Automated Shelf Carrier Handling Device for High-Bay Warehouses
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing loading and unloading devices for shelves in high-bay warehouses are cumbersome, time-consuming, and dangerous for personnel, particularly when handling carrier elements like cheese boards, which require regular maintenance and replacement during the cheese maturing process.
Innovation Solution
A loading and unloading device with a second receiving device that allows for the automated removal and insertion of carrier elements, utilizing a support element that can be extended and retracted to pick up and place shelves without manual intervention, leveraging the drive of the first receiving device for cost-effectiveness and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling of carrier elements is used, then personnel can directly remove and insert shelves, but the process becomes cumbersome, time-consuming, and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a loading and unloading device as an intermediary mechanism between personnel and carrier elements. This device includes a receiving structure that automatically captures and holds carrier elements, eliminating the need for manual handling. The device acts as a mediator that performs the dangerous task of removing and inserting shelves at height, thereby protecting personnel from injury while maintaining operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading and unloading device is designed to perform tasks autonomously without requiring continuous manual intervention. The receiving structure automatically engages with carrier elements, and the system can independently complete the removal or insertion of shelves. This self-service capability reduces personnel exposure to hazardous conditions while maintaining operational effectiveness.
2Productivity
If manual removal and insertion of carrier elements is performed, then flexibility is maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The loading and unloading device serves as an automated intermediary that rapidly removes and inserts carrier elements without manual manipulation. The receiving structure is designed to quickly engage with carrier elements and extract them from shelves, significantly reducing the time required for these operations compared to manual handling methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated mechanical system. The loading and unloading device uses mechanical mechanisms to grasp, lift, and position carrier elements, eliminating the need for personnel to physically handle heavy shelves. This substitution dramatically increases operational speed and reduces labor requirements.
3Extent of automation
If a loading and unloading device with second receiving device is added, then automated handling of carrier elements is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The loading and unloading device is designed with multi-functionality to justify its complexity. The receiving structure can handle both load carriers and carrier elements, and the device can perform both loading and unloading operations. This universal design allows a single complex device to replace multiple simpler devices, ultimately reducing overall system complexity while achieving full automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated loading and unloading device. The first and second receiving structures are merged into one device, allowing it to handle both load carriers and carrier elements. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining automated functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device (10) has a front receiving unit (12) that comprises a supporting elements (18) for storing a load (14) to be loaded to or unloaded from the shelves (16). A rear receiving unit (26) has a supporting element (28) for extracting the load in the supporting elements of the front receiving unit. The rear receiving unit is connected to the front receiving unit, such that the supporting element is retracted and extended along a direction of travel by a drive (40). An independent claim is included for a sliding and lifting apparatus.