Load Handling Robot Charging via Integrated Grid Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load handling devices face issues with charge station alignment, wear, and obstruction in grid framework structures, leading to maintenance downtime and reduced operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Integrate the charge station within the grid framework structure, utilizing the lifting device's grabber as an electrical charge point, eliminating the need for externally mounted charge stations and minimizing alignment issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an externally mounted charge station is used, then the load handling device can be charged, but it obstructs the grid framework view and requires additional maintenance space
Solution Approach 1:
The charge station is merged with the grid framework structure by integrating charge contacts into the existing grid columns. This eliminates the need for separate externally mounted charge stations, removing obstructions while maintaining charging capability through the incorporated charge contacts that engage with the load handling device during normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The grid framework structure is given multiple functions: it continues to support and guide the load handling devices while simultaneously providing charging functionality through integrated charge contacts. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated charge station structures, reducing overall system complexity and obstruction
2Reliability
If the charge station is externally mounted, then charging can occur, but alignment issues and wear require frequent maintenance downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The charge station functionality is merged into the grid framework structure itself, with charge contacts integrated into the grid columns. This integration eliminates alignment issues between separate components and reduces wear on dedicated charging mechanisms, thereby minimizing maintenance downtime while ensuring continuous charging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The load handling device charges itself during normal operation by engaging with the integrated charge contacts on the grid framework. This self-charging mechanism eliminates the need for separate maintenance operations and reduces downtime by incorporating charging into the regular operational cycle
3Reliability
If the load handling device travels to externally mounted charge stations, then battery charging is ensured, but operational speed and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated charge contacts enable continuous charging capability as the load handling device moves along the grid framework. The charging function is continuously available throughout the operational path rather than requiring trips to discrete charge stations, maintaining operational speed while ensuring battery charging through ongoing electrical contact
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances operational speed and efficiency by reducing travel time to charge stations, maintaining a clear grid framework view, and simplifying maintenance, while ensuring reliable battery charging.
Implementation Method 1
The driving mechanism is powered by a rechargeable battery electrically coupled to an electrical charge point for electrically coupling to a charge head of a charge station
Data Source
AI summary
A load handling device is disclosed for lifting and moving containers stacked in a storage system having a grid framework structure supporting a pathway arranged in a grid pattern above the stacks of containers. The load handling device includes a vehicle body housing a driving mechanism, the driving mechanism being powered by a rechargeable power source electrically coupled to an electrical charge point for electrically coupling with a charge head of a charge station; and a lifting device having a lifting drive assembly and a grabber device, wherein the lifting device includes the electrical charge point such that charging of the rechargeable power source occurs by the lifting device engaging with the charge head.