Intralogistic Drive Unit Storage and Coupling System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intralogistical handling arrangements face challenges with out-of-service times due to failed components and the need for frequent modifications in handling capacity, which are difficult to predict and require efficient distribution and configuration of drive units to maintain optimal functionality.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement with a storage station for drive units and handling stations equipped with driven coupling interfaces, controlled by a central unit for intelligent distribution, positioning, and coupling of drive units based on demand, allowing for flexible energy distribution and automatic or manual transport of drive units to meet handling needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If drive units are stored in a storage station and distributed on demand to handling stations, then adaptability and response to capacity changes improve, but device complexity increases due to the storage station, coupling interfaces, and control systems required
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit is divided into separate functional modules: a drive module containing the drive unit itself, and a coupling interface module. This segmentation allows the coupling interface to be standardized and reused across multiple handling stations, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability. The storage station also stores standardized modular units that can be distributed to various stations.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal coupling interface is designed that can connect drive units to multiple different handling station types. This standardized interface enables a single drive unit design to serve multiple functions across different stations, reducing the variety of components needed and simplifying the overall arrangement while maintaining high adaptability to changing capacity requirements.
2Productivity
If drive units are replaced quickly to minimize out-of-service time, then productivity improves, but reliability may worsen due to the risk of incorrect replacement or configuration errors
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling interface is designed with self-aligning and self-locking features that guide the replacement process. The interface includes mechanical guides and detection elements that automatically verify correct connection, reducing the risk of human error during quick replacement operations. The standardized interface ensures that even operators with minimal training can perform replacements correctly and quickly.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling interface incorporates detection elements that provide feedback to the control system about the status of drive unit connections. This feedback mechanism verifies that replacements have been performed correctly before the system resumes operation, ensuring reliability while maintaining quick replacement times. The control system can confirm proper installation through electrical or mechanical detection.
3Ease of operation
If coupling interfaces are designed for easy connection and disconnection, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases due to the need for specialized coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling interface merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: mechanical connection, electrical connection, and alignment guidance are combined in one standardized interface structure. This integration reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the replacement operation while the modular design keeps individual component complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling interface uses homogeneous, standardized connection elements throughout the system. All drive units and handling stations use the same coupling interface design, which simplifies the structure by eliminating the need for multiple specialized interfaces. This standardization makes the interface easier to operate while keeping the design simple and consistent across the entire system.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement for intralogistical handling of items, comprising a storage station for storing a plurality of drive units, each drive unit comprising a drive coupling interface, a first handling station positioned in distance to the storage station, said first handling station comprising a driven coupling interface for coupling to said drive coupling interface of a drive unit out of the plurality of drive units, a control unit which is coupled for signal transmission with the first handling station and is configured to receive a request signal from the first handling station, said request signal comprising data indicating that a drive unit is required by the first handling station, and further being configured to output a transport signal, upon receipt of a request signal, said transport signal comprising data indicating that a drive unit out of the plurality of drive units is to be transported to the first handling station.