Modular Cartridge Storage System for High-Density Drawer Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated stock control systems face challenges in modifying drawer layouts, removing individual drawers for restocking, and achieving high storage density due to complex mechanisms and high manufacturing costs, leading to inefficient use of space and customer-specific customization difficulties.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage system with cartridges holding multiple drawers, each equipped with a guide block and solenoid latch mechanism, allowing for easy removal and reconfiguration of drawers without requiring access to the rear of the housing, and enabling flexible adjustment of drawer widths and heights by spacing cartridges and modifying the number of compartments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If trays and drawer carriers are provided in the housing, then drawers can be held and controlled, but storage density decreases due to large space occupation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the drawer carrier from the housing and replaces it with guide blocks that are directly mounted to the housing walls. This eliminates the need for separate carrier structures, reducing the space occupied by the housing while maintaining drawer control functionality through the guide blocks and latch mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the drawer support function into individual guide blocks for each drawer, rather than using a continuous carrier structure. This segmentation allows for more efficient space utilization and enables the drawers to be held securely with minimal housing volume requirement.
2Ease of operation
If separate latch mechanisms and control circuitry are provided for each drawer, then individual drawer access is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the latch mechanism and control circuitry into an integrated assembly that can be shared across multiple drawers. Instead of providing completely separate mechanisms for each drawer, the system uses a unified latch design with individual control, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining individual drawer access capability.
3Reliability
If drawers are secured to prevent removal, then secure access is maintained, but ease of restocking decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic latch system that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The latch mechanism is designed to securely hold drawers in normal operation but can be easily released when needed for restocking, providing both security and ease of maintenance through its ability to change state dynamically.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to be self-releasing or easily manually released, allowing drawers to be removed for restocking without requiring complex tools or procedures. The system enables quick access for maintenance while maintaining security during normal use.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modification of drawer layout is required, then customer needs can be met, but manufacturing cost increases due to redesign
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses segmented guide blocks that can be independently positioned or removed, allowing drawer layouts to be modified without redesigning the entire housing. This modular approach enables customization for different customer needs while keeping manufacturing costs low through standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide blocks and latch mechanisms are designed as universal components that can accommodate different drawer configurations. The same basic components serve multiple functions and can be arranged in various layouts, providing adaptability without requiring custom manufacturing for each configuration.
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
The modular system enhances storage density by 50-100% compared to prior art, allows for easy modification and restocking without tools, and reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining secure and controlled access to individual compartments.
Implementation Method 1
Each drawer is provided with a solenoid latch mechanism for holding the drawer in the home position
Data Source
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AI summary
A storage system comprising: a cartridge, said cartridge including an upright having mounted to one side a plurality of guide blocks; a plurality of first drawer information means for providing information on at least one of position and movement of respective drawers; and a plurality of latch mechanisms, said system further comprising a plurality of drawers, each said drawer including: guide block engaging means extending in a depth direction of the drawer and mounting a first side of the drawer adjacent a respective guide block; second drawer information means disposed adjacent the first drawer information means; and at least one stop on the first side of the drawer for engaging with a said latch mechanism, wherein the latch mechanisms are electronically controllable, whereby access to the drawers can be controlled.