Automated Load Handling System with Interconnected Grid Frameworks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated storage and retrieval systems for handling storage containers are labor-intensive and inefficient, particularly in applications like baggage handling at airports, where they lack the ability to collate containers based on attributes, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns due to manual handling.
Innovation Solution
An automated load handling system featuring a 3D grid framework structure with two interconnected storage and retrieval systems, each with robotic load handling devices and a transfer system that allows for the sorting and collation of storage containers based on attributes, enabling efficient transfer between differently sized containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated storage and retrieval systems are used for handling storage containers, then labor intensity is reduced and operational efficiency is improved, but the ability to collate containers based on attributes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple workstations (first workstation, second workstation, third workstation) that perform different functions. The first workstation handles automated storage and retrieval, the second workstation performs collation based on attributes, and the third workstation handles transfer. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in one function while the integrated system provides all capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines automated storage and retrieval functionality with manual collation functionality into a single integrated system. The automated system retrieves containers and brings them to a workstation where they can be collated based on attributes, merging the advantages of both automated handling and attribute-based sorting in one system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling personnel are used for baggage collation, then containers can be sorted based on attributes, but labor intensity increases and safety concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The automated storage and retrieval system acts as an intermediary that brings containers to a centralized workstation. This eliminates the need for manual handling personnel to move containers throughout the facility, reducing safety risks while maintaining collation capability at the workstation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by having the automated retrieval mechanism bring containers to the workstation where they can be collated. This reduces the need for manual intervention in container movement, minimizing safety risks associated with manual handling.
3Ease of operation
If conveyors are positioned at ground level for baggage transfer, then accessibility is improved, but large surface area is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from ground-level conveyor operation to vertical operation by positioning conveyors at elevated levels within the rack structure. Containers are retrieved from elevated storage positions and transferred via overhead conveyors to workstations, utilizing the vertical dimension to reduce footprint while maintaining accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated load handling system including: first and second automated storage and retrieval systems each having a grid framework structure, and plural robotic load handling devices; at least one port column through which a respective robotic load handling device is able to access storage containers; and at least one transfer system configured to transfer storage containers or items therein from a port column of the first automated storage and retrieval system to a port column of the second automated storage and retrieval system, and wherein grid openings of the first and second automated storage and retrieval systems are of different size.