Container Buffering Assembly for Automated Storage Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated storage and retrieval systems face inefficiencies in transferring storage containers between container lift devices and conveyors, particularly due to time dependencies and the need for temporary storage container repositioning, which increases handling time and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A container buffering assembly with a movable container holder frame that can switch between holding and release positions, allowing for direct transfer of storage containers between the container lift device and the conveyor, reducing the need for intermediate storage and enhancing synchronization with the conveyor's movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If storage containers are transferred directly between container lift device and conveyor, then transfer efficiency is improved, but synchronization coordination between the two systems becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A buffer container is introduced as an intermediary element between the container lift device and the conveyor. This buffer container temporarily holds storage containers, allowing the lift device and conveyor to operate independently without requiring precise synchronization. The buffer acts as a decoupling mechanism that absorbs timing variations and operational differences between the two systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic positioning of the buffer container, which can move between different locations (e.g., between port columns or along the conveyor path). This dynamic adaptability allows the buffer to optimize its position based on real-time operational needs, improving transfer efficiency while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized buffer units.
2Adaptability or versatility
If temporary storage container repositioning is performed, then container access flexibility is improved, but handling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Storage containers are pre-positioned in buffer containers before they are needed at the access point. The buffer containers are strategically located and pre-loaded with containers, so when a retrieval request occurs, the container is already in position or can be quickly transferred without requiring time-consuming repositioning operations from deep storage locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer container serves as an intermediary storage layer that decouples the frequent access operations from the less frequent bulk storage operations. By maintaining a small inventory of containers in the buffer zone, the system can quickly fulfill access requests without repeatedly accessing the main storage columns, thereby reducing handling time while maintaining flexibility.
3Productivity
If container holder frame is made movable between holding and release positions, then transfer efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container holder frame is designed with movable supports that can dynamically transition between holding and release positions. This dynamic capability allows the frame to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements - holding containers during transfer operations and releasing them for loading onto the conveyor. The movement is achieved through simple actuation mechanisms that convert between locked and unlocked states.
Solution Approach 2:
The container holder frame is segmented into multiple independent support elements that can be individually actuated. Rather than moving the entire frame structure, individual supports or sections can be independently positioned between holding and release states. This segmentation reduces the complexity of the actuation system while maintaining the functional benefit of dynamic positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system includes a framework structure in which storage containers are stored, a container lift device, and a conveyor. The framework structure includes at least a first port column through which a storage container may be transferred by the container lift device. The first port column includes an upper end at which the container lift device is arranged when a storage container is to be lowered or lifted through the port column, and a lower end at which a container buffering assembly is arranged. The container buffering assembly includes a container holder frame including a plurality of supports. The container holder frame is movable in a first horizontal direction between a first position under the lower end of the first port column and a second position away from the lower end of the first port column. The supports are actuatable between: a holding position, in which the supports are configured to support a storage container; and a release position, in which a storage container may pass through the container holder frame. At least a part of the container holder frame is vertically movable for transferring a storage container between the container holder frame and the conveyor.