Grid Framework Storage System with Multi-Level Access Stations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage systems with grid framework structures are limited by the ability to handle containers of only one specified footprint, constraining the use of items and reducing packing density, leading to inefficient use of space and increased complexity due to the need for manual handling of larger or differently sized items.

Innovation Solution

A grid framework structure with vertically spaced access stations and a track system allowing for the movement of different sized storage containers, enabling multiple access points at various heights and segregating storage areas to reduce the need for 'digging' and increase throughput.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a grid framework structure uses a single track system for all storage containers, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to handle different sized containers deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle different sized containersVSAvoidtrack system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The track system is segmented into multiple levels (first track system at upper level, second track system at lower level) with different configurations to accommodate different container sizes. The first track system has first grid cells suitable for smaller containers while the second track system has second grid cells suitable for larger containers, allowing the system to handle variety without requiring a completely complex unified track design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the track system by arranging track systems at different heights. This allows the system to differentiate between container sizes through vertical separation rather than horizontal complexity, enabling adaptability while maintaining relatively simple track designs at each level.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If access stations are located at a single level, then the structure is simpler, but the productivity of item retrieval deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveitem retrieval speedVSAvoidaccess station configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Access stations are distributed across multiple vertical levels rather than concentrated at a single level. This vertical distribution allows operators to access containers at different heights simultaneously, increasing retrieval productivity without requiring complex horizontal arrangements of access stations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The access station function is segmented across multiple levels, with each level providing access to specific track systems. This segmentation allows parallel operation at different heights, improving throughput while keeping each individual access station level relatively simple in design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If storage columns are uniformly sized, then the manufacturing precision is easier to maintain, but the adaptability to store different container sizes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capacity for varying container sizesVSAvoidgrid cell dimension consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the storage system have different grid cell dimensions tailored to local requirements. The first grid cells in the first track system are sized for smaller containers while the second grid cells in the second track system are sized for larger containers, allowing each local area to be manufactured with appropriate precision for its specific container type without requiring the entire system to meet the most demanding precision requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

4Productivity

If manual handling is used for larger items, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling throughputVSAvoidautomated handling system

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated handling system is segmented by container size, with the first track system and associated access stations handling smaller containers automatically, while the second track system handles larger containers. This segmentation allows automated handling to be implemented where most needed (for standard-sized containers) while avoiding the complexity of designing a single unified automated system for all container types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240262617A1A Storage and Retrieval System

Publication Date: 2024.08.08 OCADO INNOVATION LTD

AI summary

A storage and retrieval system includes a grid framework structure having a track system arranged above storage columns, the track system including tracks arranged in a grid pattern of grid cells or grid spaces through which storage containers in a stack can be transferred. An upper level port column extends from the track system to a first access station at a first level for transferring storage containers between the track system and the inventory handling station assembly. A lower level port column extends from the track system to a second access station at a second level for transferring storage containers between the track system and the inventory handling station assembly.