Modular Drawer Cartridge Layout for High-Density Controlled Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated stock control systems face challenges in modifying drawer configurations to meet customer needs, have low storage density due to space-consuming trays or carriers, and are expensive to manufacture and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage system with cartridges that hold 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.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If trays or movable carriers are used to hold drawers, then the drawers can be supported and guided, but the storage density decreases due to the space occupied by these trays and carriers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the drawer support and guidance function from separate trays or carriers and integrates it directly into the housing structure. Guide blocks are mounted to the housing to engage with grooves in the drawers, providing support and guidance without requiring additional tray structures. This eliminates the space-consuming intermediate carriers while maintaining drawer stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the support and guidance functions with the housing structure itself. The guide blocks are attached to the housing and work in conjunction with the drawer grooves to provide stable support. This consolidation eliminates redundant components (separate trays and carriers) and maximizes storage density by using the housing structure for multiple functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate latch mechanisms with separate control circuitry are provided for each drawer, then each drawer can be independently controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal latch mechanism design where a single type of solenoid-actuated latch can be used for multiple drawers. The latch mechanism is standardized and can control different drawers through a common control system, reducing the variety of components needed while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control system that acts as an intermediary between the user and the latch mechanisms. The controller receives access requests and selectively actuates the appropriate solenoids to release specific drawers. This centralized control approach simplifies the overall system by reducing the number of independent control circuits needed while maintaining individual drawer accessibility.
3Ease of manufacture
If drawers are removed by accessing the rear of the housing, then the drawers can be released from carriers, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional drawer removal approach by allowing drawers to be removed from the front of the housing rather than requiring access to the rear. The guide blocks are designed to disengage from the drawer grooves when the drawer is pulled forward, enabling front-access removal. This reversal of the removal direction significantly improves operational ease while maintaining the structural integrity of the system.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modification of drawer layout is required, then the system can be adapted to customer needs, but the manufacturing cost increases due to redesign requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into modular components: the housing, guide blocks, drawers with standardized grooves, and latch mechanisms. This segmentation allows individual drawers to be easily added, removed, or reconfigured without requiring redesign of the entire system. The standardized interface between guide blocks and drawer grooves enables flexible layout modifications while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through component reusability.
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, simplifies restocking and maintenance, and reduces manufacturing costs by allowing for easy modification and replacement of drawers without affecting other components.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid actuator is provided in the cartridge to remove the drawer from the cartridge
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
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.