Grid Framework Bridging Joints for Seismic Load Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grid framework structures in storage and retrieval systems are prone to structural failure during seismic events due to excessive oscillation and bending moments, compromising safety and stability, especially in areas prone to powerful earthquakes, and require additional bracing that occupies valuable storage space.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a bridging joint assembly with mechanical fuses that break under predetermined loads to isolate sections of the grid structure, preventing the transfer of excessive forces and allowing controlled separation during seismic events, while maintaining structural integrity and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If additional bracing is added to the grid framework structure to prevent structural failure during seismic events, then structural strength and stability are improved, but the available storage space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The grid framework structure is divided into multiple separable sections connected by bridging joint assemblies. During seismic events, these sections can separate independently through the bridging joints, allowing the structure to absorb seismic forces without requiring additional bracing that would occupy storage space. The segmentation enables the structure to remain strong while maintaining full storage capacity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the grid framework structure is made more rigid to prevent excessive oscillation during earthquakes, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to absorb seismic energy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bridging joint assemblies provide dynamic connectivity between grid sections. During normal operation, the joints maintain structural stability. During seismic events, the joints allow controlled separation and movement, enabling the structure to dynamically absorb seismic energy through controlled deformation rather than rigid resistance, thus preventing catastrophic failure while maintaining stability.
3Strength
If the grid framework structure is designed to remain fully intact during seismic events, then structural integrity is maintained, but the risk of catastrophic collapse is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The bridging joint assemblies extract the function of seismic energy absorption from the main grid structure. During earthquakes, the bridging joints are designed to fail in a controlled manner, separating the grid into smaller sections that cannot cause catastrophic collapse. This extraction allows the main structure to maintain integrity while the bridging joints sacrifice themselves to protect overall safety.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional connection methods are used between grid members, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the ability to provide controlled separation during seismic events is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The bridging joint assemblies serve multiple functions: they provide standard structural connection during normal operation and enable controlled separation during seismic events. By integrating these dual functions into a single standardized component, the structure achieves seismic adaptability without complicating manufacturing, as the same joint design is used throughout the grid framework.
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
The bridging joint assembly effectively isolates sections of the grid framework, preventing catastrophic collapse and protecting personnel by absorbing excessive forces, thus enhancing safety and maintaining operational functionality during seismic events.
Implementation Method 1
a bridging joint assembly comprising at least one mechanical fuse that is arranged to break under an applied load greater than or equal to a predetermined load
Data Source
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AI summary
A grid framework structure (14) for supporting a load handling device (30) operative to move one or more containers, said grid framework structure (14) comprising: a plurality of upright members (16) arranged to form a plurality of vertical locations for one or more containers (10) to be guided by the upright member in a vertical direction, wherein the plurality of upright members are interconnected to define nodes at their top ends by a plurality of grid members (18, 20) arranged in a grid pattern, the grid members comprising a first set of grid members (18) extending in a first direction and a second set of grid members (20) extending in a second direction, the second set of grid members running transversely to the first set of grid members in a substantially horizontal plane to form a grid structure (14b) comprising a plurality of grid cells, the grid structure (14b) comprising a track system positioned on the plurality of grid members, the track system comprising a plurality of tracks (22a, 22b) arranged in the grid pattern, the grid structure (14b) comprising a first region (80) and a second region (82), wherein the grid framework structure (14) further comprises a bridging joint assembly (88) arranged as one or more connections between the first region of the grid structure and the second region of the grid structure, said bridging joint assembly (88) comprising at least one mechanical fuse (90) that is arranged to break under an applied load greater than or is equal to a predetermined load, said predetermined load being lower than the load for breaking the interconnections between the plurality of upright members and the plurality of grid members of the grid structure so as to allow the first region of the grid structure to separate from the second region of the grid structure when the applied load exceeds the predetermined load.