System and method of temperature control in an automated grid based storage and retrieval system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated storage and retrieval systems face delays due to the need to move insulating covers to access storage containers, which requires additional container handling vehicles and slows down the retrieval process, especially when temperature-controlled environments are involved.
Innovation Solution
An automated storage and retrieval system with a cooler system integrated within the grid structure that draws air from beneath the storage columns, cools it, and releases it below the horizontal rails, eliminating the need for lids/covers and allowing simultaneous temperature control of multiple storage volumes at different temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If insulating covers are used to maintain temperature in storage columns, then temperature control is improved, but retrieval time increases due to the need to move covers
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent storage volumes (first storage volume and second storage volume), each with its own temperature control. This segmentation allows different temperature zones without requiring covers, as each volume is independently climate-controlled through the cooler system with selective air intake from different void areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating covers are completely removed from the system. Instead of using mechanical covers to maintain temperature, the invention extracts the temperature maintenance function and implements it through the cooler system that draws cooled air from the void beneath the storage columns and distributes it to multiple storage volumes simultaneously.
2Temperature
If insulating covers are moved to access storage containers, then temperature control is maintained, but system efficiency decreases due to additional vehicle requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The cooler system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it cools the void space beneath the storage columns, provides temperature control for multiple storage volumes, and eliminates the need for insulating covers. This multi-functionality improves system efficiency by removing the requirement for additional container handling vehicles dedicated to cover management.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system becomes self-servicing regarding temperature control. The cooler system automatically maintains temperature in storage volumes without requiring external intervention from container handling vehicles. The system self-regulates temperature through the cooler enclosure that draws air from the void and distributes it to storage columns.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple storage volumes require different temperatures, then storage versatility is improved, but system complexity increases without integrated temperature control
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds a vertical dimension to temperature control by utilizing the void space beneath the storage columns as a thermal reservoir. The cooler enclosure draws cooled air from this lower void area and distributes it to multiple storage volumes at different heights. This vertical air circulation approach simplifies the system compared to having separate cooling units for each storage volume.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple storage volumes requiring different temperatures are merged into a single integrated cooler system. The cooler enclosure with its opening to the void and conduit arrangement can selectively supply cooled air to different storage volumes, combining multiple temperature control functions into one unified system rather than requiring separate coolers for each volume.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces retrieval time by eliminating the need for lid movement, enhances system efficiency, and allows for independent temperature control of multiple storage volumes, maintaining optimal conditions for various types of stored goods.
Implementation Method 1
a cooler system adapted to draw air from the void, cool the air, and release the cooled air into an air release area arranged below the horizontal rails
Data Source
AI summary
An automated grid based storage and retrieval system includes a framework structure including upright members and a grid of horizontal rails provided at upper ends of the upright members. The framework structure defines at least one storage volume below the horizontal rails. The at least one storage volume is open against the horizontal rails such that storage container vehicles may lower and raise storage containers into and out of the storage volume. The at least one storage volume includes a plurality of storage columns arranged adjacent one another, a plurality of walls surrounding the at least one storage volume; a void extending beneath the storage columns; and a cooler system adapted to draw air from the void, cool the air, and release the cooled air into an air release area arranged below the horizontal rails. The cooler system is arranged within an cooler enclosure arranged inside the plurality of walls and adjacent the plurality of storage columns. The cooler enclosure includes at least one opening from the void for the cooler system to draw air from the void, and a conduit for releasing the cooled air in the air release area.