Structure for automated pallet storage and retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pallet load storage structures in automated warehouses are laterally unstable and require redundant diagonal supports, increasing material and labor costs while wasting space, as they are designed based on non-automated systems and lack structural rigidity for robotic vehicle rails.
Innovation Solution
A multi-level rail system with angled supports and torsion-reinforced beams that connect to vertical columns without diagonal cross-bracing, providing structural integrity and space efficiency by integrating load and vehicle support surfaces directly into the vertical columns, and using reinforced flanges to resist torsional stresses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If diagonal supports are added to traditional storage structures to provide lateral stability, then structural rigidity is improved, but material costs and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of load support, vehicle support, and lateral stability into a single integrated rail structure. The rail serves multiple purposes: supporting pallet loads from above, guiding row vehicles from below, and providing lateral stability through its connection to vertical columns, eliminating the need for separate diagonal bracing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The rail structure is designed as a multi-functional element that simultaneously performs structural support, vehicle guidance, and lateral stabilization. This universal component replaces multiple separate elements (load beams, vehicle rails, and diagonal bracing) with a single integrated solution.
2Stability of the object's composition
If diagonal supports are added to traditional storage structures to prevent lateral collapse, then structural rigidity is improved, but space utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the lateral stability function into the vertical column-rail connection system, eliminating the need for diagonal bracing elements that would occupy warehouse space. The rail structure's integration with vertical columns provides rigidity without encroaching on storage or vehicle movement areas.
3Extent of automation
If separate vehicle rails are added to traditional storage structures to enable automated vehicle access, then automation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vehicle rail function with the load support structure. The same rail that supports pallet loads from above also guides row vehicles from below, eliminating the need for separate vehicle rail installations and reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rail structure serves dual functions: structural load support and automated vehicle guidance. This multi-functional design enables automation capability without requiring additional dedicated vehicle rail systems, thereby avoiding increased device complexity.
4Reliability
If redundant structural elements are added to traditional storage structures to ensure stability, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple structural functions into a single rail element, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration maintains structural reliability while reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating redundant elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-level rail for a storage structure may comprise an upper horizontal portion configured to support a load and a lower horizontal portion configured to support a row vehicle. An upper support portion extends downward diagonally from the upper horizontal portion toward the lower horizontal portion, and a lower support extends downward diagonally from the lower horizontal portion. This rail is configured to connect to at least one vertical post of the storage structure. Support beams for a railed storage structure are also disclosed with an elongated body having a terminal end portion configured to attach to a vertical column of a storage support structure and an upper support surface configured to support a horizontal support rail. A wing portion is secured to the terminal end portion and configured to attach to the horizontal support rail by extending lateral to the elongated body and above the upper support surface.