Defrosting Module for Automated Cold Storage to Prevent Ice Build-Up
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ice build-up in automated storage and retrieval systems for temperature-sensitive goods leads to mechanical damage, reduced mobility, and handling difficulties, necessitating efficient defrosting solutions.
Innovation Solution
A defrosting module with a heat source and moisture extraction system, coupled with storage containers via robotic vehicles, to thaw and drain condensation, enhancing heating efficiency and reducing environmental heat loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the storage grid is lowered to chilled temperatures to store temperature-sensitive goods, then the goods can be stored in refrigerated conditions, but ice builds up in the storage containers causing mechanical damage, reduced mobility, and handling difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the defrosting function from the main storage system by providing a separate defrosting module that can be coupled to containers individually. This allows the storage grid to maintain chilled temperatures while containers can be defrosted separately when needed, preventing ice build-up from affecting container mobility and handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The defrosting module acts as an intermediary between the chilled storage environment and the containers. It provides controlled heating to melt ice without requiring the entire storage grid to be warmed, thus maintaining the balance between refrigeration and preventing ice-related mechanical damage.
2Reliability
If ice builds up in storage containers, then the containers experience mechanical damage and handling difficulties, but implementing a defrosting system adds complexity to the automated storage and retrieval system
Solution Approach 1:
The defrosting module is designed to be coupled to containers on-demand by robotic vehicles, allowing containers to be defrosted independently when ice build-up is detected. This self-service approach prevents the need for a complex continuous defrosting system across the entire storage grid, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining container integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The defrosting system is segmented into modular units that can be attached to individual containers rather than requiring a centralized complex system. This segmentation allows the defrosting function to be distributed and activated only where needed, reducing the overall complexity of the automated storage and retrieval system.
3Temperature
If traditional chilled storage is used, then temperature-sensitive goods can be stored, but retrieval and delivery of containers becomes inefficient due to ice build-up
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary defrosting actions on containers before they are retrieved from storage. By detecting ice build-up and activating the defrosting module in advance, containers are prepared for efficient retrieval and delivery, preventing delays caused by ice-related handling difficulties.
Solution Approach 2:
The defrosting module can be coupled to containers continuously or periodically during storage, maintaining optimal conditions without interrupting the refrigeration function. This continuous useful action ensures containers remain ready for efficient retrieval and delivery while goods remain properly refrigerated.
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
Facilitates effective defrosting of storage containers, preventing mechanical issues and improving system efficiency by ensuring smooth retrieval and delivery of goods.
Implementation Method 1
A defrosting module with a heat source and moisture extraction system, coupled with storage containers via robotic vehicles, to thaw and drain condensation
Implementation Method 2
to thaw and drain condensation, enhancing heating efficiency
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A defrosting module for defrosting a storage container of a storage and retrieval system, comprises a heat source for defrosting the storage container within a storage grid of the storage and retrieval system. The defrosting module is configured to be coupled with the storage container by a robotic container-handling vehicle of the storage and retrieval system.