System and method for storing goods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shelving systems lack flexibility, requiring loads to be removed before reconfiguration and offering limited possibilities for adapting to changing storage needs, as shelves are typically fixed in permanent positions.
Innovation Solution
A shelving system featuring guide tracks and shelf assemblies with displacement elements and actuators that allow for the shelf assembly to be displaced and repositioned while carrying a load, enabling flexible configuration and adaptation to changing needs, with individual control of displacement elements and locking mechanisms for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If shelves are fixed in permanent positions, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to changing storage needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic shelving system where shelves can be moved along vertical guide tracks to different positions. The shelf assembly includes displacement elements that interact with the guide track, allowing the shelf to be repositioned vertically while maintaining structural stability during each positioned state. This resolves the contradiction by making the system dynamically adjustable rather than statically fixed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If shelves are made movable and adjustable, then adaptability to changing storage needs is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving system is segmented into modular components: vertical guide tracks, shelf assemblies with displacement elements, and locking mechanisms. Each component performs a specific function, and they can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity by breaking down the movable shelf system into manageable, standardized parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf assembly includes self-contained displacement elements and locking mechanisms that enable the shelf to be moved and secured without requiring external complex mechanisms. The displacement elements interact directly with the guide track, and the locking mechanism automatically secures the shelf at desired positions, reducing the need for additional control systems.
3Ease of operation
If shelves are reconfigured by removing loads, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic reconfiguration of shelves while loads remain in place. The guide track and displacement element system allows shelves to be moved vertically without requiring loads to be removed, transferred, or handled. This maintains productivity by eliminating the time-consuming process of load removal and repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide track acts as an intermediary mechanism between the shelf assembly and the vertical support structure. It provides a controlled path for shelf movement, allowing the shelf to be repositioned smoothly while carrying loads. This intermediary system simplifies the reconfiguration process by providing guided movement rather than requiring free-handling of loaded shelves.
4Adaptability or versatility
If shelves are made movable with actuators, then adaptability is improved, but use of energy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when shelf repositioning is required. During normal storage operations, the shelf remains stationary and energy consumption is minimal or zero. The periodic activation of the actuator to move the shelf assembly along the guide track reduces overall energy usage compared to continuous motorized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The displacement elements are designed to interact passively with the guide track during movement, utilizing the track's structure to guide and support the shelf. The locking mechanism appears to be passive or spring-loaded, securing the shelf at desired positions without requiring continuous energy input. This self-service approach minimizes active energy consumption while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The invention relates to a shelving system, comprising at least one guide track (401, 402) and at least one shelf assembly (403, 404, 405) configured to carry a load, the guide track and shelf assembly comprising mutually interacting means to provide for the shelf assembly being carried by the guide track while carrying the load. The guide track provides for a displacement of the shelf assembly along the guide track while carrying the shelf assembly, and allow releasably fixing the shelf assembly to a plurality of different positions along the at least one guide track. The shelf assembly comprises at least two displacement elements for displacing the shelf assembly along the guide track, and the displacement is effectuated by an actuator controlling a motion of the displacement elements. Following release from a first position along the at least one guide track and displacement to a second position along the guide track, the shelf assembly is releasably fixed at the second position.