Lever-Actuated Container Brakes and Locks for Faster Fulfillment Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fulfillment centers face inefficiencies in processing orders due to complications in transporting and sorting packages, particularly when items are located in different parts of the facility or across multiple fulfillment centers, leading to bottlenecks and increased processing time.
Innovation Solution
Foldable containers with lever-based actuation of brakes and locks that allow for ergonomic and flexible handling by both humans and robots, enabling efficient sorting and transport without orientation restrictions, and facilitating seamless movement between facilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional brake and lock actuation mechanisms are used in containers, then the container can be secured during transport, but the handling time increases and ergonomic efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake and lock mechanisms are designed to be automatically actuated through the folding action itself. When the container walls are folded into the storage configuration, the brakes and locks engage automatically without requiring separate manual operations, making the system self-securing while reducing handling time
Solution Approach 2:
The brakes and locks are pre-positioned and designed to engage automatically as the folding action progresses. The mechanical linkage is arranged so that the securing action occurs concurrently with the folding operation, preparing the container for transport before the handling process completes
2Adaptability or versatility
If containers are designed with fixed orientation requirements for brake and lock actuation, then the mechanisms can be simpler, but the versatility and adaptability for different handling scenarios decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural configuration for storage, enables the securing action through automatic brake and lock engagement, and allows for versatile handling from any orientation. The same mechanical action achieves both containment and security regardless of how the container is approached
Solution Approach 2:
The brake and lock actuation is merged with the folding operation itself. The mechanical linkage connects the wall folding motion directly to the brake and lock engagement, combining what would traditionally be separate operations into a single integrated action that works from any orientation
3Extent of automation
If manual handling procedures are used for container brakes and locks, then automation extent is lower, but the ease of operation for human operators improves
Solution Approach 1:
The container performs its own securing operation through the automatic engagement of brakes and locks during the folding process. The mechanical design eliminates the need for separate manual intervention, allowing the system to service itself while reducing operator effort to simply initiate or oversee the folding action
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for containers having lever-based actuation of brakes and locks. In one embodiment, an example container may include a first container wall, a second container wall, a third container wall, a fourth container wall, a first wheel, a second wheel, and a wheel lock assembly configured to prevent swiveling of the first wheel. The wheel lock assembly may include a first wheel lock, a first lever configured to actuate the first wheel lock, and a first cable that is coupled to the first wheel lock and the first lever, where the first lever is disposed on the third container wall, and a wheel brake assembly configured to prevent rotation of the second wheel, the wheel brake assembly including a first wheel brake, a second lever configured to actuate the first wheel brake, and a second cable coupled to the first wheel brake and the second lever.