Van Cargo Docking Layout Above Wheel Wells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing van cargo systems are limited by the available floor space due to wheel wells, complicating the movement and selection of containers or trolleys, and there is a need for a system that optimizes the number of containers or trolleys transported while facilitating easy access and removal.
Innovation Solution
A van cargo management system with automated docking stations and motorized mechanisms that lift containers or trolleys above the wheel wells, allowing for secure storage and easy access through a central corridor, and utilizing electronic identifiers for controlled retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If containers or trolleys are stored on the floor of the cargo area, then they are easily accessible, but the available storage space is limited by wheel wells and floor geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from two-dimensional floor storage to three-dimensional storage by utilizing vertical space above the wheel wells. Containers are stored in docking stations positioned along the side walls, extending upward from the floor, thereby maximizing the use of the cargo volume that was previously inaccessible due to wheel well obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
Automated mechanisms serve as intermediaries between the containers stored in docking stations and the loading/unloading corridor. These mechanisms automatically retrieve containers from elevated positions and deliver them to the corridor, eliminating the need for manual retrieval from difficult-to-reach locations while maintaining ease of operation.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple trolleys are closely packed to maximize storage capacity, then the number of containers transported is optimized, but the complexity of shuffling them to access selected trolleys increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated mechanisms enable self-service operation where the system automatically retrieves and delivers containers to the loading/unloading corridor without requiring manual shuffling or repositioning by operators. The mechanisms handle all container manipulation tasks autonomously, reducing operational complexity despite high storage density.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical shuffling operations are replaced with automated mechanisms that use controlled motion and positioning systems to retrieve containers directly from their stored positions. This substitution eliminates the need for complex manual shuffling sequences while maintaining efficient access to any container in the densely packed docking stations.
3Ease of operation
If trolleys are removed from the van to allow shuffling, then access to remaining trolleys is improved, but the number of trips and time required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated mechanisms enable continuous operation where containers are retrieved and delivered without interruption. The system maintains continuous flow of container retrieval operations, eliminating the stop-start nature of manual shuffling and removal operations, thereby reducing total time while maintaining ease of access.
Solution Approach 2:
Containers are pre-positioned in docking stations along the side walls before the loading/unloading process begins. This preliminary arrangement allows the automated mechanisms to retrieve containers directly from their stored positions without requiring intermediate shuffling or repositioning steps, reducing overall operation time while maintaining systematic access.
Data Source
AI summary
A row of docking stations to stow containers or trolleys is provided along at least one side of a van cargo storage area and a corridor for loading and unloading containers or trolleys individually or in groups from the rear of the van is provided. Preferably, the docking stations are automated. Interference with the storage and removal of containers or trolleys by the wheel wells of the vans or other vehicles is eliminated. Motorized mechanisms capture and lift the containers or trolleys above the level of the wheel wells for stowage in the docking stations to maximize the available storage area beyond that available on the floor of the cargo area. Individual containers or trolleys may be maintained in docking stations until needed.