Pillar Constraining Features for Grid Storage Cost Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Grid-based storage frames for robotic storage and retrieval systems are expensive to manufacture due to the high cost of metal required for constructing the frame.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating constraining features into the pillars of the grid-based storage frame, which align the grapple of the lifting apparatus with the stack of containers, allowing for the reduction in the number of pillars needed, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional pillars are used in the grid-based storage frame, then the structure provides adequate support and alignment, but the manufacturing cost is high due to the large number of metal pillars required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single pillar by integrating constraining features directly into the pillar structure. The constraining features, which include protrusions extending into grid spaces, are incorporated as part of the pillar body, allowing one component to perform both structural support and container alignment functions that would otherwise require separate elements
Solution Approach 2:
The pillar is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural support, container alignment, and grapple constraint functions. The constraining features on the pillars create pathways that guide and constrain the grapple mechanism, eliminating the need for separate alignment structures and reducing the overall number of components required in the system
2Ease of manufacture
If the number of pillars is reduced to lower manufacturing costs, then the manufacturing cost decreases, but the ability to constrain and align the grapple may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pillar structure incorporates localized constraining features at specific positions along the pillar body. These features include protrusions that extend into grid spaces at predetermined locations, providing constraint functions only where needed for grapple alignment while maintaining structural integrity throughout the entire pillar
Solution Approach 2:
The constraining features on the pillars act as intermediary elements between the pillar structure and the grapple mechanism. These features create defined pathways and physical constraints that guide the grapple into proper alignment without requiring direct contact or complex interaction mechanisms between the grapple and multiple pillars
Data Source
AI summary
A pillar for supporting a grid formed of a first set of a parallel rails extending in an x-direction and a second set of parallel rails extending in a y-direction. The pillar extending along an axis in a z-direction and including a constraining feature arranged to prevent a grapple from moving away from the axis in the x-direction and in the y-direction as the grapple is lowered in the z-direction to secure a container. A grid-based storage structure formed of pillars including the constraining feature can thus be assembled using less pillars than a storage structure formed of conventional pillars and, therefore, can also be constructed with significantly lower costs.