Stacked Disk Storage Layout for Compact Item Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing item storage and retrieval systems are inefficient in space utilization, limited by the size and shape of items, and slow due to large footprints and moving parts, restricting the number and variety of items that can be stored and retrieved.
Innovation Solution
A stacked circular disk arrangement where items are stored at computed locations on rotating disks, allowing optimal space allocation and access through aligned slots, eliminating size and shape restrictions, and utilizing a computer system to manage item positioning and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If traditional shelf or slot storage systems are used, then item storage is simple and accessible, but space utilization is inefficient and device footprint is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional shelf/slot storage to a three-dimensional stacked disk configuration. Multiple disks are vertically stacked with items stored on the surfaces of these disks, utilizing the vertical dimension to increase storage capacity without proportionally increasing the device footprint. The access slots provide vertical pathways through the stacked disks, enabling retrieval from multiple levels simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system incorporates rotatable disks that can dynamically reposition items between storage positions and access points. This dynamic rotation mechanism allows the same physical space to serve multiple storage locations at different times, effectively increasing the usable storage volume without expanding the device's external dimensions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed shelves or slots are used for storage, then item retrieval is straightforward, but the system is limited by item size and shape compatibility
Solution Approach 1:
Each disk surface provides a unique local storage environment with varying radial and angular positions. Items can be placed at specific locations on the disk surface that match their dimensions and shape requirements. The access slots are positioned to accommodate different item types, allowing each location to be optimized for specific item characteristics rather than requiring all items to conform to a single fixed geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The circular disk surfaces serve multiple storage functions simultaneously, accommodating items of varying sizes, shapes, and orientations. The same disk structure can store different types of items at different positions, and the rotation mechanism universally accesses all positions regardless of item characteristics, making the system adaptable to diverse item types.
3Speed
If traditional storage systems with moving parts are used, then item access is possible, but retrieval speed is slow due to large device size
Solution Approach 1:
By stacking disks vertically, the system reduces the horizontal footprint while maintaining multiple storage positions. The vertical arrangement with central access slots allows retrieval mechanisms to access items from multiple disks simultaneously through the same vertical pathway, reducing the distance travel required compared to horizontal expansion and thereby increasing retrieval speed without proportionally increasing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable disks enable dynamic repositioning of items to optimal access positions. Items can be rotated into alignment with access slots quickly, and multiple disks can rotate independently to bring multiple items to access points simultaneously, increasing retrieval throughput speed while maintaining a compact footprint.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure includes an item storage and retrieval device comprising one or more stacked circular disks, each disk having a slot on its radius to the center and rotating on a central column such that, when slots on higher disks are aligned, a target disk may be accessed below for item storage or retrieval; which device may further comprise a disk item access unit for placement, orientation, and retrieval; which device may further comprise one or more RFID readers; and which device may further comprise a system and interface for managing and optimizing item storage to and retrieval from stacked circular disks.