Storage Mobile Object Control for In-Storage Maintenance Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

The utilization rate of mobile objects in delivery systems is reduced due to maintenance needs, which can render them unable to move and interfere with operational mobile objects.

Innovation Solution

A management apparatus and method that includes a controller to manage storage mobile objects, instructing them to transport and maintain first mobile objects while storing second mobile objects, thereby improving the utilization rate of mobile objects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If mobile objects are stored for maintenance, then the mobile objects can be maintained and repaired, but the utilization rate of mobile objects decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance capabilityVSAvoidutilization rate
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the storage function and maintenance function into a single integrated storage facility. Mobile objects are stored in a controlled environment that simultaneously provides maintenance capabilities, eliminating the need for separate storage and maintenance locations. This allows mobile objects to be maintained while stored, improving both reliability and utilization rate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs maintenance actions on mobile objects while they are in storage, before they are needed for operation. This preliminary maintenance ensures that mobile objects are in optimal condition when deployed, reducing downtime and improving utilization rate without compromising reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If mobile objects are kept in storage, then they can be protected from damage, but operational mobile objects are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection from damageVSAvoidnumber of operational mobile objects
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage facility integrates protection functions with maintenance capabilities, allowing mobile objects to be protected from damage while simultaneously receiving maintenance. This dual-function approach ensures that mobile objects remain operational and ready for deployment, increasing the number of usable mobile objects without compromising their protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If maintenance is performed on mobile objects, then the mobile objects remain functional, but time is lost during maintenance processes

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidmaintenance downtime
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables continuous useful action by performing maintenance on mobile objects while they are in storage, rather than taking them out of service. Mobile objects undergo maintenance activities such as charging, cleaning, and inspection during their storage period, ensuring they remain functional without experiencing downtime that would reduce utilization rate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

Maintenance activities are performed in advance while mobile objects are in storage, before they are needed for operation. This preliminary maintenance ensures that mobile objects are fully charged, cleaned, and inspected before deployment, eliminating the need for time-consuming maintenance interruptions during operational periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12236391B2Management apparatus, management method and mobile object
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US12236391B2 patent drawing
  • US12236391B2 patent drawing
  • US12236391B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A management apparatus includes a controller configured to manage a storage mobile object that is configured to store a stored mobile object. The stored mobile object includes a first mobile object that is stored in the storage mobile object and a second mobile object that is not stored in the storage mobile object. The controller is configured to instruct the storage mobile object to transport the first mobile object while maintaining the first mobile object.