Modular Storage System with Multi-Level Robots for Urban Load Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems are often custom-designed and heavy, making them unsuitable for installation in existing building structures, particularly in urban areas with limited space and load-bearing capacity. They also lack flexibility and scalability to accommodate different sizes and types of goods efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage system with robots that operate on multiple horizontal levels, utilizing lightweight baseplates and vertical supports that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The system includes container carriers and robots that can move goods efficiently, with features like omni wheels for navigation and RFID tags for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If storage systems are custom-designed and heavy, then they provide stable support and high load-bearing capacity, but they become unsuitable for installation in existing building structures with limited space and load-bearing capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into modular components including stackable storage units with standardized interfaces, individual cell transport mechanisms, and separate feeder systems. This segmentation allows the system to be customized for different building structures and load requirements while maintaining overall stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows adjustment of storage unit dimensions, stacking configurations, and transport mechanism parameters to adapt to varying building constraints. The cell transport mechanisms can be configured with different speeds, capacities, and routing paths to match specific building capabilities.
2Area of stationary object
If storage systems are designed with high packing density, then space utilization is improved, but accessibility and ease of retrieval operations deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Manual retrieval operations are replaced with automated cell transport mechanisms that can access stored items through robotic arms, automated guided vehicles, or conveyor systems. This allows high-density storage while maintaining ease of operation through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
Cell transport mechanisms act as intermediaries between the high-density storage locations and the retrieval points. These mechanisms move goods from compact storage cells to accessible locations without requiring direct manual access to densely packed items.
3Adaptability or versatility
If storage systems are individually designed for special applications, then they optimize for specific functions, but they increase device complexity and installation difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system employs universal components and standardized interfaces that can be configured for different applications. Storage units, transport mechanisms, and feeder systems can be arranged in various configurations to serve multiple functions including retail, distribution, and bulk storage without requiring completely different system designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow it to adapt to different application requirements. Transport mechanisms can change routing paths, storage units can be repositioned, and system capacity can be modified to match evolving operational needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular storage system with at least two horizontal robot levels, wherein the robot levels are formed by at least three baseplates, at least eight vertical supports which are perpendicular to the robot levels and support the robot levels, at least one robot on each robot level, which robot can move on the robot level, and, per robot level, at least two container carriers which can be moved by the robot.