Movable Holding Elements for Ergonomic Container Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container handling systems require operators to reach down excessively to access containers of varying heights, compromising ergonomics and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A device with movable holding elements that adjust to container height, securely supporting containers at a consistent level by interacting with the upper edge or rib during insertion and lifting, using elastic means and pivot mechanisms for stable holding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If containers are placed on the bottom of picking stations, then all containers can be stored, but operators must reach down excessively to access containers of varying heights
Solution Approach 1:
The holding elements are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to adapt their position dynamically. Each holding element can move between a retracted position (allowing container insertion) and a protruding position (providing support at optimal height), enabling the system to accommodate containers of varying heights while maintaining ergonomic access
Solution Approach 2:
The holding elements automatically perform the function of height adjustment through spring-loaded mechanisms. When a container is inserted, the holding elements are pushed inward by the container's upper edge or rib, and the spring force automatically returns them to the protruding position, providing support at the correct height without requiring external control or complex actuation systems
2Ease of operation
If movable holding elements are used to support containers at consistent height, then operator ergonomics improve, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The complex actuation mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simple spring-loaded system. The holding elements utilize elastic means (springs) that are already integrated into the structure, eliminating the need for additional motors, sensors, or control systems while achieving the desired height adjustment functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The holding elements serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for containers, automatically adjust to accommodate varying container heights, and maintain consistent support height for ergonomic access. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated mechanism rather than multiple separate systems
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
Ensures ergonomic and efficient handling of containers of different heights at a uniform height, enhancing operational safety and reducing strain on operators.
Implementation Method 1
each holding element (5) is assigned an elastic means (12), by means of which the holding element (5) can be moved from its holding position out of the intermediate space (4) and into the intermediate space (4)
Implementation Method 2
the holding element 5 is pivotally mounted on the holding region 4, with the support element 12 still being located outside the space before the container 30 is inserted into the space
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for holding a container (1), comprising a container holder (2) with two spaced-apart holding regions (3) for holding a container (1) in an intermediate space (4) between the holding regions (3), wherein each holding region (3) has at least one movable holding element (5) projecting into the intermediate space (4) with a support element (6) for an upper edge (7) of the container (1) or a horizontal rib (8) of the container (1) formed in the region of the upper edge (7) of the container (1), is designed and further developed with a view to particularly secure holding of a container (1) with structurally simple means in such a way that each holding element (5) is designed and arranged in such a waythat during a downward vertical insertion of the container (1) into the intermediate space (4) - by interaction with the container (1) - it is moved from a holding position out of the intermediate space (4) and, after reaching a definable insertion depth of the container (1) into the intermediate space (4), back into the holding position in the intermediate space (4), so that the upper edge (7) or a horizontal rib (8) of the container (1) formed in the region of the upper edge (7) of the container (1) rests on the support elements (6) in an inserted position of the container (1) at the end of the insertion of the container (1). Furthermore, a station for accessing a container (1) and/or stored goods in a container (1) with such a device and a storage and removal system with a grid structure with a plurality of grid cells,wherein each grid cell defines a storage column of a container storage structure arranged below the grid structure, and wherein the storage columns are each configured to accommodate a vertical stack of containers (1), and with such a station or such a device. Finally, a corresponding method for holding a container (1) with such a device is specified.