Smart Rack Modular Superstructure for Shuttle-Free Prism Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage and retrieval systems for rectangular prisms in multi-dimensional spaces face challenges such as complex design and construction times, high manufacturing costs, and inefficient use of space due to reliance on automated shuttles and electronically-driven components, leading to increased failure rates and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of smart racks with rack actuators and processing circuitry that allow for the movement of rectangular prisms within a modular superstructure, enabling direct traversal and efficient use of space, with each smart rack being individually powered and controllable for coordinated movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If automated shuttles and electronically-driven components are used for storage and retrieval, then movement capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronically-driven automated shuttles with a simpler mechanical system consisting of smart racks with integrated actuators. Each smart rack contains a actuator that directly moves rectangular prisms between storage locations, eliminating the need for separate automated shuttles and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining movement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into modular smart racks that can independently store and move rectangular prisms. Each smart rack is a self-contained unit with its own actuator and control circuitry, allowing the system to be scaled and configured flexibly without requiring complex centralized control mechanisms
2Productivity
If automated shuttles are used for rectangular prism transport, then movement efficiency is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the storage function and movement function into a single integrated smart rack unit. The actuator is mounted directly on the smart rack, combining what would traditionally be separate components (storage structure and transport mechanism) into one compact unit, thereby reducing the space required for automated shuttles and their associated infrastructure
3Extent of automation
If electronically-driven components are used, then automation level is improved, but failure rate increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each smart rack is equipped with its own actuator and processing circuitry, making it a self-contained unit that can autonomously perform storage and retrieval operations. This distributed architecture reduces reliance on complex centralized electronic control systems and automated shuttles, potentially improving reliability by eliminating single points of failure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The smart rack system enhances space utilization and movement efficiency, reducing reliance on automated shuttles and minimizing space requirements while providing a scalable and low-power control architecture for seamless rectangular prism movement.
Implementation Method 1
a slider movably disposed on a lead screw
Implementation Method 2
the smart rack comprises a linear motor configured to exert a linear motion
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses and computer program products for movement of rectangular prisms in a multi-dimensional space are provided.