Grid Framework Layout With Fewer Uprights for Dense Container Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grid framework structures for storage systems require extensive bracing and uprights for stability, which occupy valuable storage space, are costly, and time-consuming to assemble, limiting the efficient use of space and increasing construction time and costs.
Innovation Solution
A grid framework structure that supports a section of four adjoined grid cells with five or fewer vertical uprights, allowing for the removal of guiding uprights under the containers, and uses bracing members to maintain stability, enabling modular assembly and truss formation for enhanced structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If extensive bracing and uprights are used for stability, then structural stability is improved, but storage space is reduced and assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grid framework is divided into modular sections where each section can be independently assembled and supported by fewer uprights. The bracing members are segmented to connect specific grid members rather than requiring continuous extensive bracing throughout the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Guiding uprights underneath containers are removed entirely, as containers are guided by the grid members themselves during lifting operations. This extraction eliminates unnecessary structural elements that would otherwise occupy storage space.
2Stability of the object's composition
If extensive bracing and uprights are used for stability, then structural stability is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The framework is segmented into modular sections that can be assembled independently and then connected. This segmentation allows for parallel assembly operations and reduces the overall assembly time compared to constructing a monolithic extensive bracing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Grid members and bracing members are designed with pre-configured connection points and attachment mechanisms that allow for rapid assembly without requiring extensive on-site fabrication or complex alignment procedures.
3Ease of operation
If guiding uprights are retained under containers, then container guidance is improved, but storage space and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Guiding uprights underneath containers are completely removed. Instead, the grid members themselves provide guidance during lifting operations, and containers are guided into position by the load handling device's positioning system rather than by dedicated guiding uprights.
Solution Approach 2:
The grid members serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, act as lifting points for load handling devices, and simultaneously guide containers during the lifting process. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate guiding uprights.
Data Source
AI summary
A grid framework structure, configured to support one or more load handling devices, includes: a first set of grid members extending in a first direction and a second set of grid members extending in a second direction, to form a grid structure having grid cells. A plurality of vertical uprights create a storage space for storing containers in a stack such that load handling devices operative on the grid structure can lift containers through a grid cell from a stack below the grid structure. The vertical uprights are arranged such that a section of the grid structure including four adjoined grid cells is supported by five or fewer vertical uprights.