Magnetic Storage Rack Compartment Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storage racks with compartments for accommodating storage containers face challenges in precise orientation and automated retrieval due to variations in container placement, which complicates both manual and automated removal processes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating permanent magnets on the storage rack compartments to securely hold storage containers in place, reducing the need for magnets on the containers themselves and minimizing magnetic interference with transported goods and retrieval systems, while allowing for easier automated extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnets are attached to storage containers to secure them in compartments, then container fixation is achieved, but magnetic interference with transported goods and retrieval systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attaching magnets to the storage containers, the patent inverts the approach by mounting magnets on the storage rack compartments. This reversal achieves the same fixation function while eliminating magnetic exposure to goods and retrieval systems, as containers are only briefly exposed to the magnetic field during insertion and removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic fixation function is extracted from the storage container and relocated to the storage rack compartment. This separation removes the harmful magnetic field from traveling with the container and goods, confining it to the stationary rack structure where it cannot interfere with transported items.
2Ease of operation
If magnets are positioned at the front of compartments for easy container insertion, then ease of operation improves, but automated retrieval becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet position is moved from the front horizontal dimension to the rear dimension of the compartment. This spatial repositioning allows retrieval machines to approach from the front without magnetic interference, while containers are still securely held by the rear-positioned magnets during storage.
3Reliability
If multiple magnets are used per compartment for strong fixation, then container security improves, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage rack structure serves multiple functions: it provides compartmentalization, structural support, and magnetic fixation. By integrating the magnets into the rack framework rather than adding separate fixation mechanisms to each container, the system achieves reliable container security without proportionally increasing complexity.
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
Ensures consistent and precise container placement, simplifies automated retrieval, and reduces magnetic interference, enhancing the efficiency and compatibility of the storage system with sensitive items.
Implementation Method 1
the storage rack with compartments (140) for receiving storage containers (200) has a magnet (160) on at least one of the compartments (140) to fix a storage container (200)
Data Source
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AI summary
In a shelving system comprising a storage rack (100) and at least one storage container (200), it is provided that a magnet (160) is arranged on a compartment of the storage rack (100), by means of which the storage container (200) can be fixed, wherein the storage container (200) in particular has a magnetizable metal, for example in the form of particles (250) embedded in plastic or of metal pieces (260).