Bin Storage Robot Cavity Layout for Stable Two-Axis Bin Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely operated vehicles for picking up storage bins from storage systems face issues with stability, maximum handling weight, space utilization, and efficiency in lifting and transporting bins.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operated vehicle with a central cavity in its body for bin reception, featuring rolling means symmetrically arranged for enhanced stability and movement in two directions, allowing for efficient bin handling and space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the robot uses a yoke/overhang design in the upper part of the section receiving the storage bin, then the robot can receive storage bins, but it necessitates an undesired speed reduction at the final stage of the lifting process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the yoke/overhang element from the robot design entirely. The new design uses a streamlined section that receives bins directly without requiring a yoke structure, thereby eliminating the speed reduction requirement while maintaining bin receiving capability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a yoke/overhang structure that protrudes forward to receive bins, the patent inverts the approach by using a recessed cavity design where the bin is received within the robot body structure itself, allowing continuous lifting speed without interruption
2Ease of operation
If the robot is designed with a specific configuration for receiving storage bins, then it can operate in the storage system, but it prevents access to all of the available storage columns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the robot with a universal interface system that can accommodate multiple bin types and storage column configurations. The streamlined section with cavity and roller support mechanisms are designed to work with various bin dimensions and storage system layouts, enabling the robot to access all storage columns throughout the facility
3Ease of operation
If the robot uses an integrated yoke/overhang structure, then it can receive storage bins, but it causes an undesirable high torque during lifting and transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the yoke/overhang structure that created the torque problem. The new design uses a direct cavity-based reception system where bins are supported by rollers within the robot body, eliminating the leverage arm that caused high torque during lifting and transportation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the structural approach from a protruding yoke design to a recessed cavity design, effectively moving the bin reception point from the outer dimension to an inner dimension within the robot body, thereby reducing the moment arm and associated torque
4Productivity
If the robot is designed with a specific configuration, then it can lift and transport bins, but it creates potential instability problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric weight distribution and structural design where the cavity and roller support mechanisms are positioned to optimize the center of gravity during bin lifting and transportation, enhancing stability while maintaining lifting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The robot incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms including movable rollers and adjustable support structures within the cavity that adapt to different bin weights and dimensions, maintaining optimal stability throughout the lifting and transportation process
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a bin storage system includes a plurality of storage columns for storage of a plurality of vertically-stacked storage bins and a plurality of robot vehicles for transporting storage bins. A plurality of supporting rails are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix at the top of the columns. The supporting rails are arranged in a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The method includes positioning a cavity displaying a downwardly facing opening for the storage bin of one of the plurality of robot vehicles such that the cavity is aligned with one of the storage columns to permit the cavity to receive a storage bin from the storage columns, receiving a storage bin from the storage column into the cavity, and moving the robot vehicle along the bin storage system, using a plurality of wheels attached to the robot vehicle. A first set of wheels is arranged to allow the robot vehicle to travel in the first direction along the supporting rails. A second set of wheels is arranged to allow the robot vehicle to travel in the second direction along the supporting rails. At least one of the first set of wheels and the second set of wheels are configured to be displaceable from the supporting rails, such that the first set of wheels are in contact with the supporting rails when the robot vehicle travels in the first direction and the second set of wheels are in contact with the supporting rails when the robot vehicle travels in the second direction.