Storage Rack Virtual Placement Algorithm for Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods struggle to efficiently store storage objects of different sizes and types in a storage rack, leading to unfavorable filling situations that can prevent storage of additional objects due to suboptimal filling strategies.
Innovation Solution
A method involving assigning storage area segmentations with virtual storage locations, prioritizing rear locations, and updating electronic memory to reflect occupancy, ensuring efficient storage of diverse objects by considering future impacts on the storage strategy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If storage objects are placed in front storage locations first, then storage and retrieval operations are faster, but storage capacity is reduced because rear locations become inaccessible
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment of storage object dimensions and systematically places objects in rear storage locations first when space permits, preparing the storage configuration in advance to maintain both accessibility and capacity. The storage and retrieval machine evaluates available space and object characteristics before making placement decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage strategy dynamically adapts based on the current fill level of the storage rack. When the rack is not full, objects are placed in rear locations to maximize capacity. When the rack approaches capacity, the system switches to placing objects in front locations to maintain accessibility and operation speed.
2Productivity
If storage areas are filled to maximize current capacity, then storage efficiency increases, but future storage flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment of incoming storage objects' dimensions and characteristics before placement. By evaluating object size, shape, and future storage needs in advance, the system makes informed decisions about optimal placement locations that balance current efficiency with future flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage and retrieval machine continuously monitors the fill level and configuration of the storage rack, using this feedback to adjust placement strategies. When the rack reaches certain fill thresholds, the system modifies its behavior to preserve accessibility and accommodate future diverse storage objects.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the storage rack structure is made more complex to accommodate different object types, then adaptability increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage rack uses a universal shelving structure with standardized storage locations that can accommodate multiple types of storage objects. Rather than creating specialized structures for different object types, the system makes the existing structure multi-functional through intelligent placement algorithms and the storage and retrieval machine's ability to handle various object dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves adaptability by changing operational parameters (placement strategies, access patterns, storage configurations) rather than changing the physical structure. The storage and retrieval machine adjusts its operation based on object parameters such as size, weight, and shape, allowing a fixed structure to serve variable needs.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for storing a plurality of storage objects (4, 4a, 4b) of different storage-object types in a storage rack unit (3a, 3b), wherein a plurality of storage-region segmentations (S 1...S6) having a plurality of virtual placement locations (P', P1'..P5') for the storage objects (4, 4a, 4b) are assigned to a storage region (B, B1..B3). When storing a storage object (4, 4a, 4b), a suitable virtual placement location (P', P1'..P5') in the storage-region segmentations (S 1...S6) is selected and the storage object (4, 4a, 4b) is stored on the assigned physical placement location (P, P1...P5) of the storage region (B, B1...B3). Subsequently, the virtual placement locations (P', P1'..P5') in the storage-region segmentations (S1...S6) assigned to the storage region (B, B1..B3) are limited to virtual placement locations (P', P1'..P5') which allow storage of a further storage object (4, 4a, 4b). The invention also relates to a rack storage system (1) for carrying out said method.