Mobile Shelving Scanning Arrangement for Aisle Obstruction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrically driven shelving systems face issues with aisle obstruction detection, which can lead to potential injuries or damage due to unaware users or objects in the path of moving bays, and existing detection methods are costly and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A mobile shelving system with a scanning arrangement using electromagnetic signals, specifically infrared or visible light, to create a detection curtain that halts movement if an obstruction is detected, eliminating the need for individual motors and power distribution infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for heavy items, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but operator health and safety deteriorate due to heavy lifting
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the shelving unit autonomously positions itself to deliver items to operators. The scanning arrangement detects operator presence and automatically navigates the shelving unit to retrieve and deliver items, eliminating the need for operators to manually locate and retrieve heavy items from difficult-to-reach positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated electromechanical system. The shelving unit uses electric motors for movement along rails and for item retrieval, substituting human physical effort with automated mechanical systems controlled by sensors and processors.
2Extent of automation
If automated retrieval systems are implemented, then operator safety improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving unit is designed as a multi-functional system that combines storage, automated navigation, item retrieval, and operator interaction capabilities. A single automated shelving unit performs multiple functions including moving along rails, positioning items, scanning for operators, and delivering items, reducing the need for separate specialized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated retrieval mechanism is nested within the shelving unit structure itself. The shelving unit contains integrated motors, sensors, and control systems within its framework, allowing the automation components to be housed within the existing storage structure rather than requiring separate external systems.
3Productivity
If shelving units are positioned in difficult-to-reach areas, then storage capacity and accessibility are optimized, but item retrieval becomes hazardous for operators
Solution Approach 1:
The automated shelving unit acts as an intermediary between the stored items and the operator. It retrieves items from difficult-to-reach positions and delivers them to the operator at a safe, accessible location, eliminating the need for operators to physically reach into hazardous areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts the hazardous retrieval function from the operator and transfers it to the automated shelving unit. The operator remains in a safe position while the automated system performs the dangerous task of retrieving items from elevated or difficult-to-reach positions.
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 safe operation by preventing bay movement when obstructions are present, reducing complexity and cost through efficient aisle management and reliable detection.
Implementation Method 1
a scanning arrangement for detecting a user within a scanning range of the scanning arrangement
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile shelving system comprising a plurality of shelving bay rows including at least one driven shelving bay mounted on a track and a scanning arrangement through the use of emitter and detector blocks to detect obstructions within the system.