Shuttle Vertical Coupling for Automated Storage Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated storage systems face inefficiencies due to stacker cranes moving along predetermined paths, leading to waiting times and accumulation of goods, especially when handling multiple orders simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a shuttle in an automated storage system that moves vertically along rack supports, allowing for flexible paths and efficient storage or retrieval of storage aids by coupling to adjacent rack supports, rotating, and moving along the longitudinal axis, thereby increasing throughput and reducing waiting times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If stacker cranes move along predetermined paths to store and retrieve goods, then the storage system can operate automatically, but waiting times increase and throughput decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, predetermined path system into a dynamic one where shuttles can自主选择 (self-select) their paths. The shuttles are no longer constrained to fixed routes but can dynamically adjust their trajectories based on real-time conditions, allowing them to optimize their paths and avoid waiting times, thereby resolving the contradiction between automation and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the storage system into multiple independent shuttles that operate autonomously. Instead of a single centralized stacker crane, multiple shuttles can simultaneously access different storage locations, segmenting the workload and eliminating the bottleneck effect that causes waiting times, thus improving throughput while maintaining automation.
2Device complexity
If stacker cranes follow fixed routes to handle multiple orders, then system operation is simplified, but goods accumulation occurs and speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixed routes to dynamic adaptive paths. Shuttles can now adjust their routes in real-time based on current storage needs and traffic conditions, preventing goods accumulation at specific locations and maintaining high handling speeds while keeping system operation manageable through centralized control.
3Productivity
If shuttles take direct paths to storage spaces, then storage speed increases, but space requirements for maneuvering increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the third dimension (vertical space) by having shuttles couple to rack supports at different heights. Instead of requiring additional horizontal maneuvering space, the system employs vertical coupling points on the rack supports, allowing shuttles to access storage spaces directly from multiple levels without needing extra ground space for turning or positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of storing or retrieving storage aids with a shuttle in a rack of an automated storage system, the rack including several rack supports placed on a ground and several storage levels including storage spaces, includes moving underneath the rack with the shuttle; a vertical ascent of the shuttle on adjacent rack supports; storing the storage aid from the shuttle into the storage space or retrieving the storage aid from the storage space onto the shuttle; and a vertical descent of the shuttle characterized by: moving out of the rack and/or moving in under the rack on the ground with a direction of travel along the longitudinal axis of the shuttle; rotating the shuttle by 90 degrees; coupling the shuttle by approaching only two of the adjacent rack supports, with the longitudinal axis of the shuttle positioned in parallel to a rack front.