Integrated Mast Rack Upright for Storage Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rack operating devices in storage and retrieval systems face challenges with safe access due to the mast blocking access to the lifting unit, and they require complex and costly assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
The rack operating device features masts integrated directly into the rack uprights, allowing for better access and reducing the need for separate mast structures, along with a simplified assembly method that minimizes space requirements and assembly time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the mast is arranged separately from the rack upright (conventional design), then the lifting unit can be positioned at a distance from the storage rack, but access to the lifting unit is blocked by the mast
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is integrated directly into the rack upright, merging two previously separate structural elements. This eliminates the need for a separate mast structure and removes the obstruction caused by a detached mast, thereby improving access to the lifting unit while reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The rack upright serves dual functions: it provides structural support for the storage rack and simultaneously functions as the mast for guiding the lifting unit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate mast component, simplifying the overall structure and improving accessibility
2Ease of operation
If the mast is integrated into the rack upright, then access to the racking system is improved, but the mast must withstand additional moments and torques
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is designed with specific local structural characteristics (increased geometrical moment of inertia, optimized cross-section) at critical locations where it integrates with the rack upright and where the lifting unit applies loads. This localized strengthening ensures the mast can withstand moments and torques while maintaining overall structural efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The mast's geometrical parameters (cross-sectional dimensions, moment of inertia, section modulus) are optimized to handle the combined loads of storage rack support and lifting unit operations. These parameter changes ensure sufficient strength and stability while allowing the integrated design that improves access
3Ease of manufacture
If a separate mast structure is used, then assembly can be modular, but assembly time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the mast into the rack upright, the number of separate components to be assembled is reduced. The mast and rack upright become a single structural element, eliminating the assembly steps required to connect separate mast and upright components, thereby reducing assembly time and cost while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Data Source
AI summary
With a view to improving access to parts of a racking system using structurally simple means, a rack operating device for the racking system, in particular for a storage and retrieval system, is specified. The rack operating device has at least one mast extending in the vertical direction and a lifting unit movably arranged on the mast. The rack operating device is designed and developed wherein the mast is arranged directly on a rack upright of the rack system and/or is integrated into the rack upright. A specified racking system is designed accordingly. A method for assembling the racking system is specified.