Modular Warehouse Movement System for Flexible Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional automatic warehouses face difficulties in adapting to changes in the number, size, and type of modules, requiring redesign and re-sizing of the entire structure to accommodate different movement systems, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A modular movement system that allows for the integration of standardized components, enabling the expansion of the system without redesigning, and allows drawers to be exchanged laterally, enabling flexible arrangement and operation independence of each module, with internal transport systems working in parallel to enhance efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional automatic warehouses use dedicated design and construction methods, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to variations in module number and type deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The warehouse structure is divided into independent standardized modules that can be individually added, removed, or reconfigured. Each module contains complete functional elements (shelves, drawers, movement systems) that operate independently, allowing the overall system to adapt to varying storage requirements without compromising structural integrity of individual modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal standardized interfaces and components that can serve multiple functions across different module configurations. The movement system, drawer dimensions, and connection mechanisms are designed to be compatible across all modules, enabling a single module design to fulfill various storage needs while maintaining structural stability through consistent standardized construction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional warehouses require redesign for different movement systems, then movement system suitability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The movement system is designed with universal standardized components and interfaces that can accommodate different drawer types and configurations without requiring complete redesign. The system uses standardized rails, motors, and control protocols that work across all modules, allowing flexibility in movement system configuration while maintaining manageable complexity through repetition of proven designs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual movement and fork lift trucks are used, then flexibility in movement is improved, but productivity and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The warehouse system incorporates automated movement mechanisms within each module that enable drawers to be automatically transported to and from storage positions without manual intervention. The system self-manages the movement of stored items through integrated motors and control systems, eliminating the need for external fork lift trucks and manual handling while maintaining flexible positioning capabilities.
4Area of stationary object
If modules are interconnected without independence, then space utilization is improved, but operational independence and maintenance flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The warehouse employs modular sections that are physically connected for space optimization but operationally independent through standardized disconnect interfaces. Each module can be independently accessed, maintained, or removed without affecting the functionality of other modules, while still allowing efficient space utilization when modules are assembled together in standardized configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular automatic warehouse comprising at least one module (30) having a parallelepiped shape delimited by respective vertical uprights, said module (30) comprising a first and a second element (70, 80) consisting each of a plurality of substantially horizontal seats or guides defined by structural flanks (31) for the introduction and/ or extraction of a respective plurality of shelves or drawers (32) adapted to contain said articles to be stored, said first (70) and second (80) elements being opposite to each other and separated by a compartment (90) inside which at least one lift (33) operates, the lift (33) able to translate from a lowered position to a raised position in order to move to a location of said drawers, wherein said warehouse further comprises a means (36) for translating at least one at a time of said drawers (32) towards further similar adjacent modules in turn provided with a means for translating the drawers to be displaced, and wherein said means acts inside said compartment (90) which is open at least in the translation direction from one module to the other.