Dynamic Storage System for Vertical Stacking of Large Sheet Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage systems for large sheet-shaped objects, such as glass, marble, and ceramic sheets, require large surface areas and inefficient use of space due to horizontal stacking and reliance on cranes or lift trucks, lacking effective and space-efficient solutions.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic storage system utilizing vertically stackable modular frames with internal frames that allow sheets to be stored in inclined positions, reducing surface area requirements and eliminating the need for additional support structures, combined with a gripping mechanism for flexible movement and handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If items are stacked horizontally on the ground, then items can be easily accessed and moved, but the surface area required for storage increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal stacking (2D surface storage) to vertical stacking (3D space utilization). Modular frames are stacked vertically to form towers, allowing items to be stored in multiple levels. This dimensional change dramatically reduces the ground surface area required while maintaining storage capacity through vertical space exploitation.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is divided into discrete modular frames that can be independently stacked and configured. Each frame acts as a self-contained unit with standardized dimensions and connection interfaces, enabling flexible vertical assembly. This segmentation allows the system to scale vertically without requiring proportional increases in surface area.
2Productivity
If cranes with winches and gripping means are used to move items, then items can be moved and stacked, but the system requires very large surface areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces horizontal item movement with vertical frame stacking. Instead of moving individual items across large surfaces using cranes, the system stacks complete modular frames vertically. The gripping mechanism attaches to frame profiles rather than individual items, reducing the surface footprint while maintaining movement and stacking productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple items within single modular frames before stacking. Rather than moving and stacking individual items separately using cranes, multiple sheets are contained within standardized frames that are then stacked as unified units. This merging reduces the number of handling operations and minimizes surface area requirements.
3Area of stationary object
If vertically stackable modular frames are used, then storage surface area is reduced, but the system requires effective gripping mechanisms for automated operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs standardized C-shaped profiles throughout the modular frame structure, providing uniform geometry and material properties. This homogeneity enables a single gripping mechanism design to handle all frames consistently, reducing overall system complexity despite the automated vertical stacking operation. The consistent profile shape allows for repeatable gripping and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The C-shaped profiles serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for stacking, offer standardized attachment points for gripping mechanisms, and enable both vertical and horizontal connections. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components, simplifying the gripping mechanism design while achieving automated vertical stacking.
Data Source
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AI summary
A storage system, comprising: a plurality of modular frames (10), intended to contain a determined number of items, that can be vertically stacked on top of one another; a gripping means (20), movable along a vertical direction between an upper position and a lower position and structured to be able to grasp the modular frames (10); a translating means (30), provided to move the gripping means (20) on a horizontal plane.