Lift Wagon Conveyor Layout for Faster Bin Transfer Between Grids

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automated storage and retrieval systems with multiple three-dimensional grids face challenges in improving throughput and reducing robot waiting times during container transfer between vertically displaced grids.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a lift wagon with a horizontal conveyor that facilitates simultaneous transfer of bins between vertically spaced grids, using in-feed and exit conveyors to optimize the transfer process, thereby enhancing throughput and reducing the need for direct robot intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If robots directly place bins on the lift wagon, then container transfer can be achieved, but robot waiting time increases and throughput decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovethroughputVSAvoidrobot waiting time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The in-feed conveyor positions bins on the lift wagon in advance before the lift arrives at the transfer point. This preliminary action allows bins to be ready for immediate transfer, eliminating robot waiting time and maximizing throughput.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The lift wagon's integrated conveyor system acts as an intermediary between storage grids and transfer points. It autonomously handles bin positioning and transfer, reducing direct robot intervention and minimizing waiting times.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If bins are transferred sequentially between grids, then transfer accuracy can be maintained, but throughput is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovethroughputVSAvoidtransfer accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The conveyor system enables continuous bin transfer operations between grids without interruption. Multiple bins can be positioned and transferred in sequence without stopping the lift or compromising accuracy, maintaining continuous productive action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

Bins are pre-positioned on the conveyor belt at precise locations before transfer. This preliminary positioning ensures accurate placement while enabling continuous operation, resolving the contradiction between speed and precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4663578A1A lift wagon

Publication Date: 2025.12.17 AUTOSTORE TECH AS

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Figure 3A~3B

AI summary

The disclosure relates to a lift wagon for vertically conveying product containers in an automated storage and retrieval system, including a horizontal conveyor