Smart Rack Transport for Rectangular Prisms Without Shuttle Space
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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, which are prone to failures and require significant empty space for operation.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of smart racks with rack actuators and processing circuitry that allow for modular superstructures to move rectangular prisms directly without automated shuttles, using mechanically actuatable arms and motors, and a power distribution system with smart rack switch circuits for efficient communication and power transfer among racks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If automated shuttles and electronically-driven components are used for storage and retrieval, then the system can operate in multi-dimensional spaces, but the design becomes complex and construction time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronically-driven components and automated shuttles with a simpler mechanically actuatable arm system. The arm, connected to a rack actuator via a connector pin moving along grooves, provides direct mechanical manipulation of rectangular prisms without requiring complex electronic control systems, thereby reducing design and construction complexity while maintaining multi-dimensional space operation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the storage and retrieval function into modular smart racks that can be independently controlled. Each rack has its own actuator system, allowing localized operation rather than requiring a centralized complex shuttle system to traverse the entire multi-dimensional space, thus reducing overall system complexity
2Extent of automation
If automated shuttles are used for transporting rectangular prisms, then storage and retrieval can be automated, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simpler, more cost-effective mechanically actuatable arms instead of expensive automated shuttles. These arms can be manufactured more economically using basic mechanical components like lead screws, sliders, and rotational joints, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while still achieving full automation of storage and retrieval operations
Solution Approach 2:
The smart rack system performs its own storage and retrieval operations through locally mounted actuators that directly manipulate rectangular prisms without requiring external shuttle systems. This self-service capability eliminates the need for costly centralized automated transportation infrastructure
3Productivity
If automated shuttles operate in the superstructure, then rectangular prisms can be moved between racks, but significant empty space is required for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the transportation function directly into each rack by mounting actuators and arms on the rack structure itself. This eliminates the need for separate shuttle vehicles and their associated empty space requirements, as the racks themselves perform the manipulation operations right at their locations, maximizing space utilization
4Area of stationary object
If mechanically actuatable arms are used instead of automated shuttles, then space efficiency improves, but the system requires precise mechanical control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a connector pin as an intermediary element that moves along predefined grooves on the swing plate. This intermediary mechanism translates simple rotational motion of the swing plate into precise linear positioning of the arm, achieving accurate mechanical control through geometric constraints rather than complex control systems
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
This solution enables more efficient use of space, reduces manufacturing costs, and enhances the speed of ingress and egress of rectangular prisms by allowing them to traverse the superstructure directly, while minimizing reliance on automated shuttles and reducing system failures.
Implementation Method 1
the linear motor comprises an actuator pin moveable along the first groove
Implementation Method 2
a slider movably disposed on a lead screw
Implementation Method 3
the rotary motor is configured to cause a rotational motion of the arm relative to the slider
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses and computer program products for movement of rectangular prisms in a multi-dimensional space are provided.