Dual Load-Handling Rack Operating Device for Space-Efficient Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rack operating devices for racking systems are not optimal in terms of costs and space consumption, and they require complex and time-consuming assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
The proposed rack operating device features a lifting unit with two load-handling devices that can move horizontally, allowing for efficient access to two opposing storage racks with a single lifting axis. This design reduces the number of masts, lifting units, and drive devices required, making the system more economical and space-efficient. Additionally, a simplified method for assembling the racking system is introduced, which allows for faster, cheaper, and easier installation of the rack operating device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single load-handling device is used per lifting unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity decreases because two opposing storage racks cannot be served simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
Two load-handling devices are combined into a single lifting unit, allowing both devices to be vertically positioned on one mast and share common support structures. This merging enables simultaneous servicing of two opposing storage racks while reducing the total number of masts and lifting units required in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting unit is designed to perform multiple functions by carrying two load-handling devices that can independently serve two different storage racks. This multi-functional design allows a single lifting unit to replace what would traditionally require two separate lifting units, one for each rack.
2Productivity
If multiple masts and lifting units are used to serve two opposing storage racks, then the productivity increases, but the space consumption and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple masts and lifting units are merged into a single mast with one lifting unit carrying two load-handling devices. This consolidation reduces the physical footprint and space requirements while maintaining the capability to serve two opposing storage racks simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The single lifting unit is designed to universally serve multiple storage racks by positioning two load-handling devices at different horizontal locations. This universal design eliminates the need for separate dedicated lifting units for each rack, reducing overall space consumption.
3Reliability
If multiple separate lifting units are used for each storage rack, then the reliability of service to each rack is improved, but the device complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
Two separate lifting units are merged into one integrated lifting unit with two load-handling devices. This integration maintains service availability to both storage racks while reducing the total number of components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting unit is segmented into two independently controllable load-handling devices, each capable of serving its designated storage rack. This segmentation ensures that operations on one rack do not interfere with the other, maintaining reliability while reducing overall system complexity through shared infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
With a view to an inexpensive access to parts of a racking system using structurally simple means, a rack operating device for the racking system, in particular for a storage and retrieval system, is specified. The rack operating device has two masts extending in the vertical direction and a lifting unit movably arranged on the mast. The rack operating device is designed and developed such that the lifting unit carries two load-handling devices which can be moved in the horizontal direction in the lifting unit.A specified racking system is designed accordingly. A method for assembling the racking system is specified.