Vertical Pallet Storage With Chain Accumulation for Workflow Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallet storage systems in the automotive industry do not effectively decouple the workflow between loading and unloading stations, limiting flexibility and efficiency in storing and conveying piece goods.
Innovation Solution
A vertical pallet storage system with motor-driven chains allows pallets to be stored and conveyed in intermediate positions, using stoppers or pallet collisions to accumulate pallets at any location, and incorporates mechanisms like chain combs, cam mechanisms, and locking systems to control pallet movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pallets are stored in intermediate positions using stoppers or pallet collisions, then workflow decoupling between loading and unloading stations is achieved, but device complexity increases due to additional stopping mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pallets themselves as stoppers for each other, eliminating the need for external stopping mechanisms. When a pallet reaches its destination, it automatically stops by colliding with the next pallet in line, creating a self-regulating accumulation system that simplifies the overall device while enabling workflow decoupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces stoppers as intermediary elements that facilitate pallet accumulation at intermediate positions. These stoppers act as mediators between the continuous chain movement and the requirement for pallet storage, enabling workflow decoupling without requiring complex control systems.
2Productivity
If a motor-driven chain continuously circulates pallets, then productivity increases, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chain is designed to circulate continuously in one direction driven by a motor, but pallets are selectively accumulated and stopped at intermediate positions using stoppers or pallet collisions. This periodic accumulation and release creates a rhythm that maintains continuous circulation while reducing overall energy consumption compared to constant high-speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts pallet movement by allowing accumulation at various positions along the chain. The chain maintains continuous motion for productivity, while pallets are selectively held or released based on workflow requirements, optimizing the balance between continuous circulation and energy consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pallets can be accumulated at any location, then flexibility and storage efficiency improve, but control difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the pallets themselves as indicators and stoppers. When a pallet reaches its accumulation point, it automatically stops by colliding with the next pallet or a stopper element. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for complex sensors and control systems to detect and measure pallet positions, maintaining high flexibility while simplifying control.
Solution Approach 2:
Stoppers and pallet collisions serve as intermediary mechanisms that simplify position control. Instead of requiring complex detection systems, the physical presence of stoppers and the collision between pallets provide straightforward, reliable signals for accumulation and release, reducing control difficulty while maintaining accumulation flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a vertical pallet storage system, particularly for use in body shop construction in the automotive industry, for conveying and storing piece goods. Pallets can be stored in intermediate positions on both the upwardly and downwardly moving chain strands.