Rotating Container Handling Layout for Parallel Packing Stations
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage systems face bottlenecks at packing stations due to the sequential delivery of storage containers, leading to delays in the retrieval and packing of goods, as they can only handle one container at a time.
Innovation Solution
A rotating device with multiple holding devices connected via a central frame and drive system, allowing for independent or dependent rotation, enables simultaneous handling and processing of multiple storage containers, optimizing the retrieval and delivery process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single storage container is delivered to the packing station at a time, then the system structure remains simple, but the productivity is reduced due to sequential processing
Solution Approach 1:
The packing station is divided into multiple workstations arranged circumferentially around a central axis. Each workstation can independently receive and process storage containers simultaneously, transforming a single-point sequential process into a multi-point parallel process, thereby increasing productivity without requiring complex coordination mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from linear sequential delivery to radial circumferential arrangement. Multiple holding devices are positioned at different angular positions around the central axis, allowing simultaneous access from multiple directions. This spatial dimensionality change enables parallel processing while maintaining a relatively simple central delivery mechanism
2Productivity
If multiple holding devices are added to process containers simultaneously, then the productivity increases, but the space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of expanding the system horizontally with multiple linear delivery tracks, the holding devices are arranged vertically and circumferentially around a central axis. This utilizes the vertical dimension and radial space, allowing multiple processing stations to be compactly arranged in a circular footprint rather than requiring linear expansion
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple holding devices share a common central delivery mechanism and coordinate system. The drive mechanism and control system are consolidated at the center, serving all circumferential workstations. This merging of shared resources reduces the overall space requirement compared to having separate independent delivery systems for each workstation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a rotating device (1) for receiving and handling goods or products, where the device (1) comprises a number of holding devices (5) designed for receiving storage devices (4), where the holding devices (5) are rotatable about a central axis in the rotating device by means of a common drive arrangement, with the result that at least one holding device (5) with a received storage device (4) is made available to an operator, while at least one other holding device (5) is made available for receiving a storage device (4).