Modular Mobile Storage Unit for Automated Dispensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing logistic systems for high-value and controlled products lack flexibility, mobility, and scalability, often requiring costly and rigid infrastructure, and fail to operate effectively in all-weather, all-terrain conditions, especially in remote or disaster scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A mobile, modular, and autonomous unit with a computer-controlled warehouse management system, integrated with a Pick to Light system and three-axis Cartesian coordinate robot, capable of evolving from manual to fully automated operations, with integrated power generation, temperature and humidity control, and fire detection, allowing for flexible deployment and operation in various environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a fully automated robotic system is implemented, then productivity and precision are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components: a mobile platform, robotic arms for picking, shelving modules for storage, and a control system. Each module can function independently and can be configured or replaced as needs change, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile unit can dynamically adjust its configuration and operation based on real-time demands. The robotic system can adapt picking patterns, and the mobile platform can reposition itself, allowing the system to optimize productivity without requiring a completely rigid complex infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile unit is designed for flexibility and mobility, then adaptability is improved, but structural stability and load-bearing capacity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile platform provides stability and load-bearing capacity at the base level, while the upper shelving modules and robotic components maintain flexibility and adaptability. Each component is optimized for its specific function: the platform for structural integrity, the shelving for configurable storage, and the robotic arms for precise manipulation.
3Reliability
If autonomous systems are integrated for all-weather operation, then reliability in challenging conditions is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile unit is designed to be self-sufficient with integrated power generation capabilities and autonomous environmental control systems. The unit can generate its own power and regulate its internal environment without external support, improving reliability in remote locations while managing energy consumption through autonomous optimization.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a modular expandable structure is used, then adaptability for capacity expansion is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular components are designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection methods that allow them to be combined in various configurations. The same basic module can serve multiple storage functions, and the standardized interface simplifies integration, reducing the complexity burden of expansion.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
An evolving mobile Unit for controlled product storage and dispensing, with modular construction and multiple upgrade possibilities, to the capacity and storing/picking system that can evolve from manual, up to fully automatic operation. The Unit is easy to transport and manoeuver, by crane or forklift, using the provided pick up points (6) and pockets (7), either in standard or heavy duty/all- weather form. The Unit can be autonomous, with an integrated power unit (49) and internal climate control (19). The products are stored inside, within Unit Loads (UL) (8) that can hold any kind of materials, either solid or liquid, at ambient or controlled temperature and humidity. The ULs are stored in a modular shelving system (9), adjustable to accommodate mixes of UL sizes. Access control is provided by lock (11), drawer (16) and software systems together with a picking/replenishment method. The software controls the ULs multiple locations (12), and manages the picking method, either in manual, manual assisted, Basic Semi- Automatic, Semi-automatic or Fully-automatic versions, using Cartesian coordinate robots (14) for storing/picking the desired products. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become clearer with the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings.