Modular Grid Framework Assembly With Slip Joints for Thermal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grid framework structures for storage and retrieval systems are time-consuming and costly to assemble, occupy valuable storage space with supporting structures, and are prone to distortion due to thermal expansion, affecting the stability and efficiency of robotic load handling devices.
Innovation Solution
A grid framework structure assembled from prefabricated modular panels with slip joints and modular sub-frames to accommodate thermal expansion, allowing for faster assembly and maximizing storage space while maintaining structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional grid framework structures are assembled from individual components, then structural stability is achieved, but assembly time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The grid framework structure is divided into modular panels that can be pre-assembled and then quickly connected together. Each panel contains integrated support structures and track systems, allowing the overall framework to be assembled from these standardized modules rather than individual components, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are merged into single integrated panels. The panels combine structural support functions, track mounting capabilities, and storage column integration into unified modular units. This merging reduces the total number of separate components needed while preserving all necessary structural and operational functions
2Strength
If supporting structures are added to ensure stability, then structural integrity is improved, but available storage space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting structures are merged with the storage columns themselves. The vertical uprights that provide structural support also serve as the storage columns for containers. By integrating these functions, the framework maintains the necessary structural integrity for supporting robotic load handling devices while eliminating separate support elements that would consume storage space
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical uprights perform multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural support for the horizontal grid members and track system, guide the movement of load handling devices, and serve as storage columns for container stacks. This multi-functionality ensures structural integrity without requiring additional space-consuming support structures
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connections are used between grid members, then structural stability is maintained, but thermal expansion causes distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between modular panels incorporates dynamic elements that allow for thermal expansion and contraction. The joints between panels are designed to accommodate movement while maintaining overall structural stability, preventing the distortion that would occur with purely rigid connections subjected to temperature variations
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 solution enables quicker and cost-effective assembly of a stable grid framework structure that maximizes storage capacity and minimizes distortion, ensuring efficient operation of robotic load handling devices.
Implementation Method 1
the track system being mounted to the supporting framework structure and comprising a plurality of tracks arranged in a grid pattern comprising a plurality of grid cells extending across the plurality of modular storage cells such that each of the plurality of modular storage cells is configured to support a sub-group of two or more grid cells of the track system; wherein the track system further comprises a track support structure comprising a plurality of track supports arranged in a grid pattern corresponding to the grid pattern of the track system, the plurality of track supports being interconnected at the intersections of the plurality of track supports in the grid pattern, the track support structure is sub-divided into a plurality of modular sub-frames such that each of the plurality of modular sub-frames comprises the sub-group of two or more grid cells of the track system, wherein the interconnections of the plurality of track supports at the interface between the adjacent modular storage cells comprise one or more slip joints such that adjacent modular sub-frames are moveable relative to each other along a substantially horizontal plane via the one or more slip joints
Data Source
AI summary
A grid framework structure for supporting one or more robotic load handling devices operative on the grid framework structure, the grid framework structure comprising: a supporting framework structure comprising a plurality of prefabricated frames comprising a plurality of modular storage cells, each of the plurality of prefabricated frames lying in a vertical plane and comprising a plurality of vertical members braced by a bracing member; a track system comprising a plurality of tracks arranged in a grid pattern comprising a plurality of grid cells extending across a plurality of modular storage cells; wherein the track system further comprises a track support structure comprising a plurality of track supports arranged in a grid pattern corresponding to the grid pattern of the track system, the track support structure sub-divided into a plurality of modular sub-frames.