Mobile Conveyor Modules for Reconfigurable Warehouse Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inventory systems face inefficiencies in resource utilization, leading to lower throughput, longer response times, and increased costs due to inflexible conveyor systems and the difficulty in accommodating changes in system capacity or functionality.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of mobile robotic devices equipped with conveyor components that can be configured to form flexible conveyor segments, allowing for efficient transportation and sortation of inventory items, along with a centralized management module to coordinate tasks and optimize system operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed conveyor systems are used, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is divided into multiple modular segments that can be independently configured and assembled. Each segment contains standardized components (rollers, belts, supports) that can be arranged in different configurations to adapt to various inventory handling requirements while maintaining overall system stability through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system transitions from a fixed static structure to a dynamic reconfigurable system. Mobile robotic devices can dynamically adjust conveyor segment positions, orientations, and connections based on real-time inventory flow requirements, enabling the system to adapt its configuration while maintaining operational stability through controlled transitions.
2Productivity
If system capacity is expanded, then throughput increases, but infrastructure modification costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal standardized components and interfaces that can serve multiple functions and configurations. The same modular conveyor segments, robotic devices, and connection mechanisms can be reused across different system capacities and configurations, allowing throughput expansion without requiring custom infrastructure modifications and reducing overall modification costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular conveyor segments and robotic devices are designed with nested or hierarchical structures that allow compact storage and efficient assembly. Smaller capacity systems can be nested within or expanded from larger system configurations by adding or removing modular units, enabling capacity scaling without complete infrastructure redesign.
3Productivity
If mobile robotic devices with conveyor components are deployed, then adaptability and throughput are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile robotic device merges multiple functions (locomotion, inventory handling, conveyor operation, and control) into a single integrated platform. By combining the robotic chassis, conveyor mechanism, and control systems into one unified device, the system achieves high productivity without proportionally increasing complexity, as shared components and centralized control reduce overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile robotic device with a conveyor that is configured to link up with another conveyor of a second mobile robotic device is described. In this manner, the mobile robotic devices may provide integrated, flexible conveyors and the ability to link conveyors to make an aggregate conveyor of any shape or size. Moreover, the mobile robotic device is configured to receive a conveyor from a storage unit and move the conveyor to another point within a physical space. The mobile robotic device also has the capability to rotate the conveyor, when docked, about the axis of the mobile robotic device (e.g., for sorting and other operations).