Object handling system and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage and retrieval systems using stacked containers face limitations in efficiently transferring large numbers of containers between different locations, particularly in enclosed spaces like warehouses, due to the need for tall robotic handling devices that restrict stack height and complicate container exchange.
Innovation Solution
A grid-based object handling system with perpendicular rails allowing robotic load handling devices to move independently along the grid, enabling the transfer of containers between systems by extending the grid beyond the workspace and using vehicles with integrated grid structures for seamless interface and alignment, facilitating the movement of containers between storage systems and vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tall robotic handling device is used to extract containers from high stacks, then container accessibility is improved, but the device height must be increased which is not feasible in enclosed warehouse spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic handling device is divided into multiple sections that can extend vertically. The device starts in a compact configuration for moving along rails, then extends vertically only when needed to reach containers in high stacks, and retracts afterward. This segmentation allows the device to achieve tall reach without permanently occupying tall space.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic handling device transitions between different configurations - moving horizontally along rails at one height, then extending vertically to reach containers at different stack levels. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same device to serve multiple height requirements without requiring a permanently tall structure.
2Productivity
If multiple robotic handling devices operate on the same rail system, then container retrieval speed is improved, but device collisions and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple robotic handling devices operate on the same rail system by utilizing the vertical dimension. Devices can be positioned at different heights along the rails, allowing simultaneous operation without horizontal interference. This vertical layering enables parallel container retrieval operations while maintaining safe separation between devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the grid structure is extended beyond the workspace, then container transfer between systems is facilitated, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grid structure is designed with universal interfaces that can connect to different container systems. By extending the grid beyond the immediate workspace with standardized connection points, the system can transfer containers to various external systems (vehicles, other storage systems) without requiring custom integration for each case, thus managing complexity through standardization.
4Quantity of substance
If stack height is increased to improve storage density, then space utilization is improved, but container extraction becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic handling device is segmented into extendable sections that can reach deep into high stacks. The device extends vertically only when needed to access containers in upper stack positions, then retracts to a compact form for movement along rails. This allows high storage density while maintaining extraction capability through on-demand vertical extension.
Data Source
AI summary
An object handling system is described, the system having two substantially perpendicular sets of rails forming a grid above a workspace, the workspace having a plurality of stacked containers. The system includes a series of robotic load handling devices operating on the grid above the workspace, the load handling devices having a body mounted on wheels. The robotic devices can move around the grid under instruction from a computing device, the robotic devices being moved to a point on the grid above a stack of containers and then, using a lifting device, engage and lift a container from the stack. The container is then moved to a point where the objects in the container can be accessed. Modifications to the workspace and grid are described that allow vehicles and roll cages to be used to move stacks from the workspace to a point outside the workspace or from outside the workspace into the workspace.