Automated Decant Workstation for Case Cutting and Each Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing order-fulfillment systems in retail supply chains face challenges in efficiently decanting cases of product units (eaches) into totes, requiring manual breakdown of packaging and separation, which is time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

An automated decant system with a decant workstation that includes cutting, stripping, and separation modules to remove case packaging and separate eaches into predetermined groups for storage in totes, utilizing edge cutting modules, inversion modules, and drop-catch modules to automate the process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual breakdown of case packaging and separation is used, then the decanting process can be performed, but it is time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecanting efficiencyVSAvoidtime for manual breakdown
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated mechanical systems. Cutting modules with blades automatically cut case packaging, stripping modules automatically remove packaging materials, and separation modules automatically sort eaches into totes. This substitution of manual labor with automated mechanical systems directly resolves the contradiction by dramatically increasing decanting efficiency while reducing the time required for packaging breakdown.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The decanting system is divided into distinct functional modules: cutting modules for packaging, stripping modules for removal, separation modules for sorting, and loading modules for tote placement. Each module performs a specific function in sequence, allowing parallel processing and optimizing the overall decanting workflow. This segmentation enables high-speed automated operation without the time losses associated with manual repositioning and handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If automated decanting system is implemented, then efficiency is increased, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecanting efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex automated decanting system is divided into modular functional units: cutting modules, stripping modules, separation modules, and loading modules. Each module is independently designed and can be optimized separately, making the overall complex system manageable through modular architecture. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high productivity while keeping individual component complexity at acceptable levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The automated decanting system is designed with universal modules that can handle multiple case types and product configurations. The cutting modules can accommodate different packaging materials, the stripping modules can remove various packaging types, and the separation modules can sort different product arrangements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized devices, thereby managing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity across diverse applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If case packaging is removed and eaches are separated into predetermined groups, then organization for storage is improved, but the process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveorganization of eachesVSAvoidseparation process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The separation process is divided into distinct stages performed by specialized modules: cutting modules create initial access, stripping modules remove packaging, separation modules sort eaches into predetermined groups based on destination totes, and loading modules transfer organized eaches to storage. This segmentation of the organization process into discrete functional steps improves ease of operation and traceability while managing complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The separation modules incorporate control systems that receive information about destination totes and automatically adjust separation actions accordingly. Sensors and controllers monitor the process, ensuring eaches are correctly sorted into predetermined groups based on real-time requirements. This feedback mechanism simplifies operation by automating the decision-making process for organization, reducing the complexity that would otherwise require manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20250361089A1Automated decant system
Publication Date: 2025.11.27 SYMBOTIC LLC
  • US20250361089A1 patent drawing
  • US20250361089A1 patent drawing
  • US20250361089A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An automated storage and retrieval facility includes an automated decant system for decanting cases of eaches in a supply chain, the system includes: a work surface configured to receive a case of eaches; and an edge cutting module configured to make horizontal cuts through the case on one or more sides of the case, where the case comprises one of cardboard or shrink wrap, where the work surface includes a convey system configured to feed case of eaches to the edge cutting module.