Modular structure for an automated storage and retrieval system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional automated order fulfillment systems require time-consuming and labor-intensive assembly methods, hindering the rapid construction of facilities needed to meet growing demand for automated product delivery and mobile robot operations.
Innovation Solution
A modular structure for automated storage facilities, utilizing shelf and tower modules with registration features on tie beams and plates for precise spacing and assembly, allowing quick and accurate alignment of storage modules both horizontally and vertically to facilitate efficient robot movement and inventory access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional stick-built assembly methods are used for automated storage structures, then individual components can be assembled together, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The storage structure is divided into modular components (vertical rails, horizontal rails, support structures) that can be pre-assembled into complete modules off-site and then rapidly installed as integrated units, dramatically reducing on-site assembly time and labor requirements
Solution Approach 2:
Complete storage modules are pre-assembled and pre-positioned in fabrication areas before being transported to and installed in the final facility location, allowing complex assembly operations to be performed in advance when resources are more readily available
2Reliability
If traditional stick-built assembly methods are used, then components can be individually affixed, but numerous time-consuming adjustments are required for reliable mobile robot operation
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into standardized modules with pre-configured dimensions and tolerances that ensure consistent spacing and alignment, eliminating the need for time-consuming field adjustments to achieve reliable robot operation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention establishes specific dimensional parameters and tolerance ranges for module construction that guarantee proper spacing and alignment when modules are assembled, ensuring mobile robot reliability without requiring iterative adjustments
3Productivity
If modular storage modules are used, then assembly speed is improved, but precise spacing and alignment must be ensured for mobile robot passage
Solution Approach 1:
Standardized modules with pre-defined dimensional specifications enable rapid assembly while maintaining consistent spacing and alignment through manufacturing precision built into each module unit
Solution Approach 2:
Specific dimensional parameters and tolerance specifications are established for module construction that ensure proper spacing and alignment are achieved through manufacturing control rather than field adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology relates to an automated system structure which may be quickly and efficiently assembled using a number of storage modules. Storage modules may be comprised of a pair of shelf modules, each comprising a number of defined storage locations for storing totes, cartons, trays or other containers. The shelf modules may themselves be modular units comprising a number of horizontal storage levels affixed to a pair of vertical support assemblies at each end of the shelf modules. The pair of shelf modules may be accurately spaced from each other by mounting the shelf modules to tie beams at the bottom and tie plates at the top.