Robotic Container Handler With Dual Manipulators For Consolidated Storage

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current automated storage and retrieval systems face inefficiencies in handling and transporting consolidated delivery containers, requiring resource-intensive and time-consuming processes for storage and retrieval.

Innovation Solution

A robotic container handler with a displacement mechanism and manipulators that allow for independent control of container connections and movements, enabling efficient handling and transportation of delivery containers within storage containers, utilizing a conveyor system to streamline the process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional container handling vehicles are used to retrieve and transport storage containers, then the basic storage and retrieval function is achieved, but the process becomes resource-intensive and time-consuming when handling consolidated delivery containers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage and retrieval efficiencyVSAvoidtime for handling consolidated containers

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the container handling process by introducing a specialized robotic handler with multiple independent manipulators that can simultaneously access and manipulate multiple containers. The robotic handler divides the work of retrieving consolidated containers from storage columns, allowing parallel processing that reduces overall handling time compared to conventional single-vehicle operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The robotic container handler performs preliminary actions by positioning multiple manipulators in advance to simultaneously engage with containers in consolidated stacks. The system prepares the retrieval operation by pre-positioning the robotic arm and couplers before the actual container movement begins, enabling faster processing of consolidated deliveries without sequential operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If conventional container handling vehicles with single manipulators are used, then the device structure is simpler, but the ability to handle consolidated delivery containers efficiently is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontainer handling capacityVSAvoidrobotic handler structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges multiple manipulator functions into a single robotic container handler platform. The handler combines several couplers and manipulators that can operate simultaneously or independently, consolidating what would traditionally require multiple separate handling vehicles into one integrated system, thereby increasing handling capacity while managing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The robotic container handler is designed as a universal platform capable of performing multiple functions: retrieving individual containers, handling consolidated stacks, transporting containers between locations, and interfacing with different conveyor systems. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace multiple specialized vehicles, improving productivity despite increased structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Extent of automation

If manual or conventional automated processes are used for consolidated container delivery, then resource usage is high, but the automation level is lower

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontainer handling automationVSAvoidenergy for container handling

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The robotic container handler operates autonomously to retrieve, transport, and deposit containers without human intervention. The system self-manages the complex coordination of multiple manipulators, couplers, and conveyor interfaces, achieving high automation levels. The handler independently positions itself, engages containers, and coordinates with the conveyor system, reducing the need for external resource coordination while managing energy consumption through efficient automated operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20250011081A1Robotic container handler, an access and distribution station, a storage and retrieval system and a method thereof

Publication Date: 2025.01.09 AUTOSTORE TECH AS

AI summary

A robotic container handler includes a displacement mechanism, a first manipulator, and a second manipulator. The displacement mechanism has a vertical centre plane. The first manipulator includes a first inner end coupled to the displacement mechanism at a first side of the vertical center plane, and a first outer end fixed to a first coupler allowing releasable connection to a container. The second manipulator includes a second inner end coupled to the displacement mechanism at a second side of the vertical center plane opposite of the first side, and a second outer end fixed to a second coupler allowing releasable connection to the container. The displacement mechanism is configured to move the first and second couplers parallel to the vertical center plane.