Multi-Track Storage System with Intelligent Crane Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic storage apparatus with a single track limits crane movement, leading to inefficient transport and idle space due to collision avoidance and restricted scope, resulting in reduced transport efficiency and wasted space.
Innovation Solution
A multi-track handling and storage system with separate main tracks connected by switching tracks and an intelligent integrated logic system that automatically analyzes transport instructions, controls cranes, and optimizes routes to prevent collisions and idle states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single track is used with multiple cranes, then the device complexity is reduced, but the cranes cannot arrive at certain positions (isolation region) leading to idle space and reduced transport efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The single track is segmented into multiple independent tracks (first track and second track). Each track can be independently controlled by its own crane, eliminating the isolation region problem. The switching track connects the two tracks, allowing cranes to switch between tracks when needed, thus maintaining system flexibility while enabling continuous operation without idle spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a one-dimensional single track to a two-dimensional multi-track configuration. By adding the second track parallel to the first track, the system creates additional movement dimensions, allowing cranes to operate simultaneously without collision while accessing all storehouse positions including those adjacent to what would have been isolation regions in a single-track system.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple cranes are deployed on a single track, then the quantity of working members increases, but collision avoidance requires isolation regions that create idle space
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the work space into separate tracks, with each track assigned to a specific crane. This segmentation eliminates the need for isolation regions between cranes on the same track, as cranes on different tracks operate independently. The switching track provides optional connectivity without creating conflicts, thereby maximizing usable storage space while maintaining multiple cranes in operation.
3Device complexity
If cranes are limited to a single track, then the device complexity is low, but the scope of movement is restricted leading to idle states
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces dynamic track switching capability, where cranes can transition between the first track and second track via the switching track based on real-time work demands. This dynamic adaptability allows cranes to access a broader range of storehouses and respond flexibly to varying transport instructions, significantly expanding movement scope without requiring complex control systems, as the switching logic is integrated into the existing crane control architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-track handling and storage apparatus includes at least two main tracks, at least two cranes and an intelligent integrated logic system. The main tracks are arranged separately, and every two adjacent main tracks are connected by at least one switching track. Bottoms of the cranes are slidably disposed on the main tracks. The intelligent integrated logic system includes a command receiving unit, a database unit, an analyzing unit, a crane dispatching unit and a route selection unit which are integrated with each other. The above-mentioned main tracks, switching tracks and cranes are controlled by the units of the intelligent integrated logic system. The present invention further provides a multi-track handling and storage method.