Auto-loading storage system
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Solution Overview
Problem
The loading of vehicles and containers with packages is a time-consuming and inefficient process due to the need for manual organization and handling, which can lead to delays and potential damage to packages, especially when dealing with varying sizes and configurations.
Innovation Solution
A unitized storage assembly with movable rows and elevating mechanisms, coupled with a motorized system and controller, allows for automated loading and unloading of cargo spaces, enabling efficient vertical and horizontal movement of storage units to optimize space and reduce manual handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual loading and organization of packages is performed, then flexibility in handling various package sizes is achieved, but loading time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple modular storage bins that can be independently configured. Each bin can be adjusted to accommodate different package sizes, allowing the system to maintain flexibility while enabling automated handling to improve productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The storage bins are designed with movable and adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration based on package dimensions. This dynamic adaptability enables the system to handle various package sizes efficiently without sacrificing loading speed
2Volume of moving object
If packages are densely stacked to optimize space utilization, then volume efficiency improves, but access time increases and risk of package damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo space is segmented into multiple accessible storage bins rather than a single dense stack. This segmentation allows direct access to individual packages without requiring movement of other packages, maintaining both space efficiency and quick access times
Solution Approach 2:
The storage bins act as intermediaries between the cargo space and the loading/unloading process. Packages are stored in these accessible bins rather than being densely stacked, allowing rapid retrieval while maintaining efficient space utilization through the organized bin structure
3Stability of the object's composition
If manual handling and organization of packages is performed, then proper placement and organization is achieved, but labor requirements increase and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is designed to automatically organize and place packages into appropriate bins based on their dimensions and delivery requirements. The system self-manages the organization process through automated detection and placement, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining proper package arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and controllers that provide feedback on package characteristics and storage bin status. This feedback mechanism enables automated decision-making for optimal package placement, achieving proper organization through intelligent automation rather than manual processes
4Ease of operation
If traditional loading methods are used, then simplicity of operation is maintained, but loading efficiency decreases and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (storage, organization, loading, and unloading) are merged into a single integrated automated system. This consolidation maintains operational simplicity by providing a unified interface while dramatically improving loading efficiency through automated processes that perform multiple tasks simultaneously
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 significantly reduces loading time, eliminates redundant handling, and minimizes the risk of package damage by enabling rapid and organized automated loading of vehicles, improving efficiency and resource utilization.
Implementation Method 1
an elevating mechanism coupled to at least one of the pair of individual storage units of one of the plurality of rows, the elevating mechanism operative to move the one of the plurality of rows in at least one of a vertical or horizontal direction relative to the adjacent row
Implementation Method 2
a motor operatively coupled to at least one wheel rotatably mounted on a bottom surface of a base of at least one of the plurality of individual storage units
Data Source
AI summary
A unitized storage assembly for automated loading and unloading of an associated cargo space, including individual storage units that are positioned in rows, such that each row comprises an opposing pair of individual storage units and wherein each row is movably coupled to an adjacent row. The assembly further includes an elevating mechanism coupled to one of the individual units and operative to move the row vertically or horizontally relative to the adjacent row. The assembly includes a motor operatively coupled to a wheel rotatably mounted on a bottom surface of a base of one of the individual storage units. The assembly also includes a controller that activates the elevating mechanism to raise the pair of individual storage units a predetermined height, and the motor to rotate the wheel to move the unitized storage assembly in at least one direction.