ASRS Access Station Drawer Layout for Compact Safe Picking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access stations in automated storage and retrieval systems are bulky and complex, with moving components prone to wear and requiring frequent maintenance, limiting the proximity of picking zones and increasing the risk of injuries.
Innovation Solution
A compact access station design featuring a drawer module with actuators for moving storage containers between presentation and retracted positions, incorporating safety mechanisms and a footprint that allows adjacent picking zones, and enabling easy replacement of malfunctioning stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional access stations are used, then storage containers can be accessed, but the access station is bulky and complex with moving components prone to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical moving components with a drawer module that slides on guides. The drawer module incorporates a storage container and uses a simplified actuation mechanism with a drawer front that moves between retracted and extended positions, eliminating bulky mechanical structures while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The access station is segmented into a drawer module that can be independently replaced. The drawer module includes a drawer front, drawer body, and storage container, allowing malfunctioning components to be replaced without affecting the entire access station structure.
2Area of stationary object
If traditional access stations are used, then storage containers can be accessed, but picking zones must be spaced far apart
Solution Approach 1:
The drawer module extends in the horizontal direction when opened, allowing the access station to have a compact vertical footprint while providing adequate access space. This dimensional change enables closer placement of picking zones without compromising accessibility.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional access stations are used, then storage containers can be accessed, but the risk of injuries increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drawer module includes safety features that prevent injuries before they can occur. The drawer front with grip features allows pickers to safely open and close the drawer, while the guided sliding mechanism prevents unexpected movements that could cause harm.
4Ease of repair
If traditional access stations are used, then storage containers can be accessed, but maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drawer module is designed as a separable, replaceable unit. When a component malfunctions, the entire drawer module can be quickly removed and replaced without complex disassembly or specialized maintenance procedures, significantly reducing maintenance time and frequency.
Data Source
AI summary
An access station, which is for presentation of a storage container from an automated storage and retrieval system to a picker, includes an access module, a drawer, a first actuator, and a second actuator. The access module includes a frame defining a drawer compartment provided within the frame. The drawer includes a drawer base and a drawer front. The drawer is movably connected to the frame. The first actuator is for moving the drawer relative to the frame between a presentation position in which the drawer is protruding from the drawer compartment and a retracted position in which the drawer is retracted within the drawer compartment. The drawer base includes a support on which the storage container can be supported in a front position or in a rear position. The second actuator is for moving the storage container from the front position to the rear position. The storage container is presented to the picker when the storage container is in the front position and when the drawer is in the presentation position.