Cluster Transport Devices With Active Passive Guide Means
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic storage systems require peripheral frame structures that reduce storage density, are not dynamically scalable, and incur additional costs due to the need for robotic load handlers, which also face challenges with route planning, collision avoidance, and maintenance access.
Innovation Solution
A system of transport devices arranged in a cluster with guide and drive means that allow for reconfigurable topology without external frameworks, enabling self-relocation and communication for efficient movement and inventory management within the cluster.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a peripheral frame structure is used to support robotic load handlers, then the system can achieve automated storage and retrieval, but the storage density is reduced due to space consumption by the frame structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the external peripheral frame structure from the system. Instead of having a fixed frame supporting robotic load handlers, the system uses the storage containers themselves as the structural framework, with containers serving as both storage units and support elements for the robotic arms.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage containers serve multiple functions: they store items, provide structural support for the robotic load handlers, and form the framework of the entire system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate frame structures, increasing storage density while maintaining automation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a peripheral frame structure is constructed to accommodate maximum anticipated capacity, then the system can handle future scaling needs, but the initial cost and space utilization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to be dynamically scalable, allowing the addition or removal of storage containers as needed. The robotic load handlers can adapt to changing configurations, enabling the system to scale capacity dynamically rather than being locked into a fixed maximum capacity from the outset.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into modular storage containers and robotic units that can be independently added or removed. This segmentation allows incremental scaling of capacity without requiring a complete system redesign or committing to a fixed maximum capacity structure.
3Ease of operation
If robotic load handlers traverse on top of the frame structure, then automated access to storage bins is enabled, but additional costs are incurred and the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the storage container function with the structural support function. The robotic load handlers operate directly among and on the containers themselves, merging the previously separate functions of frame structure and storage units into a unified system that reduces overall complexity.
4Extent of automation
If robotic load handlers must dig down into stacks to retrieve selected storage bins, then complete automation is achieved, but time and energy overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions storage containers in an optimized layout that minimizes the distance robotic load handlers must travel and the depth they must reach to access items. Containers are arranged to facilitate efficient retrieval patterns, reducing the time and energy required for automated access while maintaining complete automation.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a system having a first transport device including one of a guide and/or drive connected to a surface of a second transport device, having another guide and/or drive. The drive is configured to interact with the guide to effect movement of one of the first or second transport device relative to the other of the first or second transport device. The guide is configured to change between an active state, in which it is securely engaged with the drive means to effect movement of one of the first or second transport device, and a passive state in which the drive is not engaged, allowing the first and second transport devices to be separated.