Multi-Storey Warehouse Handling Device Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-storey warehouses with automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) face challenges in optimizing land use and efficiency, particularly in areas where space is scarce, as they typically require a single floor level for loading and unloading operations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-storey warehouse design featuring multiple vertically stacked floor levels connected by inclined vehicle ramps and an automated storage and retrieval system with handling devices that include a floor rail, top rail, and a pallet load pick/place unit, allowing for efficient transfer and storage of pallet loads across all levels, reducing the need for a single large floor area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple floor levels are stacked vertically, then land space utilization is improved, but the complexity of connecting and accessing different levels increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal single-floor layout to vertical multi-floor stacking, utilizing the vertical dimension to increase storage capacity and reduce land footprint. Multiple floor levels are arranged one above another, with each level providing pallet load pick/place locations for different operational zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle ramp arrangement uses a spiral curved structure instead of straight inclined planes, allowing vehicles to access different floor levels more efficiently. The curved ramp enables smoother vehicle movement and better spatial utilization in the vertical connection zones.
2Productivity
If automated storage and retrieval systems are implemented, then operational efficiency is improved, but the initial system complexity and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated storage and retrieval system performs loading, unloading, and movement of pallet loads without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously transfers loads between vehicles and storage locations, manages inventory, and coordinates operations across multiple floor levels, thereby improving productivity while the automation handles the complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system serves multiple functions including storage, retrieval, load transfer between floors, and vehicle coordination. A single integrated system handles diverse operational requirements across different floor levels, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment for each function.
3Productivity
If handling devices with vertical beams are used, then pallet load transfer capacity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handling device is divided into separate functional modules: upper cart for elevated load pickup, lower cart for ground-level transport, vertical beam for structural support, and pallet load pick/place unit for load handling. Each module can be independently controlled and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high transfer capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical beam acts as a structural intermediary connecting the upper and lower carts, providing stable support for load transfer between different heights. This intermediary structure enables efficient vertical movement while keeping the control systems for upper and lower carts relatively simple and independent.
Data Source
AI summary
The application provides a multi-storey warehouse. The warehouse includes a warehouse building, a plurality of floor levels, an inclined ramp arrangement, one or more automated storage and retrieval systems, and a handling device. The floor levels and the automated storage and retrieval system are located within the warehouse building. The inclined ramp arrangement connects the floor levels with a ground level. The automated storage and retrieval system comprises two adjacent rows of multi-storey pallet racks which are separated by an aisle. A first end of the automated storage and retrieval system is provided adjacent to a lateral side of the floor levels. The handling device is located in the area of the aisle, wherein the handling device serves a plurality of pick/place locations which are provided at the floor levels as well as a plurality of storage locations which are provided in the multi-storey pallet racks.