Robotic Coupler Gripper for Automated Container Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated storage and retrieval systems face inefficiencies in handling consolidated delivery containers, particularly in minimizing the need for dedicated external areas for temporary storage and optimizing the handling of product items within these systems.
Innovation Solution
A coupler system with a gripping mechanism and actuator system for releasable connection to containers, allowing efficient handling and transfer of delivery containers between storage and retrieval systems, utilizing a robotic picking device to manage container movement and placement within the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional container handling vehicles with lifting devices are used, then containers can be raised and lowered in storage columns, but the system requires dedicated external areas for temporary storage of consolidated delivery containers
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler integrates the gripping mechanism and connection interface into a single unified device that combines container handling functions. The coupler frame with gripping elements merges the lifting and securing functions into one component that operates within the storage column structure, eliminating the need for separate external storage areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler is designed as a universal interface that can handle multiple container types and perform multiple operations (gripping, lifting, securing) within the storage system. The handle/connection device allows the same coupler structure to interface with different robotic picking devices while maintaining consistent container handling capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If container handling vehicles with complex lifting devices are used, then containers can be manipulated vertically, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex lifting device is extracted and replaced by a simpler coupler mechanism that interfaces directly with the storage column structure. The vertical manipulation capability is achieved through the coupler's connection to the column rather than through an integrated lifting device, simplifying the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler acts as an intermediary component between the container and the storage column/robotic system. Rather than requiring complex lifting devices integrated into the handling vehicle, the coupler provides a standardized interface that mediates the interaction, simplifying both the vehicle and column structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler includes a coupler frame, a handle, a first container gripper paddle, a second container gripper paddle, and an actuator system. The coupler frame includes a lower coupler frame face and an upper coupler frame face. The handle protrudes from the upper coupler frame face for releasable connection to an operative end of a robotic picking device. The first and second container gripper paddles are connected to the coupler frame for releasable connection to a container and arranged at opposite sides a centre plane oriented perpendicular to the lower coupler frame face. Each of the container gripper paddles includes a gripper protrusion located below the lower coupler frame face for insertion into a corresponding recess or aperture accessible within an inner volume of the container. The actuator system is for displacing the first and second container gripper paddles in opposite directions from the centre plane until the gripper protrusions have been removably inserted into the corresponding recesses or apertures.