A levelling assembly for a storage and retrieval system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage and retrieval systems face challenges in installing on uneven or sloping floors, as they require a level surface to function properly, and existing solutions for leveling are either complex or not suitable for large-scale adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A levelling assembly comprising a threaded elongate member, a threaded nut, and a floor rail with specific apertures and channels, allowing for fine adjustments by rotating the threaded elongate member, which can be easily implemented during system installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex existing leveling solutions are used, then leveling capability is achieved, but device complexity and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a floor rail component, a threaded elongate member (leveling bolt), and a threaded nut. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while being easy to manufacture and install separately, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded elongate member acts as an intermediary mechanism between the floor surface and the floor rail. By rotating this intermediate component, vertical adjustment is achieved without requiring complex motorized systems or specialized equipment, simplifying the overall leveling solution.
2Reliability
If complex existing leveling solutions are used, then leveling capability is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The floor rail is pre-configured with apertures and channels during manufacturing, and the threaded elongate member and nut are pre-assembled as a complete leveling mechanism. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly or specialized installation equipment, enabling quick installation by simply rotating the pre-assembled leveling bolt.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded elongate member with its external threads allows for self-contained adjustment without requiring additional tools or mechanisms. The operator can directly rotate the leveling bolt to achieve the desired floor rail height, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating time-consuming installation steps.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual rotation of threaded elongate member is used, then continuous adjustment precision is achieved, but adjustment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded elongate member converts rotational motion into precise linear displacement through its thread pitch. By changing the rotational parameter (number of rotations), continuous and precise vertical adjustment of the floor rail is achieved. The thread geometry provides mechanical advantage, allowing fine position control with relatively small rotational inputs.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual rotation of the threaded elongate member replaces complex motorized positioning systems. The mechanical thread mechanism provides inherent precision through its geometric relationship between rotation and linear displacement, eliminating the need for sensors, motors, or control systems while maintaining accurate positioning capability.
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
The levelling assembly provides a simple, cost-efficient, and quick solution for compensating floor irregularities, allowing for continuous adjustments and compatibility with existing storage and retrieval systems.
Implementation Method 1
a threaded elongate member, a threaded nut for engaging with the threaded elongate member... in response to a rotational force applied on the threaded elongate member, the floor rail is movable in vertical direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3a
Figure 3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a levelling assembly (10) for a storage and retrieval system (1) for storing goods holders (106). The assembly (10) comprises a threaded elongate member (12), a threaded nut (14) for engaging with the threaded elongate member (12) and a floor rail (16) for supporting upright members (102) of the storage and retrieval system (1). In a first state, the threaded elongate member (12) engages with the threaded nut (14) and is provided in a channel (20) of the floor rail (16) and rotationally immobilized relative the channel (20). In response to a rotational force applied on the threaded elongate member (12), the floor rail (16) is movable in vertical direction. The invention further relates to a method for taking up irregularities in a floor surface by means of the levelling assembly (10).