Method and apparatus for storing and dispensing bagged ice
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice dispensing machines in supermarkets face inefficiencies due to bags of ice being stacked in a pyramid shape, leading to underutilization of storage capacity and requiring manual leveling, which is labor-intensive and unsafe, especially during peak demand when ice production cannot keep up with customer needs.
Innovation Solution
A compact apparatus and method that evenly distributes bags of ice into two side-by-side rows within the storage compartment using a carriage-driven article support and conveyor system, allowing for controlled dispensing and leveling of bags without manual intervention, utilizing a control system to optimize stacking positions based on fill levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If bags are stacked in a pyramid shape in the storage compartment, then the stacking process is simple and automatic, but the storage capacity is underutilized and manual leveling is required
Solution Approach 1:
The storage compartment is divided into multiple stacking positions arranged in rows, with each position independently receiving and stacking bags. This segmentation allows the system to fill the entire compartment volume efficiently rather than forming a single pyramid, thereby improving storage capacity utilization while maintaining automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from vertical pyramid stacking to a multi-row, multi-position distributed stacking arrangement that utilizes horizontal and vertical dimensions more effectively. By distributing bags across multiple stacking positions in an even layer pattern, the system maximizes the three-dimensional space utilization of the storage compartment
2Quantity of substance
If manual leveling is performed frequently to maintain even bag distribution, then storage capacity is optimized, but labor costs increase and worker safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically distributes and stacks bags into an even layer configuration across multiple stacking positions without requiring human intervention. The automated distribution mechanism performs the leveling function that would otherwise require manual labor, thereby optimizing storage capacity while eliminating labor requirements and associated safety concerns
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical action of leveling bags by hand is replaced with an automated distribution mechanism that uses conveyors and positioning systems to automatically arrange bags in an even layer pattern, substituting human labor with automated mechanical systems
3Quantity of substance
If the storage compartment is sized for peak demand, then sufficient inventory is available during high demand periods, but the ice making unit cannot keep up with demand during such occasions
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains a fully stocked storage compartment with bags distributed across multiple stacking positions in advance of peak demand periods. By having the automated distribution system continuously replenish and organize the storage compartment, the system ensures sufficient inventory is readily available when demand increases, without requiring the ice making unit to immediately ramp up production during critical moments
4Quantity of substance
If a compact distribution apparatus is used to evenly distribute bags, then storage space utilization improves and labor is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions including bag receiving, conveying, positioning, and stacking across multiple rows and positions. By integrating these functions into a single automated system, the apparatus achieves compact dimensions and high storage space utilization while the multi-functionality helps justify the complexity through consolidated operation
Data Source
AI summary
An article storage and dispensing apparatus and method in which articles made by series production are distributed from an article supplier into a storage compartment of predetermined dimensions for storage of articles in front and rear rows of article storage positions. An article distributor in the storage compartment has a carriage, a carriage drive which is configured to drive the carriage in a reversible horizontal carriage drive direction across at least part of the width of the storage compartment, and an article support mounted on the carriage and configured to receive articles from the article supplier above the support when the carriage is in a start position. An article dispenser is associated with the article support to dispense articles selectively in opposite horizontal dispensing directions transverse to the carriage drive direction off the front and rear ends of the support to drop into front and rear article rows.