Load Handling Device Segmented Movement Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load handling devices for transferring storage units between storage and retrieval units and storage racks face inefficiencies in volumetric usage and throughput due to the need for additional free space, which increases friction and cycle time.
Innovation Solution
A load handling device with a two-part movement unit that lifts the storage unit on its lifting side, reducing friction and allowing compact design, thereby minimizing additional space requirements and optimizing throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the load handling device is designed with a single movement unit that extends along the entire storage unit, then the storage unit can be moved between positions, but the cycle time increases and throughput decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The load handling device is divided into two separate movement units: a first movement unit for moving the storage unit between storage position and transfer position, and a second movement unit for moving the storage unit between transfer position and transport position. This segmentation allows each unit to operate independently and simultaneously, reducing cycle time while maintaining functional capability.
2Ease of operation
If additional free space is provided in the storage compartment for the retracting part of the load-carrying device, then the device can retract, but the volumetric efficiency of the bearing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The load handling device utilizes the vertical dimension by lifting the storage unit off the storage rack during transfer operations. This allows the retracting parts to move vertically rather than requiring horizontal clearance space within the storage compartment, thereby maintaining volumetric efficiency while preserving full retraction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A transfer position is introduced as an intermediate state between the storage position and transport position. The storage unit is lifted to this intermediate position where horizontal movement occurs without requiring clearance space in the storage compartment, as the unit is suspended above the rack during this phase.
3Force
If the storage unit is moved without lifting, then the friction between the storage rack and storage unit increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting function is segmented and integrated into the first movement unit as a separate lifting mechanism. This allows the lifting action to be performed independently during the transfer from storage position to transfer position, reducing friction during subsequent horizontal movement without overcomplicating the overall device design.
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
The solution reduces cycle time and enhances warehouse throughput by minimizing additional space needs within the storage rack and improving the volumetric efficiency of the bearing system.
Implementation Method 1
The lifting reduces the friction between the storage rack and the storage unit when the storage unit is moved within the storage rack
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a load handling device (1, 100, 200, 200') for transferring a storage unit between a storage and retrieval unit (300), with which the storage unit can be transported in a transport position (T), and a storage rack in which the storage unit can be stored in a storage position (L), comprising a first movement unit (4, 104, 204) which is arranged and configured to move the storage unit from a transfer position (U) to the storage position (L) and from the storage position (L) to the transfer position (U), and a second movement unit (6, 106, 206) which is arranged and configured to move the storage unit from the transfer position (U) to the transport position (T) and from the transport position (T) to the transfer position (U), wherein the first movement unit (4, 104, 204) is further arranged and configured to lift the storage unit at a lifting side (26).