Modular Drawer Cartridge Layout for High-Density Controlled Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated stock control systems face challenges in modifying drawer configurations to meet specific customer needs, as they are difficult and expensive to resize and reconfigure, and have low storage density due to the requirement of trays or movable carriers, which also complicate restocking and replacement processes.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage system featuring cartridges with electronically controllable latch mechanisms, guide blocks, and sensors that allow for the precise control and easy removal of drawers, enabling flexible configuration and high storage density by allowing drawers of different widths and heights to be used, with centralized control for access management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If trays or movable carriers are used to hold drawers, then the system provides structural support and control, but the storage density decreases due to the additional space required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the carrier structure from the system by allowing drawers to be mounted directly to the housing, eliminating the intermediate carrier component and its associated space requirements, thereby improving storage density while maintaining structural support through direct housing integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the drawer mounting function directly into the housing structure, combining what were previously separate components (housing and carrier) into a unified structure, reducing overall system volume and improving storage density
2Ease of operation
If separate latch mechanisms with separate control circuitry are provided in each tray for each drawer, then individual drawer control is achieved, but the system complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single control circuit that can manage multiple drawers across different trays, making the control system universal and multi-functional, thereby reducing the number of separate control circuits needed while maintaining individual drawer control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate control circuits into a single integrated control system that can address and control individual drawers through unified circuitry, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing cost
3Reliability
If drawers are removed by accessing the rear of the housing, then the latch mechanisms can be released, but the restocking process becomes time-consuming and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional access direction by providing latch release mechanisms accessible from the front of the housing rather than requiring rear access, allowing users to release and replace drawers from the convenient front position, thereby significantly reducing restocking time
4Adaptability or versatility
If the layout of drawers is modified, then customer needs can be met, but the trays and housings must be redesigned and built from scratch, increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drawer system into modular components that can be independently configured and repositioned within the housing, allowing layout modifications without requiring complete redesign of the entire housing structure, thereby reducing manufacturing costs for customized configurations
Data Source
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.