Automated Warehouse Inbound / Outbound Methods, System, and Automated Warehouse Outbound Methods

Abstract

This invention discloses an automated storage and retrieval system (AS / RS) inbound / outbound method, system, and outbound method. The inbound / outbound method uses a carrier to accommodate multiple palletized goods and employs a reasonable structure to enable smooth transfer of goods between different conveyor lines, carriers, and shelves. Thus, during the inbound / outbound process, multiple palletized goods can be put into or taken out of the warehouse in a single transfer of the carrier, reducing the additional losses caused by frequent material handling by the inbound / outbound trolleys and effectively improving inbound / outbound efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of warehousing, and in particular to automated warehouse inbound and outbound methods, systems, and outbound methods. Background Technology

[0002] Automated storage systems (AS / RS) are an important type of storage facility used in the logistics and warehousing sector for storing goods.

[0003] The invention patent application with publication number CN116374464A discloses a usable automated storage and retrieval system, in which a cargo elevator and a shuttle car are used to store goods.

[0004] In this structure, the shuttle can only move one pallet of goods at a time, which means that a single automated warehouse requires multiple shuttles and each shuttle needs to move back and forth frequently, which affects the efficiency of inbound and outbound operations to some extent. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems existing in the prior art and to provide a method, system and method for warehouse entry and exit from a vertical warehouse.

[0006] The objective of this invention is achieved through the following technical solution: The automated warehouse inbound and outbound methods include the following steps: The main conveyor line transports palletized goods to the top of its corresponding first lifting transfer machine, and the first lifting transfer machine transfers the palletized goods to a first conveyor line on the side of the main conveyor line. The first lifting and transferring machine places palletized goods on the first conveyor line onto a carrier, which is located on a first translational conveyor next to the first lifting and transferring machine; The first lifting and transfer machine continuously moves the palletized goods on the first conveyor line to the carrier until the carrier is full of palletized goods; The first translational conveyor transports the vehicle to the inbound / outbound conveyor line of the inbound / outbound trolley located between the first translational conveyor and the second translational conveyor; The warehouse trolley moves into the aisle and places the palletized goods on the vehicle into the corresponding shelf locations in sequence; When all palletized goods on the vehicle are placed on the shelf, and it is determined that there are no palletized goods on the shelves on both sides of the aisle that need to be removed from the warehouse, the inbound / outbound trolley moves to the inbound / outbound conveyor line connecting between the first and second translation conveyors. The inbound / outbound conveyor line then transports the vehicle on it to the first translation conveyor to wait for reloading. When all the palletized goods on the vehicle are placed on the shelf, and it is determined that there are palletized goods on the shelves on both sides of the aisle that need to be retrieved, the inbound / outbound trolley moves to the shelf corresponding to the palletized goods that need to be retrieved and places the corresponding palletized goods on the vehicle. The inbound / outbound conveyor line on which the inbound / outbound trolley moves is connected between the first and second translational conveyors, and the inbound / outbound conveyor line transports the carrier on it to the second translational conveyor. The second lifting and transfer machine sequentially transfers the palletized goods on the vehicle to the second conveyor line; The second conveyor line sequentially transports palletized goods to the second lifting transfer machine at the main conveyor line. The second lifting transfer machine then transfers the palletized goods on it to the main conveyor line, which in turn transports the palletized goods downstream. Once all palletized goods on the carrier have been removed, the second and first translation conveyors switch to a docking position. The second translation conveyor then transports the carrier on it to the first translation conveyor, and the first and second translation conveyors switch to a position maintaining a distance.

[0007] Preferably, the main conveyor line includes multiple conveyor sections connected in sequence, with the first lifting and transferring machine and the second lifting and transferring machine located at one conveyor section respectively.

[0008] Preferably, each of the aisles has two rows or two columns of shelves on each side.

[0009] Preferably, the first lifting transfer machine and / or the second lifting transfer machine includes a platform, the platform being vertically and flexibly mounted on a support, the support being provided with a lifting drive mechanism for driving the platform to rise and fall, and the platform being further provided with a rotating mechanism, the rotating mechanism being provided with an automatic telescopic fork.

[0010] Preferably, the lifting drive mechanism includes a winding machine, and the wire rope wound up and unwound on the winding machine is connected to the platform.

[0011] Preferably, the rotating mechanism includes a rotating frame, a rotating shaft is provided at the center of the bottom of the rotating frame, the rotating shaft is rotatably mounted on a thrust bearing, the rotating shaft is connected to a rotation drive mechanism that drives its rotation, and the rotating shaft is also inserted into an embedded bearing located below the thrust bearing.

[0012] Preferably, the conveying directions of the first translational conveyor, the second translational conveyor, and the inbound / outbound conveyor line are parallel to the conveying direction of the main conveyor line, and the inbound / outbound trolley includes a lifting and rotating fork assembly located next to the inbound / outbound conveyor line.

[0013] The automated warehouse outbound process includes the following steps: When it is determined that the goods need to be shipped out, the inbound / outbound trolley moves to the shelf corresponding to the palletized goods that need to be shipped out and places the corresponding palletized goods on the vehicle; The inbound / outbound conveyor line on which the inbound / outbound trolley moves is connected between the first and second translational conveyors, and the inbound / outbound conveyor line transports the carrier on it to the second translational conveyor. The second lifting and transfer machine sequentially transfers the palletized goods on the vehicle to the second conveyor line; The second conveyor line sequentially transports palletized goods to the main conveyor line for downstream transport; Once all palletized goods on the carrier have been removed, the second and first translation conveyors switch to a docking position. The second translation conveyor then transports the carrier on it to the first translation conveyor, and the first and second translation conveyors switch to a position maintaining a distance.

[0014] The automated warehouse inbound and outbound methods include the following steps: The main conveyor line transports palletized goods to the top of its corresponding first lifting transfer machine, and the first lifting transfer machine transfers the palletized goods to a first conveyor line on the side of the main conveyor line. The first lifting and transferring machine places palletized goods on the first conveyor line onto a carrier, which is located on a first translational conveyor next to the first lifting and transferring machine; The first lifting and transfer machine continuously moves the palletized goods on the first conveyor line to the carrier until the carrier is full of palletized goods; The first translational conveyor transports the carrier to the inbound / outbound conveyor line of the inbound / outbound trolley; The warehouse trolley moves into the aisle and places the palletized goods on the vehicle into the corresponding shelf locations in sequence; When all palletized goods on the vehicle are placed on the shelf, and it is determined that there are no palletized goods on the shelves on both sides of the aisle that need to be removed from the warehouse, the inbound / outbound trolley moves to the inbound / outbound conveyor line connecting between the first and second translation conveyors. The inbound / outbound conveyor line then transports the vehicle on it to the first translation conveyor to wait for reloading. When all the palletized goods on the vehicle are placed on the shelf, and it is determined that there are palletized goods on the shelves on both sides of the aisle that need to be retrieved, the inbound / outbound trolley moves to the shelf corresponding to the palletized goods that need to be retrieved and places the corresponding palletized goods on the vehicle. The inbound and outbound conveyor line on which the inbound and outbound trolley moves is connected to the first translation conveyor, and the inbound and outbound conveyor line transports the carrier on it to the first translation conveyor; The palletized goods on the vehicle are sequentially transferred to the first conveyor line by the first lifting and transfer machine; The first conveyor line sequentially transports palletized goods to the first lifting transfer machine at the main conveyor line. The first lifting transfer machine then transfers the palletized goods on it to the main conveyor line, which in turn transports the palletized goods downstream.

[0015] The automated warehouse inbound / outbound system includes: The main conveyor line is used for transporting palletized goods. The first conveyor line is perpendicularly connected to one side of the main conveyor line; The first lifting and transfer machine is used to transfer palletized goods from the main conveyor line to the first conveyor line connected to it. A carrier used to store palletized goods; A first translational conveyor is used for transporting the vehicle, and its transport direction is perpendicular to the transport direction of the first conveyor line; The first lifting and transferring machine is used to transfer palletized goods from the first conveyor line to a carrier on the first translation conveyor. The warehouse trolley includes a mobile frame and the warehouse inbound / outbound conveyor line and lifting and rotating fork assembly mounted on it; The second translational conveyor is used for transporting the vehicle. It is located in a position corresponding to the first translational conveyor and the two conveying directions are the same. In one state, the first translational conveyor and the second translational conveyor are located on both sides of the inbound / outbound trolley. In another state, the first translational conveyor and the second translational conveyor are docked. The second conveyor line, used for transporting palletized goods, is vertically connected to the side of the main conveyor line; The second lifting and transferring machine is used to transfer palletized goods from the carrier on the second translational conveyor to the second conveyor line; The second lifting transfer machine is used to receive palletized goods conveyed by the second conveyor line and transfer the palletized goods entering it to the main conveyor line.

[0016] The advantages of the technical solution of this invention are mainly reflected in: The warehousing method of the present invention uses a carrier to accommodate multiple palletized goods, and a reasonable structure to enable the goods to be transferred smoothly between different conveyor lines, carriers and shelves. Thus, during the warehousing process, multiple palletized goods can be put into or taken out of the warehouse in a single transfer of the carrier, which can reduce the extra losses caused by the frequent picking and putting of materials by the warehousing trolley and effectively improve the efficiency of warehousing.

[0017] The main conveyor line of this invention adopts multiple independent conveyor sections. When the first lifting and transferring machine and the second lifting and transferring machine are working, they do not affect the conveying of other conveyor sections, which helps to improve the overall conveying cycle time and increase efficiency.

[0018] The present invention provides two rows or columns of shelves on each side of each aisle, so that the extension stroke of the automatic telescopic forks of the lifting and rotating fork assembly can cover the depth of two shelves. This maximizes the number of shelves while reducing the number of aisles, which is beneficial to improving storage capacity, reducing the number of inbound and outbound trolleys and other supporting equipment, and reducing equipment costs.

[0019] The switching mechanism between the first and second horizontal conveyors of the present invention can achieve position switching of the differential chain conveyor with a simpler structure.

[0020] The first and second lifting transfer machines of the present invention use an unwinding mechanism to drive the platform, which can achieve a larger travel distance in a smaller structure. At the same time, a rotating mechanism is set on the platform to drive the automatic telescopic forks, which can effectively meet the transfer needs of palletized goods and ensure the realization of the entire system. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a partial top view of the automated warehouse entry and exit system of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a partial top view of the main conveyor line of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the carrier of the present invention and the palletized goods placed on it; Figure 4 This is a front view of the differential chain conveyor of the first translational conveyor of the present invention in a first position; Figure 5 This is a top view of the first translational conveyor of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a front view of the differential chain conveyor of the first translational conveyor of the present invention in the second position; Figure 7 This is a top view of the first lifting and transferring machine of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a side view of the rotating mechanism and the automatic telescopic fork of the first lifting and transferring machine of the present invention in the retracted state; Figure 9 This is a side view of the rotating mechanism and the automatic telescopic fork of the first lifting and transferring machine of the present invention in the extended state; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the differential chain conveyor of the first and second translational conveyors of the present invention in the first position; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the differential chain conveyor of the first and second translational conveyors of the present invention in the second position; Figure 12 This is a top view of the warehouse entry / exit trolley of the present invention; Figure 13This is a schematic diagram of the process of the inbound and outbound method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The objectives, advantages, and features of this invention will be illustrated and explained through the following non-limiting description of preferred embodiments. These embodiments are merely typical examples of applying the technical solutions of this invention, and all technical solutions formed by equivalent substitutions or equivalent transformations fall within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0023] In the description of the solution, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience and simplification of description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0024] Example 1 The automated warehouse entry and exit method disclosed in this invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. This automated warehouse entry and exit method is based on an automated warehouse entry and exit system, as shown in the attached drawings. Figure 1 As shown, the automated warehouse inbound / outbound system includes: Main conveyor line 100 is used for conveying palletized goods 003; The first conveyor line 200 is perpendicularly connected to one side of the main conveyor line 100; The first lifting and transferring machine 300 is used to transfer the palletized goods 003 at the main conveyor line 100 to the first conveyor line 200 connected to it; The carrier 400 is used to store palletized goods 003, which includes a pallet and goods stored on the pallet; The first translational conveyor 500 is used for conveying the carrier 400, and its conveying direction is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the first conveyor line 200. The first lifting and transferring machine 600 is used to transfer palletized goods 003 from the first conveyor line 200 to the carrier 400 on the first translation conveyor 500; The warehouse trolley 700 includes a mobile frame 710, a warehouse inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 and a lifting and rotating fork assembly 730 mounted thereon; The second translational conveyor 800 is used for conveying the carrier 400. It is located in a position corresponding to the first translational conveyor 500 and the two conveying directions are the same. In one state, the first translational conveyor 500 and the second translational conveyor 800 are located on both sides of the inbound / outbound trolley 700. In another state, the first translational conveyor 500 and the second translational conveyor 800 are docked. The second conveyor line 900 is used for conveying palletized goods 003 and is vertically connected to the side of the main conveyor line 100. The second lifting and transferring machine 002 is used to transfer the palletized goods 003 at the carrier 400 on the second translational conveyor 800 to the second conveyor line 900; The second lifting and transferring machine 001 is used to receive the palletized goods 003 conveyed by the second conveyor line 900 and to transfer the palletized goods 003 entering it to the main conveyor line 100.

[0025] Specifically, the main conveyor line 100 can be a known feasible structure, such as a known roller conveyor or a double-speed chain conveyor. In this embodiment, the main conveyor line 100 is described using a double-speed chain conveyor as an example. Furthermore, the main conveyor line 100 can be a relatively long double-speed chain conveyor line.

[0026] As attached Figure 2 As shown, the main conveyor line 100 is composed of multiple shorter, double-speed chain conveyor lines connected sequentially. Specifically, the main conveyor line 100 includes multiple conveyor sections 110 with independent power sources, and each conveyor section includes two conveyor assemblies 111 spaced apart. Sensors can be installed at the input and / or output ends of each conveyor section to detect whether palletized goods are passing by.

[0027] As attached Figure 1 As shown, the first lifting transfer machine 300 and the second lifting transfer machine 001 are respectively located at a conveying section 110. Therefore, when the system is working, when the first lifting transfer machine 300 and the second lifting transfer machine 001 are working, other conveying sections 110 can carry out normal conveying, thereby maximizing the efficiency of inbound and outbound operations.

[0028] The first lifting and transferring machine 300 is positioned between two conveying components 111 of a conveying section 110, and includes a conveyor and a lifting mechanism for driving the conveyor to rise and fall. The conveyor is preferably a roller conveyor, but other conveying equipment with sufficient load-bearing capacity can also be used. The conveying direction of the conveyor is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the main conveyor line 100. The lifting mechanism can use known devices such as cylinders or hydraulic cylinders as a drive source, and the conveying direction of the conveyor can be limited by known guiding structures, which will not be elaborated here. The lifting mechanism drives the conveyor to move between a first height and a second height. At the first height, the conveying surface of the conveyor is lower than the conveying surface of the double-speed chain conveyor line; at the second height, the conveying surface of the conveyor is higher than the conveying surface of the double-speed chain conveyor line. Furthermore, the number of the first lifting and transferring machines 300 can be determined according to actual needs and is not limited here. Of course, a stopper can also be installed at the first lifting transfer machine 300. When a pallet of goods needs to be transferred at a first lifting transfer machine 300, the stopper can extend upward to prevent the pallet of goods from continuing to move along the main conveyor line.

[0029] As attached Figure 1 As shown, the first conveyor line 200 is preferably a roller conveyor, but it can also be other conveying equipment with sufficient load-bearing capacity. Its conveying direction is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the main conveyor line, and it is directly opposite the conveyor of the first lifting and transferring machine 300. The height of its conveying surface is comparable to the height of the conveying surface of the second-height conveyor, thus enabling it to receive the palletized goods 003 conveyed by the first lifting and transferring machine 300. The length of the first conveyor line 200 can be designed as needed. Preferably, the length of the first conveyor line 200 is sufficient to simultaneously accommodate at least two palletized goods 003.

[0030] As attached Figure 3 As shown, the carrier 400 is used to store multiple palletized goods 003, and includes multiple layers of palletized goods storage positions 410. Each layer of palletized goods storage position 410 is used to store one palletized goods 003. Its specific structure can be designed as needed and is not limited here. Furthermore, sensors can be installed at each layer of palletized goods storage position 410 to detect whether there are palletized goods on that layer.

[0031] As attached Figure 4 Appendix Figure 5 As shown, the first translational conveyor 500 includes a differential chain conveyor 510. Of course, the differential chain conveyor 510 can also be other conveying equipment with sufficient load-bearing capacity, and its conveying direction is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the inbound conveyor.

[0032] The first translational conveyor 500 also includes a switching mechanism 520 that drives the differential chain conveyor 510 to move between a first position and a second position.

[0033] The structure of the switching mechanism 520 can be designed as needed. In one structure, the switching mechanism 520 can be a servo module, a cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, or other device that can drive the roller conveyor to move.

[0034] As attached Figure 4 Appendix Figure 5 As shown, the switching mechanism 520 includes a first support rod 521 and a second support rod 522, both parallel to each other and hinged at their upper ends to the bottom or side of the differential chain conveyor 510. The lower end of the first support rod 521 is hinged to a first connecting seat 523, and the lower end of the second support rod 522 is hinged to a second connecting seat 524. There are two first support rods 521 connected by a first connecting rod 525, and similarly, there are two second support rods 522 connected by a second connecting rod 526. This design enhances structural stability and facilitates the connection of the power source.

[0035] The first support rod 521, the second support rod 522, the first connecting rod 525, or the second connecting rod 526 is hinged to one end of the driving hydraulic cylinder 527, and the other end of the driving hydraulic cylinder 527 is hinged to the third connecting seat 528. Of course, the driving hydraulic cylinder 527 can also be replaced by a pneumatic cylinder or an electric cylinder. The driving hydraulic cylinder 527 drives the first support rod 521 and the second support rod 522 to rotate around their lower ends, thereby realizing the movement of the differential chain conveyor 510 between the first position and the second position.

[0036] Furthermore, the upper ends of the first support rod 521 and the second support rod 522 are connected to the fourth connecting seat 529 at the bottom of the differential chain conveyor 510. At the same time, a first support column 530 is also provided on the basis of the first translational conveyor 500. When the differential chain conveyor 510 is in the first position, the first support column 530 supports the fourth connecting seat 529.

[0037] As attached Figure 6 As shown, the bottom of the differential chain conveyor 510 is also provided with a fifth connecting seat 531 located in the middle area. When the differential chain conveyor 510 is in the second position, the fifth connecting seat 531 is located on the first support column 530 where the second support rod should be, thereby effectively ensuring stability. Furthermore, in both the first and second positions, the height of the conveying surface of the differential chain conveyor 510 is flush with the conveying surface of the inbound / outbound conveyor line of the inbound / outbound trolley 700.

[0038] As attached Figure 1 Appendix Figure 7As shown, the first lifting and transferring machine 600 is located between the first translational conveyor 500 and the first conveyor line 200. It includes a platform 610, which is movably mounted on a support 620. Preferably, the platform 610 is provided with guide wheels 621, which are rolled on the longitudinal rails 630 provided on the support 620. This effectively restricts the movement direction of the platform 610 and allows the platform 610 to move up and down more smoothly.

[0039] As attached Figure 7 As shown, the support 620 is equipped with a lifting drive mechanism 640 for driving the platform 610 to rise and fall. The lifting drive mechanism 640 can be a known feasible structure. For example, in one embodiment, the lifting drive mechanism 640 is a servo module, a cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder arranged in the vertical direction. In a more preferred embodiment, the lifting drive mechanism 640 includes a winding machine 641, and a wire rope 642 is provided on the top of the support. The wire rope 643 wound on the winding machine 641 passes around the wire rope 642 and is connected to the platform 610. The preferred winding machine 641 includes two reels 647, with the connection points of the wire ropes on the two reels 647 to the platform 610 symmetrically distributed. The winding machine 641 includes a winding shaft 644, which is rotatably mounted on a bracket 620 via a bearing 645. The winding shaft 644 is connected to a shaft drive mechanism 646 that drives its rotation. The shaft drive mechanism 646 can be a motor connected to the winding shaft via a transmission mechanism; preferably, the shaft drive mechanism 646 is a known hollow shaft geared motor. Two reels 647 are mounted on the winding shaft 644, rotating with it, and the two reels 647 are positioned on either side of the hollow shaft geared motor.

[0040] As attached Figure 8 Appendix Figure 9 As shown, a rotating mechanism 650 is also provided on the platform 610. The rotating mechanism 650 includes a rotating frame 651, and a rotating shaft 652 is provided at the center of the bottom of the rotating frame 651. The rotating shaft 652 is rotatably mounted on a thrust bearing 653, and the rotating shaft 652 is also rotatably inserted into an embedded bearing 654 located below the thrust bearing 653. The embedded bearing 654 is fixed to a bearing seat 655 on the platform 610, and the thrust bearing 653 is mounted on the bearing seat. The rotating shaft 652 is also connected to a rotation drive mechanism 656 that drives its rotation. The rotation drive mechanism 656 can be a known feasible structure. Preferably, the rotation drive mechanism 656 includes a motor, a pinion gear connected to the motor shaft, and a large gear meshing with the pinion gear. The large gear is mounted on the rotating shaft, and the two are torsionally connected. Of course, in other embodiments, the rotating mechanism can also be a known servo turntable.

[0041] The rotating mechanism 650 is equipped with an automatic telescopic fork 660. The rotating mechanism 650 drives the automatic telescopic fork 660 to rotate horizontally. The specific structure of the automatic telescopic fork 660 is a known technology. For example, it can be the structure disclosed in patents with authorization announcement numbers CN215756228U and CN218539201U, which will not be described in detail here. It is located in the middle position of the rotating frame 651.

[0042] As attached Figure 1 As shown, the structure of the second translational conveyor 800 is the same as that of the first translational conveyor 500, and will not be described in detail here. The first translational conveyor 500 and the second translational conveyor 800 are designed as mirror images of each other.

[0043] As attached Figure 10 As shown, when the two differential chain conveyors 510 are in the first position, the two differential chain conveyors 510 maintain a distance from each other and are located on both sides of the inbound / outbound trolley 700, so that the inbound / outbound trolley 700 can pass smoothly. (See attached diagram) Figure 11 As shown, when the two differential chain conveyors 510 are in the second position, the two differential chain conveyors 510 are engaged so that the carrier 400 can move between them.

[0044] As attached Figure 1 Appendix Figure 12 As shown, the inbound / outbound trolley 700 is located between a pair of first and second translational conveyors 500 and 800. It includes a mobile frame 710 with a power source. The specific structure of the mobile frame 710 is, for example, a known AGV or RGV trolley movement structure, which is known technology and will not be described in detail here. An inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 is provided on the mobile frame 710. The inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 can be a known high-speed conveyor, and the conveying direction of the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 is parallel to the conveying direction of the main conveyor line 100. A lifting and rotating fork assembly 730 is also provided on the mobile frame 710, located beside the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720. The specific structure of the lifting and rotating fork assembly 730 can be the same as that of the first lifting transfer machine 600, and preferably, the extension length of the automatic telescopic forks 660 of the lifting and rotating fork assembly 730 can cover the depth of two shelves.

[0045] As attached Figure 1As shown, the inbound / outbound trolley 700 is directly opposite an aisle 004 in the shelving area 005 and can move into the aisle 004. The inbound / outbound trolley 700 can move to the position where the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 on it connects with the first translation conveyor 500 and the second translation conveyor 800, thereby realizing the transfer of the carrier 400. Each side of each aisle 004 is provided with two rows or columns of closely spaced and corresponding shelves. Thus, there will be four rows or columns of closely spaced shelves between two adjacent aisles 004, which can effectively improve space utilization and reduce the number of inbound / outbound trolleys 700.

[0046] The structure of the second lifting and transferring machine 002 is the same as that of the first lifting and transferring machine 600, and will not be described in detail here. The structure of the second jacking and transferring machine 001 is the same as that of the first jacking and transferring machine 300, and will not be described in detail here.

[0047] An upper packing conveyor is also installed upstream of the main conveyor line 100, and a barcode reader can be installed at the upper packing conveyor. The barcode reader can determine the shelf to which each palletized goods 003 should be placed and the corresponding first lifting and transferring machine 300 by reading the barcode, QR code, or RFID tag of the palletized goods 003 passing through it. At the same time, the position of the palletized goods 003 on the main conveyor line 100 can be determined by known position tracking technology, thereby controlling the stop of the palletized goods 003. In addition, during the control process, known control devices (such as PLCs) can be used in conjunction with sensors at predetermined positions to control the automatic operation of each device.

[0048] As attached Figure 13 As shown, the inbound and outbound method includes the following steps: The main conveyor line 100 transports palletized goods 003 downstream. When a palletized goods 003 moves above its corresponding first lifting transfer machine 300, the conveyor section 110 where the palletized goods 003 is located stops transporting. The lifting mechanism of the first lifting transfer machine 300 below the palletized goods 003 lifts the conveyor, thereby the fixed lifting transfer machine lifts the palletized goods 003 from the conveyor section 110. Then, the conveyor of the first lifting transfer machine 300 starts to transfer the palletized goods 003 on it to the first conveyor line 200 and then resets. At the same time, the stopped conveyor section can resume normal transport. The first conveyor line 200 transports the palletized goods 003 to the designated location and then stops.

[0049] At this time, the rotating mechanism 650 of the first lifting and transferring machine 600 drives the automatic telescopic fork 660 on it to rotate toward the pallet of the palletized goods 003. Then, the forks of the automatic telescopic fork 660 extend under the pallet. The lifting drive mechanism 640 drives the platform 610 to rise and lift the palletized goods 003 on the first conveyor line 200. The automatic telescopic fork then returns to its retracted state. Then, the rotating mechanism 650 drives the automatic telescopic fork 660 to rotate 180° toward the first translational conveyor 500. At this time, the double-speed chain conveyor 510 of the first translational conveyor 500 is in the first position. The forks of the automatic telescopic fork 660 extend and place the palletized goods 003 on it onto the first layer of the carrier 400 on the first translational conveyor 500.

[0050] The first lifting and transferring machine 600 continuously transfers palletized goods that have entered the first conveyor line 200 to the carrier 400 until the carrier 400 is full of palletized goods.

[0051] At this time, the trolley 700 moves so that its inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 connects with the double-speed chain conveyor 510 of the first translation conveyor 500, and the first translation conveyor 500 transports its fully loaded vehicle 400 onto the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720.

[0052] Subsequently, the inbound / outbound trolley 700 moves into its corresponding aisle 004 and uses the lifting and rotating fork assembly 730 to sequentially place the palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 into the corresponding shelf positions. The operation of the lifting and rotating fork assembly 730 in transferring palletized goods is the same as that of the first lifting and transferring machine 600, and will not be described in detail here.

[0053] When all the palletized goods 003 on the fully loaded vehicle 400 are placed on the shelf, the movement of the inbound / outbound trolley is controlled according to whether there are any palletized goods on the shelves on both sides of the aisle that need to be removed. When it is determined that there are no palletized goods 003 on the shelves on both sides of the aisle 004 that need to be removed, the inbound / outbound trolley 700 moves to the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 and connects between the first translation conveyor 500 and the second translation conveyor 800. The inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 transports the empty vehicle 400 on it to the first translation conveyor 500 to wait for reloading.

[0054] When it is determined that there are palletized goods 003 on the shelves on both sides of the aisle 004 that need to be taken out, the inbound / outbound trolley 700 moves to the shelf corresponding to the palletized goods 003 that need to be taken out, and places the corresponding palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 through the lifting and rotating fork assembly 730.

[0055] Next, the trolley 700 moves to the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 connected between the first translation conveyor 500 and the second translation conveyor 800, and the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 transports the carrier 400 on it to the second translation conveyor 800.

[0056] Subsequently, the palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 are transferred sequentially to the second conveyor line 900 by the second lifting and transfer machine 002.

[0057] The second conveyor line 900 sequentially transports the palletized goods 003 onto it to the second lifting transfer machine 002 at the main conveyor line 100. The second lifting transfer machine 002 then transfers the palletized goods 003 onto it to the main conveyor line 100, which in turn transports the palletized goods 003 downstream. After all the palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 are removed, the second translation conveyor 800 and the first translation conveyor 500 switch to a docking position. The second translation conveyor 800 transports the carrier 400 on it to the first translation conveyor 500. The first translation conveyor 500 and the second translation conveyor 800 switch to a position that maintains a distance, that is, their differential chain conveyors are in the first position. At this time, the palletized goods that have entered the first conveyor line 200 can be continuously transferred to the carrier 400 again by the first lifting transfer machine 600.

[0058] Repeat the above process to continuously perform inbound and outbound operations.

[0059] Furthermore, when transferring palletized goods 003 from carrier 400 to shelves, priority is given to transferring palletized goods 003 that need to be placed on outer shelves or unobstructed inner shelves to their corresponding shelf positions. This is because if there is an nth palletized goods 003 on carrier 400, and the shelf it is to be placed on is an inner shelf (one of the two rows or columns of shelves on either side of aisle 004 that is furthest from aisle 004), and if the outer shelf of shelf position X to which the nth palletized goods 003 is to be placed happens to have another palletized goods 003 on shelf position Y, which is directly opposite shelf position X, then... For a pallet 003 of size m, it needs to be removed from shelf location Y before pallet 003 of size n from carrier 400 can be placed on shelf location X. First, remove other unobstructed pallet 003s from carrier 400 to provide temporary storage space for pallet 003 of size m. Then, pallet 003 of size m can be placed on carrier 400, pallet 003 of size n can be placed on shelf location X, and finally pallet 003 of size m can be returned to shelf location Y. However, this is not mandatory. For example, if shelf location Y-1 next to or near pallet 003 of size m is empty, pallet 003 of size m can be moved to shelf location Y-1 first, pallet 003 of size n can be placed there, and then pallet 003 of size m can be returned to its original position.

[0060] Similarly, when transferring palletized goods 003 from the shelf to the carrier 400, if the palletized goods 003 on the inner shelf is blocked by the palletized goods 003 on the outer shelf, the palletized goods 003 on the outer shelf can be transferred to the carrier 400 or a nearby empty shelf location first. After the palletized goods 003 on the inner shelf are transferred to the carrier 400, the palletized goods 003 on the outer shelf can be returned to their original positions.

[0061] Example 2 This embodiment discloses a method for issuing goods from an automated warehouse, which is also based on the aforementioned automated warehouse inbound / outbound system, and includes the following steps: When it is determined that the goods need to be shipped out, the inbound / outbound trolley 700 moves to the shelf corresponding to the palletized goods 003 that need to be shipped out, and places the corresponding palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400. The inbound / outbound trolley 700 moves onto the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720, which connects between the first translation conveyor 500 and the second translation conveyor 800. The inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 transports the carrier 400 on it to the second translation conveyor 800. The palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 are sequentially transferred to the second conveyor line 900 by the second lifting and transfer machine 002. The second conveyor line 900 sequentially transports the palletized goods 003 to the main conveyor line 100 for downstream transport; After all the palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 are removed, the second translation conveyor 800 and the first translation conveyor 500 switch to a docking position. The second translation conveyor 800 transports the carrier 400 on it to the first translation conveyor 500. The first translation conveyor 500 and the second translation conveyor 800 switch to a position that maintains a distance.

[0062] Example 3 This embodiment discloses a method for automated warehouse inbound and outbound operations, which is also based on the aforementioned automated warehouse inbound and outbound system, and includes the following steps: When the main conveyor line 100 transports the palletized goods 003 to its corresponding first lifting conveyor, the first lifting transfer machine 300 transfers the palletized goods 003 to the first conveyor line 200 on the side of the main conveyor line 100.

[0063] The first lifting and transferring machine 600 places the palletized goods 003 on the first conveyor line 200 onto a carrier 400, which is located on a first translational conveyor 500 next to the first lifting and transferring machine 600.

[0064] The first lifting and transferring machine 600 continuously transfers palletized goods that have entered the first conveyor line 200 to the carrier 400 until the carrier 400 is full of palletized goods.

[0065] The first translational conveyor 500 transports the carrier 400 to the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 of the inbound / outbound trolley 700.

[0066] The warehouse entry / exit trolley 700 moves into aisle 004 and places the palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 into the corresponding shelf locations in sequence.

[0067] When all palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 are placed on the shelf, and it is determined that there are no palletized goods 003 on the shelves on both sides of the aisle 004 that need to be removed from the warehouse, the inbound / outbound trolley 700 moves to the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 and connects between the first translation conveyor 500 and the second translation conveyor 800. The inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 then transports the carrier 400 on it to the first translation conveyor 500 to wait for reloading.

[0068] When all the palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 are placed on the shelf, and it is determined that there are palletized goods 003 on the shelves on both sides of the aisle 004 that need to be taken out, the inbound / outbound trolley 700 moves to the shelf corresponding to the palletized goods 003 that need to be taken out and places the corresponding palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400.

[0069] The trolley 700 moves to the inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 on it and connects to the first translation conveyor 500. The inbound / outbound conveyor line 720 transports the carrier 400 on it to the first translation conveyor 500.

[0070] The palletized goods 003 on the carrier 400 are sequentially transferred to the first conveyor line by the first lifting and transferring machine 600.

[0071] The first conveyor line 200 sequentially transports the palletized goods 003 to the first lifting and transferring machine 600 at the main conveyor line 100. The first lifting and transferring machine 600 transfers the palletized goods 003 located thereon to the main conveyor line 100, and the main conveyor line 100 transports the palletized goods 003 downstream.

[0072] This invention has many other embodiments, and all technical solutions formed by equivalent transformation or equivalent transformation fall within the protection scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A warehouse entry and exit method, characterized in that... It includes the following steps: The main conveyor line transports palletized goods to the top of its corresponding first lifting transfer machine, and the first lifting transfer machine transfers the palletized goods to a first conveyor line on the side of the main conveyor line. The first lifting and transferring machine places palletized goods on the first conveyor line onto a carrier, which is located on a first translational conveyor next to the first lifting and transferring machine; The first lifting and transfer machine continuously moves the palletized goods on the first conveyor line to the carrier until the carrier is full of palletized goods; The first translational conveyor transports the vehicle to the inbound / outbound conveyor line of the inbound / outbound trolley located between the first translational conveyor and the second translational conveyor; The warehouse trolley moves into the aisle and places the palletized goods on the vehicle into the corresponding shelf locations in sequence; When all palletized goods on the vehicle are placed on the shelf, and it is determined that there are no palletized goods on the shelves on both sides of the aisle that need to be removed from the warehouse, the inbound / outbound trolley moves to the inbound / outbound conveyor line connecting between the first and second translation conveyors. The inbound / outbound conveyor line then transports the vehicle on it to the first translation conveyor to wait for reloading. When all the palletized goods on the vehicle are placed on the shelf, and it is determined that there are palletized goods on the shelves on both sides of the aisle that need to be retrieved, the inbound / outbound trolley moves to the shelf corresponding to the palletized goods that need to be retrieved and places the corresponding palletized goods on the vehicle. The inbound / outbound conveyor line on which the inbound / outbound trolley moves is connected between the first and second translational conveyors, and the inbound / outbound conveyor line transports the carrier on it to the second translational conveyor. The second lifting and transfer machine sequentially transfers the palletized goods on the vehicle to the second conveyor line; The second conveyor line sequentially transports palletized goods to the second lifting transfer machine at the main conveyor line. The second lifting transfer machine then transfers the palletized goods on it to the main conveyor line, which in turn transports the palletized goods downstream. Once all palletized goods on the carrier have been removed, the second and first translation conveyors switch to a docking position. The second translation conveyor then transports the carrier on it to the first translation conveyor, and the first and second translation conveyors switch to a position maintaining a distance.

2. The warehouse entry and exit method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The main conveyor line includes multiple conveyor sections connected in sequence, with the first lifting and transferring machine and the second lifting and transferring machine located at one conveyor section respectively.

3. The automated warehouse entry and exit method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the aforementioned aisles has two rows or two columns of shelves on each side.

4. The warehouse entry and exit method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first lifting transfer machine and / or the second lifting transfer machine include a platform, which is vertically mounted on a support. The support is provided with a lifting drive mechanism for driving the platform to move up and down. A rotating mechanism is also provided on the platform, and an automatic telescopic fork is provided on the rotating mechanism.

5. The warehouse entry and exit method according to claim 4, characterized in that: The lifting drive mechanism includes a winding machine, on which a wire rope is wound up and unwound and connected to the platform.

6. The warehouse entry and exit method according to claim 4, characterized in that: The rotating mechanism includes a rotating frame, with a rotating shaft located at the center of the bottom of the rotating frame. The rotating shaft is rotatably mounted on a thrust bearing and is connected to a rotation drive mechanism that drives its rotation. The rotating shaft is also inserted into an embedded bearing located below the thrust bearing.

7. The automated warehouse entry and exit method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that: The conveying directions of the first translational conveyor, the second translational conveyor, and the inbound / outbound conveyor line are parallel to the conveying direction of the main conveyor line. The inbound / outbound trolley includes a lifting and rotating fork assembly located next to the inbound / outbound conveyor line.

8. A vertical warehouse inbound / outbound system, characterized in that, include: The main conveyor line is used for transporting palletized goods. The first conveyor line is perpendicularly connected to one side of the main conveyor line; The first lifting and transfer machine is used to transfer palletized goods from the main conveyor line to the first conveyor line connected to it. A carrier used to store palletized goods; A first translational conveyor is used for transporting the vehicle, and its transport direction is perpendicular to the transport direction of the first conveyor line; The first lifting and transferring machine is used to transfer palletized goods from the first conveyor line to a carrier on the first translation conveyor. The warehouse trolley includes a mobile frame and the warehouse inbound / outbound conveyor line and lifting and rotating fork assembly mounted on it; The second translational conveyor is used for transporting the vehicle. It is located in a position corresponding to the first translational conveyor and the two conveying directions are the same. In one state, the first translational conveyor and the second translational conveyor are located on both sides of the inbound / outbound trolley. In another state, the first translational conveyor and the second translational conveyor are docked. The second conveyor line, used for transporting palletized goods, is vertically connected to the side of the main conveyor line; The second lifting and transferring machine is used to transfer palletized goods from the carrier on the second translational conveyor to the second conveyor line; The second lifting transfer machine is used to receive palletized goods conveyed by the second conveyor line and transfer the palletized goods entering it to the main conveyor line.

Images