Automatic storage system

Abstract

The present invention provides a storage system (1) comprising a framework structure (100) featuring a plurality of storage columns (105) in which storage containers (106) are stored stacked on top of one another in a vertical stack (107), at least one of the storage columns comprising a cover (7) and a pair of cover interaction elements (8), the cover (7) comprising a horizontal cover plate (9) having a periphery that can be received within an inner periphery of the storage column (105) and at least two cover retention assemblies (10) arranged on either side of the cover plate (9), the cover interaction elements (8) each being arranged on either side of the inner periphery of the storage column (105), each of the cover retention assemblies (10) comprising a stop portion (11) and an actuator portion (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Field of the Invention) The present invention relates to a storage system, and more particularly to a storage system characterized by a removable cover that can be disposed at a higher level of the storage system.

Background Art

[0002] (Background and Prior Art) FIG. 1 discloses a typical prior art automatic storage and retrieval system 1 having a framework structure 100, and FIGS. 2-4 disclose two different prior art container handling vehicles 201, 301 suitable for operating on such a system 1.

[0003] The framework structure 100 includes a storage volume having upright members 102, horizontal members 103, and storage columns 105 disposed in rows between the upright members 102 and the horizontal members 103. In these storage columns 105, the storage containers 106, also known as bins, are stacked on top of each other to form a stack 107. The members 102, 103 can typically be made from metal (e.g., extruded aluminum profiles).

[0004] The framework structure 100 of the automatic storage and retrieval system 1 includes a rail system 108 disposed in a grid pattern across the upper part of the framework structure 100, on which a plurality of container handling vehicles 201, 301 are operated to raise the storage containers 106 out of the storage columns 105, lower the storage containers 106 into the storage columns 105, and also transport the storage containers 106 above the storage columns 105. One horizontal extent of the grid cells 122 that make up the grid pattern is marked by a thick line.

[0005] The rail system 108 (i.e., rail grid) comprises a first set 110 of parallel rails arranged to guide the movement of container handling vehicles 201,301 in a first direction X across the top of the frame structure 100, and a second set 111 of parallel rails arranged perpendicular to the first set 110 to guide the movement of container handling vehicles 201,301 in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X. Containers 106 stored in column 105 are accessed by container handling vehicles through access openings 112 in the rail system 108. Container handling vehicles 201,301 can move laterally above the storage column 105 (i.e., in a plane parallel to the horizontal XY plane). Generally, at least one of the sets of rails 110,111 consists of a double-track rail that allows two container handling vehicles to pass each other on adjacent grid cells 122. Double track rails are well known and are disclosed, for example, in WO2015 / 193278A1 and WO2015 / 140216A1 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference).

[0006] The upright members 102 of the frame structure 100 may be used to guide the storage containers as they rise out of the column 105 and as they descend into the column 105. The stack 107 of containers 106 is typically freestanding.

[0007] Each conventional container handling vehicle 201,301 comprises a body 201a,301a and a first set of wheels 201b,301b and a second set of wheels 201c,301c, which enable lateral movement of the container handling vehicle 201,301 in the X and Y directions, respectively. In Figures 2 and 3, the two wheels in each set are fully visible. The first set of wheels 201b,301b is positioned to engage with two adjacent rails of the first set of rails 110, and the second set of wheels 201c,301c is positioned to engage with two adjacent rails of the second set of rails 111. At least one of the wheel sets 201b, 301b, 201c, 301c can be raised and lowered so that the first wheel set 201b, 301b and / or the second wheel set 201c, 301c can engage with the respective rail sets 110, 111 at any given time.

[0008] Each conventional container handling vehicle 201, 301 also includes a container lifting assembly 2 (shown in Figure 4) for vertical transport of a storage container 106 (e.g., raising the storage container 106 from a storage column 105 and lowering the storage container 106 into the storage column 105). The container lifting assembly 2 includes a lifting frame 3, the lifting frame 3 having one or more gripping / engaging devices 4 adapted to engage with the storage container 106 and guide pins 304 for the correct positioning of the lifting frame 3 relative to the storage container 106. The lifting frame 3 can be lowered from the vehicles 201, 301 by a lifting band 5, so that the position of the lifting frame relative to the vehicles 201, 301 can be adjusted in a third direction Z perpendicular to a first direction X and a second direction Y.

[0009] In Figure 2, the lifting frame 3 (not shown) of the container handling vehicle 201 is located within the cavity of the vehicle body 201a, whereas in Figures 3 and 4, the lifting frame 3 of the container handling vehicle 301 is suspended from the cantilever section 6.

[0010] As in the conventional method, and for the purposes of this invention, Z=1 identifies the top layer of the storage container, i.e., the layer directly below the rail system 108; Z=2 identifies the second layer below the rail system 108; Z=3 identifies the third layer, and so on. In the exemplary prior art disclosed in Figure 1, Z=8 identifies the bottommost layer of the storage container. Similarly, X=1...n and Y=1...n identify the position of each storage column 105 in the horizontal plane. As a result, using the Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z shown in Figure 1 as an example, it can be said that the storage container identified as 106' in Figure 1 occupies storage positions X=10, Y=2, Z=3. Container handling vehicles 201, 301 can be said to travel within layer Z=0, and each storage column 105 can be identified by its X and Y coordinates.

[0011] The storage volume of the framework 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 its position in the X and Y directions, and each storage cell may be identified by its container number in the X, Y, and Z directions.

[0012] Each conventional container handling vehicle 201, 301 is provided with a storage compartment or space for receiving and storing the storage container 106 when transporting the storage container 106 across the rail system 108. As shown in Figure 2 and as described, for example, in WO2015 / 193278A1 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference), the storage space may comprise a cavity located in the center of the vehicle body 201a.

[0013] Figure 3 shows an alternative configuration of container handling vehicle 301 with a cantilever structure. Such vehicles are described in detail, for example, in Patent No. 317366 (the contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference).

[0014] The central cavity container handling vehicle 201 shown in Figure 2 may have a footprint that covers an area with dimensions in the X and Y directions that are generally equal to the lateral range of the storage column 105, as described, for example, in WO2015 / 193278A1 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference). The term “lateral” as used herein may mean “horizontal.”

[0015] Alternatively, the hollow container handling vehicle 201 may have a footprint larger than the lateral area defined by the storage column 105, as disclosed, for example, in WO2014 / 090684A1.

[0016] The rail system 108 typically comprises rails with grooves on which the wheels of a vehicle run. Alternatively, the rails may have upward-projecting elements, and the wheels of the vehicle may have flanges to prevent derailment. These grooves and upward-projecting elements are collectively known as tracks. Each rail may have one track, or each rail may have two parallel tracks.

[0017] WO2018 / 146304 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference) illustrates a typical configuration of a rail system 108 having rails and parallel tracks in both the X and Y directions.

[0018] In the frame structure 100, the majority of the columns 105 are storage columns 105 (i.e., columns 105 in which storage containers 106 are stored in the stack 107). However, some columns 105 may have other purposes. In Figure 1, columns 119 and 120 are dedicated columns, such as those used by container handling 201, 301 for unloading and / or loading storage containers 106 so that they can be transported to an access station (not shown), where the storage containers 106 can be accessed from outside the frame structure 100, or transported outside or into the frame structure 100. In the art, such locations are usually referred to as “ports,” and the columns in which ports are located may be referred to as “port columns” 119, 120. Transport to the access station may be in any direction, horizontal, oblique, and / or vertical. For example, the storage container 106 may be placed in a random or dedicated column 105 within the frame 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 transport of the storage container 106 having a general transport orientation somewhere between horizontal and vertical.

[0019] In Figure 1, the first port column 119 may be a dedicated unloading port column from which container handling vehicles 201 and 301 can 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 from which container handling vehicles 201 and 301 can load storage containers 106 that have been transported from an access or transfer station.

[0020] An access station is typically a picking or stocking station where product items are removed from or placed inside the storage container 106. At the picking or stocking station, the storage container 106 is not usually removed from the automated storage and retrieval system 1, but is returned to the frame structure 100 once accessed. The port can also be used to transfer the storage container to another storage facility (e.g., another frame structure or another automated storage and retrieval system), to a transport vehicle (e.g., a train or heavy freight truck), or to a production facility.

[0021] To transport storage containers between port columns 119 and 120 and access stations, a conveyor system, for example, comprising a belt or roller conveyor, may be employed.

[0022] 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 vertically transporting the storage containers 106 between the port columns 119, 120 and the access stations.

[0023] The conveyor system may be configured to transport the storage container 106 between different structural frameworks, for example, as described in WO2014 / 075937A1 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference).

[0024] Belt and / or roller conveyors are relatively expensive and often inspection-intensive. To avoid the use of such conveyors, some access stations may have a section that can be positioned directly below the port column so that storage containers can be transported directly to the access station. Prior art access stations suitable for positioning below the port column are disclosed, for example, in WO2012 / 026824A1 and WO2016 / 120375A1. Prior art access stations can move storage containers from a position below the port column to a picking / stocking position (or accessing position) by radial movement around a rotation axis. The operator has access to the contents of the storage container at the picking / stocking position.

[0025] When a storage container 106 stored in one of the columns 105 disclosed in Figure 1 is to be accessed, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301 is commanded to retrieve the target storage container 106 from its position 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 where the target storage container 106 is located, retrieving the storage container 106 from the storage column 105 using the container lifting assembly 2 (shown in Figure 4) of the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 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 located above the target storage container 106, the operation also involves temporarily moving the storage containers located above before lifting the target storage container 106 from the storage column 105. This step, sometimes referred to as "excavation" in the art, may subsequently be carried out using the same container handling vehicle used to transport the target storage container to the unloading port column 119, or it may be carried out using one or more other cooperating container handling vehicles. Alternatively, or in addition, the automated storage and retrieval system 1 may have a container handling vehicle dedicated to the task of temporarily removing storage containers from the storage column 105. Once the target storage container 106 is removed from the storage column 105, the temporarily removed storage container can be repositioned in the original storage column 105. However, the removed storage container may, as an alternative, be transferred to another storage column.

[0026] When storage container 106 is to be stored in one of columns 105, one of container handling vehicles 201, 301 is instructed to load storage container 106 from loading port column 120 and transport it to a location above the storage column 105 in which it is to be stored. After any storage container positioned at or above the target position within storage column stack 107 has been removed, container handling vehicles 201, 301 position storage container 106 at the desired location. The removed storage container can then be lowered back into storage column 105 or transferred to another storage column.

[0027] To monitor and control automated storage and retrieval system 1 (e.g., so that the desired storage container 106 can be delivered to the desired location at the desired time without container handling vehicles 201, 301 colliding with each other, monitoring and controlling the location of each storage container 106 within framework structure 100, the contents of each storage container 106, and the movement of container handling vehicles 201, 301), automated storage and retrieval system 1 includes control system 500, which is typically computerized and typically includes a database for tracking storage containers 106.

[0028] The upper end of storage column 105 is generally completely open to the surroundings, such that the temperature conditions and atmosphere within and around the storage system are the same. However, in many applications, it is desirable to control the temperature conditions / atmosphere within at least a portion of the storage system independently from the rest of the storage system and / or the surroundings. These applications include the use of the storage system for freezing and / or cooling stored items and changing the atmosphere of at least a portion of the storage system. The latter involves, for example, filling the storage system with an inert gas in the event of a fire and filling the storage system with air having an increased CO2 content when the storage system is used for plant cultivation (i.e., vertical farming).

[0029] WO2015 / 124610A1 discloses a storage system configured to cool items stored in stacked storage containers. The storage system features a thermal insulation lid disposed at the upper end of each storage column to thermally insulate the storage containers from the surroundings.

[0030] The consequence of an open storage column is that a human operator cannot walk on the upper part of the storage system. The ability to move on the upper part of the storage system can be highly advantageous in situations where various devices arranged on the rail system 8 require inspection or repair.

[0031] WO2019 / 081092A1 discloses a storage system on which a human operator can walk by using a cover that forms a path from a side section of the storage system to the equipment requiring inspection. The cover is supported on a stack of storage containers.

[0032] An object of the present invention is to provide an improved storage system in which the temperature and / or atmosphere can be controlled in at least certain sections of the storage system.

[0033] A further object of the present invention is to provide an improved storage system in which a path for a human operator can be arranged on top of a framework structure.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0034]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

[0035] The present invention is defined below by the appended claims.

[0036] In the first aspect, the present invention provides a storage system comprising a framework structure characterized by a plurality of storage columns, wherein storage containers are stored stacked on top of each other in a vertical stack, and at least one of the storage columns comprises a cover and two cover interaction elements. The cover comprises a horizontal cover plate having a perimeter that can be accommodated within the inner circumference of the storage column, and at least two cover retaining assemblies positioned on both sides of the cover plate. The two cover interaction elements are located on both sides of the inner circumference of the storage column. Each cover holding assembly comprises a stopper and an actuator, which are pivotably connected to the cover plate. As a result, during the descent of the cover over the storage column, when the actuator is deflected inward toward the inner circumference of the storage column by interaction with the corresponding cover interaction element, the stopper is moved horizontally outward across the inner circumference of the storage column from a first position to a second position. When the stopper is in the second position, it is biased toward the first position and is positioned to hold the cover at a predetermined level through interaction with the edge on the inner circumference of the storage column.

[0037] The inner circumference of the storage column may be defined as corresponding to the inner circumference of the rectangular opening of the storage column, which is located at the top of the storage column. The inner circumference of the rectangular opening is defined by the sides of a set of rails that demarcate the opening, and the rails are part of a rail grid located at the upper level of the frame structure.

[0038] In the second position, the stop section extends beyond the inner circumference of the storage column.

[0039] The sides on which the cover interaction elements are located are adjacent to the sides of the cover plate where the cover retaining assembly is located.

[0040] The stop unit and actuator unit can be connected to the cover plate via a swivel connector. The swivel connector can be positioned between the stop unit and the actuator unit.

[0041] The stopper may comprise a downward-facing portion or surface positioned to be supported by an upward-facing ledge. The ledge may be horizontal. In this application, the term “ledge” is intended to encompass a narrow edge.

[0042] In embodiments of the storage system, the cover may comprise support legs positioned on both sides of the cover plate. The support legs may extend to a level below the cover holding assembly, so that the second cover can be supported on top of the first cover positioned in the storage column. The first cover is held at a predetermined level by the cover holding assembly.

[0043] In an embodiment of the storage system, the cover retaining assembly may be swivelably connected to the support leg. The cover retaining assembly may be swivelably connected to the support leg by a swivel connector.

[0044] In embodiments of the storage system, each of the cover interaction elements may be a plate (i.e., plate-shaped) and / or may have a guide surface for interaction with at least one actuator portion of the cover holding assembly. The guide surface may have at least one section that is inclined to be substantially vertical, away from the centerline of the storage column, or a combination thereof. In other words, the cover interaction element may be a cover interaction plate.

[0045] In embodiments of the storage system, the ledge on the inner circumference of the storage column may be located on a cover interaction element, on a separation stop interaction element, or on a horizontal profile or rail, and the profile or rail may be located at the upper end of the storage column. The profile or rail may be part of a rail grid located at the upper level of the framework system.

[0046] In an embodiment of the storage system, the stop unit and actuator unit may be located at both ends of the lever, and the lever is pivotably connected to the cover plate.

[0047] In an embodiment of the storage system, the stop unit and the actuator unit may be separated by a vertical distance, so that when entering the opening of the storage column, the stop unit is in a first position. The vertical distance may be at least equal to the height of the rail grid at the upper level of the framework structure.

[0048] In embodiments of the storage system, the actuator portion may feature a follower for interaction with a guide surface of a cover interaction element. The follower may conform to the guide surface of the cover interaction element so as to deflect the actuator portion inward. The follower may be a pivotable or rotatable element. A rotatable element may be a wheel. A sliding element may feature a low-friction surface.

[0049] In embodiments of the storage system, the stopper may feature a downward-facing surface for interaction with the ledge. The cover may be suspended from the ledge via the downward-facing surface or supported by the ledge.

[0050] In an embodiment, the storage system may comprise at least one container handling vehicle, the upper level of the frame structure comprising a horizontal rail grid thereon, the container handling vehicle being able to move in two orthogonal directions, the container handling vehicle featuring a container lifting assembly capable of raising storage containers from storage columns and lowering storage containers into storage columns, the container lifting assembly comprising a lifting frame comprising a gripping device, the storage container and cover comprising corresponding interfaces for releasable connections to the gripping device, and as a result, the container lifting assembly being able to raise or lower either the storage container or cover.

[0051] In embodiments of the storage system, the ledge may be positioned at a set level, resulting in the upper level of the cover plate being below or above the frame structure. The upper level of the frame structure may be above the rail grid.

[0052] In an embodiment of the storage system, the ledge may be positioned at a set level, and as a result, at least two covers may be stacked on top of each other while the cover plate of the upper cover is below the upper level of the frame structure.

[0053] In embodiments of the storage system, at least one storage column featuring a cover interaction element comprises two barrier plates positioned on either side of the inner circumference of the storage column, the sides being different from the side on which the cover interaction plate is positioned. Each of the barrier plates and the cover interaction element may feature a rib (e.g., a cantilever plate section extending from the inner circumference of one storage column toward an adjacent storage column). The rib may be formed by a folded section of the barrier plate and / or the cover interaction element. The rib may extend to the midpoint between the inner circumference of the storage column on which each cover interaction plate or barrier plate is positioned and the inner circumference of the adjacent storage column. The use of both barrier plates and cover interaction elements may also provide increased rigidity of the framing structure.

[0054] In an embodiment of the storage system, the framework structure may comprise vertical column profiles defining a plurality of storage columns, each storage column being defined by four of the vertical column profiles, each column profile comprising four corner sections, each corner section positioned to accommodate the corners of a storage bin, and the inner circumference of each storage column being defined by a rectangle partitioned by the inner circumferences of the corner sections of the four column profiles defining the storage column.

[0055] In embodiments of the storage system, the cover plate may have a perimeter substantially equal to the perimeter of the storage container. The perimeter of the cover plate may also be substantially equal to the inner circumference of the storage column.

[0056] In embodiments of the storage column, the frame structure may comprise vertical column profiles defining a plurality of storage columns, each of which, in at least one section of the frame structure, comprises a lower profile section and an upper profile section made of an aluminum alloy, the lower and upper profile sections being interconnected and separated by joint brackets made of a material having lower thermal conductivity than the aluminum alloy. The joint brackets may also be called thermal break brackets.

[0057] In embodiments of the storage system, the joint bracket is made of a suitable polymer material. The suitable polymer material may include any synthetic plastic material having sufficient strength (e.g., various types of PVC, HDPE, and PP).

[0058] In an embodiment of the storage system, the joint bracket may comprise a separation plate positioned between a lower profile section and an upper profile section, and at least one profile connecting element connected to the lower profile section and the upper profile section, the profile connecting element extending in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the separation plate.

[0059] The separation plate of the joint bracket may be horizontal. The profile connection element may feature a first through-hole for bolt connection to the lower profile section and a second through-hole for connection to the upper profile section.

[0060] In embodiments of the storage system, the cover interaction element is positioned at the level of the joint bracket. In other words, the ledge may be positioned at the set level, and as a result, the cover plate is substantially at the same level as the joint bracket. The ledge may be positioned at the set level, and as a result, the majority of the upper profile section is above the cover plate.

[0061] In embodiments of the storage system, at least some of the storage columns may be provided with covers. The storage system may comprise a section of adjacent storage columns, where each storage column may be provided with a cover or may be provided with a cover.

[0062] In embodiments of the storage system, the cover may provide an insulating layer.

[0063] In an embodiment of the storage system, the cover is positioned to allow a human operator to stand on the cover at an upper level of the framework structure above the storage column.

[0064] In embodiments, the storage system may comprise at least a section of adjacent storage columns, each storage column featuring a cover, and the section of the storage column may be isolated from the surrounding storage system by a vertical wall panel. The wall panel may extend around the section of the storage column and may extend from the bottom level of the framework structure to at least the level of the cover.

[0065] In an embodiment, the storage system may include a cooling unit for cooling the atmosphere within the section of the adjacent storage column.

[0066] In an embodiment of the storage system, the stopper is part of a hook. The hook has a downward-facing portion or surface that can interact with an edge on the inner circumference of the storage column, and as a result, the cover is suspended within the storage column via the hook.

[0067] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a cover for a storage system according to any embodiment of the first aspect, the cover comprising support legs, a horizontal cover plate, and at least one cover retaining assembly disposed on each of the two sides of the cover plate, each of which comprises a lever having a stop portion and an actuator portion, the lever being pivotably connected to the corresponding support leg, the stop portion being moved outward across the horizontal periphery of the cover plate when the actuator portion is moved inward toward the opposite side of the cover plate from the side on which the actuator portion is located.

[0068] Cover by the second phase may possess any of the characteristics of the first phase related to the cover.

[0069] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a method for arranging a cover within a storage column of a storage system according to any embodiment of the first aspect, The steps include lowering the cover into the storage column, The process involves moving the stop unit to a second position through the interaction of the actuator part with the corresponding cover interaction element, The interaction between the ledge and the stopper on the inner circumference of the storage column, thereby holding the cover at a predetermined level relative to the storage column, and Includes.

[0070] In an embodiment of the third aspect of the method, the vertical distance between the cover plate of the cover held at a predetermined level (i.e., the upper surface of the cover plate) and the upper level of the storage column is greater than the height of the storage container, and the method is as follows: The step of lowering a storage container or additional cover onto a cover held at a predetermined level. Includes.

[0071] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method for positioning a cover inside a column, wherein the column comprises a pair of cover interaction elements, and the cover comprises a horizontal cover plate having a perimeter that can be accommodated within the inner circumference of the column, and at least two cover retaining assemblies positioned on both sides of the cover plate. The two cover interaction elements are located on both sides of the inner circumference of the column. Each cover retaining assembly comprises a stop part and an actuator part, and is pivotably connected to the cover plate, and the method is, The steps include lowering the cover into the column, The steps include simultaneously deflecting the actuator element inward toward the inner circumference of the storage column through interaction with the corresponding cover interaction element, and moving the stop part outward in the horizontal direction beyond the inner circumference of the storage column, The steps include: holding the cover at a predetermined level within the column by causing the ledge and stopper on the inner circumference of the column to interact; Includes.

[0072] In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a framework structure for a storage system, the framework structure comprising vertical column profiles defining a plurality of storage columns, each of the column profiles in at least one section of the framework structure comprising a lower profile section and an upper profile section made of an aluminum alloy, the lower profile section and the upper profile section being interconnected and separated by joint brackets made of a material having lower thermal conductivity than the aluminum alloy. In other words, the lower profile section and the upper profile section are interconnected and separated by thermal break brackets.

[0073] In the fifth embodiment of the storage system, the joint bracket is made of a suitable polymer material. The suitable polymer material may include any synthetic plastic material having sufficient strength (e.g., various types of PVC, HDPE, and PP).

[0074] In an embodiment of the storage system according to the fifth aspect, the joint bracket may comprise a separation plate positioned between a lower profile section and an upper profile section, and at least one profile connecting element connected to the lower profile section and the upper profile section, the profile connecting element extending in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the separation plate.

[0075] In the fifth embodiment of the storage system, at least one profile connection element is positioned around the separation plate.

[0076] In an embodiment of the storage system according to the fifth phase, at least one profile connection element extends on both sides of the separation plate.

[0077] In an embodiment of the storage system according to the fifth phase, the joint bracket may comprise four profile connecting elements evenly arranged in a staggered pattern around the centerline of the separation plate.

[0078] In the fifth embodiment of the storage system, the separation plate of the joint bracket may be horizontal, that is, the separation plate may be positioned in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the vertical column profile.

[0079] In an embodiment of the storage system according to the fifth aspect, the profile connection element may feature a first through-hole for bolt connection to a lower profile section and a second through-hole for connection to an upper profile section.

[0080] In an embodiment of the storage system according to the fifth aspect, at least one profile connection element may have a third through-hole for connecting a cover interaction element that may be placed in the storage column, the centerline of the third through-hole being perpendicular to the centerlines of the second and third through-holes.

[0081] In an embodiment of the storage system according to the fifth aspect, the separation plate may have protrusions on each side, which are positioned to be inserted into the ends of the upper and lower profile sections connected to a joint bracket. The protrusions may be configured to prevent lateral movement between the upper and lower profile sections.

[0082] In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a joint bracket for a storage system according to the first or fifth aspect, the joint bracket comprising a separation plate that can be positioned between a lower profile section and an upper profile section of a vertical column profile in a frame structure, and at least one profile connecting element that can be connected to the lower profile section and the upper profile section, the profile connecting element extending in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the separation plate.

[0083] In a further embodiment of the sixth aspect, the joint bracket may have any of the features of the joint bracket defined in the fifth aspect.

[0084] In the seventh aspect, the present invention provides a vertical column profile for a storage system, the vertical column profile comprising a lower profile section and an upper profile section made of an aluminum alloy, the lower profile section and the upper profile section being interconnected and separated by a joint bracket made of a material having lower thermal conductivity than the aluminum alloy. In other words, the lower profile section and the upper profile section are interconnected and separated by a thermal break bracket.

[0085] In a further embodiment of the seventh aspect, the joint bracket may have any of the features of the joint bracket defined in the fifth aspect. The present invention provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) A storage system (1) comprising a framework structure (100) characterized by a plurality of storage columns (105), wherein storage containers (106) are stored in the plurality of storage columns (105) stacked on top of each other in a vertical stack (107), and at least one of the storage columns comprises a cover (7) and a pair of cover interaction elements (8), The cover (7) comprises a horizontal cover plate (9) having a perimeter that can be accommodated within the inner circumference of the storage column (105), and at least two cover retaining assemblies (10) positioned on both sides of the cover plate (9), Each of the cover interaction elements (8) is positioned on both sides of the inner circumference of the storage column (105), Each of the cover holding assemblies (10) comprises a stopper (11) and an actuator (12), and is pivotably connected to the cover plate (9). As a result, during the descent of the cover (7) over the storage column (105), the actuator (12) is deflected inward toward the inner circumference of the storage column by interaction with the corresponding cover interaction element (8), causing the stopper (11) to move horizontally outward from a first position to a second position, beyond the inner circumference of the storage column (105). Storage system (1), wherein the stopper (11), when in the second position, is biased toward the first position and is arranged to hold the cover (7) at a predetermined level through interaction with ledges (13,14) on the inner circumference of the storage column (105). (Item 2) The storage system according to item 1, wherein each of the cover interaction elements (8) is a panel and / or each of the cover interaction elements (8) has a guide surface (29) for interaction with at least one of the actuator portions (12) of the cover retaining assembly (10). (Item 3) The storage system according to any of the above items, wherein the ledges (13, 14) on the inner circumference of the storage column (105) are positioned on the cover interaction element (8) or on a horizontal profile (17) positioned at the upper end of the storage column (105). (Item 4) The storage system according to the above item, wherein the stop portion (11) and the actuator portion (12) are located at both ends of the lever (16), and the lever is pivotably connected to the cover plate (9) by a pivot connection portion (19) located between the stop portion and the actuator portion. (Item 5) The storage system according to any of the above items, wherein the cover (7) comprises support legs (15) positioned at both ends of the cover plate (9). (Item 6) The storage system according to item 5, wherein the cover retaining assembly (10) is rotatably connected to the support leg (15). (Item 7) The storage system according to any of the above items, wherein the actuator portion (12) is a slidable or rotatable element for interaction with the surface of the cover interaction element (8). (Item 8) The storage system according to any of the above items, wherein the stopper (11) is characterized by a downward surface for interaction with the ledges (13, 14). (Item 9) The storage system according to any of the above items, wherein the frame structure (100) comprises vertical column profiles (102) defining the plurality of storage columns (105), each of the column profiles comprising a lower profile section (102a) and an upper profile section (102b) made of an aluminum alloy, the lower profile section and the upper profile section being interconnected and separated by joint brackets (18) made of a material having lower thermal conductivity than the aluminum alloy, the material being preferably a suitable polymer material. (Item 10) The storage system according to any of the above items, wherein at least a few of the storage columns are provided with covers (7). (Item 11) A storage system according to any of the above items, comprising at least one section of adjacent storage columns, each storage column characterized by a cover, wherein the section of the storage column is isolated from the surroundings of the storage system by a vertical wall panel (20). (Item 12) The storage system according to any of the above items, wherein the stopper portion comprises a hook (11). (Item 13) A cover for a storage system as described in any of the above items, the cover comprising a horizontal cover plate (9), support legs (15), and cover retaining assemblies (10) positioned on each of the two sides of the cover plate (9), Each of the cover holding assemblies (10) comprises a lever having a stop portion (11) and an actuator portion (12), the lever being pivotably connected to a corresponding support leg portion (15), the stop portion (11) causing the cover to move beyond the horizontal perimeter of the cover plate (9) when the actuator portion is deflected inward toward the side of the cover plate opposite to the side of the cover plate where the actuator portion is located. (Item 14) A method for placing a cover (7) within a storage column (105) of a storage system described in any of items 1 to 12, The steps include lowering the cover (7) into the storage column, The step of moving the stop unit (11) to the second position by interaction of the actuator unit (12) with the corresponding cover interaction element (8), The interaction of the stopper (11) with the ledge (13,14) on the inner circumference of the storage column (105) results in the step of holding the cover (7) at a predetermined level relative to the storage column (105), and Methods that include... (Item 15) A method for arranging a cover (7) inside a column (105), wherein the column comprises a pair of cover interaction elements (8) each positioned on opposite sides of the column, and the cover (7) comprises a horizontal cover plate (9) having a perimeter that can be accommodated within the inner circumference of the column (105), and at least two cover retaining assemblies (10) positioned on both sides of the cover plate (9), The two cover interaction elements (8) are arranged on both sides of the inner circumference of the column (105), Each of the cover holding assemblies (10) comprises a stopper (11) and an actuator (12), and is rotatably connected to the cover plate (9), and the method is The steps include lowering the cover into the column, The steps include: simultaneously deflecting the actuator portion (12) inward toward the inner circumference of the storage column by interaction with the corresponding cover interaction element (8), thereby moving the stop portion (11) outward in the horizontal direction beyond the inner circumference of the storage column (105); The steps include: holding the cover at a desired level within the column by causing the stopper (11) to interact with the ledges (13, 14) positioned on the inner circumference of the column; Methods that include... [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0086] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

[0087] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the framework structure of a conventional automated storage and retrieval system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a conventional container handling vehicle having a centrally located cavity for transporting its internal storage containers. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a conventional container handling vehicle having a cantilever for transporting storage containers directly below. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side view of the container handling vehicle in Figure 3, showing the container lifting assembly. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary storage system according to the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the cross-section of the storage system shown in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an exploded view showing details of the storage column in the storage system. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary cover according to the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a joint bracket suitable for use in a storage system according to the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary container handling vehicle for the storage system shown in Figure 5. [Figure 11]Figures 11-13 are cross-sectional views of exemplary covers positioned in the storage columns of the storage system in Figure 5. [Figure 12] Figures 11-13 are cross-sectional views of exemplary covers positioned in the storage columns of the storage system in Figure 5. [Figure 13] Figures 11-13 are cross-sectional views of exemplary covers positioned in the storage columns of the storage system in Figure 5. [Figure 14] Figures 14–18 are cross-sectional views of a second exemplary storage system in which the cover is positioned at a higher level in the storage column of the storage system. [Figure 15] Figures 14–18 are cross-sectional views of a second exemplary storage system in which the cover is positioned at a higher level in the storage column of the storage system. [Figure 16] Figures 14–18 are cross-sectional views of a second exemplary storage system in which the cover is positioned at a higher level in the storage column of the storage system. [Figure 17] Figures 14–18 are cross-sectional views of a second exemplary storage system in which the cover is positioned at a higher level in the storage column of the storage system. [Figure 18] Figures 14–18 are cross-sectional views of a second exemplary storage system in which the cover is positioned at a higher level in the storage column of the storage system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0088] Embodiments of the present invention may be discussed in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not intended to limit the present invention to the subject matter illustrated.

[0089] An exemplary embodiment of the illustrative storage system is described by reference to the cooled storage system illustrated in Figure 5. However, it should be noted that a feature of the illustrative storage system is that, in particular, the cover 7 described below may be used to obtain other advantageous effects beyond maintaining a cooled atmosphere within the storage system.

[0090] An exemplary storage system 1' according to the present invention comprises a framework structure 100 featuring a plurality of storage columns 105 in which storage containers 106 are stored stacked on top of each other in a vertical stack 107. The storage system 1' also features a cooling unit 21 for cooling the atmosphere surrounding the storage containers 106 and vertical wall panels 20 arranged to insulate the sides of the storage system.

[0091] The container handling vehicle 301' is positioned on the upper level of the frame structure 100 to move in two orthogonal directions on the horizontal rail grid 108. The container handling vehicle 301' features a container lifting assembly 2 capable of raising a storage container 106 from a storage column 105 and lowering a storage container into the storage column 105 (see Figures 6 and 10). The container lifting assembly 2 features a lifting frame 3 having a gripping device 4. The storage container 106 and cover 7 are provided with corresponding interfaces 23 for a releaseable connection to the gripping device 4, so that the container lifting assembly 2 can raise or lower either the storage container 106 or the cover 7 (see Figures 6-8).

[0092] The frame structure 100 includes a vertical column profile 102 defining a plurality of storage columns 105, each of which is defined by four of the vertical column profiles. Each column profile features four corner sections, each corner section positioned to accommodate the corners of a storage container 106.

[0093] Each storage column features a cover interaction plate 8 positioned opposite to it for interaction with a cover 7 (i.e., a cover interaction element) lowered into the storage column 105. The cover interaction plate 8 is positioned on both sides of the inner circumference of the storage column, connected to the column profile 102, and features a guide surface 29 facing the centerline of the storage column 105.

[0094] The inner circumference of each storage column 105 is defined by a rectangle separated by the inner circumferences of the corner sections of the four column profiles 102 that define the storage column. In other words, the inner circumference of the storage column 105 corresponds to the inner circumference of the rectangular opening of the storage column. The inner circumference of the rectangular opening is defined by the sides 111 and 110 of the rails that divide the opening (see Figure 1).

[0095] The cover 7 may be positioned within the storage column 105 at a predetermined level. Exemplary storage system 1' features a cover 7 for each of the storage columns 105. In other embodiments, the storage system may be divided into sections of storage columns 105, for example, with only some of the storage columns 105 in those sections featuring the cover 7.

[0096] In the exemplary storage system 1', each column profile 102 is further composed of a lower profile section 102a and an upper profile section 102b made of aluminum alloy (see Figure 7). The lower profile section 102a and the upper profile section 102b are interconnected and separated by a joint bracket 18 made of a material having lower thermal conductivity than aluminum alloy. The joint bracket 18 prevents heat conduction between the cooling portion of the storage system and the upper level of the frame on which the container handling vehicles operate. Preventing the temperature at the upper level of the frame structure from falling below zero is highly advantageous in that potential problems caused by the solidification and / or freezing of water on the horizontal rail grid 108 can be avoided. Such problems may include derailment of the container handling vehicles and loss of wheel friction between the container vehicles and the rail grid 108.

[0097] The joint bracket 18 (see Figure 9) is preferably made of a suitable polymer material, which includes any synthetic plastic material having sufficient strength (e.g., various types of PVC, HDPE, and PP). The joint bracket 18 features a separation plate 24 positioned between the lower profile section 102a and the upper profile section 102b, and profile connecting elements 25 connected to the lower profile section 102a and the upper profile section 102b. The profile connecting elements 25 extend in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the separation plate. The thermal break provided by the joint bracket connecting the upper and lower profile sections can be very advantageous in any storage system, as the lower portion of the frame structure is at a lower temperature than the upper portion of the frame structure.

[0098] Each cover 7 (see Figure 8) features a horizontal cover plate 9 and four support legs 15. The cover plate 9 has a perimeter that can be accommodated within the inner circumference of the storage column 105. The perimeter of the cover plate 9 may be substantially equal to the perimeter of the storage containers stacked within the storage column 105. Four cover retaining assemblies 10 are arranged in pairs on both sides of the cover plate 9. The cover plate is provided with an interface 23 for a releasable connection to a gripping device 4 of a container handling vehicle 301'. The upper surface of the cover plate 9 is preferably flat, but in other embodiments, it may have any shape, provided that the interface 23 can be accessed by the gripping device 4.

[0099] The cover holding assembly 10 features a hook 11 (i.e., a stopper) and an actuator portion 12. The hook 11 and actuator portion 12 are located at both ends of the lever 16. The lever 16 is connected to the cover plate 9 via one of the support legs 15 by a swivel connector 19 (see Figure 8).

[0100] The actuator portion 12 features a wheel 22. The wheel 22 is positioned to interact with the corresponding cover interaction plate 8 (i.e., cover interaction element) when the cover is lowered into the storage column 105. The wheel 22 ensures a smooth and quiet interaction between the actuator portion 12 and the cover interaction plate 8. In other embodiments, the wheel 22 may be replaced by any suitable sliding surface.

[0101] When the actuator portion 12 is deflected inward toward the inner circumference of the storage column by interaction with the corresponding cover interaction plate 8, the swivel connector 19 ensures that the hook 11 is moved outward horizontally across the inner circumference of the storage column 105 from the first position to the second position. The hook 11 is biased toward the first position by the spring 26.

[0102] In the second position, a section of the hook 11 (e.g., the downward-facing surface) extends beyond the inner circumference of the storage column and interacts with the ledges 13, 14, thereby holding the cover at a predetermined level within the storage column. Depending on the desired or predetermined level, the ledges 13, 14 may be positioned on the corresponding cover interaction plate 8 (see Figure 7 or 11) or on the side of the rail grid 108 defining the opening of the storage column 105 (see Figure 14).

[0103] In the exemplary storage systems illustrated in Figures 5-7 and 10-13, the covers 7 may be positioned at the lower level within the storage columns 105, allowing for the stacking of additional covers 7' and / or storage containers 106' on top of the covers 7 held within the storage columns 105 by their cover holding assemblies 10. Positioning the covers 7 at the lower level is highly advantageous in some applications of the covers 7, as it allows for flexible organization of the storage containers and covers 7 during excavation operations, as described, for example, in the background section.

[0104] The cooperative movement between cover 7 and cover interaction plate 8 allows the cover to be held at a lower level within the storage column 105, as illustrated in Figures 11–13. Cover 7 is lowered into the storage column by a container handling vehicle 301' as shown in Figure 10, although the lifting frame 3 is not shown in Figures 11–13 for illustrative purposes.

[0105] In the first vertical position (see Figure 11), the wheel 22 of the actuator portion 12 is in initial contact with the cover interaction plate 8. In this embodiment, the cover interaction plate 8 features a wheel contact section 30 to provide smooth initial contact with the wheel 22. The wheel contact section 30 is inclined upward away from the centerline of the storage column. The cover interaction plate 8 has an edge 13 for the corresponding hook 11.

[0106] After initial contact, the cover 7 is lowered further into the storage column 105 (see Figure 12), and the actuator portion 12 is deflected inward toward the inner circumference of the storage column 105. Simultaneously with the movement of the actuator portion 12, the hook 11 is moved outward from the first position to the second position. In the second position, the portion of the hook 11 extends beyond the inner circumference of the storage column and above the edge 13.

[0107] Finally, the cover is lowered until the hook 11 contacts the corresponding edge 13 (see Figure 13), and the cover is suspended at a predetermined level within the storage column 105.

[0108] In addition to the cover interaction plate 8, the exemplary embodiment features two barrier plates 27 positioned on both sides of the inner circumference of the storage column 105. The barrier plates 27 and the cover interaction plate 8 feature ribs 28 extending from the inner circumference of the storage column 105 toward adjacent storage columns 105. When multiple adjacent storage columns 105 are fitted with covers 7, the ribs 28 close off the vertical space between the storage columns, preventing free passage of, for example, cold air to the upper level of the frame structure 100. In the exemplary embodiment, the barrier plates 27 and the cover interaction plate 8 are positioned within the storage column via through holes 31, 32 on the joint bracket 18. However, in other embodiments, the barrier plates 27 and the cover interaction plate 8 may, advantageously, be directly connected to the column profile, for example, by bolts.

[0109] As described above, the cover 7 may also be positioned at an upper level of the frame structure 100 (see Figures 14-18 for an illustration of the cooperative movement between the cover 7 and the cover interaction plate 8). In the exemplary embodiment, the cover interaction plate 8 does not feature an edge (through which the cover 7 is held in place). Instead, the hooks 11 of the cover 7 may interact with the edges 14 of the horizontal profile 17. The profile 17 is positioned below the rail 111, and a portion of the rail grid 108 is positioned at an upper level of the frame structure 100. During the initial introduction of the cover 7 into the storage column 105, the wheels 22 of the actuator portion 12 may come into contact with the rail 111 (see Figures 14 and 15), as a result the hooks 11 are moved outward to a second position beyond the inner circumference of the storage column 105. However, as the cover 7 passes through the rail 111 during further descent, the hooks 11 must remain in the first position to avoid jamming on the top of the rail 111. Therefore, the hook 11 and the actuator portion 12 are positioned at a sufficient distance from each other to ensure that the actuator portion 12 is below the rail 111 and profile 17 before the hook 11 is lowered to the upper level of the rail 111 (see Figure 16). The required distance between the hook 11 and the actuator portion 12 may depend on the height of the rail 111 and profile 17. When the hook 11 is lowered below the upper level of the rail 111, the wheel 22 may come into contact with the cover interaction plate 8, and the hook 11 is moved to a second position, holding the cover 7 in place via the edge 14 (see, for example, Figures 17 and 18).

[0110] The storage systems of the present invention have been described in detail by reference to refrigerated storage systems, but the present invention is equally advantageous in any application where a controlled atmosphere is desired. Such applications may involve, for example, filling the storage system with an inert gas in case of fire, introducing air having an increased CO2 content and / or a specific moisture content, and controlling the temperature when the storage system is used for plant cultivation (i.e., vertical farming). In a further application of the present invention, the cover may be used to construct a pathway at the upper level of the framework structure, thereby allowing an operator to walk over the top of the storage column. A method for constructing a suitable pathway with the cover in the present invention is disclosed in WO2019 / 081092A1.

Claims

1. A storage system (1) comprising a framework structure (100) characterized by a plurality of storage columns (105) for storing storage containers (106) stacked on top of each other in a vertical stack (107), wherein at least one of the storage columns is A pair of cover interaction elements (8), each of which is positioned on both sides of the inner circumference of the storage column (105), Cover (7) and Equipped with, The aforementioned cover (7) is A cover plate (9) having a periphery that can be accommodated within the inner circumference of the storage column (105), At least two cover retaining assemblies (10) are positioned on both sides of the cover plate (9), each of which comprises a stopper (11) and an actuator (12), and is connected to the cover plate (9), and as a result, during the descent of the cover (7) over the storage column (105), the stopper (11) is moved outward from a first position to a second position, beyond the inner circumference of the storage column (105), and when the stopper (11) is in the second position, it is positioned to hold the cover (7) at a predetermined level by interaction with ledges (13, 14) on the inner circumference of the storage column (105). A storage system (1) comprising:

2. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein each of the cover interaction elements (8) is a panel and / or each of the cover interaction elements (8) is provided with a guide surface (29) for interaction with at least one of the actuator portions (12) of the cover holding assembly (10).

3. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the ledges (13, 14) on the inner circumference of the storage column (105) are positioned on the cover interaction element (8) or on a horizontal profile (17) positioned at the upper end of the storage column (105).

4. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the stop portion (11) and the actuator portion (12) are arranged at both ends of the lever (16), and the lever is pivotably connected to the cover plate (9) by a pivot connection portion (19) located between the stop portion and the actuator portion.

5. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cover (7) comprises support legs (15) arranged on both sides of the cover plate (9).

6. The storage system according to claim 5, wherein the cover holding assembly (10) is rotatably connected to the support leg (15).

7. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the actuator portion (12) is characterized by a slidable or rotatable element for interaction with the surface of the cover interaction element (8).

8. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the stopper (11) is characterized by a downward-facing surface for interaction with the ledges (13, 14).

9. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the frame structure (100) comprises vertical column profiles (102) defining the plurality of storage columns (105), each of the vertical column profiles comprising a lower profile section (102a) and an upper profile section (102b) made of an aluminum alloy, and the lower profile section and the upper profile section are interconnected and separated by joint brackets (18) made of a material having lower thermal conductivity than the aluminum alloy.

10. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least a few of the storage columns are provided with covers (7).

11. A storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising at least a section of adjacent storage columns, each storage column within the section characterized by a cover, and the section of storage columns being isolated from the surrounding storage system by a vertical wall panel (20).

12. The storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the stopper portion comprises a hook (11).

13. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the stop portion is biased toward a first position within the periphery of the cover plate.

14. A cover for a storage system comprising a frame structure (100) characterized by a plurality of storage columns (105) for storing storage containers (106) stacked on top of each other in a vertical stack (107), wherein the cover is Cover plate (9), Cover retaining assemblies (10) are positioned on each of the two sides of the cover plate (9) and Equipped with, Each of the cover retaining assemblies (10) comprises a stopper (11) and an actuator (12), and is connected to the cover plate, and as a result, the stopper (11) moves beyond the periphery of the cover plate (9) when the actuator is deflected inward toward the side of the cover plate opposite to the side on which the actuator is located. The stop portion (11) is a cover characterized by a downward-facing surface for interaction with the ledges (13, 14) on the inner circumference of the storage column.

15. The cover according to claim 14, wherein the stop portion is biased toward a first position within the periphery of the cover plate.

16. The cover according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the stop portion (11) and the actuator portion (12) are arranged at both ends of the lever (16), and the lever is pivotably connected to the cover plate (9) by a pivot connection portion (19) located between the stop portion and the actuator portion.

17. The cover (7) comprises support legs (15) arranged on both sides of the cover plate (9), as described in any one of claims 13 to 16.

18. The cover according to claim 17, wherein the cover holding assembly (10) is rotatably connected to the support leg portion (15).

19. The cover according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the actuator portion (12) is a slidable or rotatable element for interaction with the surface of the cover interaction element (8).

20. The cover according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the stopper portion comprises a hook (11).

21. A method of placing the cover (7) according to any one of claims 14 to 20 in a storage column (105) among the plurality of storage columns (105), wherein the method is Lowering the cover (7) into the storage column, The interaction of the actuator portion (12) with the corresponding cover interaction element (8) causes the stop portion (11) to move beyond the periphery of the cover plate (9), The interaction between the ledge (13, 14) and the stopper (11) is such that the cover (7) is held at a predetermined level relative to the storage column (105). Methods that include...

22. A method of placing a cover (7) inside a column (105), wherein the column is A pair of cover interaction elements (8) are each positioned on the opposite side of the column, and the pair of cover interaction elements (8) are positioned on both sides of the inner circumference of the column (105), The cover (7) and Equipped with, The aforementioned cover (7) is A cover plate (9) having a periphery that can be accommodated within the inner circumference of the column (105), At least two cover retaining assemblies (10) are arranged on both sides of the cover plate (9), each of which comprises a stop portion (11) and an actuator portion (12), and is connected to the cover plate (9). Equipped with, The aforementioned method, Lowering the cover into the column, The actuator portion (12) is deflected inward toward the inner circumference of the column by interaction with the corresponding cover interaction element (8), thereby moving the stop portion (11) outward in the horizontal direction beyond the inner circumference of the column (105), By causing the stopper (11) to interact with the ledges (13, 14) positioned on the inner circumference of the column, the cover is held at a desired level within the column. Methods that include...

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein the column is a storage column (105) of the storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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