Robotic Storage Assembly Tray Spacing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage devices lack efficient mechanisms for robotically depositing and retrieving items from a safe, particularly in a secure and organized manner.
Innovation Solution
A robotic storage assembly comprising a safe with a slidably coupled drawer, a control system, a storage unit with trays, a spacing unit, and a retrieval unit that selectively spaces and aligns trays to facilitate automated item retrieval and deposition, utilizing a combination of motors, gears, and a gripping unit for precise item handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a robotic storage assembly is implemented with multiple trays and spacing units, then automated item retrieval and deposition capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit is divided into multiple trays that can be independently spaced and positioned. Each tray can be selectively moved to create access pathways, allowing the robotic system to retrieve items from specific locations without moving entire storage structures. This segmentation enables automated operation while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacing unit dynamically adjusts the distance between trays based on retrieval requirements. When item retrieval is needed, the spacing unit creates gaps between trays to allow the robotic arm access. This dynamic adjustment enables automated retrieval without requiring permanent complex openings or fixed access points throughout the structure.
2Extent of automation
If trays are spaced apart to allow retrieval unit access, then automated retrieval capability is improved, but security of the safe is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The spacing between trays is dynamically adjusted only when retrieval operations are actively performed. During normal secure storage conditions, trays remain closely positioned to maintain structural integrity and security. When automated retrieval is initiated through authorized controls, the spacing unit temporarily creates access gaps, after which trays return to their secure closed configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacing unit acts as an intermediary mechanism between the secure enclosed storage environment and the robotic retrieval system. It provides controlled, temporary access pathways without requiring permanent openings in the safe structure, thus maintaining security while enabling automated retrieval capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trays are used to organize items, then storage organization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system uses multiple independent trays that can be individually positioned and spaced. Each tray can hold different types of items, allowing versatile organization. The segmentation into discrete, movable trays provides adaptability for various storage needs while keeping each individual tray relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple trays serve universal storage functions while also enabling specialized organization through their selective positioning and spacing capabilities. The same tray structure can accommodate different item types and configurations, providing multi-functionality that reduces overall system complexity compared to having dedicated storage structures for each item type.
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic storage assembly includes a safe that may a plurality of items. A drawer is slidably coupled to the safe. A control is coupled to the safe and the control may be manipulated. A storage unit is positioned within the safe to contain the plurality of items. The storage unit includes a plurality of trays. A spacing unit is positioned within the safe and the spacing unit engages the plurality of trays. The spacing unit selectively spaces the trays apart from each other. A retrieval unit is positioned within the safe. The retrieval unit is selectively positioned between the trays when the trays are spaced apart. Thus, the retrieval unit retrieves the items in the storage unit. The retrieval unit is selectively aligned with the drawer to deposit the items in the drawer. Thus, the items may be removed from the safe.