Automatic transport loading system and method

Abstract

A method and system for automatically loading and unloading a transport is disclosed. A first guidance system is used to travel near the transport and a second guidance system is used to travel on the transport.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to US Provisional Application 60 / 567,729, filed May 3, 2004, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference as part of the disclosure of this application. technical field [0003] The present invention relates generally to material handling vehicles, and more particularly to automated guided vehicles capable of automatically loading and unloading transport devices such as tractor trailers, rail cars, flatbed trailers, or containers. Background technique [0004] Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are used throughout the material handling industry for transporting goods. The term "AGV" is generally used to refer to a robust vehicle design having any of a number of automatic guided systems available. The term "automated guided trailer (AGC)" is generally used to refer to less robust vehicles used in similar but less complex applications. In this application - including...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0011] A change in the position of the transport unit could prevent the truck from being automatically loaded and would almost certainly result in a loss of efficiency

For example, the most efficient method of loading cargo is to place the cargo as close to each other as possible, however any change in the intended position of the transport unit will likely increase the spacing of the cargo

[0012] Despite the use of guidance systems to control the movement of AGVs, the prior art has not satisfactorily addressed the use of guidance systems during loading and unloading of transporters

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