Automated Storage System with Variable Vertical Pitch for Mixed Case Pallets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multilevel storage and retrieval systems in warehouses face inefficiencies due to underutilization of storage space, as goods do not occupy the entire allocated space, leading to reduced storage density.
Innovation Solution
An automated storage and retrieval system that includes autonomous transport vehicles and a structured architecture for mixed case pallet loads, allowing for dynamic allocation and sequencing of case units across multiple storage levels with varying shelf pitches, enabling efficient use of vertical and horizontal space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If goods are stored in storage spaces on each storage level with a transport vehicle disposed on that level having access to one level of storage spaces, then transport and retrieval operations are simplified, but storage density is reduced due to underutilization of storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables transport vehicles to access storage spaces across multiple vertical levels simultaneously by introducing intermediate transfer structures. This dimensional expansion from single-level to multi-level access allows the system to increase storage density without compromising operational simplicity, as vehicles can efficiently retrieve goods from different levels through the intermediate transfer mechanism
2Adaptability or versatility
If storage spaces are allocated for goods but goods do not occupy the entire storage space, then storage flexibility is maintained, but storage space utilization efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic storage space allocation where intermediate transfer structures and transport vehicles can adapt to different storage configurations. The system dynamically adjusts vehicle routes and transfer points based on the actual goods distribution, maintaining storage flexibility while maximizing space utilization by reducing empty space waste through optimized access patterns
Data Source
AI summary
A storage array in an automated storage and retrieval system includes storage spaces arrayed on racks along picking aisles, multiple level decks, where at least one deck communicates with each aisle, where the decks and aisles are configured to define a rolling surface for an autonomous transport vehicle at each level of the decks, racks along at least one aisle at each level are at multiple rack levels that are accessed from a respective rolling surface that is common to the multiple rack levels, and a vertical pitch between rack levels varies for a portion of a respective aisle, the vertical pitch between at least two rack levels of the portion of the respective aisle is related to another vertical pitch between at least two other rack levels of another aisle portion of the respective aisle so the vehicle effects multiple picks in ordered sequence in a common aisle pass.