Variable Distance Lifting Frame for Automated Storage Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated storage and retrieval systems face complexity and inefficiencies in handling storage elements, including improper loading, overfilled containers, and loose items that cause handling issues and prevent secure gripping.
Innovation Solution
An assembly comprising a base body connected to a lifting device with a variable distance lifting frame and engagement means, allowing for optimized vertical size adjustment and immobilization of loose items, reducing dead volume and improving handling versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a fixed lifting frame is used in prior art container handling vehicles, then the structure is simple, but the vertical distance between lifting frame and base body cannot be adjusted, resulting in dead volume and reduced storage efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting frame is made movable relative to the base body through a lifting mechanism, allowing the vertical distance between them to be dynamically adjusted. This enables optimization of storage efficiency by reducing dead volume while maintaining operational simplicity through a single adjustable degree of freedom.
2Productivity
If standard storage columns are used, then the system is standardized, but the vertical size of goods holders cannot be optimized, leading to wasted space
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting frame's vertical position can be dynamically adjusted to match different goods holder sizes, allowing standard storage columns to accommodate variable vertical dimensions. This provides adaptability to different storage needs while maintaining standardized column structures.
3Reliability
If loose items are present in storage containers, then storage flexibility is maintained, but handling reliability is reduced due to item displacement during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The base body is positioned to contact and immobilize loose items before the lifting operation begins. This preliminary stabilization action prevents item displacement during subsequent handling and transport, ensuring handling reliability while allowing flexible storage configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly is for handling goods holders, such as storage containers, storage trays, and/or storage pallets, of an automated storage and retrieval system. The assembly includes a base body, a lifting frame, a gripper, and at least one connecting element. The base body is for connection to a lifting device for vertical transportation of the goods holders in a storage column. The lifting frame has a central opening, and is arranged at a vertical distance below said base body. The gripper is associated with the lifting frame and for engaging with the goods holder. The at least one connecting element is for connecting the lifting frame and the base body. The vertical distance between the lifting frame and the base body is variable.