Mobile storage system

The invention relates to a mobile storage system having a mobile container with an automated storage and retrieval system arranged inside. The automated storage and retrieval system has a storage grid structure having vertical members defining multiple columns, such as storage columns for storing storage bins on top of each other in vertical stacks. The vertical members are interconnected at their upper ends by a first rail system arranged to guide at least one bin handling vehicle thereon. The bin handling vehicle is configured to raise storage bins from, and lower storage bins into, the storage columns, and to transport the storage bins above the storage columns. The invention also relates to a method for providing such a system. The invention also relates to a mobile storage system having a plurality of mobile containers connected together and a method for providing such a system.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a mobile storage system comprising at least one mobile container having an automated storage and retrieval system for storage and retrieval of storage bins.

BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART

A mobile container such as an intermodal container or shipping container is a container for storage of goods that can be transported by e.g. train, ship, plane and truck and further which can be used across these different means of transport.

Intermodal containers are used worldwide to store and transport goods efficiently and securely around the world. They are often referred to by different names, such as cargo container, ISO container and shipping container.

Intermodal containers occur in many different standardized sizes and are often made of steel or aluminum. The dimensions of an intermodal container may vary from 2.4 to 17.1 m in length, from 2.2 to 2.5 m in width and from 2.2 to 2.9 m in height.

Table 1 shows examples of dimensions and net loads of some of the most common standardized types of intermodal containers.

The intermodal containers can bundle cargo and goods into larger, unitized loads, that can be easily handled, moved, and stacked, and that will pack tightly in a ship or yard. Intermodal containers share a number of construction features to withstand the stresses of intermodal shipping, to facilitate their handling and to allow stacking. Further, they may be identifiable through individual unique ISO 6346 reporting marks.

The framework structure100comprises a number of upright members/vertical members102and a number of horizontal members103which can be supported by the vertical members102and/or be arranged at the base of the framework structure100(not shown). When the horizontal members103are arranged at the base of the framework structure100, they may be arranged in a grid pattern supporting the vertical members102. The members102,103may typically be made of metal, e.g. extruded aluminum profiles.

The framework structure100defines a storage grid structure104comprising storage columns105arranged in rows. In these storage columns105, storage bins106(also known as storage containers) are stacked one on top of another to form stacks107. The storage grid structure104guards against horizontal movement of the stacks107of storage bins106, and guides vertical movement of the bins106, but normally does not otherwise support the storage bins106when they are stacked.

The automated storage and retrieval system1comprises a rail system108arranged in a grid pattern across the top of the storage grid structure104, on which rail system108a plurality of bin handling vehicles201,301are operated to raise storage bins106from, and lower storage bins106into, the storage columns105, and also to transport the storage bins106above the storage columns105. The rail system108comprises a first set of parallel rails110arranged to guide movement of the bin handling vehicles201,301in a first direction X across the top of the frame structure100, and a second set of parallel rails111arranged perpendicular to the first set of rails110to guide movement of the bin handling vehicles201,301in a second direction Y which is perpendicular to the first direction X. In this way, the rail system108defines grid columns112above which the bin handling vehicles201,301can move laterally above the storage columns105, i.e. in a plane which is parallel to the horizontal X-Y plane.

Each prior art bin handling vehicle201,301comprises a vehicle body201a,301a, and first and second sets of wheels201b,301b,201c,301cwhich enable the lateral movement of the bin handling vehicles201,301in the X direction and in the Y direction, respectively. InFIGS.2and3two wheels in each set are fully visible. The first set of wheels201b,301bis arranged to engage with two adjacent rails of the first set of rails110, and the second set of wheels201c,301cis arranged to engage with two adjacent rails of the second set of rails111. Each set of wheels201b,301b201c,301ccan be lifted and lowered, so that the first set of wheels201b,301band/or the second set of wheels201c,301ccan be engaged with the respective set of rails110,111at any one time.

Each prior art bin handling vehicle201,301also comprises a lifting device (not shown) for vertical transportation of storage bins106, e.g. raising a storage bin106from, and lowering a storage bin106into, a storage column105. The lifting device comprises one or more gripping/engaging devices303which are adapted to engage a storage bin106. The gripping/engaging devices303can be lowered from the vehicle201,301so that the position of the gripping/engaging devices303with respect to the vehicle201,301can be adjusted in a third direction Z which is orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y. Further details with regard to the lifting device are described in e.g. WO 2017/211634 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Conventionally, and also for the purpose of this application, Z=1 identifies the uppermost layer of the storage grid structure104, i.e. the layer immediately below the rail system108, Z=2 the second layer below the rail system108, Z=3 the third layer below the rail system108etc. In the exemplary prior art storage grid structure disclosed inFIG.1, Z=8 identifies the lowermost, bottom layer of the storage grid structure104. Similarly, X=1 . . . n and Y=1 . . . n identifies the position of each grid column112in the horizontal plane. Consequently, as an example, and using the Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z indicated inFIG.1, the storage bin identified as106′ inFIG.1can be said to occupy grid location or cell X=10, Y=2, Z=3. The bin handling vehicles201,301can be said to travel in layer Z=0, and each grid column112can be identified by its X and Y coordinates.

Each prior art bin handling vehicle201,301comprises a storage compartment or space for receiving and stowing a storage bin106when transporting the storage bin106across the rail system108. The storage space may comprise a cavity arranged centrally within the vehicle body201aas shown inFIG.2and as described in e.g. WO 2015/193278 A1 and WO 2018/033426 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIG.3shows an alternative configuration of a bin handling vehicles301with a cantilever construction. Such a vehicle is described in detail in e.g. NO317366, the contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference.

The central cavity bin handling vehicles201shown inFIG.2may have a footprint that covers an area with dimensions in the X and Y directions which is generally equal to the lateral extent of a grid column112, i.e. the extent of a grid column112in the X and Y directions, e.g. as is described in WO 2015/193278 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The term ‘lateral’ used herein may mean ‘horizontal’.

Alternatively, the central cavity bin handling vehicles201may have a footprint which is larger than the lateral area defined by a grid column112, e.g. as is disclosed in WO 2014/090684 A1.

The rail system108may be a single rail system, as is shown inFIG.4. Alternatively, the rail system108may be a double rail system, as is shown inFIG.5, thus allowing a bin handling vehicle201having a footprint generally corresponding to the lateral area defined by a grid column112to travel along a row of grid columns even if another bin handling vehicle201is positioned above a grid column neighboring that row. Both the single and double rail system, or a combination comprising a single and double rail arrangement in a single rail system108, form a grid pattern in the horizontal plane P comprising a plurality of rectangular and uniform grid locations or grid cells122, where each grid cell122comprises a grid opening115being delimited by a pair of rails110a,110bof the first set of rails110and a pair of rails11a,1l1bof the second set of rails111. InFIG.5the grid cell122is indicated by a dashed box.

Consequently, rails110aand110bform pairs of rails defining parallel rows of grid cells running in the X direction, and rails111aand111bform pairs of rails defining parallel rows of grid cells running in the Y direction.

As shown inFIG.6, each grid cell122has a width Wcwhich is typically within the interval of 30 to 150 cm, and a length Lcwhich is typically within the interval of 50 to 200 cm. Each grid opening115has a width Wowhich is typically 2 to 10 cm less than the width Wcof the grid cell122. Each grid opening115has a length Lowhich is typically 2 to 10 cm less than the length Lcof the grid cell122.

In the X and Y directions, neighbouring grid cells are arranged in contact with each other such that there is no space between neighbouring grid cells.

In a storage grid structure104, a majority of the grid columns112are storage columns105, i.e. grid columns105where storage bins106are stored in stacks107. However, a storage grid structure104normally has at least one grid column112which is not used for storing storage bins106, but which comprises a location where the bin handling vehicles201,301can drop off and/or pick up storage bins106so that they can be transported to an access station (not shown) where the storage bins106can be accessed from outside of the storage grid structure104or transferred out of or into the storage grid structure104. Within the art, such a location is normally referred to as a ‘port’ and the grid column112in which the port is located may be referred to as a ‘port column’119,120. The transportation to the access station may be in any direction, that is horizontal, tilted and/or vertical. For example, the storage bins106may be placed in a random or dedicated grid column112within the storage grid structure104, then picked up by any bin handling vehicle and transported to a port119,120for further transportation to an access station. Note that the term ‘tilted’ means transportation of storage bins106having a general transportation orientation somewhere between horizontal and vertical.

The storage grid structure104inFIG.1comprises two port columns119and120. The first port column119may for example be a dedicated drop-off port column where the bin handling vehicles201,301can drop off storage bins106to be transported to an access station or a transfer station, and the second port column120may be a dedicated pick-up port column where the bin handling vehicles201,301can pick up storage bins106that have been transported to the storage grid structure104from an access station or a transfer station.

The access station may typically be a picking station or a stocking station where product items are removed from or positioned into the storage bins106. In a picking station or a stocking station, the storage bins106are normally never removed from the automated storage and retrieval system1, but are returned into the storage grid structure104once accessed. A port119,120can also be used for transferring storage bins out of or into the grid104, e.g. for transferring storage bins106to another storage facility (e.g. to another grid or to another automated storage and retrieval system), to a transport vehicle (e.g. a train or a lorry), or to a production facility.

A conveyor system comprising conveyors is normally employed to transport the storage bins between the ports119,120and the access station.

If the ports119,120and the access station are located at different levels, the conveyor system may comprise a lift device with a vertical component for transporting the storage bins106vertically between the port119,120and the access station.

The conveyor system may be arranged to transfer storage bins106between different grids, e.g. as is described in WO 2014/075937 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

When a storage bin106stored in the grid104disclosed inFIG.1is to be accessed, one of the bin handling vehicles201,301is instructed to retrieve the target storage bin106from its position in the storage grid structure104and transport it to the drop-off port119. This operation involves moving the bin handling vehicle201,301to a grid location above the storage column105in which the target storage bin106is positioned, retrieving the storage bin106from the storage column105using the bin handling vehicle's201,301lifting device (not shown), and transporting the storage bin106to the drop-off port119. If the target storage bin106is located deep within a stack107, i.e. with one or a plurality of other storage bins106positioned above the target storage bin106, the operation also involves temporarily moving the above-positioned storage bins prior to lifting the target storage bin106from the storage column105. This step, which is sometimes referred to within the art as “digging”, may be performed with the same bin handling vehicle201,301that is subsequently used for transporting the target storage bin106to the drop-off port119, or with one or a plurality of other cooperating bin handling vehicles201,301. Alternatively, or in addition, the automated storage and retrieval system1may have bin handling vehicles201,301specifically dedicated to the task of temporarily removing storage bins106from a storage column105. Once the target storage bin106has been removed from the storage column105, the temporarily removed storage bins106can be repositioned into the original storage column105. However, the removed storage bins106may alternatively be relocated to other storage columns105.

When a storage bin106is to be stored in the storage grid structure104, one of the bin handling vehicles201,301is instructed to pick up the storage bin106from the pick-up port120and transport it to a grid location above the storage column105where it is to be stored. After any storage bins positioned at or above the target position within the storage column stack107have been removed, the bin handling vehicle201,301positions the storage bin106at the desired position. The removed storage bins106may then be lowered back into the storage column105or relocated to other storage columns105.

The automated storage and retrieval system1comprises a control system for monitoring and controlling the automated storage and retrieval system1, e.g. for monitoring and controlling the location of respective storage bins106within the storage grid structure104, monitoring the content of each storage bin106, and monitoring and controlling the movement of the bin handling vehicles201,301so that a desired storage bin106can be delivered to the desired location at the desired time without the bin handling vehicles201,301colliding with each other. The control system is typically computerized and typically comprises a database for keeping track of the storage bins106.

The automated storage and retrieval system1may comprise bin handling vehicles, charging station(s) for charging the bin handling vehicles and a wireless communication system. Such features are also known from WO 2015/104263 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

A bin lift device for transporting bins in a vertical direction from a storage grid structure104placed underneath another storage grid structure104is known from WO 2014/075937 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

An objective of the present invention is to provide a mobile storage system for placing an automated storage and retrieval system where needed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

At least preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a mobile storage system for placing an automated storage and retrieval system where needed, e.g. at a construction site, temporary storage area, field-hospital, military camp, temporary sales outlet, etc.

At least preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a mobile storage system that is easy to install for operation.

At least preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a flexible mobile storage system where containers can easily be exchanged.

At least preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a flexible mobile storage system where containers can be easily added to or removed from said system.

At least preferred embodiments of the present invention provide accurate alignment between grid structures in adjacent mobile containers.

The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims, while the dependent claims describe preferred or optional features of the invention.

The mobile storage system may comprise a plurality of mobile containers, each container having an automated storage and retrieval system for storing storage bins (wherein the bins may contain items). One of the mobile containers may be a so-called master container having storage columns and dedicated columns for receiving storage bins from an access station and delivering storage bins to an access station. The remaining mobile containers may be so-called supply containers comprising an automated storage and retrieval system without dedicated columns for receiving storage bins from the access station and delivering storage bins to the access station. Within the system the master container may be connected to at least one supply container such that a bin handling vehicle can move from the storage grid structure of the master container to a storage grid structure of the supply container. Further, the master container and/or supply container may be connected to a plurality of supply containers, which again can be connected to a plurality of supply containers and so on. Thus, the size of the mobile storage system can be customized according to need. Further, the mobile storage system may provide a flexible system where a mobile container arranged at any end of a side-by-side mobile container arrangement can be replaced by another mobile container.

The framework structure of the automated storage and retrieval system according to embodiments of the present invention may be constructed in accordance with the prior art framework structure described above in connection withFIGS.1-6, i.e. such a framework structure may comprise a number of vertical members and a number of horizontal members. As in the prior art, the automated storage and retrieval system may comprise a rail system including a first set of parallel rails in the X direction and a second set of parallel rails in the Y direction arranged across the top of storage columns defined by the framework structure/grid columns defined by the two sets of rails.

A first embodiment of the present invention relates to a mobile storage system comprising a first mobile container having a first automated storage and retrieval system arranged inside. The first automated storage and retrieval system comprises a first storage grid structure having vertical members defining multiple columns, such as storage columns for storing storage bins on top of each other in vertical stacks. The vertical members are interconnected at their upper ends by a first rail system arranged to guide at least one bin handling vehicle thereon. The bin handling vehicle is configured to raise storage bins from, and lower storage bins into, the storage columns, and to transport the storage bins above the storage columns.

The first mobile container may further comprise a first container frame having base panel, a top panel and four vertically extending profiles extending from each corner of the base panel connecting the base panel and the top panel.

The first mobile container may comprise two long end side panels and two short end side panels. At least a part of at least one side panel may be removable.

The side panels may be fixed (for example, removably fixed) to the vertically extending profiles (i.e. each side panel may be connected to two vertically extending profiles). The side panels may also be fixed (for example, removably fixed) to the top panel and bottom panel.

In embodiments where the first mobile container is a standalone unit (i.e. not connected to any other mobile containers), the removable part of the at least one side panel may form a doorway or similar opening for human access into the first mobile container.

In embodiments in which the first mobile container is going to be connected with another mobile container, for the purpose of connecting two or more automated storage and retrieval systems together, the removable part of the at least one side panel may form an access opening for allowing connection between the first automated storage and retrieval system in the first mobile container, and a second automated storage and retrieval system in the second mobile container.

In particular, when at least a part of the side panel is removed it may create an opening which should be at least the size of the maximum cross section of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin (taken in a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of movement of the bin handling vehicle when moving through the opening, said vertical plane being parallel to the plane of the side panel in which the opening is formed) moving on the rail system.

Moreover, the opening should of course be located accordingly, i.e. positioned such that the bin handling vehicle can move from the rail system of one mobile container on to the rail system of another mobile container. That is, the opening may have a vertical extent extending at least from just below the horizontal plane of the rail system, upwards at least to the height of the bin handling vehicle carrying a bin on the rails. The opening may extend vertically below, and/or vertically above such an opening.

Of course, the opening may be larger than the size of the maximum cross section of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin moving on the rail system. For example, the opening may have a height that is at least the height of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin moving on the rail system, but the width may extend across substantially the entire side at which the two containers are to be connected. The opening may be created by removal of a panel, in which case the opening is of course substantially the size of the removed panel.

The first mobile container may include at least two openings; a first, allowing human access into the first mobile container (for example, a doorway), and a second allowing connection between the first automated storage and retrieval system in the first mobile container, and a second automated storage and retrieval system in the second mobile container (and in particular, allowing a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin to move from the rails of the first automated storage and retrieval system in the first mobile container, onto the rails of the second automated storage and retrieval system in the second mobile container). The first mobile container may include openings on one, two, three or four of its four side panels.

When connecting two mobile containers in a side-by-side arrangement along the long end side, at least a part of the long end side panel is removable for making the opening. In another exemplary embodiment the whole long end side panel can be removed. This can be advantageous to allow connection of the rail systems of the two mobile containers, after the two mobile containers have been connected. The rail systems may be connected in order to allow a bin handling vehicle to move from one storage and retrieval system to the other.

When connecting two mobile containers in a side-by-side arrangement along their short end sides, at least a part of their respective short end side panels (at the short end side where the two mobile containers are connected) is removable for making the opening.

In another exemplary embodiment the whole short end side panel (at the short end side where the two mobile containers are connected) can be removed.

In yet another exemplary embodiment both the short end side panel and the long end side panel comprise at least a part which is removable for creating openings which should be at least the size of the maximum cross section of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin moving on the rail system. Moreover, the openings should of course be located accordingly, i.e. positioned such that the bin handling vehicle can move from the rail system of one mobile container on to the rail system of another mobile container.

To enable access to the storage bins from the outside of the first storage grid structure, at least one of the columns in the first storage and retrieval system can be dedicated for drop off and/or pick of storage bins by the bin handling vehicle. Further, at least one access station can be arranged adjacent to the at least one dedicated column where an operator can have access to withdraw items from the storage bins and/or have access to supply items into the storage bins. At the access station the storage bins can be accessed from outside of the first storage grid structure or transferred out of or into the at least one column of the first storage grid structure dedicated for drop off and/or pick of storage bins.

The dedicated column may be an integral part of the first storage grid structure.

A first mobile container having storage bins that can be accessed by an operator can be considered to be the master container if more containers are connected thereto.

The first automated storage and retrieval system of the first mobile container may further comprise at least one charging station for charging the bin handling vehicle, said charging station being arranged at or on the rail system. The number of charging stations can be adjusted according to the number of vehicles operating within the system.

Further, the first automated storage and retrieval system can have a controller for storing, receiving and/or transferring data regarding the items stored in the storage bins and the position of the storage bins. This way the system can be monitored with regard to where each stored item and/or bin is and how many of each item is stored in the system.

In another embodiment of the invention, the first mobile container may have height adjustable feet fixed to an outer lower surface of the first mobile container, thereby allowing height adjustment and/or levelling of the first mobile container. As will be explained in detail in the detailed description levelling is especially important when connecting two mobile containers together for the purpose of connecting two or more automated storage and retrieval systems together, because the rail systems that are to be connected together from each mobile container should be connected together with high precision and accuracy.

The mobile storage system may further comprise a second mobile container configured to removably connect to the first mobile container. A second automated storage and retrieval system is arranged within the second mobile container. The second automated storage and retrieval system comprises a second storage grid structure having vertical members defining multiple storage columns for storing storage bins on top of each other in vertical stacks. The vertical members are interconnected at their upper ends by a second rail system arranged to guide at least one bin handling vehicle thereon. The bin handling vehicle is configured to raise storage bins from, and lower storage bins into the storage columns, and to transport the storage bins above the storage columns.

The second mobile container may further comprise a second container frame having a base panel, a top panel and four vertically extending profiles extending from each corner of the base panel to connect the base panel and the top panel.

At least one of the base panel, top panel and vertically extending profiles of both the first and second mobile container may have cuboidal shapes in which holes are provided, the holes being for receiving a connecting element when connecting the two mobile containers together.

The second container frame may further comprise two long end side panels and two short end side panels wherein at least a part of one of the side panels is removable (to form an opening into the second container).

The side panels may be fixed (for example, removably fixed) to the vertically extending profiles (i.e. each side panel may be connected to two vertically extending profiles). The side panels may also be fixed (for example, removably fixed) to the top panel and bottom panel.

In general, the second container may be referred to as a “supply container”. A supply container is distinguished from a master container in that the supply container does not include dedicated columns for receiving storage bins from the access station and delivering storage bins to the access station, whereas such dedicated columns for receiving storage bins from the access station and delivering storage bins to the access station are present in the master container.

Since the supply container does not have dedicated columns for receiving storage bins from the access station and delivering storage bins to the access station, human access to the supply container is not needed. Therefore, in some embodiments, the second container may comprise an opening only for connecting to another mobile container. The opening may be for connection to a master container, or to another supply container.

Therefore, when the mobile container is going to be connected with the first (master) mobile container (or another second (supply) mobile container), for the purpose of connecting two or more automated storage and retrieval system together, at least a part of the at least one side panel may be removable (as noted above). When at least a part of the side panel is removed it may create an opening which may be at least the size of the maximum cross section of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin (taken in a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of movement of the bin handling vehicle when moving through the opening, said vertical plane being parallel to the plane of the panel in which the opening is formed) moving on the rail system.

Moreover, the opening should of course be located accordingly, i.e. positioned such that the bin handling vehicle can move from the rail system of the first mobile container on to the rail system of the second mobile container. That is, the opening may have a vertical extent extending at least from just below the horizontal plane of the rail system, upwards at least to the height of the bin handling vehicle carrying a bin on the rails. The opening may extend vertically below, and/or vertically above such an opening.

Of course, the opening may be larger than the size of the maximum cross section of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin moving on the rail system. For example, the opening may have a height that is at least the height of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin moving on the rail system, but the width may extend across substantially the entire side at which the two containers are to be connected. The opening may be created by removal of a panel, in which case the opening is of course substantially the size of the removed panel.

If connecting two mobile containers in a side-by-side arrangement along the long end side, at least a part of the long end side panel may be removable for making the opening. In another exemplary embodiment, the whole long end side panel is removable. In other embodiments, at least a part of the short end side panel may be removable for making the opening. In another exemplary embodiment, the whole short end side panel is removable.

It should be understood that one, two, three or all four side panels of a second mobile container can comprise openings having a size and position allowing a bin handling vehicle to move from the rail system of the second mobile container on to the rail system of another connected container. How many of the sides comprise openings will depend on how many other mobile containers the second mobile container is connected to.

Further, the second mobile container may comprise a controller for storing, receiving and/or transferring data regarding the items stored in the storage bins and the position of the storage bins of the second mobile container.

The controller of the second mobile container may be in communication with another controller, for example a master controller of a first (master) mobile container.

To facilitate the high precision alignment of the grid structure within a first mobile container with the grid structure of a connected second mobile container, the first storage grid structure of the first mobile container and/or the second storage grid structure of the second mobile container can be arranged on a horizontally displaceable base plate (within the respective mobile container) configured to allow horizontal displacement of the plate itself leading to displacement of the storage grid structure placed thereon.

Further, the second mobile container may comprise height adjustable feet fixed to an outer lower surface thereby allowing height adjustment and/or leveling of the second mobile container.

When connecting two mobile containers together, the part of the frame of each mobile container that is facing the other mobile container when connected can be connected by a coupling device. In one embodiment the part of the first container frame and the part of the second container frame facing each other when connected comprise the coupling device allowing the first container frame and the second container frame to be aligned.

In one exemplary embodiment a vertical extent of at least one of a base panel, top panel and/or one of the vertically extending profiles of the first mobile container may comprise at least one hole facing at least one corresponding hole arranged in a vertical extent of at least one of a base panel, top panel and/or one of the vertically extending profiles of the second mobile container for inserting a connecting pin between the first mobile container and the second mobile container for aligning the two containers in at least one of the vertical position and horizontal position.

In a preferred embodiment the first mobile container comprises at least two holes arranged within the vertical extent of the base panel facing at least two corresponding holes arranged on the vertical extent of the base panel of the second mobile container.

In a more preferred embodiment the first mobile container comprises at least four holes arranged within the vertical extent of the base panel facing at least four corresponding holes arranged on the vertical extent of the base panel of the second mobile container.

In a preferred embodiment the holes are evenly distributed along the vertical extent and/or one of the vertically extending profiles. Instead of connecting the mobile containers with pins located in holes, a ball-and-socket type coupling device can also be used, or other known coupling devices ensuring a tight fit alignment between the connected mobile containers.

The holes may have a funnel shape and the pin may be configured to match at least the smallest diameter of the funnel shaped holes, creating a tight fit. An example of a “funnel shaped” hole is a smoothly tapering hole, narrowing from a largest cross-section at the entrance to the hole, to a smallest cross-section at the other end of the hole, inside the frame (i.e. inside the base panel, top panel or vertically extending profile). The hole may have a circular cross-section along its length. Thus, the “funnel shaped” hole may be a conical (or frustoconical) shaped hole. Alternatively, the “funnel shaped” hole may comprise a broadly cylindrical outer portion (closest to the entrance to the hole) and a frustoconical inner portion (furthest from the entrance to the hole). Then, the cross section of the hole is initially constant for the outer portion, before narrowing along the inner portion.

The connecting pin may be telescopic such that the connecting pin occupies in a retracted state the hole in either the first mobile container frame or the hole in the second mobile container frame.

For connecting the first rail system of the first mobile container to the second rail system of the second mobile container, an intermediate element can be used allowing the storage bin vehicle to move between the first and second rail systems.

In a further embodiment of the mobile storage system, a mobile container can be arranged on top of another mobile container. In an exemplary embodiment a second mobile container (a supply container) can be arranged on top of a first mobile container (a master container). In this configuration the base panel of the second mobile container will have an opening corresponding to an opening in a top panel of the first mobile container. The openings are made to allow a storage bin to move between the first and second mobile container.

It should be understood that the mobile storage system may comprise a plurality of mobile containers that are vertically stacked.

Two vertically stacked mobile containers can be engaged by an interlocking device, such as the one shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,346,084 A. However, any kind of interlocking device can be used for the purpose of keeping the containers vertically aligned.

In another embodiment the mobile container system comprises a plurality of second mobile containers (supply containers) aligned adjacent to each other for example in a side-by-side arrangement.

In a further embodiment one second mobile container (supply container) can be arranged on top of another second mobile container (supply container). The two second mobile containers may have corresponding openings allowing a storage bin to move between the two second mobile containers.

Further, the mobile container system may comprise a plurality of mobile containers arranged in a first row of side-by-side arranged mobile containers, where a second row of side-by-side arranged mobile containers is arranged on top of the first row. The system may comprise a plurality of such vertically stacked rows of mobile containers.

In a further embodiment the mobile container system may comprise at least one equipment container for storing equipment such as air conditioning systems, generators, fire-extinguishing systems. The equipment container can be connected to a first or second mobile container, i.e. to a master container or a supply container.

As mentioned above, two mobile containers may be connected and aligned providing for an accurate alignment of two rail systems of two automated storage and retrieval systems arranged within the two mobile containers. If provided, the height adjustable feet may align the mobile containers in the same horizontal level and thereby the automated storage and retrieval systems in the vertical Z-direction. If provided, the base plate may adjust the alignment of two storage and retrieval systems in the horizontal Y-direction and/or horizontal X-direction, and the intermediate element may connect the rails of the two storage and retrieval systems in the X-direction.

Further, the coupling device preferably provides a tight fit alignment between the connected mobile containers.

The present invention also relates to a method of providing a mobile storage system having the following steps:providing a first mobile container;arranging a first automated storage and retrieval system inside the first mobile container; andtransporting the first mobile container with the first automated storage and retrieval system inside to a location for use.

The method may further comprise the following steps:providing a second mobile container;arranging a second automated storage and retrieval system inside the second mobile container; andtransporting the second mobile container with the second automated storage and retrieval system inside to the location for use; andconnecting the first mobile container and second mobile container together.

In an embodiment where the first mobile container comprises a first container frame having a base panel, a top panel, four vertically extending profiles extending from each corner of the base panel to connect the base panel and the top panel, two long end side panels and two short end side panels, where at least a part of one of the side panels is removable, and where the second mobile container comprises a second container frame having a base panel, a top panel, four vertically extending profiles extending from each corner of the base panel to connect the base panel and the top panel and two long end side panels and two short end side panels, where at least a part of one of the side panels is removable, the method comprises:a) removing the at least one part of one of the side panels of the first container frame thereby creating an opening being at least the size of the cross-section of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin moving on the rail system,b) removing the at least one part of one of the side panels of the second container frame thereby creating an opening being at least the size of the cross-section of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin moving on the rail system,c) arranging the opening of the first container frame in correspondence with the opening of the second container frame, andd) connecting the first rail system with the second rail system by arranging an intermediate element therebetween.

Further, step c) may further comprise connecting the first container frame with the second container frame by a coupling device allowing the first container frame and the second container frame to be aligned.

The method may further comprises adjusting, using height adjustable feet the height and/or horizontal level of the first mobile container or second mobile container with respect to the height of the other mobile container.

In one embodiment of the mobile container system the mobile containers have the size and shape of a 20′, 40′ and/or 45′ intermodal container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings are appended to facilitate the understanding of the invention. The drawings show embodiments of the invention, which will now be described by way of example only, where:

FIG.1is a perspective view of a prior art automated storage and retrieval system;

FIG.2is a perspective view of a prior art bin handling vehicle having a centrally arranged cavity for containing storage bins therein;

FIG.3is a perspective view of a prior art bin handling vehicle having a cantilever for containing storage bins underneath;

FIG.4is a top view of a prior art single rail grid;

FIG.5is a top view of a prior art double rail grid;

FIG.6is a top view of a rail system of the automated storage and retrieval system according toFIG.1;

FIG.7is a perspective view of a first mobile container comprising an automated storage and retrieval system having an access station;

FIG.8is a perspective view of a second mobile container;

FIG.9is a front view of the mobile storage system showing an open first mobile container in a side-by-side arrangement with second mobile containers;

FIG.10is an open top view of the mobile storage system inFIG.9;

FIGS.11(a) and (c)are open top views of two second mobile containers;

FIGS.11(b), (d) and (e)are detailed views of an intermediate element;

FIG.12is a perspective view of a mobile storage system;

FIG.13is a side view of the connection between two mobile containers;

FIG.14(a)is side view of a second mobile container comprising a base plate;

FIG.14(b)is a detailed view of an adjustment device;

FIG.15(a)is a side view of two connected second mobile containers standing on height adjustment feet;

FIG.15(b)is a detailed view of a height adjustment foot;

FIG.16(a)is a perspective view of a mobile storage system;

FIG.16(b)is a detailed view of a pin;

FIG.17is a perspective view of two second mobile containers arranged on top of each other;

FIGS.18(a) and (b)are close up views of parts ofFIG.17;

FIG.18(c)is a detailed view of a storage bin handling arrangement and a bin conveyor;

FIG.19(a) to (e)are detailed views of storage bin handling arrangement and a bin conveyor in different operational settings; and

FIG.20is a perspective view of a mobile storage system comprising equipment containers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following, embodiments of the invention will be discussed in more detail with reference to the appended drawings. It should be understood, however, that the drawings are not intended to limit the invention to the subject-matter depicted in the drawings.

The framework of the automated storage and retrieval system according to the present invention may be constructed in accordance with the prior art framework described above in connection withFIGS.1-6, i.e. it may comprise a number of upright/vertical members and preferably a number of horizontal members, and further, the framework may comprise a rail system of parallel rails in the X direction and the Y direction arranged across the top of storage columns/grid columns.

The prior art grid shown inFIG.1has a height of eight cells. It is understood, however, that the grid in principle can be of any height that fits inside a mobile container. Similarly, the prior art grid shown inFIG.1has eleven cells in the X direction and thirteen cells in the Y direction. It is understood, however, that the grid in principle can be of any size that fits inside a mobile container. Further, the mobile container can be of any suitable size.

Mobile storage systems and mobile containers having an automated storage and retrieval system therein will now be discussed in more detail.

A mobile container having an automated storage and retrieval system can be transported to any desired location by plane, truck, train etc. During transport the container frame comprises a base panel, a top panel, four vertically extending profiles, and four side panels which are attached to the vertically extending profiles at their vertical edges, wherein a first side panel preferably comprises a door to access the automated storage and retrieval system inside the mobile container. When the mobile container is placed at its desired location it may be ready for operation. However, if the mobile container is to be interconnected with one or more mobile containers for a bin handling vehicle to move between the interconnected mobile containers, at least a part of one of the side walls of the mobile container needs to be removed.

FIG.7illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a mobile storage system of a first mobile container600having a first automated storage and retrieval system500.

The first mobile container600has a base panel/floor601and a top panel/roof602. The top panel602is arranged directly above the base panel601, and they are separated by four vertically extending profiles606, such as upright poles, which extend from the corners of base panel601to the corresponding corners of the top panel. Four side panels603,604can be attached at their vertical edges to adjacent vertically extending profiles606, to form walls of the container frame600′. InFIG.7, a first short end side panel604is attached at its vertical edges to two adjacent vertically extending profiles606. Between the two other vertically extending profiles606is a door605, which when closed acts as a second short end side panel604. InFIG.7the first long end side panel has been physically removed, while the second long end side panel cannot be seen for illustrational purposes.

The first automated storage and retrieval system500is arranged inside the container frame600′ of the first mobile container600on top of the base panel601. The first automated storage and retrieval system500has a grid structure504having vertical members502defining multiple storage columns505. The vertical members502are interconnected at their upper ends by a rail system508arranged in a grid pattern across the top of the first storage grid structure504. On this rail system508, a plurality of bin handling vehicles201,301are operated to raise storage bins (not shown) from, and lower storage bins into the storage columns505, and also to transport the storage bins above the storage columns505. The rail system508comprises a first set of parallel rails arranged to guide movement of the bin handling vehicles201,301in a first direction X across the rail system508, and a second set of parallel rails arranged perpendicular to the first set of rails to guide movement of the bin handling vehicles201,301in a second direction Y which is perpendicular to the first direction X. In this way, the rail system508defines grid columns/storage columns505above which the bin handling vehicles201,301can move laterally above the storage columns505, i.e. in a plane which is parallel to the horizontal X-Y plane.

Each bin handling vehicle201,301comprises a vehicle body/chassis and first and second sets of wheels which enable the lateral movement of the bin handling vehicles201,301in the X direction and in the Y direction, respectively. With reference toFIGS.2and3two wheels in each set are fully visible. The first set of wheels201b,301bis arranged to engage with two adjacent rails of the first set of rails, and the second set of wheels201c,301cis arranged to engage with two adjacent rails of the second set of rails. Each set of wheels201b,301b201c,301ccan be lifted and lowered, so that the first set of wheels201b,301band/or the second set of wheels201c,301ccan be engaged with the respective set of rails at any one time.

To enable access to the storage bins from the outside of the storage grid structure504, four columns512are shown which are dedicated for drop off and/or pick of storage bins by the bin handling vehicle201,301. In connection with two of the four columns512, two adjacent access stations509are shown where an operator can have access to withdraw items from the storage bins and/or have access to supply items into the storage bins. Such a first mobile container600comprising a first storage grid structure504wherein the storage bins can be accessed by an operator can be referred to as a master container. The door605allows the operator to access the inside of the master container600.

The master container may comprise one or more charging stations550for charging the bin handling vehicles. The charging stations are preferably arranged at or on the rail system508. InFIG.7the charging stations550are arranged at the periphery of the rail system508allowing the bin handling vehicles201,301to access the charging stations550. Such charging stations are known from WO 2015/104263 A2.

The master container may comprise a controller/control unit (not shown) for storing, receiving and/or transferring data regarding the items stored in the storage bins and for storing, receiving and or transferring data regarding the position of each storage bin. The controller may also communicate with the bin handling vehicles201,301via e.g. a wireless link such that the bin handling vehicles201,301can be recharged at the charging station550when needed, typically at night.

The master container may further comprise a master controller/control system for storing, receiving and/or transferring data from other controllers within the system. The master controller may further store, receive and/or transfer data regarding the items being removed or added by an operator at the access station.

The mobile storage system may consist of only one master container as described above where the container frame comprises a base panel, a top panel and four vertical extending profiles forming the edges of four side walls, where the one side wall comprises a door for an operator to access the access stations of the automated storage and retrieval system inside the master container.

The first container frame600′ of the first mobile container600shown inFIG.7may be a prior art intermodal container as described. It may be a 20′ container, a 40′ container or a 45′ container as described. If the first mobile container600is to be interconnected with another mobile container, for a bin handling vehicle to move between the interconnected mobile containers, at least a part of one of the side walls of the first mobile container600needs to be removed.

FIG.8illustrates a mobile storage system with a second mobile container700having a second automated storage and retrieval system500′.

The second mobile container700has a base panel/floor701and a top panel/roof702. The top panel702is arranged directly above the base panel701, and they are separated by four vertically extending profiles706which extend from the corners of base panel701to the corresponding corners of the top panel702. Four side panels can be attached at their vertical edges between adjacent vertically extending profiles706. InFIG.7two adjacent vertically extending profiles706form the edges of a short end side panel704, and the two other vertically extending profiles706form the edges of a door705, which when closed acts as a short end side panel704. InFIG.7the long end side panels have been physically removed for attaching the second mobile container with two other mobile containers, one on each side. The mobile container may be a first mobile container or a second mobile container, seeFIGS.9to12.

During transportation of the second mobile container700, two long end side panels (not shown) will be attached to the second container frame700′ enclosing the automated storage and retrieval system500′ arranged inside the second mobile container. When the second mobile container700has arrived at the suitable location, the second mobile container700will be connected to at least one other mobile container comprising an automated storage and retrieval system. Before or during connection, at least one of the long end side walls will be at least partly removed for allowing the bin handling vehicle(s)201,301to move between the two mobile containers each comprising an automated storage and retrieval system. The connected mobile container(s) will then have a corresponding opening(s) in its long end side wall(s).

FIG.7shows the second automated storage and retrieval system500′ arranged inside the second container frame700′ of the second mobile container700. The second automated storage and retrieval system500′ has a rail system508′ arranged in a grid pattern across the top of the second storage grid structure504′. The second storage grid structure504′ has a plurality of vertical members502′ defining the multiple storage columns505′, and the vertical members502′ are interconnected at their upper ends by the rail system508′. On this rail system508′, a plurality of bin handling vehicles (not shown) can be operated to raise storage bins106from, and lower storage bins106into, the storage columns505′, and also to transport the storage bins106above the storage columns505′. The rail system508′ comprises a first set of parallel rails arranged to guide movement of the bin handling vehicles in a first direction X across the top of the second storage grid structure504′, and a second set of parallel rails arranged perpendicular to the first set of rails to guide movement of the bin handling vehicles in a second direction Y which is perpendicular to the first direction X. In this way, the rail system508′ defines grid columns/storage columns505′ above which the bin handling vehicles can move horizontally above the storage columns505′, i.e. in a plane which is parallel to the horizontal X-Y plane.

Each bin handling vehicle comprises a vehicle body and first and second sets of wheels which enable the lateral movement of the bin handling vehicles in the X direction and in the Y direction, respectively. With reference toFIGS.2and3two wheels in each set are fully visible. The first set of wheels201b,301bis arranged to engage with two adjacent rails of the first set of rails, and the second set of wheels201c,301cis arranged to engage with two adjacent rails of the second set of rails. Each set of wheels201b,301b;201c,301ccan be lifted and lowered, so that the first set of wheels201b,301band/or the second set of wheels201c,301ccan be engaged with the respective set of rails at any one time.

The second mobile container700may be referred to as a supply container as it may supply the master container with storage bins which can be delivered to the access port thereof which will be described in further detail inFIGS.9to12.

The second mobile container700may comprise one or more charging stations for charging the bin handling vehicles201,301. The charging stations(s) is/are preferably arranged at or on the rail system508′.

The second mobile container700may comprise a controller for storing, receiving and/or transferring data regarding the items stored in the storage bins in the second mobile container700and for storing, receiving and or transferring data regarding the position of each storage bin. The controller may also communicate with the bin handling vehicles201,301via e.g. a wireless link.

The controller may also communicate with master controller of the first mobile container600(for example, via a wireless link), in order to transfer data regarding the items stored in the storage bins in the second mobile container700and data regarding the position of each storage bin.

The second container frame700′ of the second mobile container700shown inFIG.8may be a prior art intermodal container as described above. It may be a 20′ container, a 40′ container or a 45′ container as described. When the second mobile container700is to be interconnected with another mobile container, for a bin handling vehicle to move between the interconnected mobile containers, at least a part of one of the side walls of the second mobile container700needs to be removed.

A 20′ container as described in the prior art can store up to 279 bins, wherein each bin has a width of 449 mm, length of 649 mm and a height of 220 mm.

A 20′ container as described in the prior art can store up to 186 bins, wherein each bin has a width of 449 mm, length of 649 mm and a height of 330 mm.

A 40′ container as described in the prior art can store double the number of storage bins that a 20′ container can store.

FIG.9illustrates a mobile storage system having one first mobile container600and four second mobile containers700arranged in a side-by-side arrangement. The figure shows that when the mobile containers600,700are removably connected there is an opening at the connecting long end side panels603,703of the two connected mobile containers600,700, or the connecting long end side panels are removed. In this aspect, at least a part of one of the long end side panels603,703has been removed before or during connection of the container frames600′,700and is shown as removed inFIG.9. After or during disconnection of the mobile containers, the removed part of the side panel is reassembled closing the opening.

Further it is shown that one of the short end side panels604,704of the mobile containers has a door605,705allowing access to the inner space of the respective container frame600′,700. The long end side panels603,703that are at the ends of the system and do not comprise another mobile container600,700connected thereto generally do not comprise an opening.

FIG.9illustrates a mobile storage system having one master container/first mobile container600connected to one supply container/second mobile container700which is further connected to another supply container which is connected to yet another supply container and so on. Thus, the mobile storage system can be customized depending on the storage needed.

FIG.10is an open top view of the mobile storage system shown inFIG.9. As can be seen, the openings in the connected long end side panels allow the first and second automated storage and retrieval system500,500′ to be interconnected such that the bin handling vehicles201,301can move between the rail system508of the first grid structure504and the rail system508′ of the second grid structure504′.

If there is a gap between the first rail system508and the second rail system508′, intermediate elements450can be connected to the first and/or second rail systems508,508′ allowing the bin handling vehicles201,301to move thereon between the first and second rail systems508,508′.

For illustrational purpose, inFIG.10the intermediate elements450are illustrated hanging above the gaps which they will cover when connected.

FIG.11illustrates an example of how the intermediate element450can connect a first rail508′aof one rail system508′ with a second rail508′bof another rail system508′ of two adjacent second mobile containers700. It should be understood that the same is applicable when connecting two rail systems between a first mobile container and a second mobile container arranged adjacent to each other, or two rail systems between two adjacent first mobile containers.

FIG.11(a)shows two connected second mobile containers700where the rail system508′ of one of the second mobile containers700has an intermediate element450connected thereto, but where the two rail systems508′ are not yet connected.

FIG.11(b)shows a detailed view of the circled area inFIG.11(a), where the intermediate connection element450is connected to a first rail508′aof the first rail systems508′ via a pivot connection arrangement460. The pivot connection arrangement460is connected to the first rail508′aand the intermediate connection element450via suitable fastening means (e.g. pivoting bracket461fastened by screw, bolts, pins etc.) known to the skilled person.

In a disconnected state (in which the intermediate connection element450is disconnected from the second rail508′bthe second rail system508′) the pivot connection arrangement460and the intermediate connection element450are pivoted in an upward direction relative the rail system508′, as shown inFIGS.11(a) and (b), in which the two rail systems508′ of the two second mobile containers are not connected.

In another example, not shown, the pivot connection arrangement460can be pivoted to rest in a downward position and to be pivoted upwardly for connection with the other rail system508′.

As disclosed inFIGS.11(a) to (d), the intermediate connection element450can be considered to form part of the first rail508′aof the one rail system508′ which it is connected to. In the solution disclosed inFIGS.11(a) to (d)the intermediate connection element450comprises a first and second end451,452. The second end452can be seen as a receiving part which is to be connected to a second rail508′bof the other rail system508′.

The receiving part at the second end452of the intermediate connecting element450may comprise a recess, i.e. female part, which is complementary to the second rail508′bi.e. male part. In addition, the first end451of the intermediate connection element450connectable to the first rail508′acan be formed with a similar recess to provide some flexibility in the connection between the intermediate connection element450and first rail508′a.

The cooperation between the intermediate connection element450and the first rail508′amay, when the intermediate connection element450is arranged mainly horizontally connecting the first rail508′aof the one rail system508′ and the second rail508′bof the other rail system508′, be such that parts of the intermediate connection element450rests on a upper surface of the second rail508′b. The surface is preferably substantially horizontal such that the intermediate connection element450provides substantially flush drive rails between the first rail508′aand the second rail508′bfor the bin handling vehicles201,301.

FIGS.11(c) to (e)show the intermediate element450inFIGS.11(a) and (b), but with the intermediate element450is in a connected position such that the first and second rails508′a,508′bare connected.

FIG.11(e)is a top-view of the intermediate element450ofFIGS.11(c) and (d)in a connected position.

InFIGS.11(d) and (e), the recesses at the first and second end451,452of the intermediate connection element450and complementary parts of the first and second rails508′a,508′bare shown in more detail. The connecting part of the second rail508′bmay, as shown, extend approximately halfway into the recess of the second end452of the intermediate connection element450allowing some relative axial movement between the second rail508′band the first rail508′awhen connected.

As shown inFIG.11the intermediate connection element450is pivoted between a connected position and non-connected position.

The rail system inFIG.11comprises a single rail in the Y direction and a double rail in the X direction, however this is only one option, as there may be either only single rails or only double rails both in the X and Y directions.

It should be noted that a very high degree of accuracy is needed when connecting two automated storage and retrieval systems together. This is mainly due to the bin handling vehicle's low degree of flexibility and associated low tolerance to irregularities in the rail system. To avoid or at least reduce the possibilities of disruption during operation of the mobile storage system, the rails to be connected should be aligned as precisely as possible. When looking at the connection of the first and second rail508′a,508′binFIG.11, both the first and second rail508′a,508′bshould have the same Z-coordinate and the same axis in the X-direction for the bin handling vehicle to be able to move from the one rail system508′ to the other rail system508′. Their positioning differences at the point where the first and second rails508′a,508′bare connected should preferably not exceed 1/10 mm in the Y-direction.

When connected, the axial flexibility of the intermediate element450allows for some relative movement between the first and second rail508′a,508′bin the X-direction, e.g. +/−40 mm, +/−15 mm, or more or less.

FIG.12is a top view of the mobile storage system shown inFIGS.9and10, wherein the top panels602,702are shown.

FIG.13illustrates how the mobile containers can be connected in a side-by-side arrangement with four coupling devices/connecting devices400arranged between the mobile containers to be connected. This exemplary aspect shows the connection between a first mobile container600and a second mobile container700but would be the same if two first mobile containers600or two second mobile containers700were connected together in a side-by-side arrangement.

Due to the high degree of accuracy mentioned above when connecting two automated storage and retrieval systems together as shown inFIG.11, the connection of the two mobile containers illustrated inFIG.13should also have a high degree of accuracy, meaning that the first mobile container600and the second mobile container700should have equal Z-coordinates and Y-coordinates, and be parallelly arranged in the X-direction.

As already mentioned above with regard toFIG.9at least a part of one of the long end side panels of the first and second mobile containers600,700may be removably connected to the container frame600′,700. As shown inFIG.9the whole long end side panel was removed, however, in order for the system to be able to operate, only a part of the panel needs to be removed to create an opening such that the bin handling vehicles can move from the rail system of one mobile container on to the rail system of another mobile container. Thus, in this mobile storage system the opening should be at least the size of the maximum cross section of a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin (taken in a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of movement of the bin handling vehicle when moving through the opening, said vertical plane being parallel to the plane of the panel in which the opening is formed) moving on the rail system, when the system comprises two or more side-by-side arranged mobile containers. Moreover, the opening should of course be located accordingly, i.e. positioned such that the bin handling vehicle can move from the rail system of one mobile container on to the rail system of another mobile container.

In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG.13, the long end side panels that correspond to the connecting vertical faces of the mobile containers are removed, thereby creating openings that are larger than the vertical size of a rail system having a bin handling vehicle carrying a bin moving thereon.

The base panels of the first mobile container600and second mobile container700each have a cuboidal shape. Thus, each base panel has a length and a width, defining an upper surface and lower surface of the base panel, and a depth (i.e. a vertical extent) that extends between the upper surface and the lower surface of the base panel.

The top panels of the first mobile container600and second mobile container700each have a cuboidal shape. Thus, each top panel has a length and a width, defining an upper surface and lower surface of the top panel, and a depth (i.e. a vertical extent) that extends between the upper surface and the lower surface of the top panel.

The vertically extending profiles of the first mobile container600and second mobile container700each have a cuboidal shape. Thus, each vertically extending profile has a length and a width, defining an upper surface and lower surface of the vertically extending profile, and a depth (i.e. a vertical extent) that extends between the upper surface and the lower surface of the vertically extending profile.

Further, a vertical extent of the base panel601of the first mobile container600that is facing a vertical extent of the base panel701of the second mobile container which it is to be connected to has at least one hole401for inserting the coupling device400, having the shape of a connecting pin, in a tight fit configuration.

Similarly, corresponding holes are provided in the vertical extent of the base panel701of the second mobile container.

Whilst the figure illustrates that the first and second mobile containers comprise holes for connecting the coupling device arranged in the vertical extent of the base panels, it should be understood that the connection alternatively or additionally can be done by arranging the holes on any vertical extent of the top panel and/or vertically extending profiles of the first and second mobile container facing each other when connected.

In other words, the holes can be distributed in any arrangement along the frames of the mobile containers facing each other during connection, allowing a tight fit configuration after inserting the coupling device and connecting the two mobile containers.

The holes401have a funnel shape and the pins400are configured to match at least the smallest diameter of the funnel shaped holes401creating a tight fit.

The pin illustrated inFIG.13has a smaller cross-section at its ends than at its midpoint such that the cross-section of the pin400expands from the ends towards the midpoint of the pin400which corresponds to the funnel shaped opening.

The diameter of the cross-section at the midpoint may be at least 1.05 times greater than the diameter of the cross-section at the ends of the connecting pin, preferably at least 1.07 times greater, more preferably at least 1.09 times greater.

The diameter of the cross-section of the pin at the midpoint can for example be from 4 to 10 cm, the diameter of the cross-section of the ends can be from 2 cm to 7 cm, and the total length of the pin can be from 10 to 50 cm.

In one example, the diameter of the cross-section of the pin at the midpoint is 5.5 cm, the diameter of the cross-section of the ends is 5 cm, and the total length of the pin is 25 cm.

The number of holes and connecting pins to be inserted into the holes varies depending on the size of the mobile containers to be connected.

In an exemplary embodiment where two 20′ mobile containers are connected, the mobile containers comprise two holes distributed along the connection faces of the base panels of the two mobile containers, and two pins are inserted into the holes during connection.

Further, the pin400may be telescopic, and then the pin will be in a retracted state when a mobile container is to be removed from the system and will be in an expanded state when a mobile container is connected or being connected to the system. When the pin is in its retracted state it will not protrude outside the frame of the mobile container that it has been inserted in to.

FIG.14(a)illustrate a second mobile container700having a second storage and retrieval structure500′ arranged on top of a base plate950. The base plate950is arranged on top of the base panel701of the second mobile container700. Due to the high degree of accuracy needed when connecting two automated storage and retrieval systems, the base plate950is horizontally displaceable, thereby allowing horizontal displacement of the automated storage and retrieval structure arranged thereon. The base plate950can e.g. be made of fiber board, hard board or the like, and may be from 10 to 100 mm thick, for example 25 or 30 mm thick.

FIG.14(b)shows a detailed view of the circled area inFIG.14(a).FIG.14(b)illustrates how the base plate950can be horizontally displaced in the Y-direction by using one or more adjustment devices951. The adjustment device951is rigidly fixed to the base panel700and the base plate950using brackets952,953.

The adjustment device951may, as shown inFIG.14(b), comprise a mid-bracket952connected to the upper surface of the base panel701, and two side-brackets953, connected to the base plate950arranged on each side of the mid-bracket952. A bar954is passed through holes in each of the three brackets, such that the bar is displaceable in the horizontal Y-direction, restricting movements in the Z-direction and X-direction. By this arrangement the bar954can be displaced by loosening and fastening fixtures (for example nuts) which are attached in this case to a threaded bar954and on both sides of the mid-bracket952on one side of the side-brackets953. The nuts attached to the bar, mid-bracket952and side-brackets953may also rigidly fix the bar954in a desirable position thereby rigidly fixing the base plate950to the base panel701. When displacing the bar954, the base plate950will be displaced accordingly allowing fine adjustment in the Y-direction of the automated storage and retrieval structure500′ placed thereon.

A similar adjustment device951may be provided on the opposite side of the base plate950, in which case the two adjustment devices951can be adjusted in tandem.

Alternatively, one or more adjustment devices951may be provided on the adjacent sides to allow horizontal movement in the X-direction.

Thus, the base plate950may be provided with one or more adjustment devices951allowing horizontal movement in the X and/or Y directions.

FIG.15(a)illustrates a first and second mobile container arranged on height adjustable feet960. The feet960are placed at the lower surface of the base panel601,701of the first and second mobile container600,700at each corner thereof, allowing leveling of the first mobile container600and the second mobile container700providing and substantially flush lower surfaces between base panels601,701of the first and second mobile containers600,700.

FIG.15(b)shows a detailed view of the exemplary height adjustable foot960shown inFIG.15(a). The foot960comprises a bracket961comprising a lower base967for standing/resting on the ground. The bracket comprises at least two side walls962vertically extending from opposite sides of the base967, and the at least two side walls962are interconnected by a bridge963comprising a hole964in its center. A bar965is arranged inside the hole964of the bridge963and is displaceable in the vertical Z-direction, restricting movements in the horizontal X and Y-directions. The bar965has a resting plate966arranged above the bridge963allowing the mobile container to rest thereon. By this arrangement the bar954can be displaced by loosening and fastening fixtures (for example nuts) which are attached in this case to a threaded bar954and both sides of the bridge963of the bracket961. As shown the bar may pass through a hole arranged at the center of the base967of the bracket961. Further, the bar965may be fixed to the mobile container at its upper end by for example welding or using attaching means.

When displacing the bar964, the part of the mobile container arranged on the foot960will be displaced accordingly, allowing fine adjustment in the Z-direction of the mobile container.

When arranging a plurality of mobile containers in a side-by-side arrangement and placing height adjustable feet under every corner of the base plate of each mobile container, the mobile containers can all be arranged such the outer surfaces of the base panels of the two mobile containers connecting to each other are flush with one another during connection and after being connected.

Whilst the height adjustable feet have been described as being placed under every corner of the base plate of each mobile container, they may additionally be provided at other locations around the bottom perimeter of the base plate of each mobile container.

FIG.16(a)illustrates a perspective view of a mobile storage system where supply containers700are arranged on top of other supply containers700. As illustrated inFIG.16(a)the mobile storage system may comprise a first row of a plurality of mobile containers arranged in a side-by-side arrangement and a plurality of mobile containers arranged in a side-by-side arrangement in a second row located on top of the first row.

FIG.16(b)is a detailed view of the pin400shown inFIG.13.

FIG.17shows two mobile containers arranged on top of each other. The upper mobile container is a second mobile container700(a supply container), while the lower mobile container can be a first (master) or second (supply) mobile container, however the figure shows two second mobile containers arranged on top of each other.

FIG.17illustrates that one upper second mobile container700U is arranged directly above another lower second mobile container700L, such that the corners of the base panel701U of the upper second mobile container700U are arranged directly above the corresponding corners of the top panel702L of the lower second mobile container700L. To allow a storage bin106to be moved between the upper and lower second mobile container700U,700L, the base panel701U of the upper second mobile container700U has a storage bin opening (910, seeFIG.18a) allowing the storage bin106to pass therethrough and the top panel702L of the lower second mobile container700L may then have a corresponding storage bin opening (910, seeFIG.18a) for the same purpose. A bin handling vehicle201,301arranged on the rail system in the upper second mobile container700U can use the lifting device within the bin handling vehicle201,301to lower the storage bin106from the upper second mobile container700U passing through the storage bin openings into the lower second mobile container700L.

A storage bin handling arrangement900is arranged in connection with the rail system508′ within the lower second mobile container700L. An exemplary operation of moving a storage bin106between the upper and lower second mobile container700U,700L will be explained in detail inFIGS.18and19.

FIGS.18(a) and (b)illustrate a part of the upper second mobile container700U arranged on top of the lower second mobile container700L as shown inFIG.17.

FIG.18(a)further illustrates a storage bin106attached to a lifting system on a cantilever bin handling vehicle301. The lifting system has an attachment structure302(seeFIG.19) connected to the bin handling vehicle301by means of adjustable wires or belts (not shown). The attachment structure302is provided with a set of gripping devices303adapted to engage the storage bin106and means for controlling each gripping device303. The gripping devices303of the lifting system are connected to the bin handling vehicle301and ensure vertical transportation of storage bins106, e.g. raising a storage bin106from, and lowering a storage bin106into, a storage column.

The attachment structure302having the gripping devices303can be lowered from the bin handling vehicle301so that the position of the gripping devices303with respect to the bin handling vehicle301can be adjusted in a third direction Z which is orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y.

FIG.18(b)illustrates the bin handling vehicle301having lowered the attachment structure302and the storage bin106connected thereto into the storage bin openings910.

FIG.18(c)illustrates the storage bin handling arrangement900arranged on top of the rail system508′ of the lower second mobile container. The storage bin handling arrangement900receives and/or delivers the storage bin from and/or to the upper second mobile container, respectively. The storage bin handling arrangement900comprises vertically extending barriers901, for guiding the storage bin in the vertical direction between the storage bin openings910and the rail system508′ of the lower mobile container. The bin handling arrangement900further comprises a bin moving structure902, such as a bin conveyor902, for moving the bin to and/or from the bin handling arrangement to a bin lifting position903on the rail system508′ in the lower second mobile container where the storage bin can be picked up or delivered by a bin handling vehicle. Thus, the bin conveyor902transports the storage bin horizontally between the bin handling arrangement900and the bin lifting position903within the rail system508′ of the lower second mobile container. When the storage bin is arranged in the bin lifting position903, the bin handling vehicle can pick the storage bin up and move it to a target position within the storage grid structure of the lower second mobile container700L. The bin handling vehicle may also deliver the storage bin to the bin lifting position for the storage bin to be moved to the position inside the storage bin handling arrangement900, for the storage bin to be picked up by the gripping devices connected to a bin handling vehicle arranged in the upper second mobile container700U and thereafter moving the bin handling vehicle comprising the storage bin to a target position for the storage bin within the storage grid structure of the upper second mobile container.

The bin conveyor902shown inFIG.18(c)has a conveyor belt904having a bin resting arrangement905attached thereto. The bin resting arrangement905can be any kind of arrangement allowing the storage bin to be moved in the horizontal direction from its position adjacent to the storage bin handling arrangement900to the bin lifting position903.

FIG.19(a) to (e)illustrate an exemplary process where the storage bin handling arrangement900, which is located on top of the rail system508′ of the lower second mobile container700L receives a storage bin106from a bin handling vehicle301located on the rail system508′ of the upper mobile container700U, and how the storage bin106is removed from the position adjacent to the storage bin handling arrangement900to the bin lifting position903where another bin handling vehicle301arranged on top of the rail system508′ of the lower second mobile container700L can pick up the storage bin.

InFIG.19(a)the storage bin handling arrangement900is empty and ready to receive a storage bin.

FIG.19(b)illustrates a storage bin106situated adjacent to the bin handling arrangement900after the storage bin has been delivered from the bin handling vehicle arranged in the upper second mobile container700U, seeFIG.17. The attachment structure302of the bin handling vehicle is still connected to the storage bin106.

FIG.19(c)illustrates the attachment structure302comprising the gripping device303after having released the storage bin106therefrom. The storage bin106is placed on the resting arrangement905of the bin conveyor902positioned at the storage bin handling arrangement900.

FIG.19(d)illustrates the storage bin arranged at the bin lifting position903after being conveyed by the conveyor belt904of the conveyor902from the position adjacent to the bin handling arrangement900to the bin lifting position903.

FIG.19(e)illustrates how the bin handling vehicle301can pick up the storage bin106from the bin lifting position903.

WhilstFIGS.18and19illustrate a cantilever bin handling vehicle, a single cell bin handling vehicle201can of course be used for the same purpose.

FIG.20illustrates a mobile storage system having the first mobile container600(master container) and four second mobile containers700(supply containers) connected in a side-by-side arrangement where the system includes two equipment containers800for storing equipment such as air conditioning systems, generators, fire-extinguishing systems. The equipment container800is connected to the first mobile container600at the opposite side of the connection with the second mobile container700.

As can be seen from the drawings of the exemplary mobile storage systems, the mobile storage systems provide for a flexible system where a mobile container arranged at any end of the side-by-side arrangement can be replaced by another mobile container. For example, by looking at a system comprising one master container and four supply containers arranged in a side-by-side arrangement as shown inFIG.12, the grid structure of the master container and the supply containers can be considered to all be full storage bins comprising goods. As the operational time of the system passes, more and more items are removed from the bins within the system. If the system then operates in such a manner that all the empty storage bins are positioned within the supply container arranged at the end of the side-by-side arrangement by either replacing storage bins comprising goods or by occupying a free space for the empty storage bin to be arranged, then as the operational time passes, the supply container receiving all the empty storage bins will be full of empty storage bins. The supply container can then be removed and replaced by another supply container having storage bins with goods.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

1Storage and retrieval system (prior art)100Framework structure102Upright members/vertical members of framework structure103Horizontal members of framework structure104Storage grid structure105Storage column106Storage bin106′ Particular position of storage bin107Stack108Rail system/track system110Parallel rails in first direction (X)110aFirst rail of neighboring rails110110bSecond rail of neighboring rails110111Parallel rails in second direction (Y)111aFirst rail of neighboring rails111111bSecond rail of neighboring rails111112Grid column115Grid opening119First port column/first port120Second port column/second port122Grid cell/storage cell201Prior art single cell bin handling vehicle201aVehicle body of the bin handling vehicle201201bDrive means/wheel arrangement, first direction (X)201cDrive means/wheel arrangement, second direction (Y)301Prior art cantilever bin handling vehicle301aVehicle body of the bin handling vehicle301301bDrive means in first direction (X)301cDrive means in second direction (Y)302Attachment structure303Gripping/engaging device400Coupling device/Connecting pin401Hole450Intermediate element/intermediate connection element451First end of intermediate element452Second end of intermediate element460Pivot connection arrangement500First storage and retrieval system of the mobile container500′ Second storage and retrieval system of the second mobile container502Vertical members of the first storage and retrieval system502′ Vertical members of the second storage and retrieval system504First storage grid structure of the first storage and retrieval system504′ Second storage grid structure of the second storage and retrieval system505Storage column of the first storage and retrieval system505′ Storage column of the second storage and retrieval system508First rail system of the first storage and retrieval system508′ Second rail system of the second storage and retrieval system508′aFirst track508′bSecond track509Access station512Column550Charging station600First mobile container/master container600′ First container frame of first mobile container601Base panel/floor of first mobile container602Top panel/roof of first mobile container603Short end side panel of first mobile container604Long end side panel of first mobile container605Door of first mobile container606Vertically extending profile of first mobile container700Second mobile container/Supply container700′ Second container frame of second mobile container700U Upper second mobile container700L Lower second mobile container701Base panel/floor of second mobile container701U Base panel/floor of upper second mobile container702Top panel/roof of second mobile container702L Top panel/roof of lower second mobile container703Short end side panel of second mobile container704Long end side panel of second mobile container705Door of second mobile container706Vertically extending profile of second mobile container800Equipment container900Storage bin handling arrangement901Barrier902Conveyor903Bin lifting position904Conveyor belt/belt905Bin resting arrangement910Storage bin openings950Base plate951Adjustment device952Mid-bracket953Side-bracket954Bar of adjustment device960Height adjustable foot/foot961Bracket962Side walls of bracket961963Bridge964Hole in bridge963965Bar of foot966Resting plate967Base of bracket961X First directionY Second directionZ Third direction