System and method of circulating a gas in an automated grid based storage and retrieval system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated storage and retrieval systems face challenges in providing a uniform environment for storage containers, particularly in the middle of the storage system, due to non-uniform airflow resulting in uneven temperature regulation and difficulty in distributing gases like nitrogen or fire suppression gases effectively.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a ventilation column with a fan and duct system beneath the storage stacks, utilizing inlets and under-stack voids to circulate gas uniformly across the storage columns, with adjustable inlet sizes and sensors for quality monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If gas is circulated from the periphery of the storage system, then the storage containers at the periphery receive adequate ventilation, but the storage containers in the middle of the system experience non-uniform airflow and insufficient temperature regulation
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation system is segmented into multiple independent ventilation columns distributed throughout the storage system, with each column serving a specific zone. This segmentation allows independent control and optimization of airflow to different areas, ensuring uniform temperature distribution throughout the entire storage system rather than relying on a single periphery-based circulation pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional periphery-based gas circulation to three-dimensional distribution by placing ventilation columns at multiple vertical levels and horizontal positions within the storage system. This dimensional expansion enables gas to be delivered directly to storage containers in the middle of the system, eliminating the non-uniform airflow problem caused by periphery-only circulation.
2Ease of operation
If a ventilation column is added to the storage system, then uniform gas distribution is achieved, but the system complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation column is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs gas distribution, temperature regulation, and ventilation functions. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated structure, the system achieves uniform gas distribution without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same infrastructure serves multiple purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The ventilation column utilizes the natural buoyancy and flow characteristics of gases to achieve self-regulating distribution patterns. The system leverages inherent physical principles rather than requiring complex active control mechanisms, allowing the ventilation column to automatically adapt to varying storage conditions while maintaining uniform gas distribution.
3Quantity of substance
If inlet size is increased to improve gas flow, then gas distribution improves, but the structural integrity and stability of the ventilation system may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The inlet structure is designed with locally optimized qualities where the inlet opening provides large cross-sectional area for high gas flow quantity, while the surrounding structural elements maintain appropriate thickness and reinforcement to preserve overall structural integrity. This local differentiation allows simultaneous achievement of high gas flow and structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The ventilation column incorporates composite construction with materials of different properties - the inlet portion uses materials optimized for gas flow (larger openings, smoother surfaces) while structural portions use materials optimized for strength and stability. This composite approach enables the system to achieve both high gas flow quantity and maintained structural integrity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures uniform gas distribution and temperature control, enhances cooling efficiency, and provides early fire detection and suppression by ensuring consistent airflow and gas concentration throughout the storage system.
Implementation Method 1
a fan (405) to circulate a gas along sides of the stacks (107) via the plurality of inlets (403), the under-stack void (402) and through the duct (406)
Data Source
AI summary
An automated grid based storage and retrieval system includes a framework structure and a plurality of storage containers. The framework structure includes upright members and a grid of horizontal rails provided at upper ends of the upright members. The framework structure defines a storage volume including a plurality of columns arranged in a grid pattern below the horizontal rails between the upright members. The plurality of storage containers are stacked vertically in stacks in the columns to provide a plurality of storage columns. An under-stack void extends beneath the stacks of storage containers. A plurality of inlets lead to the under-stack void between the stacks of storage containers. At least one column, which is empty of storage containers and arranged amongst the storage columns, provides a ventilation column. The ventilation column includes a fan. A plurality of duct walls surrounding the ventilation column define a duct having a first end adjacent the horizontal rails and a second end adjacent the under-stack void. The fan is arranged to circulate gas along sides of the stacks, via the plurality of inlets and the under-stack void, and through the duct.