Robotic storage system and method of providing such robotic storage system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular building systems lack the ability to efficiently reconfigure and transport rooms or properties to different locations while optimizing storage density, as they often require fixed arrangements and lack flexible access to storage spaces.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable modular building system utilizing a framework with perpendicular rails and robotic load handling devices that allow containers with various functions to be stacked and rearranged, enabling easy transportation and storage, with each container supporting the next, and a robotic storage system for efficient storage of associated items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If containers are stacked in fixed arrangements for storage, then structural stability is improved, but reconfigurability and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic stacking system where containers can be moved between different stack positions using robotic load handling devices. The system transitions from static fixed arrangements to dynamic reconfigurable arrangements, allowing containers to be relocated based on storage needs while maintaining structural stability through controlled manipulation by automated devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is divided into discrete container units that can be independently handled and repositioned. Each container serves as a separate module that can be stacked, unstacked, and relocated without affecting the entire storage structure, enabling flexible reconfiguration while maintaining overall system stability through modular design.
2Ease of operation
If access points are added for user convenience, then ease of operation is improved, but storage density deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs robotic load handling devices that autonomously retrieve containers and deliver them to access points without requiring manual intervention or permanent access corridors. Users can access stored items through automated request systems, and the robotic devices handle all retrieval operations, eliminating the need for traditional access pathways while maintaining user convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
Robotic load handling devices serve as intermediaries between the stacked containers and users. These devices operate on overhead rails and transport containers from storage positions to designated access points, mediating the retrieval process and eliminating the need for direct user access to stacked containers, thereby maximizing storage density while preserving accessibility.
3Area of stationary object
If robotic load handling devices operate on overhead rails, then space utilization is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic load handling devices are designed with universal functionality to perform multiple operations: traveling along overhead rails, lifting and lowering containers, transporting them horizontally, and placing them in various stack positions. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be multiple separate systems into a single versatile device, managing complexity while maximizing space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges vertical and horizontal transport functions into a single robotic device that operates on overhead rails. The load handler combines lifting mechanisms, horizontal propulsion, and container manipulation capabilities in one integrated unit, reducing the number of separate systems needed and optimizing the use of overhead space for both storage and transport operations.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A modular building system or storage system is described. The system comprises a number of stacks 110 of containers 1 as shown in Figure 2, the stacks 110 being positioned within a frame structure comprising uprights and a horizontal grid disposed above the stacks 110, the grid comprising substantially perpendicular rails 74a, 74b on which load handling devices 310 can run. Containers 1 having functions associated with a number of residential or commercial uses are moved in to and out of the stacks 110 by the robotic handling devices running on the grid. The containers 1 disposed in the stacks 110 are selected by function on demand by a user. In this way the building is reconfigurable to take in to account required uses.