Pusher Assembly Storage Frame for Easier Product Retrieval

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Solution Overview

Problem

Inefficient retrieval of products from storage systems, particularly in large storage centers, due to the need for physical proximity and repetitive manual effort, which can lead to strain and injury.

Innovation Solution

A storage system with a frame and a mover assembly that includes a pusher element and support member, allowing unit loads to be moved from a rearward to a forward position on a support surface, reducing the effort required for product retrieval by enabling single lifting and pushing operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If products are stored in a three-dimensional array on racks or shelves, then storage capacity is improved, but product retrieval becomes labor-intensive and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capacityVSAvoidproduct retrieval
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by introducing a movable shelf system where shelves can be automatically repositioned along vertical rails. This allows the storage structure to dynamically adapt to retrieval needs, automatically bringing products from higher shelves down to accessible positions, thereby maintaining high storage capacity while eliminating the labor-intensive nature of manual retrieval.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If users manually locate and remove containers from shelves, then product retrieval is achieved, but repetitive strain and potential injury occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct retrievalVSAvoiduser strain and injury
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements the self-service principle through an automated retrieval mechanism where the system itself performs the work of bringing products to users. The movable shelves automatically descend or reposition containers to an accessible position without requiring users to physically reach, climb, or manually handle heavy items, thereby eliminating repetitive strain and injury risks while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Quantity of substance

If large storage centers include thousands of containers, then storage capacity is improved, but retrieval efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capacityVSAvoidretrieval efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the large storage center into multiple modular rack units, each equipped with independent movable shelf mechanisms. This segmentation allows parallel operation of multiple retrieval points simultaneously, enabling high-volume storage while maintaining high retrieval efficiency through distributed, concurrent access across multiple modular sections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS7993088B2Storage system having a dynamic support of moving elements and a pusher assembly carried by a frame
Publication Date: 2011.08.09 KROGER THE
  • US7993088B2 patent drawing
  • US7993088B2 patent drawing
  • US7993088B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A storage system for storing products is provided that includes a frame having a first side and a second side opposite the first side and a dynamic support carried by the frame. A mover assembly is carried by the frame and is configured to engage an area of a product at rest on the dynamic support. The mover assembly moves the product along the dynamic support relative to the frame from a first location near the first side to a second location near the second side.