thus, it should be understood that skeletal structure 100 can be narrower and / or shorter and / or less deep than that disclosed in FIG. 1. For example, skeletal structure 100 may have a horizontal extent of greater than 4×8 columns and a storage depth of at least 5 containers.

[0094] One embodiment of an automated warehouse system in accordance with the present invention will now be discussed in more detail with reference to Figures 4-11.

[0095] 4-6 show a horizontal perimeter 101 of a skeleton structure of an automated warehouse system, such as that shown in FIG. 1, and a plurality of peripheral upright members 102' of the skeleton structure that define the horizontal perimeter 101. Also shown is a vehicle elevator 600 for transporting container handling vehicles 201, 301. The vehicle elevator 600 protrudes from the outer perimeter 101 of the skeleton structure and spans between first and second elevator stops P1, P2.

[0096] The vehicle elevator 600 includes a lift mechanism 604 and a platform 602 for transporting the container handling vehicles 201, 301 in the vertical direction Z.

[0097] The elevator mechanism has a winch 604a and a wire 604b that can be hoisted / reeled onto the winch 604a. A hook 604c is arranged on one end of the wire 604b, which is attached to the elevator frame 603 of the platform 602 that carries the container handling vehicles 201, 301. The platform 602 is raised by reeling the wire 604b onto the winch 604a.

[0098] In Figures 4 and 5, the platform 602 with the container handling vehicles 201, 301 is arranged at a second elevator stop position P2 within the access area 700, and the container handling vehicles 201, 301 are accessed by a human operator 800 who may perform on-site inspections on the container handling vehicles 201, 301.

[0099] A shield, shown as door 640, is open while platform 602 is aligned with second elevator stop position P2. Door 640 is hinged to a vertically extending support 612 of car elevator 600. Vertically extending support 612 is shown as a guide rail / perimeter vertical member (see FIG. 5).

[0100] When closed, the doors 640 provide a shield that protects the human operator 800 from entering the second elevator stop P2 of the car elevator 600. While the doors 640 are closed during car elevator operation (see FIG. 6), when the doors 640 are open, as shown in FIG. 4, they allow the human operator 800 full and easy access to three sides of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 when the platform 602 carrying the container handling vehicles 201, 301 is arranged at the second elevator stop P2. The easy access allows the human operator 800 to perform inspection or maintenance on the container handling vehicles 201, 301 while the container handling vehicles 201, 301 are arranged on the platform 602 at the second elevator stop P2.

[0101] The door may be manually or automatically operated.

[0102] 4 further shows shaft 630, which is arranged to prevent container handling vehicles 201, 301 from falling off platform 602 while platform 602 is being arranged at the first elevator stop position and while the platform is being lowered to the second elevator stop position. Door 640 can be seen as an extension of shield 630 when closed.

[0103] Platform 602 is shown moving in a vertical direction Z, which is perpendicular to the horizontal directions X,Y.

[0104] FIG. 5 depicts the same system as FIG. 4, but for illustrative purposes does not show the shaft.

[0105] FIG. 5 shows that the vertically extending support 612 comprises two peripheral upright members 102a', 102b' of the plurality of peripheral upright members 102'. The two peripheral upright members 102a', 102b' serve as guide rails for the platform 602 and for the movable barrier 620. The movable barrier 620 is arranged to prevent a container handling vehicle operating on the rail system of the skeletal structure from moving toward the first elevator stop position P1 when the platform 602 is arranged away from the first elevator stop position P1. The movable barrier 620 rests against the stationary structure (see FIG. 9A ), preventing the movable barrier 620 from moving downward toward the second elevator stop position P2. The operation of the movable barrier will be discussed in detail with respect to FIGS. 9A-9C.

[0106] As shown, the two peripheral upright members 102a', 102b' extend above the first elevator stop position P1. As can also be seen in Figure 4, a mounting bracket 606 is arranged on the upper ends of the two peripheral upright members 102a', 102b' for securing an elevator mechanism 604 thereto. The elevator mechanism 604 is arranged such that the wire 604b extends in a substantially vertical direction Z when moving the platform 602.

[0107] The shield / door 640 is shown in an open position allowing a human operator and / or robot access to the container handling vehicles 201, 301 as the platform 602 is aligned at the second elevator stop position P2.

[0108] The platform 602 comprises a set of parallel rails 610a, 610b on which the drive means / wheel sets of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 are arranged.

[0109] Figure 6 shows the same system as Figure 4 with door 640 in a closed position, thereby preventing a human operator from accessing the second elevator stop. The figure further illustrates how door 640 provides an extension of shield 630 so that container handling vehicles arranged on the vehicle elevator platform are protected by the shield or door during operation.

[0110] Additionally, for safety reasons for the human operator, the system should be operated such that the door 640 is closed during vehicle elevator operation and while the vehicle elevator platform is aligned away from the second elevator stop, e.g., aligned at the first elevator stop.

[0111] Furthermore, the system should be operated so that the door 640 can only be opened while the movable barrier 620 is in a position that prevents a container handling vehicle operating on a skeletal rail system from entering the first elevator stop position, as shown in Figure 5.

[0112] 7 is an enlarged view of the platform 602 arranged at the first elevator stop position P1. The platform 602 has a horizontal structure 608, an elevator frame 603, a girder 614, a connecting device 609, and a vertical structure 616.

[0113] The elevator frame 603 comprises two poles 603 a, b extending vertically from either side of the platform 602. The two poles 603 a, b are interconnected at their upper ends by a beam 603 c. The upper ends of the two poles 603 a, b are arranged distal to a horizontally extending / horizontal structure 608 of the platform 602. The beam 603 c of the elevator frame 603 may further comprise a suspension point 607, which may be attached to a hook arranged on a wire of the elevator mechanism 604.

[0114] Platform horizontal structure 608 supports a container handling vehicle (not shown) when aligned on platform 602. The illustrated horizontal structure 608 includes a rail array 610 that is vertically aligned with the rail array of the skeletal rail system so that a container handling vehicle can move from a position on the skeletal rail system to the first elevator stop position of platform 602, and vice versa. Movable barrier 620 has two horizontally aligned bars that rest on beams 603c of elevator frame 603. Thus, when platform 602 is aligned to first elevator stop position P1, barrier 620 is aligned above elevator frame 603 of platform 602, allowing the container handling vehicle to enter platform 602. The movable barrier will be discussed further with respect to Figures 9A-C.

[0115] The platform 602 is movably connected to vertically extending supports 612, shown as two guide rails 102a', 102b', by linear rollers / wheels (not shown). At least one linear roller is movably arranged on each guide rail and is fixedly arranged on two vertical structures 616 of the platform 602. Each vertical structure 616 forms an angle bracket structure with both sides of a horizontal structure 608. The sides of the horizontal structure 608 extend in the direction of movement of the container handling vehicle as it moves into or out of the platform 602. The two vertical structures 616 are arranged below the horizontal structure 608, and each vertical structure 616 supports a side of the horizontal structure 608 and is movably attached to a guide rail.

[0116] Additionally, two diagonally arranged girders 614 are arranged to strengthen the connection between the horizontal structure 608 and each of the two vertical structures 616, providing additional support when the container handling vehicle is arranged on the platform 602.

[0117] The horizontal structure 608 of the platform 602 has a rail array 610 that is equal to two grid cells of the skeletal rail system. When the platform 602 is aligned to the first elevator stop position P1, the rail array 610 of the platform 602 is vertically aligned with the skeletal rail system, allowing container handling vehicles to travel to and from the platform 602.

[0118] 8 is an enlarged view of platform 602 arranged at second elevator stop position P2. Second elevator stop position P2 is arranged within access area 700. Platform 602 has container handling vehicles 201, 301 arranged thereon, with a shield shown as door 640 opening for access to container handling vehicles 201, 301 by a human operator 800.

[0119] 7, the elevator frame 603 of the platform 602 is arranged to reach around both sides of the container handling vehicles 201, 301. The elevator frame 603 is connected to wires 604b of the elevator mechanism at suspension points 607 of the elevator frame 603.

[0120] 9A-C are detailed views of the operation of the movable barrier 620, which is arranged to prevent an operating container handling vehicle from entering the first elevator stop position P1 when the platform 602 is arranged away from the first elevator stop position P1.

[0121] 9A, the movable barrier 620 is arranged to prevent a container handling vehicle operating on the skeletal rail system 108 from moving to the first elevator stop position P1. Two resting structures 622' in the form of bars are fixed to the base of the barrier 620 and extend horizontally so that the resting structures 622' rest on the skeletal rail system 108. When the resting structures 622' of the barrier 620 are resting on the rail system 108, a container handling vehicle arranged on the rail system 108 is prevented from moving to the first elevator stop position P1.

[0122] The movable barrier 620 has a connection device in the form of a linear roller 623 that is movably arranged on the guide rails 612, 102a', 102b' so that the barrier 620 can be moved along the guide rails 612, 102a', 102b' in the vertical direction.

[0123] 9B shows an arrangement in which the vehicle elevator platform (not visible) with the container handling vehicles 201, 301 arranged thereon approaches the first elevator stop position P1 from the second elevator stop position. As the platform approaches the first elevator stop position, the movable barrier 620 is raised by the platform elevator frame (see FIG. 7). Thus, the horizontal bars of the barrier 620 rest on the beams of the platform elevator frame instead of the resting structure 622' of the barrier 620 resting on the rail system 108 as shown in FIG. 9A.

[0124] In Figure 9C, the car elevator platform 602 is aligned to the first elevator stop position P1, as also shown from an opposite angle in Figure 7. The rail arrangement 610 of the platform 602 is vertically aligned with the rail system 108. Additionally, the barrier 620 has been raised to allow the container handling vehicles 201, 301 aligned on the platform 602 to move onto the rail system 108.

[0125] FIG. 10 is a diagram of different portions of a car elevator 600, a shaft 630, and a shield 640.

[0126] As shown, the car elevator has vertically extending supports 612 , shown as peripheral upright members 102 a ′, 102 b ′ of the skeletal structure, which act as guide rails for the platform 602 .

[0127] A mounting bracket 606 may be secured to a vertically extending support 612 and is arranged to secure the elevator mechanism 604 thereto.

[0128] The movable barrier 620 is shown having connection means 623 for movably attaching the barrier 620 to the vertically extending supports 612. Additionally, horizontal bars 622 of the barrier 620 are shown that engage with beams 603c of the elevator frame 603 as the beams 603c of the elevator frame 603 enter the first elevator stop position. Also shown is a resting structure 622' that allows the movable barrier 620 to rest on the rail system of the skeletal structure while the platform 602 is arranged to move away from the first elevator stop position.

[0129] As shown, the platform 602 has a horizontal structure 608 secured to a vertical structure 616, two of which form an angle bracket. The vertical structure 616 has a connection device 609 secured thereto for movably attaching the platform 602 to the guide rails 102a', 102b' of the vertically extending support 612. The horizontal structure 608 has a rail array 610 having the size of one grid cell of the rail system of the skeletal structure.

[0130] Furthermore, elevator frame 603 of platform 602 is shown to have two poles 603a, 603b interconnected at their upper ends by beam 603c and arranged on either side of horizontal structure 608. Poles 603a, 603b have vertical extensions that are longer than the height of the container handling vehicle to be transported on platform 602, such that when elevator frame 603 is arranged on horizontal structure 608 of platform 602, it forms a container handling vehicle.

[0131] 11A-D disclose the operation of the locking mechanism 650, which is arranged to keep the rail arrangement 110 of the platform 602 at a set height vertically aligned with the rail system 108 when the platform 602 is aligned to the first elevator stop position P1.

[0132] The locking mechanism 650 shown includes a bracket 651 connected to the platform 602 and a spring-loaded pawl 652 having a spring 653 attached thereto that is connected to the car elevator's vertically extending support 612. The bracket 651 has upper and lower protrusions 651 a, 651 b arranged at the upper and lower ends of the bracket, respectively. Both the upper and lower protrusions 651 a, 651 b are displaceable vertically and horizontally. Additionally, the pawl 652 has a locking edge 652 a at its upper end and a release edge 652 b at its lower end.

[0133] The arrows in the drawing indicate the direction of movement of the platform 602 and, consequently, the bracket 651 .

[0134] 11A, the claw 652 is arranged in a biased / hanging locking position, with the upper protrusion 651a of the bracket 651 resting on the locking edge 652a of the biased claw 652. The locking edge 652a is arranged between the upper and lower protrusions 651a, 651b of the bracket 651. In this locking position, the rail arrangement 610 of the horizontal structure 608 of the platform 602 is vertically aligned with the rail system 108 of the backbone structure.

[0135] FIG. 11B illustrates how locking mechanism 650 unlocks by slightly raising platform 602, and therefore bracket 651, such that lower protrusion 651b at the lower end of bracket 651 moves locking edge 652a of claw 652, causing claw 652 to pivot to a release position so that platform 602 can then be lowered toward the second elevator stop position.

[0136] 11C illustrates how, as the release edge 652b of the pawl 652 is pushed by the lower protrusion 651b of the bracket 651 during the descent of the platform 602, the pawl 652 is pivoted back to its biased position after the platform 602 is further lowered. However, the biased position of the pawl 652 does not lock the pawl 652 to the bracket 651 because the upper protrusion 651a of the bracket 651 has been lowered below the locking edge 652a of the pawl 652. Thus, the platform 602 is free to move to the second elevator stop position.

[0137] 11D shows the platform 602 moving from the second elevator stop position as it approaches the first elevator stop position P1. The upper protrusion 651a of the bracket 651 slightly pushes against the locking edge 652a of the pawl 652 as the bracket 651 passes the pawl 652 while the platform 602 moves to a position slightly above the first elevator stop position P1. After the upper protrusion 651a of the bracket 651 passes the locking edge 652a of the pawl 652, the pawl 652 is pivoted back to the locked, biased position. Thereafter, the platform 602 with the bracket 651 is then slightly lowered to a rest position so that the upper protrusion 651a of the bracket 651 rests on the locking edge 652a of the fully biased pawl 652 when in the locked position, as shown in FIG. 11A.

[0138] 12 and 13 both illustrate the automated warehouse system 1 from different angles. The system 1 has a framework 100 on which container handling vehicles 301 operate on its rail system 108.

[0139] Two access stations 150 are arranged on the periphery of the skeleton structure 100 for accessing storage containers from outside the skeleton structure 100. One access station 150 is arranged in association with a first port column 119, and the other access station 150 is arranged in association with a second port column 120, which operates as disclosed with respect to FIG.

[0140] Additionally, system 1 includes car elevators 600, as shown in Figures 4-6, arranged around the periphery of framework structure 100. Adjacent to car elevators 600 are stairs 900 for human operators to access rail system 108 from floor level 970.

[0141] As shown, the staircase 900 spans from the floor level 970 of the system 1 to the level of the rail system 108 of the framework 100 of the system 1.

[0142] To protect human operators from accessing the rail system 108 during operation of the system 1, the stairs 900 are arranged behind a door 940 that can be manually or automatically controlled so that the door 940 can only be opened when the system 1 is shut down.

[0143] Rail system 108 and / or staircase 900 at the level of rail system 108 may, if not shown, be provided with a barrier that prevents an operating container handling vehicle 301 from entering staircase 900. However, such a barrier may not be required because the staircases of Figures 12 and 13 are arranged such that the position of the rails of rail system 108 prevents container handling vehicles 301 from entering staircase 900.

[0144] In the foregoing description, various aspects of a container handling vehicle and automated warehouse system according to the present invention have been described with reference to illustrative embodiments. For purposes of explanation, specific values, systems, and configurations have been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the system and its operation. However, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications and variations of the illustrative embodiments, and other embodiments of the system, that are obvious to those skilled in the art to which the disclosed subject matter pertains, are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention. [Table 1-1] [Table 1-2]

Claims

1. An automated warehouse system (1), A skeletal structure (100) having a plurality of interior and peripheral upright members (102, 102') arranged to define a storage grid comprising a plurality of storage columns (105) for storing storage containers (106) on top of one another in a vertical stack (107), said upright members (102, 102') being interconnected at their upper ends by a rail system (108) for guiding at least one container handling vehicle (201, 301) thereon, said peripheral upright members (102') of said skeletal structure (100) defining a horizontal perimeter (101) of said skeletal structure (100). Equipped with The system comprises: A car elevator (600), comprising: a vertically extending support (612); A platform (602), a horizontally extending structure (608) for transporting container handling vehicles (201, 301); a connection device (609) for movably attaching said platform (602) to said vertically extending support (612); a platform (602) comprising: an elevator mechanism (604) arranged to move the platform (602) between a first elevator stop position (P1) establishing access between the platform (602) and the rail system (108) and a second elevator stop position (P2) arranged within an access area (700), the access area being further configured to provide access for a human operator / inspection personnel (800) and / or a robot to perform on-site maintenance on the container handling vehicle (201, 301) while the container handling vehicle (201, 301) is arranged on the platform (602), the first and second elevator stop positions (P1, P2) being arranged vertically offset; A vehicle elevator (600) comprising: The present invention is characterized by comprising: The system (1) comprises a movable barrier (620) configured to prevent the container handling vehicle (201, 301) from entering the first elevator stop position (P1) when the platform (602) is positioned away from the first elevator stop position (P1), and to allow the container handling vehicle (201, 301) to enter the platform (602) when the platform (602) is aligned with the first elevator stop position (P1).

2. 2. The system (1) of claim 1, further comprising at least one container handling vehicle (201, 301) configured to lift storage containers (106) from the storage columns (105), lower storage containers (106) into the storage columns (105), and transport the storage containers (106) horizontally above the storage columns (105).

3. 3. The system (1) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the lift mechanism (604) comprises a winch and a cable for raising the platform (602).

4. The horizontally extending structure (608) of the platform (602) comprises a platform rail arrangement (610), the platform rail arrangement (610) comprising:

4. The system (1) of claim 1, wherein the container handling vehicle (201, 301) comprises at least one set (610a, 610b) of parallel rails configured to enable movement between the platform rail arrangement (610) and the rail system (108) when the platform rail arrangement (610) is at the same vertical height as the rail system (108) and the platform (602) is in the first elevator stop position (P1).

5. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the platform (602) of the vehicle elevator (600) comprises an elevator frame (603) arranged to reach around opposite sides of the container handling vehicle (201, 301) when the vehicle elevator (600) is being transported on the platform (602), and the elevator frame is connected to an elevator mechanism (604) for raising the platform (602).

6. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the car elevator (600) protrudes from the horizontal periphery (101) of the framework structure (100).

7. 7. The system (1) of claim 6, wherein the vertically extending support (612) comprises at least two of the plurality of peripheral upright members (102′) that serve as guide rails (102 a, 102 b) for guiding the platform (602) of the car elevator (600) in the vertical direction (Z) between the first and second elevator stop positions (P1, P2).

8. The system (1) of claim 6 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the elevator frame (603) is configured to engage with and raise the movable barrier (620) when the platform (602) is aligned at the first elevator stop position (P1), so that the movable barrier (620) allows the container handling vehicle (201, 301) to enter the platform (602).

9. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the platform (602) is arranged within a shaft (630) when moved between the first and second elevator stop positions (P1, P2), and the shaft (630) is configured to prevent the container handling vehicle (201, 301) from falling off the platform (602).

10. 10. The system (1) of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a shield (640) is arranged to block access to the second elevator stop position (P2) when the shield (640) is closed, and the shield (640) can only be opened when the platform (602) has reached the second elevator stop position (P2).

11. 11. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a locking mechanism (650) provided on the framework structure and arranged to lock the platform (602) at a set height in vertical alignment with the rail system (108) when aligned with the first elevator stop position (P1).

12. The locking mechanism (650) a bracket (651) positioned on said platform (602) and arranged to lock and unlock biased pawls (652) arranged on said horizontal periphery (101) of said skeletal structure (100); The system (1) according to claim 11, comprising:

13. A method for operating an automated warehouse system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the method comprising: i) moving the container handling vehicle (201, 301) from the rail system (108) onto the platform (602) located at the first elevator stop position (P1); ii) moving the platform (602) to the second elevator stop position (P2) to allow a human operator (800) and / or a robot access to the container handling vehicle (201, 301) to perform on-site maintenance on the container handling vehicle (201, 301); A method comprising:

14. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the system (1) further comprises a locking mechanism (650) provided on the skeletal structure, the method including an initial step of locking the platform (602) in vertical alignment with the rail system (108) when aligned with the first elevator stop position (P1).

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the automated warehouse system (1) is according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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