Variable Height Bin Storage for Robotic Inventory Dispensary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inventory management systems lack efficient random-access capabilities and variable bin height configurations, limiting their flexibility and space utilization in storing and dispensing multiple product items.
Innovation Solution
A robotic inventory dispensary system with random-access functionality allows for arbitrary storage and retrieval of product items from variable-height bins, enabling prioritization schemes and automated replenishment and purge operations, along with multi-pick fulfillment and bin compression to optimize storage space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If bins of fixed height are used in the inventory storage unit, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but space utilization is reduced when storing products of varying sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements variable-height bins that can be dynamically adjusted to different heights based on product requirements. The bins are configured with adjustable height mechanisms allowing them to adapt to products of varying sizes, thereby optimizing space utilization in the inventory storage unit while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the height parameter of bins to optimize storage space. By allowing bins to have variable heights rather than fixed heights, the system can accommodate products of different sizes more efficiently, reducing wasted space in the inventory storage unit while keeping the overall structure relatively simple
2Adaptability or versatility
If arbitrary storage locations are assigned to product items, then random-access capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal storage location system where any bin can store any product type. The system uses standardized bin interfaces and a centralized control system that can manage and track products at any location, enabling random access while maintaining manageable complexity through uniform design principles and automated management
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical location management with an automated control system. The controller system electronically tracks and manages arbitrary storage locations, eliminating the need for complex mechanical positioning mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full random-access capability
3Volume of stationary object
If variable bin height is implemented, then space utilization is optimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the inventory storage unit into multiple independent bins with variable heights. Each bin can be independently adjusted to the required height, allowing flexible space optimization without requiring a complex centralized adjustment mechanism. This segmentation approach distributes the complexity across multiple simple, identical modules
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements variable height as a changeable parameter for each bin. By making height an adjustable parameter rather than a fixed dimension, the system optimizes space utilization for different product sizes while using standardized bin designs that keep the overall device complexity manageable through repetition of simple modular units
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a robotic system for maintaining product inventory and dispensing products upon request from a customer or other user. Product items are stored in an inventory storage unit (ISU), one item per bin. Controller logic allows items to be stored in, and retrieved from, arbitrarily-assigned storage locations. The bins hang on rails within drawers. Configuration of the rails facilitates bins of variable height.