Logistics Tower Storage Density via Double-Deep Cells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vertical storage structures in logistics hubs suffer from inefficiencies due to unoccupied cells and limited access by retrieval devices, leading to increased space requirements and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a three-dimensional storage system with double-deep sets of cells and winch-based elevator systems combined with dynamic conveyor systems, eliminating the need for robotic carts and optimizing material transfer speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional single-deep storage cells are used in vertical storage structures, then the structure can be simpler to construct, but storage density and space utilization decrease due to unoccupied cells and limited access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements double-deep storage cells where one cell is positioned inside another, allowing the inner cell to be accessed by the retrieval device through the outer cell. This nesting configuration maximizes storage density by eliminating unoccupied cells while maintaining structural integrity and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-deep to double-deep storage cells, adding a depth dimension to the storage structure. This dimensional change allows retrieval devices to access storage containers through multiple levels, increasing the quantity of storable items per unit space without proportionally increasing the footprint.
2Productivity
If single-deep storage cells are used, then fewer retrieval devices are needed for basic access, but the quantity of retrieval devices must increase to maintain operational efficiency due to limited access capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The retrieval device is designed with multi-functional capability to access storage containers in both the outer cell and inner cell through the double-deep configuration. This universal design allows a single retrieval device to service multiple storage locations, reducing the total number of retrieval devices needed while maintaining operational efficiency.
3Speed
If conventional robotic carts are used for material transfer, then existing infrastructure can be utilized, but material transfer speed is limited by the need for complex cart operations and tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the robotic cart component from the material transfer system, replacing it with a direct conveyor belt mechanism. This removal of the intermediate cart layer simplifies the system by eliminating cart tracking, routing, and coordination complexities, thereby increasing material transfer speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical robotic cart system with a conveyor belt system for material transfer. This substitution eliminates the need for autonomous cart navigation and control, reducing system complexity while improving transfer speed through continuous conveyor operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system includes a three dimensional structure including an array of cells including a plurality of cells configured to retain individual storage bins for retrieval, the array of cells forming a plurality of storage levels located at different elevations within the three dimensional structure, respectively. A second plurality of cells positioned relative to one another to form a plurality of vertical shafts located within the three dimensional structure. The storage system includes a plurality of towerbots located atop the three dimensional structure. Each of the towerbots is configured to move laterally atop the three dimensional structure between multiple different locations atop the three dimensional structure including at least a first position located above a first vertical shaft included in the plurality of vertical shafts and a second position located above a second vertical shaft included in the plurality of vertical shafts.