Modular 3D Storage System With Actuated Cell Displacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated storage solutions face challenges in achieving high compactness and distribution rates while being adaptable to various storage environments, especially restricted spaces, and minimizing manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A modular system for the displacement of storage items, comprising a plurality of adjacent modules and cells that can be displaced through the modular structure, utilizing actuators and complementary indentations to facilitate translation of cells between modules, and a central controller to manage the displacement process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If stacking crane technology is used, then the system can operate at great height, but compactness is reduced due to empty spaces necessary for platform displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional platform movement to three-dimensional cell displacement. Cells move not only horizontally between modules but also vertically within modules, utilizing the third dimension to achieve compactness while maintaining operating height capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the storage structure into discrete modules and cells. Each cell is an independent movable unit that can be individually displaced to adjacent modules or positions within modules, eliminating the need for large empty spaces required by traditional platform-based systems
2Volume of moving object
If carousel technology is used, then compactness is improved, but stock distribution rate is reduced due to low parallel distribution capability
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the storage into multiple independent modules, each capable of simultaneous cell displacement operations. This modular architecture enables parallel stock distribution across multiple modules, dramatically increasing the overall distribution rate while maintaining compact dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic cell displacement mechanisms with actuators that can actively move cells between modules and within modules. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to varying demand patterns and achieve high parallel distribution rates, unlike static carousel systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If mobile robot fleets are used, then adaptability to space constraints is improved, but compactness is reduced due to space needed for robot circulation
Solution Approach 1:
Cells are equipped with their own actuators and control systems, making them self-sufficient mobile units. Each cell can autonomously displace to adjacent modules or reposition within modules without requiring external robot fleets, eliminating the circulation space needed by mobile robots while maintaining adaptability to various space constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The modular cell design with integrated actuators creates a universal system that can adapt to different space configurations and constraints. The same cell-module architecture can be deployed in various spatial environments without requiring additional circulation space, providing both compactness and adaptability
4Volume of moving object
If automated distributors are used, then compactness is improved, but stock distribution rate is limited causing queues during demand peaks
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the automated distribution function across multiple independent modules, each capable of simultaneous cell displacement operations. This segmentation enables parallel stock distribution to multiple destinations, dramatically increasing the overall distribution rate while maintaining the compact form factor of individual modules
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic cell displacement mechanisms with actuators that can actively and rapidly move cells between modules. This dynamic capability allows the system to respond quickly to demand peaks and achieve high distribution rates, unlike static or limited automated distributors
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a modular system (1) for moving storage elements, including a plurality of adjacent modules (200) and at least one bin (300) that can be moved in the modular structure from one module to an adjacent module, with a module including a frame (210) of rectangular parallelepiped shape including bars (212, 213, 214, 215) that are assembled together, at least either the modules or the bins including at least one actuator (400) and the other, modules or bins, comprising including complementary cavities (700), either the actuators or the cavities being fixed to the bars of the frame, the other being fixed to the bin, the actuators and the cavities being configured to cooperate so as to move a bin located at least partially inside one module in translation to an adjacent module.