Contour-Compensated Storage Stations for Compact Automated Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blister packaging machines face inefficiencies in storage and handling of storage stations due to inconsistent designs and non-standardized actuation, leading to complex and space-inefficient storage solutions.
Innovation Solution
A storage device comprising a storage station and an adapter that allows for automated storage using a jaw gripper, with contact sections designed to be gripped by the gripper, and a contour compensation section to eliminate gaps between storage devices, enabling efficient stacking and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If storage stations are designed with inconsistent shapes and contours to adapt to different small items, then adaptability to various storage needs is improved, but automated handling with a single actuator type becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The storage station is divided into two functional parts: the original storage station body (with varying shapes for different small items) and a standardized adapter component. The adapter provides uniform contact sections that enable automated handling, while the storage station maintains its item-specific design. This segmentation allows both adaptability and automation to coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as an intermediary component between the jaw gripper and the storage station. It translates the varying shapes of different storage stations into a standardized interface that the jaw gripper can consistently grasp. The adapter's contact sections serve as the mediation point that enables automated handling without requiring modification to the storage station's item-adapted design.
2Quantity of substance
If storage stations are arranged in a shelving system for storage, then storage capability is improved, but space optimization and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter-equipped storage stations are designed to serve multiple functions: they can be automatically handled by the jaw gripper for transfer and storage, and they can be systematically arranged in storage configurations. The standardized interface enables both automated manipulation and efficient spatial arrangement, replacing complex shelving systems with simpler, more space-optimized configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system enables self-service operation where the jaw gripper automatically picks up storage stations and places them in storage locations without human intervention. The standardized contact sections allow the system to service itself through automated retrieval, storage, and retrieval operations, eliminating the need for complex manual shelving operations.
3Extent of automation
If contact sections are added to enable jaw gripper handling, then automated storage capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handling functionality is extracted from the storage station itself and placed into a separate adapter component. This extraction allows the storage station to remain simple and focused on its primary function of storing small items, while the adapter handles the complexity of providing standardized contact sections for automated manipulation. The adapter can be easily attached and detached without complicating the storage station's core design.
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6A~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a storage device for small-unit goods, a kit for making a storage station storable, and a method for storing storage stations. The storage device (1) comprises a storage station (5) for small-unit goods, comprising a housing (10) and a holding device (40). The housing (10) has an outer maximum housing contour (15) with a base structure (50) arranged beneath the housing (10), each having two side regions (51a, 51b) and two end regions (52a, 52b). The storage device further comprises an adapter means (100) with at least two contact means (110a, 110b) which are detachably arranged on the base structure (50) and which are designed such that each contact means, in the attached state, provides a contact section (111a, 111b) adjacent to the side regions, which are designed and aligned such that the contact sections can be gripped by clamping jaws of the jaw gripper.