Bidirectional Bin-Transport Robot Layout for Higher Vehicle Density
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems for storage bins are limited in the number of simultaneously operating remotely operated vehicles due to the cross-sectional coverage of each vehicle corresponding to two storage columns, restricting operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a remotely operated vehicle with dual sets of rolling mechanisms (X and Y directions) equipped with electric motors and advanced motor control electronics, allowing independent movement and operation of multiple vehicles within the same cross-sectional area, utilizing wheels and belts for efficient navigation and bin handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If each vehicle covers a cross section corresponding to two storage columns, then the vehicle structure is simple and stable, but the maximum number of simultaneously operating vehicles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's rolling means are divided into two independent sets: a first rolling set for movement along a first direction and a second rolling set for movement along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. This segmentation allows the vehicle to navigate more efficiently through the storage system without requiring excessive lateral space, thereby increasing the number of simultaneously operating vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces bidirectional rolling capability by adding a second rolling set that operates in a direction perpendicular to the first rolling set. This dimensional addition enables vehicles to access storage columns from multiple directions, reducing the cross-sectional area each vehicle needs to cover and allowing denser vehicle deployment in the storage system.
2Productivity
If the vehicle uses dual sets of rolling means with independent driving, then the number of simultaneously operating vehicles increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's rolling means are divided into two independent sets: a first rolling set for movement along a first direction and a second rolling set for movement along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. This segmentation allows the vehicle to navigate more efficiently through the storage system without requiring excessive lateral space, thereby increasing the number of simultaneously operating vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
Each rolling set is equipped with its own driving means, allowing the vehicle to independently control movement in both the first and second directions. This multi-functionality enables the vehicle to perform complex navigation tasks using a modular architecture, where each rolling set can be controlled autonomously to achieve efficient path planning and collision avoidance, thereby supporting higher vehicle density without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
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 configuration enables a significant increase in the number of simultaneously operating vehicles, enhancing the handling capacity of storage bins by optimizing vehicle movement and reducing the occupied space, allowing for a more compact and efficient storage system.
Implementation Method 1
The rolling sets are arranged to engage with the storage system structure, enabling the vehicle to move along the storage system in the first and second directions
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention concerns a remotely operated vehicle (1) suitable for picking up storage bins (2) from an underlying storage system. The vehicle comprises driving means (5, 19) situated at or at least partly within rolling means (10, 11) of the vehicle, providing rolling set specific driving force to the vehicle in either the first direction (X) or the second direction (Y).