Grid Framework Structure With Integrated Braced Towers for Seismic Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing grid framework structures for storage systems are prone to structural damage from powerful seismic events and require extensive auxiliary support structures that occupy valuable storage space and are not cost-efficient, while existing earthquake restraint systems cannot withstand severe seismic events.

Innovation Solution

A grid framework structure with upright columns interconnected by diagonal braces forming braced towers, allowing for a free-standing design that minimizes the need for external bracing and incorporates anchor feet with discrete fingers for stable foundation anchoring, enabling the structure to withstand powerful seismic events.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If extensive auxiliary support structures are added to the grid framework, then structural stability during seismic events is improved, but storage space is reduced and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the bracing function with the existing upright columns by forming braced towers where diagonal braces connect to the columns. This integration allows the support structure to provide seismic resistance without adding separate auxiliary bracing elements that would occupy storage space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces diagonal bracing in the vertical dimension by forming braced towers with diagonal braces connecting upright columns at different heights. This three-dimensional bracing configuration provides structural stability against seismic events without requiring additional horizontal bracing elements that would reduce storage capacity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Stability of the object's composition

If extensive auxiliary support structures are added to the grid framework, then structural stability during seismic events is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple structural functions into the upright columns and diagonal braces, eliminating the need for separate auxiliary support structures. This reduction in component count simplifies manufacturing and reduces material costs while maintaining structural stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The upright columns serve multiple functions: supporting horizontal grid members, providing vertical guidance for containers, and forming braced towers with diagonal braces for seismic resistance. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated bracing components, lowering manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If diagonal braces are added to form braced towers, then resistance to seismic events is improved, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseismic resistanceVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the grid framework into discrete braced tower units, where diagonal braces connect specific upright columns to form standardized seismic-resistant modules. This segmentation allows for simplified design and assembly of complex seismic resistance features.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of adding complex bracing to stabilize the entire grid framework, the patent inverts the approach by creating localized braced towers at critical positions. These discrete braced units provide seismic resistance through their triangular bracing configuration, reducing overall structural complexity compared to comprehensive bracing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS12404100B2Grid framework structure

Publication Date: 2025.09.02 OCADO INNOVATION LTD

AI summary

A grid framework structure for supporting a load handling device operative to move one or more containers in a stack. The grid framework structure includes plural upright columns arranged to form plurality of vertical storage locations for containers to be stacked between upright columns. The columns are interconnected at their top ends by a first set of grid members and a second set of grid members, the second set running transversely to the first set to form a grid structure. A sub-group of upright columns rigidly joined together by at least one bracing assembly of diagonal braces form a braced tower. The sub-group of upright columns includes three upright columns with two of the three upright columns being laterally disposed either side of a middle upright column, and being rigidly connected to the middle upright column by the diagonal braces.