Storage Bin Transport Robot With Switchable Wheel Sets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely operated vehicle assemblies for storage systems are limited in the number of vehicles that can operate simultaneously due to their cross-sectional coverage of two storage columns, restricting efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operated vehicle assembly with a vehicle body, lifting device, and displacement arrangement that allows for perpendicular movement and vertical displacement of rolling means, enabling efficient use of space and allowing multiple vehicles to operate simultaneously without overlapping cross-sectional areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If each vehicle assembly covers a cross section corresponding to two storage columns, then the vehicle structure is simplified and stable, but the maximum number of simultaneously operating vehicles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle rolling means are made dynamically adjustable through vertical displacement capability. The displacement arrangement allows the rolling means to move between a first position for contacting support rails and a second position for clearing the storage system, enabling the vehicle to change its spatial occupation dynamically and allow more vehicles to operate simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces vertical displacement as an additional degree of freedom for the vehicle rolling means. By moving the rolling means vertically between contacting and clearing positions, the vehicle can transition between occupying and not occupying horizontal space, effectively utilizing the vertical dimension to resolve the horizontal space conflict
2Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle assembly uses dedicated motors for each direction and a displacement motor for vertical movement, then the mobility and operational flexibility are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement motor serves multiple functions: it vertically displaces the vehicle rolling means to enable directional changes, and can potentially assist in positioning the vehicle body during operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate actuators for each function, balancing complexity with versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle's motion control is segmented into independent functional modules: driving motors for horizontal movement, displacement motor for vertical adjustment, and lifting device for bin handling. Each module operates independently with its own motor, allowing flexible control and maintenance while achieving high operational adaptability
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
The solution enables a significant increase in the number of simultaneously operating vehicles within the storage system, optimizing space utilization and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a displacement arrangement comprising inter alia a displacement motor which is configured to at least provide the power that is necessary in order to displace one or both of the first set of vehicle rolling means and the second set of vehicle rolling means
Implementation Method 2
a first set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body allowing movement of the vehicle along a first direction (X) within the storage system during use and a second set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body allowing movement of the vehicle along a second direction (Y)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a remotely operated vehicle assembly for picking up storage bins from a storage system and a method for change of vehicle direction. The vehicle assembly comprises a vehicle body displaying a cavity being suitable for receiving a storage bin stored within the storage system, a vehicle lifting device being connected at least indirectly to the vehicle body and suitable for lifting the storage bin into the cavity, a displacement arrangement comprising inter alia a displacement motor situated above the cavity which is configured to at least provide the power that is necessary in order to displace one or both of the first set of vehicle rolling means and the second set of vehicle rolling means between a displaced state where the relevant vehicle rolling means is displaced away from the underlying storage system during use, and a non-displaced state where the relevant vehicle rolling means is in contact with the underlying storage system during use, and driving means coupled to the displacement arrangement. The driving means further comprises a first set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body allowing movement of the vehicle along a first direction (X) within the storage system during use and a second set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body allowing movement of the vehicle along a second direction (Y) in the storage system during use, wherein the second direction (Y) is perpendicular to the first direction (X).