Grid Storage Robot Battery Swap Layout for Continuous Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated storage and retrieval systems face challenges with robot standstill due to the need for recharging, reducing the operational cycle to typically 16 hours per day, and previous solutions compromise on space, stability, and complexity of the power supply arrangement.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a track system with parallel tracks forming a grid pattern, container handling vehicles with a power supply compartment arranged above the storage compartment, and a charging station with a power supply support that allows for efficient charging without reducing storage space or stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the power supply is arranged in the lower part of the vehicle, then it occupies space that could be used for storage, but arranging it in the upper part improves vehicle stability and maintains storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply compartment is moved from the horizontal plane (lower part of vehicle) to the vertical dimension (upper part of vehicle, above the storage compartment). This dimensional transition resolves the contradiction by utilizing vertical space that would otherwise be air space above the storage area, thereby maintaining storage volume while improving vehicle stability through lower center of gravity.
2Productivity
If a charging station is introduced to enable continuous operation, then robot standstill time is reduced and productivity increases, but the system complexity and service intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is extracted as a separate, replaceable module (power supply compartment) that can be independently serviced. This allows the charging station to simply exchange power supply modules rather than performing complex charging operations, reducing the charging station's complexity while enabling continuous vehicle operation through quick module replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle is designed with a self-contained power supply compartment that can be autonomously replaced at the charging station without requiring complex alignment or connection procedures. The modular design enables the vehicle to quickly swap power supplies itself, minimizing standstill time and reducing the service intensity required at the charging station.
3Ease of operation
If the power supply compartment opening faces the direction of travel, then charging alignment is simplified, but the power supply becomes vulnerable to lateral forces and instability
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply compartment opening is positioned asymmetrically on the side of the vehicle rather than on the front or top. This asymmetric placement allows the opening to face laterally for simplified charging alignment while the power supply itself remains enclosed and protected within the compartment structure, shielded from lateral forces during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an automated storage and retrieval system having: a track system forming a grid pattern comprising a plurality of adjacent grid cells, each comprising an opening below which is a storage column for storing a stack of storage containers; a container handling vehicle for lifting storage containers, the vehicle comprising a lower part having at least one container storage compartment, an upper part above the lower part, rolling means for movement along the track system, and a compartment in the upper part for accommodating/receiving a replaceable power supply; the replaceable power supply which has a charging connection; and a charging station comprising a charging connection for connection with the power supply and a support for releasably supporting the power supply during charging; wherein the vehicle comprises a second battery to allow movement of the vehicle when void of the replaceable power supply.