Storage Rail Device Segmentation for Lifting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatic storage devices for load units in automated warehouses, such as drive-in racks, face issues with high manufacturing and assembly costs, reliability concerns due to complex kinematic mechanisms, and lateral contact between load units during lifting, which affects the integrity and movement of the units.
Innovation Solution
A compact storage device with a body equipped with wheels and two operating portions on opposite sides, utilizing second movement means to lift only the load unit and its supporting portions without lifting the frame, allowing orthogonal movement to prevent lateral contact and reduce stress on structural parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a complex kinematic mechanism is used to lift all masses involved (frame, platform, and load), then the lifting function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting function is segmented into two independent systems: (1) a simple carriage movement system that only moves the load vertically, and (2) a rack positioning system that moves the entire rack assembly. This segmentation eliminates the need for a complex kinematic mechanism to lift the entire rack, reducing device complexity while maintaining lifting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The complex kinematic mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler direct-lift system. The carriage is equipped with a simple lifting mechanism that only needs to handle the load and platform, while the rack remains stationary during the lifting operation. This extraction of the unnecessary complexity resolves the contradiction
2Power
If the kinematic mechanism lifts all masses including the frame, then the lifting function is performed, but the stresses on mechanical parts increase leading to reduced reliability and increased maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting operation is segmented so that only the necessary components (carriage and load) are subjected to lifting stresses. The rack frame remains stationary and is not subjected to repeated lifting stresses, thereby improving the reliability and durability of the mechanical parts
Solution Approach 2:
The carriage is designed as a replaceable, simpler component with a basic lifting mechanism. If wear or failure occurs, only the carriage needs to be replaced rather than the entire rack system, reducing maintenance costs and improving overall system reliability
3Ease of operation
If lifting occurs exclusively in a vertical direction, then the lifting operation is simple, but the load unit contacts adjacent load units causing integrity issues and unwanted movements
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting operation is extended from a purely vertical motion to include a horizontal dimension. The carriage is equipped with lateral movement capability that allows it to approach the storage position horizontally before depositing the load vertically. This dimensional change eliminates lateral contact with adjacent load units during the lifting operation
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~4A
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for the automatic storage of a load unit in a storage rail which can, for example, be a rail of an automated warehouse. The device according to the invention comprises a body provided with a plurality of wheels to allow translation of the device along a storage rail. First movement means are connected to the wheels to provide the motive power required for translation of the device. This device also comprises a pair of operating portions provided on opposite sides of the body with the object of defining supporting surfaces for the load unit. Second movement means are operatively connected to the operating portions to move them in relation to the body between a first and a second operating position respectively characteristic of the absence or presence of the load unit.