Split Storage Container Structure for Selective Product Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage containers in automated storage and retrieval systems face challenges in efficiently managing the movement and access of products, particularly in transitioning between stacked and split configurations, which affects the handling and retrieval efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A two-part storage container design with a base panel and four side panels that allows vertical movement between assembled and split configurations, enabling vertical separation of the upper and lower sections, facilitated by a gripper-operated interface and actuators at loading/unloading stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional single-piece storage container is used, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the container cannot be split for selective access to products at different heights
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is divided into multiple separable parts (base panel, side panels, top panels) that can be assembled and disassembled. This segmentation enables the container to transition between a closed stacked configuration for secure storage and an open split configuration for selective product access, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and operational versatility.
2Productivity
If the container is kept in a stacked closed configuration, then product security is maintained, but product access requires moving the entire container or all products above it
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs dynamic panels that can be selectively opened or closed based on operational needs. The side panels and top panels can be opened to access products at specific heights without moving the entire container or products above the accessed level, enabling efficient selective retrieval while maintaining security when closed.
3Ease of operation
If the container is split open for access, then product retrieval is facilitated, but the container loses its secure closed configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The container is segmented into a base panel and removable panels (side panels, top panels) that can be independently opened or closed. This allows the container to be split open for easy product access when needed, and then reassembled to restore secure closed configuration, maintaining both operational ease and storage reliability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a two-part container with movable sections is used, then selective access is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into simple segmented panels (base panel, side panels, top panels) that can be assembled and disassembled without complex mechanisms. This segmentation provides configuration flexibility for selective access while keeping the assembly mechanism relatively simple, balancing adaptability with manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a two part storage container (10) for storing a product item (80) in an automated storage and retrieval system (1). The storage container (10), in an assembled configuration, comprises a base panel (11) and four side panels (12) extending from the base panel (11). The base panel (11) and the four side panels (12) define a storage space. The storage container (10) has a top opening (13) to provide access to the storage space. The two parts of the storage container (10) comprise an upper container section (20) comprising at least two of the side panels (12a) and a lower container section (30) comprising at least the base panel (11). The upper container section (20) and the lower container section (30) are configured to allow vertical movement of the upper container section (20) relative to the lower container section (30). The storage container (10) is in a split configuration when the upper container section (20) is moved vertically relative to the lower container section (30).