Modular Hanger System for Automated Inventory Retrieval
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inventory management systems are inefficient due to manual location of products in storage areas, leading to difficulties in accurately identifying and retrieving ordered goods and filled orders, especially in large-scale distribution systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular hanger system with a hook unit and storage unit, equipped with a microprocessor, indicator light, and transceiver, that emits a unique hanger address as a radio frequency signal, allowing for electronic tracking and identification of stored goods, enabling efficient location and retrieval through a computer network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual location methods are used to find products in storage areas, then system simplicity is maintained, but retrieval efficiency and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger unit autonomously transmits its identification signal without requiring manual scanning or intervention. The microprocessor automatically detects the wireless signal from the portable device and provides location information, enabling the storage system to serve itself rather than requiring worker intervention for each lookup operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical search methods with an electronic wireless communication system. Instead of workers physically searching through storage areas, a portable wireless device sends signals that are received by microprocessors in hanger units, which then provide location information electronically, substituting mechanical search with electromagnetic communication.
2Measurement precision
If electronic tracking systems are implemented, then location accuracy improves, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification and communication functionality from a complex centralized tracking system and places it directly into simple hanger units. Each hanger unit contains only a microprocessor capable of receiving wireless signals and transmitting its location, removing the need for complex infrastructure while achieving precise location tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger unit's microprocessor serves multiple functions: it stores identification information, receives wireless signals, processes location data, and communicates with the portable device. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single integrated component, reducing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular design is used to separate hook units and storage units, then adaptability and flexibility improve, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into separate hook units and storage units that can function independently or together. The hook unit contains the microprocessor and communication capabilities, while the storage unit holds goods, allowing them to be manufactured, maintained, and replaced separately while maintaining system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows the system configuration to dynamically adapt to different needs. Storage units can be attached to or detached from hook units based on operational requirements, enabling flexible reconfiguration of the storage system without requiring complete system replacement or complex permanent installations.
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 system enhances inventory management by ensuring accurate and efficient storage and retrieval of goods, reducing errors, and allowing for real-time tracking and confirmation of order status, improving operational efficiency in large-scale distribution systems.
Implementation Method 1
The hook unit can include a microprocessor, an indicator light and a transceiver. The storage unit can include an electronic memory storing a unique hanger address and a bar code or other identification mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for locating goods stored in a storage area includes a computer, radio frequency transceivers and modular hangers. Ordered goods are placed in storage units that each have addresses at a central filling center. The filled storage units are shipped to local storage areas where they are coupled to hook units to form modular hangers and stored on rails. The identifications of the goods and the electronic addresses for corresponding hangers are stored on a local computer database. When a user wants to pick up goods stored in the containers, the user inputs the identification or order information for the goods and the computer will cause the radio frequency transmitter to emit a data packet that includes a search address and illumination data. The hangers compare the search address to the electronic address. If there is a match, the hanger is illuminated so the ordered goods can be found.