Storage Grid Configuration Encoding With Cell Type Deduplication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional storage solutions for automated storage and retrieval systems require inefficient data processing and transfer due to the assumption that each cell in the grid is in a unique state, leading to burdensome data handling in large grids with repetitive cell configurations.
Innovation Solution
A method for encoding and decoding the configuration of a storage grid by identifying and associating cell types based on matching parameters, reducing redundant data storage and transfer by using cell type identifiers and descriptors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If explicit recording of all cell parameters is used to maintain accurate grid state records, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of information increases due to redundant data storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges identical cell parameters by grouping cells with matching configurations into groups, where each group is represented by a single record containing the common parameters and a count of cells. This combining approach eliminates redundant storage of identical parameter values across multiple cells while preserving the complete state information of the grid.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal cell type definition that can represent multiple cells with identical or similar parameters. This cell type serves multiple functions: it defines the common configuration for a group of cells, enables efficient storage through parameter sharing, and maintains accuracy by allowing individual cell variations to be recorded as deviations from the type definition.
2Reliability
If all cell parameters are explicitly recorded for each cell, then reliability of grid state tracking is improved, but productivity of data processing deteriorates due to large data volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines parameter records for cells that share identical configurations into single aggregated records. This merging reduces the total number of records that need to be processed, transmitted, and stored, thereby improving data processing efficiency while maintaining complete and accurate representation of the grid state through the use of cell type references and deviation tracking.
3Measurement precision
If complete parameter sets are transferred for each cell to maintain accurate configuration records, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to extensive data transfer operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges configuration data by grouping cells with identical parameters and transferring a single consolidated record representing multiple cells. This approach dramatically reduces the volume of data that needs to be transmitted across the network while preserving complete configuration information through cell type definitions and individual cell deviation records, thereby reducing data transfer time significantly.
4Device complexity
If unique state assumption is made for each cell to simplify data structures, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of information increases due to inability to capture repetitive patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces cell types as universal templates that can represent multiple cells with identical or similar configurations. This universal approach captures repetitive patterns efficiently by defining once and referencing many, while still allowing individual cell variations to be recorded. The system maintains data structure simplicity through the use of type definitions and deviation tracking rather than requiring complex nested structures.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method for encoding a configuration of/for a storage grid of an automated storage and retrieval system, the method comprising: obtaining first and second raw configuration records corresponding to respective first and second cells of the storage grid and each including one or more respective parameters characterising the respective cell; based on the one or more parameters of the first raw configuration record matching the one or more parameters of the second raw configuration record, associating a cell type with the first and second cells; and creating for the first and second cells respective first and second encoded configuration records each indicative of the cell type.