Grid-Riding Robot Gripper for Independent Container Lid Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional warehouse storage systems face issues with contamination and space efficiency, particularly in automated storage and retrieval systems where bins are stacked and exposed to debris, and there is a need for specialized lid removal processes.
Innovation Solution
A robot with a gripping device equipped with a locking mechanism that can lift and lower containers, allowing it to remove lids independently, eliminating the need for separate lid removal robots and reducing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If bins are stacked in a three-dimensional grid for automated storage, then space utilization is improved, but goods become exposed to contamination from the warehouse environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies lids (flexible shells) to cover the tops of bins in the automated storage system. These lids act as protective barriers that prevent contamination from the warehouse environment (dirt, debris, water) from reaching the goods stored in the bins, while allowing the bins to maintain their stacked three-dimensional configuration for efficient space utilization.
2Reliability
If a separate lid removal robot is used, then lid removal is performed reliably, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the lid removal function into the existing container handling robot by equipping it with a locking mechanism. This single robot now performs both container lifting and lid removal operations, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated lid removal robot and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable lid removal capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The container handling robot is designed with multi-functionality, serving both to lift/transport containers and to remove lids from them. The locking mechanism enables the robot to universally handle both lidded and open containers, making the robot adaptable to various operational requirements without requiring specialized equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the locking mechanism is integrated into the gripping device, then lid removal is achieved independently, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the gripping device structure, combining lid locking and container gripping functions in a single unified mechanism. This integration allows the robot to independently remove lids from containers using the same gripping device that lifts the containers, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity through separate dedicated components.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a robot comprising a body portion and a gripping device having a locking mechanism, the robot being arranged to ride on a grid of rails and to raise and lower the gripping device relative to the body portion, the gripping device being arranged to releasably grip a container, the locking mechanism being arranged to releasably lock onto a container lid.