Interlocking Storage Containers for Automated Retrieval Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated storage and retrieval systems are labor-intensive and inefficient in storing and retrieving items from extensive storage areas, requiring complex gripping structures and sequential repositioning of containers to access needed items.
Innovation Solution
The system interlocks detachable storage containers, allowing multiple containers to be stored efficiently in a single space and retrieved by advancing remaining containers into the aisle, eliminating the need for complex gripping structures and sequential repositioning through the use of releasable coupling mechanisms and independently movable vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple storage containers are stored in a single aisle-facing storage space location, then storage density is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for complex gripping structures to manipulate multiple containers simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the storage location into multiple depth positions (first depth, second depth, third depth) along the aisle, allowing multiple containers to be stored sequentially rather than requiring simultaneous manipulation of multiple containers at once. This segmentation of space eliminates the need for complex gripping structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having a complex gripping structure move multiple containers simultaneously, the system inverts the approach by having containers move sequentially into the storage location one at a time, with the vehicle transporting each container individually to its designated depth position.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple storage containers are stored in a single aisle-facing storage space location, then storage density is improved, but the time to retrieve needed containers increases due to sequential repositioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions containers at different depth positions within the storage location during the storage phase. When retrieval is needed, the vehicle can directly access the required container at the appropriate depth without needing to reposition other containers, as the needed container was already placed in the correct accessible position.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex multiple-container gripping structure is used to access containers, then retrieval capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is equipped with a simple single-container gripping structure that operates independently at each depth position. Rather than one complex gripper handling multiple containers, the system uses sequential single-container operations, greatly simplifying the gripping mechanism while maintaining full access capability to all containers in the storage location.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating an automated storage and retrieval system includes transferring a first item storage container from an aisle to a first region of a first storage location, positioning a second item storage container in the aisle proximate the first item storage container, interlocking the second item storage container to the first item storage container by engaging a releasable coupling structure extending there between, and applying, in a first direction transverse to the aisle, a force to the second item storage container sufficient in magnitude and duration to cause the first item storage container to occupy the second region of the first storage location and the second item storage container to occupy the first region of the first storage location, whereby the first and second item storage containers remain interlocked while in the first storage location.