Systems and methods for object storage and retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Retrieving physical objects from unknown locations is inefficient due to the lack of effective storage and retrieval systems that can manage and coordinate the storage and dispensing of objects across multiple locations.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous object storage and retrieval system comprising storage towers and lockers equipped with controllers, interactive displays, and transport apparatuses that communicate with a computing system to identify and transfer physical objects between locations, allowing for efficient storage and dispensing based on object identities and user requests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical objects are stored in various locations without a coordinated system, then storage flexibility is improved, but retrieval efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple storage and retrieval apparatuses (storage towers, lockers) that can each independently store and retrieve objects, while also functioning as part of a coordinated network. Each apparatus has universal capabilities to receive, store, and dispense various physical objects, enabling both storage flexibility across multiple locations and efficient retrieval through systematic coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
A computing system acts as an intermediary between users and the distributed storage apparatuses. The computing system receives user requests, determines object locations across multiple apparatuses, coordinates transfers between apparatuses, and manages the overall retrieval process, thereby enabling efficient retrieval while maintaining storage flexibility.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple storage apparatuses are distributed across locations, then storage capacity is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is segmented into multiple independent apparatuses (storage towers, lockers) distributed across different locations. Each apparatus operates semi-autonomously with its own controller, reducing the complexity burden on any single component while collectively providing large storage capacity. The segmentation allows parallel operations and localized management.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing system continuously monitors the state of distributed storage apparatuses (object locations, availability, status) and uses this feedback to make real-time decisions about object transfers, retrieval coordination, and system optimization. This feedback mechanism manages system complexity by providing centralized awareness and automated decision-making.
3Speed
If automated transport apparatuses are used to transfer objects between storage units, then retrieval speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport apparatuses are equipped with autonomous capabilities to automatically transfer objects between storage units without requiring manual intervention. The systems self-coordinate through the computing platform, automatically navigating and delivering objects to the correct locations, thereby achieving fast retrieval while minimizing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-coordinates object transfers and positions objects in optimal locations before retrieval requests are made. The computing system anticipates retrieval needs and proactively manages object placement and transport readiness, enabling faster retrieval speeds while distributing the complexity of coordination across the system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Described in detail herein is an autonomous object storage and retrieval system. In one embodiment, an object storage and retrieval system includes a computing system hosting a service application and in communication with a database and storage and retrieval apparatuses configured to store and dispense physical objects. Each storage and retrieval apparatus is in communication with the computing system. The computing system can transmit instructions to a first one of the storage and retrieval apparatuses to render the status of the first physical object on the interactive display of the storage and retrieval apparatus.