An automated storage system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated storage and retrieval systems lack the ability to control temperature and atmosphere within storage sections independently and do not provide a safe path for human operators to access equipment on top of the storage system for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The storage system incorporates removable covers with cover interaction elements and a framework structure featuring vertical column profiles with thermal break brackets, allowing for controlled atmosphere sections and enabling human access on top by creating a walkable path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If storage columns are left open for container access, then container handling efficiency is improved, but temperature and atmosphere control within storage sections deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent storage sections, each with its own controllable atmosphere and temperature. Covers are placed at the top of individual storage columns to create sealed compartments, allowing independent environmental control for each section while maintaining overall system productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different storage sections can have different atmospheric compositions and temperature conditions tailored to specific storage requirements. The covers enable localized environmental control, allowing critical sections to be sealed and optimized while other sections remain more accessible.
2Device complexity
If equipment is placed on top of storage system without walkway, then structural complexity is reduced, but operator safety and access deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The covers serve multiple functions: they seal storage columns for atmosphere control, and simultaneously create a safe walkable path for operators to access equipment on top of the storage system. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between structural simplicity and operator safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The covers act as an intermediary structure that bridges the gap between the storage columns and the equipment on top. They provide a safe, supported pathway for operators without requiring a separate, complex walkway structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for independent temperature and atmosphere control within storage sections and provides a safe, accessible path for maintenance, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a joint bracket made in a material having a lower thermal conductivity than the aluminium alloy
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system includes a framework structure featuring multiple storage columns in which storage containers are stored stacked on top of one another in vertical stacks, and at least one of the storage columns includes a cover and a pair of cover interaction elements. The cover includes a horizontal cover plate, having a periphery that can be accommodated within an inner periphery of the storage column, and at least two cover holding assemblies arranged at opposite sides of the cover plate. The cover interaction elements are arranged each at opposite sides of the inner periphery of the storage column. Each of the cover holding assemblies includes a stop and an actuator portion, and is pivotably connected relative to the cover plate such that the stop is moved in a horizontal direction outwardly beyond the inner periphery of the storage column, from a first position to a second position, when the actuator portion is deflected inwardly of the inner periphery of the storage column by interaction with a corresponding cover interaction element during lowering of the cover relative to the storage column. The stop is biased towards the first position and arranged to hold the cover at a predetermined level by interaction with a ledge at the inner periphery of the storage column when in the second position.