Modular Storage Container Panels for Stable ASRS Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage containers for automated storage and retrieval systems are inefficient in transportation and require robustness to prevent collapse in the lowermost position, especially when stacked.
Innovation Solution
A set of moulded panels, including a rectangular base panel and four side panels, assembled via dovetail-type connections and fasteners, forming a storage container that is easy to assemble and stack efficiently, with features to prevent horizontal movement between containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If storage containers are made robust to prevent collapse in the lowermost stacked position, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is divided into multiple panels (front, rear, left, right) that can be assembled together. Each panel is a separate component that can be manufactured independently and then joined to form the complete container structure, reducing the complexity of manufacturing a single robust piece while maintaining overall strength
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple panels are combined through joining elements (such as clips, fasteners, or interlocking mechanisms) to form a unified container structure. The joining elements merge the individual panels into a cohesive assembly that achieves the required structural strength without requiring each panel to be overly robust on its own
2Productivity
If storage containers are designed for efficient stacking, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container is segmented into standardized panels with consistent dimensions and joining interfaces. This segmentation allows for modular assembly and efficient stacking configurations, while each panel can be manufactured using standard processes, balancing manufacturing simplicity with stacking efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The panels and joining elements are designed with universal interfaces that enable the same components to be used in multiple stacking configurations and positions. This universality allows efficient stacking arrangements while simplifying manufacturing, as the same standardized parts are reused throughout the structure
3Ease of operation
If storage containers use simple assembly methods, then ease of operation is improved, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The container assembly is segmented into panels with pre-designed joining interfaces that simplify the assembly process. The segmentation allows for tool-free or minimal-tool assembly while maintaining structural integrity through the distributed connection points across multiple joining elements
Solution Approach 2:
The joining elements are designed to self-lock or self-align during assembly, reducing the skill level and tools required for assembly. Features such as snap-fits, cam-locks, or friction-based connections allow the structure to assemble itself with minimal intervention while maintaining adequate structural strength
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a set (10) of moulded panels which can be assembled together to form a storage container (11) for an automated storage and retrieval system (1). The set (10) of panels comprises a rectangular base panel (20) and four side panels (30, 40, 50, 60). The base panel (20) is moulded with a perimeter profile (24). Each of the side panels (30, 40, 50, 60) is moulded with a lower edge profile (34, 44, 54, 64). The lower edge profiles (34, 44, 54, 64) of each side panel are slidingly engaged with the perimeter profile (24) during assembly of the storage container (11). Each of the side panels (30, 40, 50, 60) are moulded with side edge profiles (36, 46, 56, 66) which are to be slidingly engaged with the side edge profiles (36, 46, 56, 66) of adjacent side panels during assembly of the storage container (11).