Transport carrier for an overhead conveyor apparatus, and overhead conveyor apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a transport carrier (1) for moving along a support structure (3), comprising a longitudinal axis (L), a transverse axis (Q) and a vertical axis (H), exactly one wheel axis (A) which lies parallel to the transverse axis (Q) and has two drive wheels (4), an electric drive device (5) for driving the drive wheels (4), a control unit (6) for controlling at least the drive device (5), an energy supply device having at least two current collectors (7, 8) for supplying the transport carrier (1), in particular the drive device (5) and the control unit (6), with electrical energy, and a carrying body (29) having a receptacle (30) which has a fastening point (BP) for fastening a load, wherein: the fastening point (BP) is spaced apart from a wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4) at a fastening point distance (X7) in the direction of the vertical axis (H); at least one current collector (7, 8) comprises a contact element (10) which is designed to electrically contact a conducting track (46, 47) of the support structure (3) and which can be pivoted about a pivot axis (S1, S2) running parallel to the transverse axis (Q); the pivot axis (S1, S2) lies on a side of the wheel axis (A) remote from the receptacle (30) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) and is spaced apart from the wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4) at a pivot axis distance (X12, X13).

Description

[0001] TRANSPORT CARRIER FOR A SUSPENDED CONVEYOR AND

[0002] SUSPENDED CONVEYOR DEVICE

[0003] The invention relates to a transport carrier for movement along a support structure, in particular an overhead conveyor device, comprising a longitudinal axis, a transverse axis and a vertical axis, one, in particular exactly one, wheel axle lying parallel to the transverse axis with two drive wheels, an electric drive device for driving the drive wheels, a control unit for controlling at least the drive device, a power supply device with at least two current collectors for supplying the transport carrier, in particular the drive device and the control unit, with electrical energy, and a support body with a receptacle which has a fastening point for fastening a load, in particular a hanging goods carrier, wherein the fastening point is spaced in the direction of the vertical axis at a fastening point distance from a wheel contact surface of the drive wheels provided for rolling on the support structure.The invention further relates to an overhead conveyor device having at least one such transport carrier, as well as to a hanging goods warehouse. The invention also relates to a method for operating an overhead conveyor device comprising a support structure and at least one single-axis transport carrier that is movable on the support structure along a substantially horizontal path of movement defined by the support structure, wherein drive wheels of the transport carrier roll on traction surfaces of a traction section of the support structure.

[0004] A generic overhead conveyor device with transport carriers is known, for example, from DE 10 2018 128 417 A1. Here, the drive energy is provided by energy storage devices that travel with the transport carriers. WO 2023 / 147619 A1 shows another exemplary overhead conveyor device.

[0005] The object of the present invention was therefore to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a transport carrier that is as simple and cost-effective to manufacture as possible, offers high reliability, improved driving dynamics, and / or flexibility. A further object was to provide an improved method for operating an overhead conveyor device, in particular to increase storage density and / or throughput.

[0006] This object is achieved with the transport carrier mentioned at the outset in that the at least two current collectors comprise at least one current collector which comprises a contact element designed to make electrical contact with a conductor track of the support structure, which contact element can be pivoted about a pivot axis running parallel to the transverse axis relative to a base body of the transport carrier, wherein the pivot axis lies in the direction of the vertical axis on a side of the wheel axle facing away from the receptacle and is spaced at a pivot axis distance from the wheel contact surface of the drive wheels, wherein a first lever ratio between the attachment point distance and the pivot axis distance is preferably 1.9 to 3.6, particularly preferably 2.4 to 3.4, in particular 2.5 to 3.2. As a result, stable driving behavior can be achieved despite the single-axle design, since the drive torque generated by the drive device can be absorbed via the lever geometry.The distance between the attachment points can be used to generate a counter-torque that counteracts the drive torque due to the weight of the load, in particular of a standardized hanging goods carrier. The pivoting contact element contacts a corresponding conductor track on the support structure, thereby providing additional, advantageous support for the transport carrier. Tests have shown that preferred values ​​for the lever ratio are particularly effective. The second current collector can be arranged in parallel, but could in principle also be arranged at a different point on the transport carrier, e.g. to the side of a base body of the transport carrier, on an underside opposite the first current collector, e.g. in the area of ​​the support body or possibly also in the area of ​​the drive wheels. The conductor track that interacts with it is arranged at a suitable point on the support structure.

[0007] Preferably, a contact surface of the pivotable contact element provided for contacting the conductor track is spaced apart from the associated pivot axis in the direction of the vertical axis at a contact surface distance, wherein a second lever ratio between the pivot axis distance and the contact surface distance is 4.1 to 6.2, preferably 4.8 to 5.3 and / or a third lever ratio between the fastening point distance and the contact surface distance is 11 to 18, preferably 13 to 16. This further improves driving stability and the transport carrier can be arranged, in particular suspended, more easily on the transport structure.

[0008] Preferably, the at least one current collector comprises at least two current collectors spaced apart in the direction of the transverse axis, wherein the contact element of one current collector is pivotable relative to a base body of the transport carrier about a first pivot axis having a first pivot axis distance, and the contact element of the at least one further current collector is pivotable about a second pivot axis having a second pivot axis distance that is smaller than the first pivot axis distance. This further improves driving stability, since rolling movements about the longitudinal axis in particular can be better absorbed. Furthermore, simple arrangement, in particular latching or hanging, of the transport carrier on the support structure is also enabled.

[0009] Preferably, the contact elements of the at least two current collectors each have a sliding contact with a sliding contact surface or a rolling element with a rolling contact surface. This ensures reliable energy transmission with low energy and friction losses.

[0010] Preferably, a first axial distance between a contact surface of the contact element of the current collector with the first pivot axis distance and the wheel axis in the direction of the vertical axis is greater than a second axial distance between a contact surface of the contact element of the at least one further current collector with the second pivot axis distance. This provides an advantageous structural embodiment of the transport carrier that can interact with conductor tracks with different distances.

[0011] It is advantageous that a tangential plane of the contact surface of the contact element of at least one current collector, preferably in a neutral position, is oriented substantially parallel to a plane spanned by the longitudinal axis and the transverse axis. At least a portion of the contact surface is thus substantially perpendicular to the vertical axis and, during operation, faces vertically upward. This provides an advantageous embodiment in which the conductor tracks with which the current collectors interact are located vertically above the transport carrier.

[0012] The transport carrier preferably comprises an electrical buffer storage device, in particular a buffer capacitor, for temporarily supplying energy to the drive device and / or the control unit, wherein the energy supply device is designed to feed the buffer storage device. This ensures that the transport carrier does not come to a standstill in the event of any temporary power outages. However, since the energy storage device is only used briefly (for a short period of time), it can be dimensioned significantly smaller than in the prior art. The drive device can comprise a DC motor, which preferably drives the drive wheels directly. This achieves a simple and cost-effective design and, in particular, eliminates the need for a gearbox. Furthermore, DC motors are easy to control and have a relatively high starting torque.

[0013] It is advantageous if the wheel axle has a rigid axle, preferably unsprung. This again results in a very simple design.

[0014] It has proven advantageous in tests that a distance between a contact surface of the contact element of the current collector with the first pivot axis distance and the wheel contact surface of the drive wheels in the direction of the vertical axis is 110% to 130% of the first pivot axis distance, for example 90mm to 115mm, and / or that a distance between the contact surface of the contact element of the at least one further current collector with the second pivot axis distance and the wheel contact surface of the drive wheels in the direction of the vertical axis is 110% to 130% of the second pivot axis distance, for example 80mm to 105mm.

[0015] Preferably, the contact element of at least one current collector is movable in the direction of the vertical axis relative to a base body of the transport carrier and is sprung by means of a suspension unit. The suspension unit, which preferably acts substantially in the direction of the vertical axis, can, for example, comprise at least one of the following springs: leaf spring, coil spring, elastomer spring, air spring, torsion spring. This ensures reliable contact, since the contact surface of the contact element, in particular the sliding contact surface, is pressed against the sliding surface of a corresponding conductor element of the support structure. This also compensates for any unevenness. The spring can, if necessary, also be part of the electrical path and, for example, be electrically connected to the contact element on the one hand and electrically connected to the drive device and / or the control unit on the other.

[0016] It has proven advantageous in tests that a distance between a contact surface of the contact element of the at least one current collector with the first pivot axis distance and the pivot axis in the direction of the vertical axis is 15% to 25% of the first pivot axis distance, for example 15 mm to 19 mm and / or that a distance between a contact surface of the contact element of the at least one second current collector with the second pivot axis distance and the second pivot axis in the direction of the vertical axis is 15% to 25% of the second pivot axis distance, for example 13 mm to 16.5 mm.

[0017] Preferably, at least one current collector comprises a guide sleeve, and the contact element of the current collector is guided within the guide sleeve. Alternatively or additionally, at least one current collector can comprise a guide block, and the contact element of the current collector is guided externally on the guide block. According to an advantageous embodiment, the guide sleeve has a guide slot on each of its inner surfaces facing one another in the direction of the transverse axis, and the contact element has a guide pin on each of its outer sides facing away from one another in the direction of the transverse axis, which guide pin is received in the guide slot, or vice versa. This simultaneously forms a linear guide and a joint. The base body of the transport carrier preferably comprises a holding bracket, and the at least one guide block is mounted on the holding bracket so as to be pivotable about the pivot axis.The bearing thus has a translational and a rotational degree of freedom, which, on the one hand, enables the transmission of a contact force, in particular the spring force of the suspension unit, for contact, and, on the other hand, enables preferably flat contact despite possible pitching movements, as well as easy lateral removal of the transport carrier. Furthermore, moments counteracting the vertical position during a pitching movement are reduced.

[0018] Preferably, the at least one current collector comprises three current collectors spaced apart in the direction of the transverse axis, wherein two current collectors are provided, the contact elements of which each have the second pivot axis with the second pivot axis distance, and wherein the third current collector is arranged between the two current collectors in the direction of the transverse axis, and wherein the contact element of the third current collector has the first pivot axis with the first pivot axis distance. This makes it possible to provide redundant current collection by the two outer current collectors, thereby increasing the reliability of the power supply. This particularly applies to the power supply in intersection areas or junctions, since here the contact of one of the outer current collectors may be briefly interrupted.

[0019] It can be advantageous if the contact elements of the outer pantographs are mechanically coupled by means of a coupling unit and are movable together in the direction of the vertical axis. The two contact elements each have a spring unit with which they are spring-mounted relative to the base body of the transport carrier. The spring units each have two intersecting elongated spring elements, with an imaginary connecting line between the intersection points of the spring elements of the two spring units running essentially parallel to the transverse axis. This creates a very stable design. The coupling unit can, for example, have a frame that surrounds the central pantograph.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one current collector, in particular the middle one of three current collectors, is arranged on the transport carrier so as to be movable in a direction parallel to the transverse axis. A guide device for guiding and an actuator for moving the first current collector are provided. The actuator can, for example, comprise a rack and pinion drive or a linear motor. The movable current collector can thus be advantageously used to carry out steering movements of the transport carrier in the area of ​​junctions and, if necessary, also to guide or stabilize the transport carrier.

[0021] In order not to overload the actuator, it may be advantageous if the guide device is self-locking when a lateral force acting on the central pantograph in the direction of the transverse axis is exceeded.

[0022] The control unit is preferably designed to control the actuator such that the middle pantograph can be moved continuously or discretely between a first end position, a second end position, and an intermediate central position. While the central position is intended for straight-ahead travel, the two end positions are used to perform a turning maneuver at a junction. The middle pantograph can, for example, be moved into the appropriate position before reaching the junction in order to perform a desired turning maneuver. The advantage of this is that the junction can be designed passively, meaning that no actuating means are required to perform a turning maneuver. Junctions, intersections, and / or intersection modules of the transport network with which the middle pantograph, i.e., the transport carrier, interacts in an operating state, are therefore preferably free of actuating elements.

[0023] To prevent overloading the drive and to ensure precise and reproducible travel to the end positions, a mechanical end stop can be provided for each end position. The end stops are preferably located on the base body or formed by the base body, particularly the retaining brackets. To prevent unwanted jamming or obstruction of the guide at the end stops, it may be advantageous for the control unit to move the central pantograph until just before the end stop, and for the remaining distance until the end stop is finally reached to be covered by overcoming any intentionally provided or manufacturing-related mechanical play in the actuator.

[0024] If a linear motor is used, it preferably comprises several, in particular three, electrical coils spaced apart along the transverse axis and arranged coaxially with one another. The movable central current collector, in particular its guide sleeve, comprises a permanent magnet core, and the control unit is designed to selectively energize the coils to move the central current collector between the end positions and the central position. This enables very precise positioning.

[0025] The support body can be arranged in the direction of the wheel axle, preferably centrally, between the two drive wheels. When the transport carrier is mounted on the support structure, the support body extends vertically downward through a gap in a traction section of the support structure, so that the receptacle is located below the support structure. Tests have also shown that the attachment point spacing is advantageously 200 mm to 260 mm, particularly preferably 220 mm to 240 mm.

[0026] A length of the support body in the direction of the longitudinal axis can be, for example, ±10% of a wheel diameter of the drive wheels, at least in a section of the support body that is located in the intermediate space when the transport carrier is arranged on the support structure, and / or a width of the support body in the direction of the transverse axis can be, at least in the same section, 10% to 30%, preferably 15% to 25%, in particular 20% of the wheel diameter of the drive wheels. The support body can thus be advantageously used to guide the transport carrier. Undesirable yawing movements and / or lateral inclinations of the transport carrier can be prevented or at least reduced.

[0027] To prevent damage to the support body and / or reduce friction, it may be advantageous if the support body comprises, at least in a section of the support body that is located in the intermediate space when the transport carrier is arranged on the support structure, a crash barrier or a sliding element or a sliding coating or a friction-reducing material. The sliding coating or the friction-reducing material can comprise, for example,

[0028] Preferably, the transport carrier comprises a hanging goods carrier which is or can be fastened rigidly or articulately to the receptacle, wherein the receptacle preferably comprises an eyelet to which the hanging goods carrier is fastened, in particular suspended, preferably in an operationally detachable manner.

[0029] The hanging goods carrier can be rotatable relative to the support body on the support about an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the transport carrier, with other rotational degrees of freedom preferably being locked. This allows for high driving stability, as the hanging goods carrier cannot, for example, oscillate about an axis parallel to the transverse axis, or can only oscillate slightly. However, outward oscillation in curves is permitted.

[0030] Tests have shown that it is advantageous if the distance between a fastening point of the hanging goods carrier designed for attachment to the holder and a lower free end of the hanging goods carrier in the attached state is 300% to 400% of the fastening point distance, for example 750mm to 950mm, preferably 800mm to 900mm.

[0031] The hanging goods carrier preferably comprises a hanging pocket that is at least partially flexible, or a substantially rigid container for holding piece goods, or a liquid container, or a hanger for holding items of clothing. This means that a suitable hanging goods carrier can be used depending on the desired stored goods. Mixed operation with different hanging goods carriers would of course also be conceivable. It is advantageous if the hanging goods carrier is or can be attached to the holder in a detachable manner during operation, in particular non-destructively, and that the holder and the hanging goods carrier are designed such that the hanging goods carrier can only be attached in a defined orientation. This means that the well-known Japanese “poka-yoke” principle can be applied, which can reliably prevent incorrect attachment, i.e. incorrect alignment of the hanging goods carrier.This is particularly advantageous when operating an overhead conveyor device with directional hanging goods carriers, for example to ensure that the hanging goods carriers are moved into an unloading or loading station in the correct orientation. A directional hanging goods carrier is, for example, a hanging goods carrier that is only accessible from a specific side for loading or unloading goods. Furthermore, it can be advantageous if at least part of the control unit and / or an electronic component of the transport carrier and / or a sensor is located within the support body. This makes it possible to optimise the packaging of components. In particular, the installation space required above the traction surface can be used for other purposes, for example for lateral dynamics control.

[0032] It has proven advantageous for the drive wheels to have a maximum wheel diameter of 150 mm, preferably 100 mm, and especially 70 mm, and for the maximum extension of the transport carrier along the longitudinal axis to correspond to the wheel diameter ± 20%, preferably ± 10%. This design represents an optimum balance between good traction, driving dynamics, smooth running, and bearing density.

[0033] The contact elements preferably contain copper and graphite, which ensures good electrical conduction and low wear. Alternatively or additionally, the contact elements designed as sliding contacts can be bevelled or rounded at the front and rear in the direction of the longitudinal axis, which facilitates the arrangement of the transport carrier on the support structure. Alternatively or additionally, the contact surfaces of the contact elements can be flat or convexly curved. The flat contact surfaces can, for example, be aligned essentially parallel to a plane spanned by the longitudinal axis and transverse axis. The convex curvature can run in the direction of the longitudinal axis and / or in the direction of the transverse axis. The curvature can bridge any gaps more effectively. A flat design, on the other hand, is cheaper to manufacture and also results in better wear characteristics and a longer service life.These advantages can be achieved particularly easily, especially in conjunction with chamfered gaps in the current guide.

[0034] The transport carrier preferably comprises a number of sensors for detecting at least one state variable, in particular position, and / or speed and / or acceleration, of the transport carrier, and a control unit designed to control the transport carrier, in particular the drive device and / or the actuator of the central pantograph, as a function of the detected state variable or a variable derived therefrom. The sensors can, for example, comprise at least one of the following sensors: distance sensor, in particular TOF sensor (TOF = Time of Flight), position sensor, in particular Hall sensor, speed sensor, weight sensor. For example, distance sensors can be arranged at the front and / or rear in the direction of movement, and the control unit can use the signal received from the distance sensor(s) to implement collision avoidance or distance control.According to a simple embodiment, the TOF sensor can, for example, be designed to emit a light beam parallel to the longitudinal axis of the transport carrier (in the direction of movement forwards and / or backwards). Based on the received reflected light beam, the distance to an obstacle, e.g., another transport carrier traveling in front of or behind it, can be determined based on the travel time. In the aforementioned embodiment, it can be advantageous in curves due to the straight light beam if the distance control is deactivated and switched to a control. The curve can then be negotiated, for example, at a fixed, constant speed. The speed can, for example, be fixed or determinable depending on one or more parameters of the transport carrier and / or the support structure. A parameter of the transport carrier could, for example,a type or weight of the transported goods or a type of hanging goods carrier, etc. A parameter of the support structure could, for example, be the curvature of the curve. The parameters can be known and, for example, stored or storable in a memory unit of the transport carrier. However, the parameters could also be determined by the transport carrier or sent to the transport carrier via a suitable communication device. A load could, for example, be approximately determined from the current consumption of the electric drive device or via a suitable weight sensor. However, the known mass of a product transported with the transport carrier could also be sent to the control unit of the transport carrier.

[0035] The transport carrier preferably has a first communication device for wireless communication with a central control device of the overhead conveyor device, and the control unit is designed to control the transport carrier, in particular the drive device, as a function of information received from the central control device of the overhead conveyor device and / or to send information to the central control device of the overhead conveyor device. If the transport carrier comprises a movable central current collector with an actuator, then it is advantageous if the control unit is designed to control the actuator of the central current collector as a function of information received from the control device of the overhead conveyor device. This allows information such as a travel route, a target speed, etc. to be provided centrally and sent to the transport carrier.Alternatively or additionally, the transport carrier can also send important information to the central control device, such as any error messages or values ​​recorded by one or more sensors. The first communication device can, for example, use a suitable wireless communication standard, such as mobile radio, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.

[0036] The transport carrier can also comprise a second communication device for communicating with another transport carrier, and the control unit can be configured to control the transport carrier, in particular the drive device, depending on information received from the other transport carrier and / or to send information to the other transport carrier. If the transport carrier comprises a movable central pantograph with an actuator, it is advantageous if the control unit is configured to control the actuator of the central pantograph based on information received from the other transport carrier. This can, for example, create a forwarding chain of information across a plurality of transport carriers.A first transport carrier can thus, for example, forward information received from the central control device to a neighboring transport carrier, and this can in turn forward the information, possibly supplemented by additional information, to the next transport carrier, etc. The second communication device can, for example, in turn use a suitable wireless communication standard, such as mobile radio, WLAN, Bluetooth, near-field communication (NFC), etc. The second communication device can, for example, have a shorter range than the first communication device.

[0037] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the transport carrier comprises a third communication device for communicating with a communication network of the overhead conveyor device, wherein the control unit is designed to control the transport carrier, in particular the drive device and / or the actuator of the central pantograph, depending on information received from the communication network and / or to send information to the communication network. The communication network can, for example, be subordinate to the central control device and can comprise a plurality of transmitters and / or receivers, which can be distributed in a transport network formed from the transport carrier. The third communication device can, for example, in turn use a suitable wireless communication standard, such as mobile radio, WLAN, Bluetooth, near-field communication (NFC), etc.The third communication device may, for example, have a shorter range than the first communication device. For example, the range could be only a few centimeters, and data transmission could only occur when a transport carrier is in the immediate vicinity of a transmitter / receiver.

[0038] It is advantageous if the transport carrier is designed to be moved in opposite directions relative to its longitudinal axis with identical driving characteristics. This means that the transport carrier has symmetrical functionality, allowing it to be used regardless of its orientation on the support structure. This facilitates handling, as the orientation of the transport carrier does not need to be considered. Identical driving characteristics can mean, for example, that the same speed and / or acceleration can be achieved in both directions. The sensor system is also preferably symmetrical, allowing, for example, distance control in both directions.

[0039] The weight distribution of the transport carrier, preferably including the hanging goods carrier, can be determined in such a way that the vertical axis of the transport carrier is essentially vertically aligned on the support structure when stationary and / or that any pitching movement around the transverse axis occurring during movement can be reduced, or in particular avoided. This ensures that the transport carrier is in the intended position on the support structure so that, for example, any sensors are correctly aligned. Friction occurring between the current collectors and the conductor tracks can also help to keep the transport carrier in the vertical position when stationary. The center of gravity of the transport carrier without the hanging goods carrier can, for example, be on a side of the wheel axle facing away from the current collectors in the direction of the vertical axis.The center of gravity of the transport carrier with hanging goods carrier is preferably located between the support body holder and the lower free end of the hanging goods carrier. Tests have proven advantageous for the center of gravity of the transport carrier without hanging goods carrier to be spaced from the wheel contact surface at a center of gravity distance of 5% to 15% of the pivot axis distance, for example 5 mm to 10 mm. The advantageous weight of the transport carrier without hanging goods carrier can preferably be 450 g to 650 g, in particular 500 g, to 600 g. Tests have also proven advantageous for the center of gravity of the transport carrier with hanging goods carrier to be spaced from the wheel contact surface at a center of gravity distance of preferably 150% to 190% of the attachment point distance X7, for example 200 mm to 600 mm, in particular 300 mm to 500 mm. The weight of the hanging garment rack can be, for example, 450g to 750g, in particular 550g to 650g.

[0040] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a suspended conveyor device comprising a support structure and at least one transport carrier according to one of claims 1 to 44, which is movable on the support structure along a substantially horizontal movement path defined by the support structure, wherein the support structure comprises a traction section which has two traction surfaces spaced apart from one another transversely to the movement path by an intermediate space for each of the drive wheels of the transport carrier, wherein the support body of the transport carrier extends vertically downwards through the intermediate space so that the receptacle is located below the support structure, and wherein a power supply section for supplying the transport carrier with electrical energy, wherein the power supply section comprises a number of conductor tracks corresponding to the number of current collectors of the transport carrier,Each of which has a conductor contact surface facing the at least one traction surface for contacting the respective current collector. This shields the moving parts of the drive from the support or a hanging goods carrier attached to it, reducing the risk of injury to people and any contamination, e.g., from abrasion of the drive wheels, in the area of ​​the hanging goods carrier.

[0041] The power supply section preferably comprises three conductor tracks that are spaced apart from one another transversely to the movement path, wherein the conductor contact surfaces of the outer conductor tracks of the three conductor tracks are spaced apart from the traction surfaces by a first conductor distance and preferably parallel thereto, and the conductor contact surface of the middle conductor track is spaced apart from the traction surfaces by a larger second conductor distance and preferably parallel thereto. This enables a redundant power supply to the two outer current collectors. In addition, the travel path and the power supply are separated by a travel space in which the transport carriers are movable. The travel space is preferably accessible from the outside at least in sections and can also be used, for example, for maintenance purposes.Because the track / traction area is spatially separated from the power supply area, the individual components of the traction section and the power supply section can be designed with comparatively simple construction. This allows, for example, relatively easy and quick replacement of parts in the event of repairs or increased wear.

[0042] Preferably, the first conductor spacing is less than a distance in the direction of the vertical axis between the contact surfaces of the contact elements of the outer current collectors and a wheel contact surface of the drive wheels of the transport carrier not arranged on the support structure. If the contact elements of the outer current collectors are movable in the direction of the vertical axis and are sprung by means of a spring unit, then a difference between the first conductor spacing and the said distance preferably corresponds at most to one spring travel of the contact elements. Alternatively or additionally, it can be advantageous if the second conductor spacing is less than a distance between the contact surface of the contact element of the middle current collector and a wheel contact surface of the drive wheels in the direction of the vertical axis of the transport carrier not arranged on the support structure.If the contact element of the middle current collector is movable in the direction of the vertical axis and is spring-loaded by a spring unit, then the difference between the second conductor spacing and the stated spacing preferably corresponds to a maximum spring deflection of the contact element. This ensures reliable contact of the sliding contacts and the transport carrier can be held on the support structure without vertical play. The spacing is preferably dimensioned such that the transport carrier can initially be inserted from the side through the above-mentioned travel gap with the vertical axis aligned essentially horizontally (or parallel to the travel plane) and then moved into a designated operating position on the support structure by rotating it around the transverse axis without particularly great effort. This allows individual transport carriers to be arranged quickly and easily on the support structure, e.g.This also allows for easy and quick removal of, for example, defective transport supports (the transport support is again aligned with its vertical axis essentially horizontally and guided out from the side through the aforementioned clearance).

[0043] The overhead conveyor device preferably comprises at least one energy source, in particular a direct current source or direct voltage source, for supplying energy to the energy supply section. Within the scope of the application, an energy source can also be understood as a central power connection, for example. The energy source could also optionally comprise a rectifier to convert the alternating current provided by an alternating current source into direct current.

[0044] The outer conductor tracks of the conductor tracks preferably have the same electrical polarity, in particular the negative pole, and the middle conductor track preferably has the opposite pole, i.e. an electrical polarity opposite to the polarity of the outer conductor tracks, in particular the positive pole.

[0045] The width of the gap transverse to the path of movement is preferably a maximum of 150%, particularly preferably a maximum of 130%, and in particular a maximum of 120% of the width of the section of the support body located in the gap. This allows guidance of the support body, which can prevent unwanted yawing movements (around the vertical axis) and / or rolling movements (around the longitudinal axis). The smaller the distance between the support body and the traction surfaces, the better the guidance. Ideally, the length and width of the support body and the width of the gap are coordinated to achieve a good compromise between guidance on the one hand and cornering capability on the other.

[0046] The support structure preferably comprises a first track section that forms exactly one movement path for the transport carrier, wherein a width of the middle conductor track is greater than a width of the outer conductor tracks, in each case transverse to the movement path, wherein the width preferably corresponds at least to a distance between the two end positions of the movable middle current collector in the direction of the transverse axis. The movement path can, for example, be straight or curved (horizontally). The first track section can, for example, be designed as an independent straight-line module with a straight movement path or as an independent curved module with a curved movement path. Individual modules can thus be arranged one behind the other to create a movement path of the desired shape and length.Each module can, for example, comprise a preferably one-piece power supply rail on which the conductor tracks are provided, and a (preferably multi-piece, in particular two-piece) traction rail on which the traction surface(s) are provided. The power supply rail and the traction rail can be assembled into the respective straight module or curved module using a number of preferably standardized connecting elements, in particular connecting clamps. The connecting elements, in turn, can be attached, for example, to a suitable stationary supporting structure, in particular a ceiling structure. This allows a transport route of the desired shape and length to be constructed in a simple, modular manner with few identical parts.

[0047] The support structure preferably also comprises a second track section, preferably adjacent to the first track section, at which the precisely one movement path diverges into at least two movement paths in a divergence region. The traction section of the second track section comprises, for each movement path, two traction surfaces, spaced apart from one another by a gap transversely to the respective movement path, for each of the drive wheels, and the energy supply section comprises, for each movement path, a guide channel for guiding the central current collector of the transport carrier, in particular its guide sleeve, wherein the guide channel runs parallel to the respective movement path and wherein the guide channels contain the central conductor track. This provides a simply constructed and passive switch or junction that, in particular, does not require actuators or other control elements.The transport carrier can perform a steering movement by appropriate transverse movement of the central pantograph. Depending on the position of the central pantograph, it is accommodated in one of at least two guide channels and guided through these. During the movement, the central pantograph is preferably held in its position. Thus, a lateral steering force acts on the central pantograph, in particular its guide sleeve, which moves the transport carrier along the respective path of movement.

[0048] According to an advantageous embodiment, the second track section is designed as a preferably rotationally symmetrical crossing module, wherein the crossing module comprises four crossing entrances, wherein adjacent crossing entrances are arranged at right angles to one another, wherein opposite crossing entrances are connected by a straight movement path, wherein the straight movement paths intersect in a central crossing region, wherein adjacent crossing entrances are connected by a curved movement path, and wherein at the crossing entrances the two curved movement paths and the intermediate straight movement path converge in the divergence region to form one, in particular straight, movement path. Depending on the desired movement, the central pantograph can be brought into a corresponding position before reaching a crossing entrance.For example, if the middle pantograph is in the first end position (e.g., to the left as viewed in the direction of movement), the transport carrier is moved from the divergence area along the left-curved path to the adjacent crossing entrance, with the middle pantograph, in particular its guide sleeve, being guided in the corresponding guide channel. If the middle pantograph is in the second end position (e.g., to the right as viewed in the direction of movement), the transport carrier is moved from the divergence area along the right-curved path to the adjacent crossing entrance, with the middle pantograph, in particular its guide sleeve, being guided in the corresponding guide channel.When the center pantograph is in the central position between the first and second end positions, the transport carrier is moved straight through the divergence zone along the straight path of movement through the crossing zone to the opposite crossing entrance, with the center pantograph, in particular its guide sleeve, being guided in the corresponding guide channel. It is evident that by combining the above-mentioned straight modules and / or curve modules and the crossing modules in two dimensions, in particular by stringing them together, a complete transport network and / or thus also a single transport route of the desired size and with a desired course can be created very easily and flexibly.Preferably, several such transport networks can be combined three-dimensionally one above the other to form a hanging goods warehouse, which enables the transport, sorting and (in / out) loading of a large number of goods by means of the transport carriers.

[0049] It is advantageous if the curved movement paths each have a circular arc-shaped curved section central to their respective ends and two clothoid-shaped curved sections, each connecting the circular arc-shaped curved section to a straight movement path of an intersection entrance. This avoids abrupt curvature and enables a substantially jerk-free movement of the transport carrier from the straight movement path to the curved movement path.

[0050] Preferably, position markers are provided at predetermined positions along the support structure, which can be detected by a sensor of the transport carrier. The control unit of the transport carrier is configured to use the position of the detected position marker to determine and / or correct a position of the transport carrier. The position markers can, for example, each comprise a permanent magnet, and the sensor of the transport carrier can comprise a Hall sensor. Because the position markers are preferably passive components, the support structure can be simply constructed and manufactured cost-effectively, since no power supply is required.The transport carrier, in particular the control unit, can be configured, for example, to approximately determine the distance traveled based on the rotational speed of the wheel axle (which preferably corresponds to the rotational speed of the electric drive device) and the diameter of the drive wheels. The determined distance can be compared with the known position of the position marker when passing a position marker.

[0051] The overhead conveyor device preferably comprises a central control device that is designed to send information to the at least one transport carrier, in particular its first communication device, and / or to receive information from the at least one transport carrier, in particular from its first communication device. The information sent by the central control device can contain, for example, a travel route, a target speed, a target position, etc. The control unit of the transport carrier can use the received information to control the transport carrier. The information received from the central control device can contain, for example, an error message, a sensor value from a sensor, a current position, etc. The central control device can use the information received from the control unit of the transport carrier to control the overhead conveyor device.For example, a detour route for other transport carriers to bypass a defective transport carrier can be determined and sent to the respective transport carriers. The overhead conveyor device preferably comprises a communications network configured to send information to the at least one transport carrier, in particular its third communications device, and / or to receive information from the at least one transport carrier, in particular its third communications device. The communications network is preferably configured to communicate with a higher-level central control device.

[0052] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a hanging goods warehouse comprising a hanging conveyor device according to one of claims 45 to 58 with a plurality of transport carriers, each with a hanging goods carrier attached thereto, wherein the hanging goods warehouse comprises a plurality of storage levels lying one above the other, wherein in each level a transport network constructed from the support structure is provided with a number of storage areas, wherein the transport networks of the storage levels are connected by means of a number of conveyor devices which are each designed to convey a number of transport carriers continuously or discontinuously between the transport networks, that the hanging goods warehouse comprises at least one loading station for loading the respective hanging goods carriers of a number of transport carriers and that the hanging goods warehouse comprises at least one unloading station for unloading the hanging goods carriers of a number of transport carriers.This allows for a simply constructed hanging goods warehouse that enables highly flexible storage and retrieval processes. The transport carriers can move essentially autonomously or at least semi-autonomously within the transport networks of the storage levels. Using the vertical conveyors, sorting processes can also be carried out, for example, so that a number of transport carriers, each with a specific item, can be provided to an unloading station in a desired sequence.

[0053] Preferably, the hanging goods warehouse comprises at least two storage levels of different heights, and the plurality of transport carriers comprises a first group of transport carriers with hanging goods carriers of a first height and a second group of transport carriers with hanging goods carriers of a lower height relative to the first height. This allows, for example, smaller goods to be stored in a lower storage level and larger goods in a correspondingly higher storage level. This allows the available space to be utilized as best as possible and allows for selective allocation of storage locations. The object is further achieved with the method mentioned above in that a hanging load, in particular a hanging goods carrier, is transported at an attachment point of a support body of the transport carrier, which attachment point is spaced in the direction of a vertical axis of the transport carrier at an attachment point distance from a wheel contact surface of the drive wheels.wherein a drive torque transmitted from a drive device to the drive wheels is absorbed by a contact element of at least one current collector of at least two current collectors of the transport carrier, which contact element can pivot about a pivot axis running parallel to the transverse axis and in the direction of the vertical axis on a side of the wheel axle facing away from the receptacle and spaced at a first pivot axis distance from the wheel contact surface of the drive wheels, contacts a corresponding conductor track of the support structure and a weight force of the load generates a counter-torque counteracting the drive torque, wherein a first lever ratio between the attachment point distance and the pivot axis distance is preferably 1.9 to 3.6, particularly preferably 2.4 to 3.4, in particular 2.5 to 3,2. The aforementioned advantages regarding improved driving stability result. The method is preferably carried out with a transport carrier of the embodiments described above, preferably on an overhead conveyor device as described above.

[0054] Preferably, the transport carrier is moved along a first section of the route, wherein yawing movements of the transport carrier about its vertical axis and / or rolling movements about its longitudinal axis are reduced, preferably suppressed, by a support body of the transport carrier, which is arranged in the direction of a wheel axis of the transport carrier, preferably centrally, between the two drive wheels and comprises a receptacle for fastening a hanging goods carrier, being guided in an intermediate space of the traction section, which is formed between two traction surfaces spaced apart from one another transversely to the path of movement, for each of the drive wheels of the transport carrier.

[0055] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the transport carrier is moved along a second section of track, wherein yaw movements of the transport carrier about its vertical axis and / or rolling movements about its longitudinal axis are reduced, preferably suppressed, by guiding a current collector movable in a direction parallel to the transverse axis of the transport carrier, preferably the middle of three current collectors, in particular a guide sleeve of the middle current collector, in a guide channel comprising one of the conductor tracks.

[0056] Preferably, the transport carrier detects a state variable, in particular position and / or speed and / or acceleration, using at least one sensor, and a control unit of the transport carrier controls or regulates a movement of the transport carrier depending on the detected state variable or a variable generated therefrom. A suitable controller, e.g., a PI controller or PID controller, can be implemented in the control unit for control purposes. While (feedback) control may be advantageous on straight lines, as mentioned, it may be advantageous to control the speed (without feedback) on curves.

[0057] Preferably, when the transport carrier moves along straight paths of movement of the support structure, distance control is performed, wherein the speed of the transport carrier is controlled as a function of a detected distance. Distance control is omitted when the transport carrier moves along curved paths of movement of the support structure, and the transport carrier is moved at a fixed or definable, preferably constant, speed. This allows the use of a simply constructed distance sensor, in particular a TOF sensor, whose sensor range is essentially aligned straight ahead. This reliably prevents collisions on straight sections.In curves where the detection range of the sensor may be unsuitable for detecting the distance to the front transport carrier, the transport carrier can be moved at a fixed, preferably constant and lower speed compared to straight lines.

[0058] Preferably, information is sent wirelessly to the transport carrier from a central control device and / or a communication network of the overhead conveyor, and a control unit of the transport carrier controls or regulates a movement of the transport carrier depending on the information received. Alternatively or additionally, information can be sent from the transport carrier to the control device and / or the communication network of the overhead conveyor, and the central control device controls the overhead conveyor depending on the information received, or the communication network forwards the information to the, in particular, higher-level control device. - l -

[0059] It may be advantageous if information is sent wirelessly from the transport carrier to another transport carrier, and the control device of the other transport carrier controls or regulates a movement of the other transport carrier depending on the information received. Furthermore, it may be advantageous if information is sent wirelessly from another transport carrier to the transport carrier, and the control device of the transport carrier controls or regulates a movement of the transport carrier depending on the information received.

[0060] It is advantageous if, during a movement of the transport carrier along a curved path of movement of the second section of the transport structure, a lateral force acting transversely to the path of movement acts on one of the current collectors, in particular the guide sleeve, by which the drive wheel on the outside of the curve is lifted off the traction surface. This eliminates the need to compensate for speed differences between the drive wheels, which reduces wear and increases driving stability. Secondly, larger gaps, such as those that occur in divergence areas (where one path of movement diverges into at least two paths of movement), can be reliably negotiated by only the drive wheel on the inside of the curve rolling on the continuous traction surface and the drive wheel on the outside of the curve being moved over the gap in the lifted state. This can reliably prevent or at least reduce shocks.With the advantageous use of a transport carrier with three pantographs and a movable central pantograph, the lateral force can be exerted, for example, in the region of a second track section from one of the (curved) guide channels onto the central pantograph, in particular its guide sleeve.

[0061] The object is further achieved by the method mentioned at the outset in that the overhead conveyor device comprises a power supply section for supplying the transport carrier with electrical energy, which is spaced vertically from the at least one traction surface of the traction section, wherein a travel gap is formed between the at least one traction surface of the support structure and the power supply section, and wherein the overhead conveyor device is loaded with a transport carrier by first aligning the transport carrier with its vertical axis substantially parallel to the at least one traction surface, then inserting it laterally in a horizontal direction into the travel gap and then displacing it into a designated operating position on the support structure by rotating it about its transverse axis, or removing a transport carrier from the overhead conveyor device.by rotating the transport carrier from a designated operating position on the support structure about its transverse axis until its vertical axis is aligned substantially parallel to the at least one traction surface, and then guiding it laterally out of the travel gap in a horizontal direction. Preferably, the transport carrier comprises a plurality of current collectors, in particular spaced apart in the transverse direction, each having a contact element with a contact surface, and the power supply section comprises a number of conductor tracks corresponding to the plurality of current collectors, each having a conductor contact surface for contacting via the contact surfaces of the contact elements. The method enables simple and rapid loading and unloading of transport carriers at any location on the transport structure, in particular of a transport network constructed therefrom.

[0062] Loading or unloading can be automated, preferably with a robotic arm that includes a gripping device for gripping the transport carrier. This further increases the level of automation and reduces the manual intervention required during operation.

[0063] It is advantageous to perform a functional test, particularly a driving function test, immediately after loading using a control unit of the transport carrier. If the functional test fails, the transport carrier is removed again. This ensures that the transport carrier is operational, thus increasing operational reliability.

[0064] Preferably, the method is carried out using an overhead conveyor device as described above and / or a transport carrier of the embodiment described above is used.

[0065] For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail using the following figures.

[0066] They show in a highly simplified, schematic representation:

[0067] Fig. 1 shows a transport carrier of an exemplary first embodiment in a perspective view; Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of an upper section of the transport carrier of the first embodiment;

[0068] Fig. 3 shows the transport carrier of the first embodiment in a side view;

[0069] Fig. 4 shows the transport carrier of the first embodiment in a front view;

[0070] Fig. 5 shows the transport carrier of the first embodiment including hanging goods carrier in an exemplary embodiment in a side view;

[0071] Fig. 6 the transport carrier of the first embodiment including hanging goods carrier in a front view;

[0072] Fig. 7 shows a transport carrier of an exemplary second embodiment in a side view;

[0073] Fig. 8 shows the transport carrier of the second embodiment in a front view;

[0074] Fig. 9 shows the transport carrier of the second embodiment in a plan view;

[0075] Fig. 10 shows a cross section through a first section of a support structure of a suspended conveyor device with a transport carrier of the first embodiment arranged thereon;

[0076] Fig. 11 shows a cross section through a second section of the support structure with a transport carrier of the first embodiment arranged thereon;

[0077] Fig. 12 is a first perspective view of the second section of Fig. 11;

[0078] Fig. 13 is a second perspective view of the second section of Fig. 11;

[0079] Fig. 14 a straight line module in a perspective view;

[0080] Fig. 15 a crossing module in a perspective view;

[0081] Fig. 16 shows a perspective view of a transport path constructed from straight modules and crossing modules with a plurality of transport supports; Fig. 17 shows a hanging goods warehouse of an exemplary embodiment in a perspective view;

[0082] Fig. 18 the hanging goods storage from Fig. 17 in a plan view;

[0083] Fig. 19 the hanging goods storage from Fig. 17 in a side view;

[0084] Fig. 20 the hanging goods storage from Fig.17 in a front view.

[0085] By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference symbols or component designations. The disclosures contained throughout the description can be applied analogously to identical parts with identical reference symbols or component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure, and these positional information must be applied analogously to the new position in the event of a change in position.

[0086] An exemplary first embodiment of the transport carrier 1 according to the invention is described in more detail below with reference to Figs. 1 to 4. Fig. 1 shows the transport carrier 1 in a perspective view, Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of the upper section of the transport carrier 1 in a perspective view, Fig. 3 shows the transport carrier 1 in a side view, and Fig. 4 shows the transport carrier 1 in a front view. Reference is made alternately to Figs. 1 to 4 below.

[0087] The transport carrier 1 is designed to be moved along a support structure 3 of an overhead conveyor device 2, which will be described in detail later. The transport carrier 1 has a longitudinal axis L, a transverse axis Q, and a vertical axis H, which represent a reference system. The transport carrier 1 comprises one, in particular exactly one, wheel axle A lying parallel to the transverse axis Q with two drive wheels 4. The transport carrier 1 is thus designed to be single-axis. In the context of the present application, the wheel axle A can be regarded as a geometric axis on the one hand and as a structural component on the other. This means that the drive wheels 4 are rotatable about a common (geometric) wheel axle A and can optionally be connected by a (structural) wheel axle A. The wheel axle A is designed in particular as a rigid axle, preferably without suspension. In Fig.1, traction surfaces 43, 44 of the support structure 3 are indicated, on which the drive wheels 4 of the transport carrier 1 roll.

[0088] The transport carrier 1 has an electric drive device 5 (not shown in Fig. 1) for driving the drive wheels 4 and a control unit 6 (not shown in Fig. 1) for controlling at least the drive device 5. The control unit 6 can comprise suitable hardware and / or software in a known manner. The control unit 6 can also be configured to control other components, such as the communication devices 37, 39, 40 described in more detail below (see Fig. 3).

[0089] The transport carrier 1 further comprises a power supply device for supplying the transport carrier 1, in particular the drive device 5 and the control unit 6, with electrical energy. The power supply device comprises at least two current collectors. In the illustrated embodiment, only three current collectors 7, 8, 9 are provided, arranged spaced apart from one another in the direction of the transverse axis Q, by way of example.

[0090] The transport carrier 1 further comprises a support body 29 with a receptacle 30, which has a fastening point BP for attaching a load, in particular a hanging goods carrier 31 (see Figs. 3 and 4). The fastening point BP is spaced in the direction of the vertical axis H at a fastening point distance X7 from a wheel contact surface 13 of the drive wheels 4 intended for rolling on the support structure 3, as shown in Fig. 1.

[0091] The current collectors 7, 8, 9 each have a contact element 10 with a contact surface for contacting a respective conductor track 46, 47, 48 of the support structure 3, which will be described in more detail later. In the example shown, the contact elements 10 each comprise a sliding contact with a sliding contact surface. Alternatively, the contact elements 10 could also have rolling elements (not shown) with a rolling contact surface. For the sake of simplicity, the invention is described below based on the specific embodiment of the contact elements 10 as sliding contacts.

[0092] The contact element 10 of the middle current collector 8 can be pivoted about a first pivot axis S 1 running parallel to the transverse axis Q. The first pivot axis S 1 lies in the direction of the vertical axis H on a side of the wheel axle A facing away from the holder 30 and is spaced apart from the wheel contact surface 13 of the drive wheels 4 at a pivot axis distance X 12, as shown in Fig. 4. The contact elements 10 of the two outer current collectors 7, 9 can each be pivoted about a second pivot axis S 2 running parallel to the transverse axis Q. The second pivot axes S 2 are coaxial here and lie in the direction of the vertical axis H on a side of the wheel axle A facing away from the holder 30. The second pivot axes S 2 are spaced apart from the wheel contact surface 13 of the drive wheels 4 at a second pivot axis distance X 13, as shown in Fig. 4.

[0093] A first lever ratio V1 between the attachment point distance X7 and the first pivot axis distance X12 is preferably 1.9 to 3.6, particularly preferably 2.4 to 3.4, in particular 2.5 to 3.2. A first lever ratio VI between the attachment point distance X7 and the second pivot axis distance X13 is preferably also 1.9 to 3.6, particularly preferably 2.4 to 3.4, in particular 2.5 to 3.2. As can be seen in the figures, the first pivot axis distance X12 is greater than the second pivot axis distance X13.

[0094] At this point, it should be noted that the embodiment shown is merely an example. In general, it would be sufficient within the scope of the invention if only one current collector were provided on the side of the wheel axle A opposite the support body 29, as shown, which current collector had a contact element 10 pivotable about a pivot axis S1, S2 with the described pivot axis distance X12, X13. The second current collector required for operation could be arranged at another suitable location on the transport carrier 1, for example to the side or below a base body 14 of the transport carrier 1 or on the support body 29 or possibly in the area of ​​the drive wheels 4. A suitable, corresponding conductor track would be provided on the support structure 3, with which the current collector interacts for energy transmission.For the sake of simplicity, however, the invention will be described using the preferred embodiment with three current collectors 7, 8, 9.

[0095] In the example shown, the current collectors 7, 8, 9, in particular the sliding contact surfaces 11, have a vertical offset in the direction of the vertical axis H. When the transport carrier 1 is mounted on the support structure 3, the current collectors 7, 8, 9, in particular the sliding contacts 10, are located vertically above the wheel axis A, as can be seen in Fig. 1. The two outer current collectors 7, 9 form a redundant pole, here, for example, the negative pole. The middle current collector 8 accordingly forms the positive pole.

[0096] In the example shown, the sliding contact surface 11 of the sliding contact 10 of the middle current collector 8 is spaced at a first (larger) axial distance XI from the wheel axis A than the sliding contact surfaces 11 of the sliding contacts 10 of the two outer current collectors 7, 9, which are spaced at a second (smaller) axial distance X2 from the wheel axis A. The second axial distance X2 of the sliding contact surfaces 11 of the sliding contacts 10 of the two outer current collectors 7, 9 is preferably the same size.

[0097] The sliding contacts 10 can contain copper and graphite, for example, they can be made of a polymer material containing copper and graphite. The sliding contacts 10 can each be beveled or rounded at the front and rear in the direction of the longitudinal axis L, as can be seen from the sliding contact 10 of the outer current collector 9 in Fig. 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the sliding contact surfaces 11 of the sliding contacts 10 are flat and arranged essentially parallel to a plane spanned by the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis Q (when the current collectors 7, 8, 9 are in the rest position). Alternatively, the sliding contact surfaces 11 of the sliding contacts 10 could also be convexly curved, for example in the direction of the longitudinal axis L and / or in the direction of the transverse axis Q.

[0098] Optionally, the transport carrier 1 can also comprise an electrical buffer storage 12 for temporarily supplying power to the drive device 5 and / or the control unit 6. The buffer storage 12 is indicated in Fig. 4. In this case, the power supply device is designed to feed, in particular charge, the buffer storage 12. The buffer storage 12 can temporarily continue to supply the transport carrier 1 with power, in particular to the drive device 5, in the event of a power failure. The buffer storage 12 can comprise a buffer capacitor and / or a battery.

[0099] The drive device 5 preferably comprises a DC motor, with the drive wheels 4 preferably being driven directly by the DC motor. In particular, no gear is provided between the drive device 5, in particular the DC motor, and the drive wheels 4.

[0100] A distance X3 between the sliding contact surface 11 of the middle pantograph 8 (which here has the larger first axle distance XI) and the wheel contact surface 13 of the drive wheels 4 can be, for example, 90 mm to 115 mm in the direction of the vertical axis H. The distance X3 therefore corresponds to the sum of the first axle distance XI and the radius of the drive wheels 4. A distance X4 between the sliding contact surface 11 of the two outer pantographs 7, 9 (with the smaller axle distance X2 here) and the wheel contact surface 13 of the drive wheels 4 can be, for example, 80 mm to 105 mm in the direction of the vertical axis H. The distance therefore corresponds to the sum of the (smaller) second axle distance X2 and the radius of the drive wheels 4.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, the sliding contacts 10 are each movable in the direction of the vertical axis H relative to a base body 14 of the transport carrier 1 and are sprung by means of a suspension unit 15. The suspension unit 15 is indicated as an example in Fig. 4 for the middle current collector 8. The suspension units 15 of the outer current collectors 7, 9 are not shown for the sake of simplicity. The suspension units 15 of the outer current collectors 7, 9 can be designed the same as those of the middle current collector 8, but can also be designed differently if necessary. The suspension units 15 can, for example, each comprise at least one of the following springs: leaf spring, coil spring, elastomer spring, air spring, torsion spring. According to a preferred embodiment, a leaf spring is provided. The spring, for example a leaf spring, can if necessary.also function as a current conductor between the sliding contact 10 and the drive device 5 and / or the control unit 6 and / or the buffer storage 12.

[0102] The sliding contacts 10 are also each pivotable about a pivot axis SI, S2 parallel to the transverse axis Q relative to the base body 14 of the transport carrier 1. As can be seen in Fig.2 and Fig.4, the middle current collector 8 has a first pivot axis

[0103] 51, and the two outer pantographs 7, 9 each have a second pivot axis

[0104] 52. The second pivot axes S2 are preferably coaxial. The first pivot axis S1 is spaced apart from the second pivot axes S2 in the direction of the vertical axis H. The first pivot axis S1 of the central pantograph 8 is thus spaced a greater distance from the wheel axis A than the second pivot axes S2.

[0105] Furthermore, here the contact surface 11 of the pivotable contact element 10 of the middle current collector 8 is spaced apart from the first pivot axis S1 in the direction of the vertical axis H at a first contact surface distance X5 and the contact surfaces 11 of the pivotable contact elements 10 of the two outer current collectors 7, 9 are spaced apart from the respective second pivot axis S2 in the direction of the vertical axis H at a second contact surface distance X6 (see also Fig.4). A second lever ratio V2 between the first pivot axis distance X12 and the first contact surface distance X5 and / or between the second pivot axis distance X13 and the second contact surface distance X6 is preferably 3.5 to 6.7, particularly preferably 4.1 to 6.1, in particular 4.6 to 5.6.Alternatively or additionally, a third lever ratio V3 between the attachment point distance X7 and the first contact surface distance X5 and / or between the attachment point distance X7 and the second contact surface distance X6 can be 9.6 to 17.8, preferably 11 to 16.4.

[0106] The first contact surface distance X5 between the sliding contact surface 11 of the middle current collector 8 (with the first axis distance XI) and the first pivot axis S1 can be, for example, 15 mm to 19 mm in the direction of the vertical axis H, the second contact surface distance X6 between the sliding contact surface 11 of the two outer current collectors 7, 9 and their (here common) second pivot axis S2 can be, for example, 13 mm to 16.5 mm in the direction of the vertical axis H.

[0107] In the example shown, the middle current collector 8 has a guide sleeve 16 within which the sliding contact 10 is guided. The outer current collectors 7, 9 each have a guide block 17 on which the sliding contacts 10 are guided externally. In the example shown, a guide slot 18 is provided on each of the inner surfaces of the guide sleeve 16, which face each other in the direction of the transverse axis Q. This guide slot extends over a fixed length in the direction of the vertical axis H.

[0108] The guide slot 18 here is in the form of an elongated hole. The length of the guide slot 18 determines the possible path, in particular the travel path, over which the sliding contact 10 can move. The sliding contact 10 has a guide pin 19 on each of its outer sides facing away from each other in the direction of the transverse axis Q, which is received in the corresponding guide slot 18. Of course, a reversed design would also be conceivable, with the guide slot 18 on the sliding contact 10 and the guide pin 19 on the guide sleeve 16. The sliding contact 10 is thus guided linearly within the guide slot 18 and can also pivot about the first pivot axis S1.

[0109] In the example shown, the base body 14 of the transport carrier 1 comprises a holding bracket 20 for each of the two outer current collectors 7, 9. The guide block 17 of each current collector 7, 9 is pivotally mounted on the associated holding bracket 20 about the second pivot axis S2, as can be seen in Fig. 2 and Fig. 4. Each holding bracket 20 here comprises two bracket walls spaced apart from one another in the direction of the pivot axis S2, in the inner surfaces of which coaxial bores are provided which form the pivot axis S2. Coaxial cylindrical guide pins are arranged on the outer surfaces of the guide blocks 17 and are rotatably received in the bores of the bracket walls.

[0110] In the illustrated embodiment, the central current collector 8 is arranged on the transport carrier 1 so as to be movable in the direction of the transverse axis Q, wherein a guide device 23 for guiding the central current collector 8 and an actuator 24 for moving the central current collector 8 along the guide device 23 are provided. The guide device 23 here has two, in particular cylindrical, guide elements 69 that are aligned parallel to the transverse axis Q. The opposite ends of the guide elements 69 are connected here to the holding brackets 20. The guide device 23 also comprises two guide carriages 70 that are connected to the central current collector 8, in particular to the guide sleeve 16. Each guide carriage 70 has a cylindrical guide opening in which the associated guide element 69 is received.

[0111] The actuator 24 here has a rack and pinion drive 25. As can be seen in Fig. 1, the rack and pinion drive 25 comprises a gear 49, which is arranged centrally in the direction of the longitudinal axis L and in the direction of the transverse axis Q. The gear 49 is rotatable about an axis of rotation aligned parallel to the vertical axis H. On the inside of at least one, preferably both, guide carriages 70, a rack profile is provided, which engages with the gear 49.

[0112] The actuator 24 further comprises a suitable drive, in particular a servomotor, for driving the gear 49, which can be controlled by the control unit 6. The control unit 6 is preferably designed to control the actuator 24, here in particular the servomotor, such that the middle current collector 8 can be moved continuously or in discrete steps between a first end position ESI, a second end position ES2 and an intermediate central position ZS. In Fig. 1, the middle current collector 8 is located, for example, in the first end position ESI. In Fig. 4, the middle current collector 8 is located, for example, in the central position ZS. The end positions ESI, ES2 and the central position ZS are indicated in Fig. 4 by the corresponding points along the line.

[0113] The guide device 23 can be designed such that it is self-locking when a lateral force FS acting on the central current collector 8, in particular on the guide sleeve 16, in the direction of the transverse axis Q is exceeded. In the embodiment shown, this can be achieved, for example, by matching a length of the guide carriage and a diameter of the guide elements. It can also be advantageous if a mechanical end stop 32 is provided for each end position ES1, ES2. The end stops 32 can be arranged on the base body 14 or formed by the base body 14, in particular the holding brackets 20, as can be seen in Fig. 2 and Fig. 4.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, the transport carrier 1 comprises a support body 29 arranged in the direction of the wheel axis A, in particular centrally, between the two drive wheels 4, with a receptacle 30 for attaching a hanging goods carrier 31. When the transport carrier 1 is located on the support structure 3 (as indicated schematically in Fig. 1), the support body 29 projects downwards in a substantially vertical direction through an intermediate space 33 formed between the traction surfaces 43, 44 of the support structure 3, so that the receptacle 30 is located below the support structure 3.

[0115] In the simplest case, the receptacle 30 can have an eyelet into which, for example, a hanger of a hanging merchandise carrier 31, described in more detail below, can be hooked. However, the receptacle 30 could also be designed to be more technically complex and, for example, have a suitable coupling mechanism for coupling a suitable hanging merchandise carrier 31, which can preferably be detached during operation. The coupling mechanism could be positively and / or frictionally engaged. The coupling mechanism can comprise a first coupling section on the receptacle 30 and a cooperating second coupling section on the hanging merchandise carrier 31. The coupling can be essentially completely rigid or at least partially articulated. “Essentially completely rigid” here means that no translational or rotational degree of freedom of movement is provided between the coupling sections.

[0116] A length 11 of the support body 29 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L can, at least in a section of the support body 29 located in the intermediate space 33, be ±10% of a wheel diameter D of the drive wheels 4. A width b of the support body 29 in the direction of the transverse axis Q can, at least in the same section, be 10% to 30%, preferably 15 to 25%, in particular 20% of the wheel diameter D of the drive wheels 4. The length 11 and the width b are shown in Fig. 1. Furthermore, it is advantageous that a fastening point distance X7 in the direction of the vertical axis H between the wheel contact surface 13 of the drive wheels 4 and a fastening point BP on the holder 30, which is provided for fastening the hanging goods carrier 31, is 200 mm to 260 mm, preferably 220 mm to 240 mm. The fastening point distance X7 can be seen in Fig. 6.

[0117] In the example shown, the support body 29 has a crash barrier 34 in the section located in the intermediate space 33 when the transport carrier 1 is in the arranged state on the support structure 3. This prevents damage to the support body 29. The crash barrier 34 is arranged here at the front and rear of the support body 20 in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The crash barrier 34 can also serve as a guide within the intermediate space 33. Alternatively or additionally, one or more sliding elements and / or a sliding coating and / or a friction-reducing material could also be provided.

[0118] A wheel diameter D of the drive wheels 4 is preferably a maximum of 150 mm, particularly preferably a maximum of 100 mm, in particular a maximum of 70 mm, and a maximum extension l_max of the transport carrier 1 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L preferably corresponds to the wheel diameter D ± 20%. The maximum extension l_max can, for example, also be determined depending on the length of the attached hanging goods carrier 31. The maximum extension l_max is preferably sufficiently large so that the hanging goods carriers 31 do not collide and as small as possible so that the highest possible storage density can be achieved.

[0119] The transport carrier 1 preferably comprises a number of sensors 36 for detecting at least one state variable of the transport carrier 1. The state variable can be, for example, a position and / or speed and / or acceleration. The control unit 6 can be designed to control the transport carrier 1, in particular the drive device 5 and / or the actuator 24 of the central pantograph 8, depending on the detected state variable or a variable derived therefrom. The number of sensors 36 can, for example, comprise at least one of the following sensors: distance sensor, in particular a TOF sensor, position sensor, in particular a Hall sensor, speed sensor, or weight sensor.In the example shown, the transport carrier 1 comprises, for example, two distance sensors 36, in particular TOF sensors, wherein a first sensor is provided at the front in the direction of the longitudinal axis L and a second sensor is arranged at the rear as seen in the direction of the longitudinal axis L. In a simple embodiment, the detection zones can be directed linearly to the front or rear, i.e. run essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis L. This allows obstacles or other transport carriers 1 to be detected. However, the detection zones could also cover a larger angle in a horizontal plane if necessary. The detection zone could also be conical, for example, with a cone angle of, for example, 30° to 90°.

[0120] The control unit 6 can use the signal from the distance sensors 36 as an actual value to regulate the speed, in particular for distance control. For example, a certain minimum distance can be specified or can be specified as a target value, and the control unit 6 regulates the drive device 5 accordingly so as not to fall below the minimum distance. A constant distance could also be regulated in this way, for example for a convoy of several transport carriers 1. A suitable controller can be implemented in the control unit 6 for the control. On curves, it can be advantageous if the distance control is deactivated and, for example, controlled operation takes place, for example with a specified or definable constant cornering speed.

[0121] The transport carrier 1 can further comprise a first communication device 37 for wireless communication with a central control device 38 of the overhead conveyor device 2, as schematically indicated in Fig. 3. The control unit 6 can be designed to control the transport carrier 1, in particular the drive device 5 and / or the actuator 24 of the central pantograph 8, depending on information received from the control device 38 of the overhead conveyor device 2. The information can, for example, contain a target value for the speed and / or the (minimum) distance, a specific travel path along a transport network of the overhead conveyor device 2, described in more detail below, or a target position to which the transport carrier 1 should travel in the transport network. The control unit 6 can process the information and control the transport carrier 1 accordingly.The first communication device 37 could also be configured to send information to the central control device 38 of the overhead conveyor device 2. The sent information could, for example, contain a sensor value from one or more of the available sensors 36, the current position, or an error message, for example, in the event of a standstill due to a defect. The central control device 38 can, for example, use the information to send information to other transport carriers 1, for example, a driving instruction to avoid a location where a defective transport carrier 1 is located.

[0122] The transport carrier 1 can also comprise a second communication device 39 for communicating with another transport carrier 1, in particular its second communication device 39. The control unit 6 can be designed to control the transport carrier 1, in particular the drive device 5 and / or the actuator 24 of the central pantograph 8, depending on information received from the other transport carrier 1. The second communication device 39 is preferably designed for bidirectional communication, so that information can not only be received but also sent to another transport carrier 1. This could, for example, allow information received from the central control device 28 to be forwarded to a neighboring transport carrier 1 in the form of a forwarding chain. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of information to be sent by the central control device 28.

[0123] Furthermore, the transport carrier 1 could comprise a third communication device 40 for communicating with a communication network 41 of the overhead conveyor device 2. The control unit 6 can be designed to control the transport carrier 1, in particular the drive device 5 and / or the actuator 24 of the central pantograph 8, as a function of information received from the communication network 41 and / or to send information to the communication network 41. The communication network 41 can, for example, act as an intermediate link between a plurality of transport carriers 1 and the central control device 38. Information received from the transport carriers 1 can, for example, be sent via the communication network 41, optionally processed, to the central control device 38. This can be done, for example, by wire.The transport carrier 1 preferably has identical driving characteristics in opposite directions of travel RI, R2 with respect to its longitudinal axis L. This means that the transport carrier 1 is essentially symmetrical in terms of its functions, but not necessarily in terms of its structural design. Identical driving characteristics means, in particular, that the transport carrier 1 can be used regardless of its orientation on the support structure 3, whereby, for example, the same speed and / or acceleration can be achieved in both directions of travel RI, R2 and / or distance control can be implemented in both directions of travel RI, R2.

[0124] Fig. 5 shows the transport carrier 1 of the described first embodiment, including a hanging goods carrier 31 of an exemplary embodiment attached thereto, in a side view. Fig. 6 shows the transport carrier 1 with hanging goods carrier 31 in a front view. The hanging goods carrier 31 here comprises a hanging bag that is at least partially flexible and has a bracket that is attached to the receptacle 30, in particular is hooked into the eyelet, preferably in an operatively detachable manner. It is therefore clear that the receptacle 30 forms a type of joint around which the bracket of the hanging goods carrier 31 is movable. Depending on the specific design of the receptacle 30, in particular of the eyelet, the joint can form a joint axis parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the transport carrier 1 and / or a joint axis parallel to the transverse axis Q and / or a joint axis parallel to the vertical axis H.As a result, the hanging goods carrier 31 can perform certain pendulum movements around the respective joint axis during operation, e.g. due to centrifugal forces in curves, due to braking or acceleration forces.

[0125] According to an advantageous embodiment, the hanging goods carrier 31 can only be pivoted on the holder 30 about a rotation axis lying parallel to the longitudinal axis L, while the other rotational degrees of freedom are blocked.

[0126] As mentioned above, the hanging goods carrier 31 can also be rigidly or substantially rigidly connected to the receptacle 30 of the support body 20. In this case, no or only a negligible relative movement between the hanging goods carrier 31, or at least the rigid components of the hanging goods carrier 31, and the support body 29 is possible.

[0127] The hanging goods carrier 31 can be operatively, in particular non-destructively, detachably attached to the

[0128] The holder 30 can be attached or attachable to the hanging goods carrier 31, and the holder 30 and the hanging goods carrier 31 can be designed such that the hanging goods carrier 31 can only be attached in a defined orientation. This ensures that the goods carriers 32 are provided in the correct orientation, for example, in an unloading or loading station, so that they can be loaded with goods.

[0129] However, the illustrated embodiment is merely an example. Alternatively, the hanging garment rack 31 could also comprise a substantially rigid container for holding individual items, a container for a liquid, or a hanger for holding a garment. The type of hanging garment rack 31 depends on the type of goods to be held and can naturally vary.

[0130] A distance X8 in the direction of the vertical axis H between a fastening point BP of the hanging goods carrier 31, designed for fastening to the holder 30, and a lower free end of the hanging goods carrier 31 can, for example, be 750 mm to 950 mm, preferably 800 mm to 900 mm, in the fastened state.

[0131] A center of gravity SP of the transport carrier 1 without hanging goods carrier 31 is preferably located on a side of the wheel axle A facing away from the current collectors 7, 8, 9 in the direction of the vertical axis H. The center of gravity SP can be spaced from the wheel support surface 13 at a center of gravity distance X9 of, for example, 5 mm to 10 mm, as indicated in Fig. 4. A weight of the transport carrier 1 without hanging goods carrier 31 can be, for example, 450 g to 650 g, in particular 500 g to 600 g.

[0132] A center of gravity SP of the transport carrier 1 with attached hanging goods carrier 31 is preferably located between the receptacle 30 and the lower free end of the hanging goods carrier 31. The center of gravity SP can be spaced from the wheel contact surface 13 at a center of gravity distance X9 of preferably 200 mm to 600 mm, in particular 300 mm to 500 mm, as indicated in Fig. 6. A weight of the hanging goods carrier 31 can, for example, be 450 g to 750 g, in particular 550 g to 650 g. A weight of the transport carrier 1 with hanging goods carrier 31 can accordingly be 900 g to 1400 g, in particular 1050 g to 1250 g.

[0133] According to an advantageous embodiment, the weight distribution of the transport carrier 1, preferably including the hanging goods carrier 31, is determined such that the vertical axis H of the transport carrier 1 is aligned substantially vertically in a stationary state on the support structure 3 and / or that a pitching movement about the transverse axis Q occurring during movement can be reduced, in particular avoided. This allows for stable travel and reliable contact of the current collectors 7, 8, 9.

[0134] The fastening point BP of the holder 30 intended for fastening the hanging goods carrier 31 is spaced from the wheel contact surface 13 in the direction of the vertical axis H at the fastening point distance X7, as can be seen in Fig. 6. In Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the pivot axis distances X12, X13 are additionally shown, which are dimensioned according to the preferred first lever ratio VI in relation to the fastening point distance X7.

[0135] A second exemplary embodiment of the transport carrier 1 according to the invention is described in more detail below with reference to Fig. 7 to Fig. 9. Fig. 7 shows the transport carrier 1 in a side view, Fig. 8 shows the transport carrier in a front view, and Fig. 9 shows the transport carrier 1 in a plan view. Reference is made alternately to Fig. 7 to Fig. 9. For the sake of simplicity, reference is made only to the differences from the first embodiment. With regard to the other features, reference is made to the above statements, which apply equally to the second embodiment. The lower section of the support body 29 is not shown. However, the support body 29 can be designed identically to that in the first embodiment.

[0136] In the embodiment shown, the sliding contacts 10 of the two outer current collectors 7, 9 are mechanically coupled by means of a coupling unit 21 and are movable together in the direction of the vertical axis H. The two sliding contacts 10 each have a suspension unit 15 with which they are spring-mounted relative to the base body 14 of the transport carrier 1. The suspension units 15 each have two elongated spring elements 22 that intersect at an intersection point KP, as can be seen in Fig.7. An imaginary connecting line LV between the intersection points KP of the two spring units 22 is aligned essentially parallel to the wheel axis A or transverse axis Q, as can be seen in Fig.8. In the variant shown, the coupling unit 21 comprises a frame that surrounds the middle current collector 8, as can be seen in Fig.9.

[0137] The contact element 10 of the central current collector 8 can, as described with reference to the first embodiment, be pivotable about a first pivot axis S1, which is spaced in the direction of the vertical axis H on a side of the wheel axle R opposite the support body 29 at a pivot axis distance X12 from the wheel contact surface 13 (not shown). The attachment point BP of the receptacle 30 of the support body 29 is in turn spaced from the wheel contact surface 13 at an attachment point distance X7, and a first lever ratio VI is preferably 1.9 to 3.6, particularly preferably 2.4 to 3.4, in particular 2.5 to 3.2. For details, reference is made to the above explanations.

[0138] In contrast to the first embodiment, the actuator 24 of the middle current collector 8 here has a linear motor 26. Of course, the described rack and pinion drive 25 could also be provided in the same way. The linear motor 26 could also be provided in the first embodiment. The linear motor 26 here has several, in particular three, electrical coils 27 spaced from one another in the direction of the transverse axis Q and arranged coaxially to one another. The coils 27, as indicated in Fig. 8. The movable middle current collector 8, in particular its guide sleeve 16, has a permanent magnet core 28. The control unit 6 is designed to selectively energize the coils 27 in order to move the middle current collector 8 between the end positions ESI, ES2 and the central position ZS. The end positions ESI, ES2 and the central position ZS are symbolized by the dots in Fig. 9.

[0139] Depending on the specific design of the guide device 23, two parallel linear motors 26 could also be provided, similar to the two rack and pinion drives 25 in the first embodiment. The guide device 23 can, for example, be designed as in the first embodiment. Repetition is omitted here. However, if necessary, only one centrally arranged linear motor 26 could be provided. Two parallel guide devices 23 could also be provided, only one of which includes the linear motor 26.

[0140] At least part of the control unit 6 or an associated electrical or electronic component 35 of the transport carrier 1 could also be arranged within the support body 29. The electronic component 35 could, for example, be a data memory. The electronic component 35 could also comprise one or more sensors for detecting a measured value. The electronic component 35 could, for example, be replaceable, in which case, for example, a suitable detachable flap or a suitable slot could be arranged on the support body 29. This naturally also applies to the first embodiment of the transport carrier 1 described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 4.

[0141] An overhead conveyor device 2 of an exemplary embodiment is described in more detail below with reference to Figs. 10 to 16. The overhead conveyor device 2 comprises the aforementioned support structure 3 and at least one of the above-described transport carriers 1, preferably a plurality thereof. For the sake of simplicity, the following description is based on a transport carrier 1. The transport carrier 1 is movable along a movement path defined by the support structure 3. The movement path lies in a substantially horizontal movement plane. In Fig. 10, the movement path extends normal to the plane of the drawing.

[0142] As can be seen in Fig. 10, the support structure 3 in the example shown comprises a traction section 42, which has two traction surfaces 43, 44, spaced apart from one another transversely to the path of movement by a gap 33, each for one of the drive wheels 4 of the transport carrier 1. The transport carrier 1 has a support body 29, which projects vertically downward through the gap 33, so that the receptacle 30 of the support body 29 is located below the support structure 3 (see Fig. 1 + Fig. 14). If the transport carrier 1 does not have a support body 29, then a traction surface without a gap could also be provided (not shown). The support body 29 could, for example, be arranged laterally of the support structure 3.

[0143] Furthermore, the support structure 3 comprises a power supply section 45, which is vertically spaced from the two traction surfaces 43, 44 of the traction section 42, for supplying the transport carrier 1 with electrical energy. The power supply section 45 has a number of conductor tracks 46, 47, 48 corresponding to the number of current collectors 7, 8, 9 of the transport carrier 1, which are spaced apart from one another transversely to the movement path. In the example shown, the transport carrier 1 has three current collectors 7, 8, 9, and the power supply section 45 correspondingly has three conductor tracks 46, 47, 48. The conductor tracks 46, 47, 48 each form a conductor contact surface 50 facing the traction surfaces 43, 44 for contacting by the contact surfaces 11 of the contact elements 10. In the example shown, the contact elements 10 are designed as sliding contacts and each have a sliding contact surface.The conductor contact surface 50 thus serves as a sliding surface for the sliding contact surfaces 11 of the sliding contacts 10 of the respective current collector 7, 8, 9. If the contact elements 10 were designed as rolling bodies, the rolling contact surfaces of the rolling bodies would roll on the corresponding conductor contact surfaces 50 (not shown).

[0144] The sliding surfaces 50 of the outer conductor tracks 46, 48 are spaced apart from the traction surfaces 43, 44 by a first conductor spacing X10 and the sliding surface 50 of the middle conductor track 47 is spaced apart from the traction surfaces 43, 44 by a second conductor spacing XI 1 which is larger than the first conductor spacing X10, as shown in Fig.10.

[0145] The first conductor spacing X10 is preferably smaller than the spacing X4 between the sliding contact surfaces 11 of the sliding contacts 10 of the outer current collectors 7, 9 and the wheel contact surface 13 of the drive wheels 4 of the transport carrier 1 not arranged on the support structure 3 (see Fig. 4). The second conductor spacing X11 is preferably also smaller than the spacing X3 between the sliding contact surface 11 of the sliding contact 10 of the middle current collector 8 and the wheel contact surface 13 of the drive wheels 4 of the transport carrier 1 not arranged on the support structure 3 (see Fig. 4). This ensures reliable contact of the sliding contacts 10 on the sliding surfaces 50, particularly in conjunction with the vertically spring-loaded sliding contacts 10. A difference between the first conductor spacing X10 and the spacing X4 preferably corresponds to a maximum of one spring deflection of the sliding contacts 10 of the outer current collectors 7, 9.A difference between the second conductor spacing XI 1 and the spacing X3 preferably corresponds to a maximum of one spring travel of the sliding contact 10 of the middle current collector 8.

[0146] Furthermore, the overhead conveyor device 2 preferably comprises at least one energy source 51, in particular a direct current source or direct voltage source, for supplying energy to the energy supply section 45. The energy source 51 is schematically indicated in Fig. 10. The energy source 51 could be designed merely as a power connection, but could also comprise an at least temporarily self-sufficient energy source.

[0147] In the example shown, the outer conductor tracks 46, 48 have the same electrical polarity, preferably the negative pole, and the middle conductor track 47 has an electrical polarity opposite to the polarity of the outer conductor tracks 46, 48, preferably the positive pole.

[0148] The support structure 2 preferably has a first track section 52, which forms precisely one movement path B1 for the transport carrier 1. Fig. 10 shows a cross-section in the region of such a first track section 52. As can be seen in Fig. 10, a width Y1 of the central conductor track 47 is greater than a width Y2 of the outer conductor tracks 46, 48, each viewed transversely to the movement path B1. The width Y1 of the central conductor track 47 preferably corresponds at least to a distance between the two end positions ES1, ES2 of the movable central current collector 8 in the direction of the transverse axis Q. As a result, the central current collector 8 can be moved unhindered between the positions on the first track section.

[0149] A width Y3 of the intermediate space 33 transverse to the movement path Bl is preferably a maximum of 150%, particularly preferably a maximum of 130%, in particular a maximum of 120% of the width b of the section of the support body 29 of the transport carrier 1 located in the intermediate space 33 (see Fig.10 as well as Fig.1 and Fig.6).

[0150] The first track section 52 can, for example, be designed as a straight module with a straight movement path B1. An exemplary single straight module is shown in Fig. 14. Alternatively, the first track section 52 could also be designed as a curved module with a curved movement path (not shown). The straight module can, for example, have a plurality of holding elements 65, in particular holding claws, spaced from one another in the direction of the movement path B1. The holding elements 65 can be designed such that they hold two traction rails, on which the traction surfaces 43, 44 are located, and a power supply rail, on which the conductor tracks 46, 47, 48 are located, in the intended relationship to one another. The straight module can be fastened to a support of a ceiling structure by means of the holding elements 65.This makes it very easy and quick to construct a desired transport route from a number of standardised straight modules.

[0151] The support structure 3 preferably also comprises a second track section 53, which preferably adjoins the first track section 52. Figure 11 shows a cross section through an exemplary second track section 53. Figure 12 shows a first perspective view of the second track section 53 in the region of the cross section, and Figure 13 shows a second perspective view of the second track section 53 in the region of the cross section.

[0152] On the second track section 53, a divergence region DB is provided, in which exactly one movement path Bl (for example, coming from the first track section) diverges into at least two movement paths, here three movement paths Bl, B2, B3. The traction section 42 of the second track section 53 has, for each movement path Bl, B2, B3, two traction surfaces 43, 44, spaced apart from one another by a gap 33 transversely to the respective movement path Bl, B2, B3, for each of the drive wheels 4. As can be seen in Fig. 12, for example, the mutually facing traction surfaces 43, 44 of two adjacent movement paths Bl, B2 or Bl, B3 can be arranged on a common component.

[0153] In contrast to the first track section 52, the energy supply section 45 of the second track section 53 comprises a guide channel 54, 55, 56 for each movement path B1, B2, B3 for guiding the middle current collector 8 of the transport carrier 1, in particular for guiding its guide sleeve 16, as can be seen in Fig. 11. The guide channels 54, 55, 56 run parallel to the movement paths B1, B2, B3 and each comprise the middle conductor track 47 including its sliding surface 50. While the transport carrier 1 on the first track section 52 is advantageously guided by the support body 29 in the intermediate space 33, the transport carrier 1 on the second track section 53 is advantageously guided by the middle current collector 8, in particular its guide sleeve 16, in each of the guide channels 54, 55, 56. As a result, the larger intermediate space in the divergence region DB can be crossed safely.

[0154] It can be advantageous if suitable sliding elements, a suitable friction-reducing sliding coating or a suitable friction-reducing material is provided on the outer sides of the guide sleeve 16 (in the direction of the transverse axis Q). In the example shown, the guide sleeve 16 has essentially flat, parallel outer surfaces on the outer sides. When cornering, the guide sleeve 16 is thus contacted by the respective guide channel 54, 56 (not shown) on one outer surface at two points spaced from one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis L, resulting in reliable guidance. A length (in the direction of the longitudinal axis L) of the guide sleeve 16 and a curvature of the curved guide channels 54, 56 can be coordinated with one another.

[0155] The outer surfaces of the guide sleeve 16 could, however, in principle also be convex (not shown). A curvature of a convex curvature can, for example, be adapted to a curvature of the curved guide channels 54, 56. This results in surface contact and thus a lower load on the guide sleeve 16. The second section 53 can, for example, be designed as a preferably rotationally symmetrical crossing module. Fig. 15 shows a crossing module of an exemplary embodiment. The crossing module has four crossing entrances E1, E2, E3, E4, with adjacent crossing entrances E1, E2 or E2, E3 or E3, E4 or E4, E1 being arranged at right angles to one another with respect to the vertical axis. Opposite crossing entrances E1, E3; E2, E4 are connected by a straight movement path B1. The straight movement paths B1 intersect in a central crossing area KB of the crossing module.Adjacent intersection entrances E1, E2 or E2, E3 or E3, E4 or E4, E1 are connected by a curved trajectory B2, B3. At the intersection entrances E1, E2, E3, E4, the two curved trajectories B2, B3 and the intermediate straight trajectory Bl converge in the respective divergence region DB to form a single, particularly straight, trajectory Bl.

[0156] For a substantially jerk-free movement of the transport carriers 1, it may be advantageous if the curved movement paths B2, B3 each have a circular arc-shaped curve section which is central in terms of their length and have two clothoid-shaped curve sections which each connect the circular arc-shaped curve section to a straight movement path B1 of a crossing entrance.

[0157] Fig. 16 shows a perspective view of a section of a transport route constructed from straight modules 52 and crossing modules 53 with a plurality of transport supports 1. In particular, two of the crossing modules shown in Fig. 15 are shown here. The second crossing entrance E2 of a crossing module 53 is directly connected to the fourth crossing entrance E4 of another crossing module 53. The first crossing entrance E1 of each of the crossing modules 53 is directly connected to a straight module. The two straight modules 52 run parallel to one another. This allows the transport supports 1 to be moved, for example, from one straight module via the two crossing modules in a 180° arc to the other straight module 52. If the opposite ends (not shown) of the straight modules are connected to two crossing modules in the same way, then movement in a closed loop would even be possible.

[0158] For moving a transport carrier 1 along a desired route along the

[0159] For each transport route, the control unit 6 of the respective transport carrier 1 can control the drive device 5 and the actuator 24 of the central pantograph 8 accordingly. The travel instruction for a specific route can be transmitted, for example, by the central control device 38. At the straight module 52, before reaching a crossing module 53, the central pantograph 8 can be moved to the desired position, ie, either the first end position ESI, the central position ZS, or the second end position ES2 (see Fig. 4 and Fig. 9).

[0160] When the transport carrier 1 is moved into the crossing module 53 with the current collector 8 in the first end position ESI, the middle current collector 8 engages in the left guide channel 54 (see Fig. 11) and the transport carrier 1 is moved accordingly along the curved movement path B2 to the left (seen in the direction of travel) to the adjacent crossing entrance E. When the transport carrier 1 is moved into the crossing module 53 with the current collector 8 in the second end position ES2, the middle current collector 8 engages in the right guide channel 56 (see Fig. 11) and the transport carrier 1 is moved accordingly along the curved movement path B3 to the right (seen in the direction of travel) to the adjacent crossing entrance E. When the transport carrier 1 with the current collector 8 in the central position ZS is moved into the crossing module 53, the middle current collector 8 engages in the middle guide channel 55 (see Fig.11) and the transport carrier 1 is moved accordingly along the straight movement path B 1 straight ahead to the opposite intersection entrance E. It is evident that very flexible movement processes can thus be carried out in a very simple manner.

[0161] At predetermined positions along the support structure 3, in particular the transport path, position markers 57 can be provided, which can be detected by a sensor 36 of a transport carrier 1. The control unit 6 of the respective transport carrier 1 can be configured to use the known position of the detected position marker 57 to determine and / or correct a position of the transport carrier 1. The position markers 57 can, for example, each comprise a permanent magnet, and the sensor 46 of the transport carrier 1 can comprise a Hall sensor. As indicated in Fig. 14, the position markers 57 can, for example, be arranged in recesses provided for this purpose in the holding elements 65.As already described, the overhead conveyor device 2 preferably comprises a central control device 38, which is designed to send information to the at least one transport carrier 1, in particular the first communication device 37, and / or to receive information from the at least one transport carrier 1, in particular the first communication device 37. Furthermore, the overhead conveyor device 2 can comprise a communication network 41, which is designed to send information to the at least one transport carrier 1, in particular the third communication device 40, and / or to receive information from the at least one transport carrier 1, in particular the third communication device 40. The communication network 41 can be designed to communicate with the higher-level central control device 38, in particular by wire.The communication network 41 can further comprise transmitting and / or receiving units 66, which are designed to communicate wirelessly with the transport carriers 1, in particular their third communication devices 40. The central control device 38 and the communication network 41 are schematically indicated in Fig. 16. Contrary to the illustration, the transmitting and / or receiving units 66 can, for example, be spatially distributed within the overhead conveyor device 2.

[0162] An exemplary hanging goods warehouse 58 is described in more detail below with reference to Fig. 17 to Fig. 20. This hanging goods warehouse 58 comprises the above-described overhead conveyor device 2 and a plurality of transport supports 1, also described above, each with a hanging goods carrier 31 attached thereto. It should be noted at this point that the example is merely illustrative and that the hanging goods warehouse 58 can, of course, be significantly more complex in practice.

[0163] The hanging goods warehouse 58 comprises a plurality of storage levels 59, 60 arranged one above the other in the vertical direction, whereby only two storage levels 59, 60 are shown here by way of example. In each storage level 59, 60, a transport network 61 constructed from the support structure 3 is provided. A part of the transport network 61 is shown, for example, in Fig. 16. The transport network 61 has a number of storage areas 67 in which a plurality of transport carriers 1 including the hanging goods carriers 31 attached thereto and, in particular, with goods W held in the hanging goods carriers 31 can be stored. The goods W are indicated in Fig. 17 by way of example in dashed lines as three hanging goods carriers 31. In the example shown, the two storage levels 59, 60 have the same height and all hanging goods carriers 31 have the same height.However, at least two storage levels with different heights and hanging goods carriers 31 with different heights (not shown) could also be provided. The transport carriers 1 with the hanging goods carriers 31 of lower height could then be assigned to the lower storage levels, and the transport carriers 1 with the hanging goods carriers 31 of higher height could be assigned to the higher storage levels accordingly.

[0164] The storage areas 67 can, for example, each have a plurality of straight first track sections 52 arranged parallel to one another (see Fig. 16). A straight first track section 52 can, for example, have one or more straight modules (see Fig. 14). Two parallel straight track sections 52 can each be connected at their opposite ends via two second track sections 53, in particular in the form of crossing modules (see also Fig. 16). This allows the transport carriers 1 to be moved in a closed loop, enabling storage, retrieval, and sorting operations.

[0165] The transport networks 61 of the storage levels 59, 60 are connected by means of a number of conveyor devices 62. For the sake of simplicity, only a schematic conveyor device 62 is indicated in Fig. 17. The conveyor device 62 is designed to convey a number of transport carriers 1 continuously or discontinuously between the transport networks 61 of the storage levels 59, 60. For example, the conveyor device 62 could have a number of conveyor rails 68 which are movable in the vertical direction. In Fig. 17, only one conveyor rail 68 is indicated schematically as an example. If a conveyor rail 68 is located in a first storage level 59, one or more transport carriers 1 can move independently from the transport network 61 onto the conveyor rail 68. The conveyor rail 68 can then, includingthe transport carriers 1 located thereon can be moved in the vertical direction into another storage level 59, 60, for example into an adjacent storage level 60, as indicated by the double arrow in Fig. 17. In the respective storage level 60, the transport carriers 1 can again move independently from the conveyor rail 68 into the transport network 61 of the respective storage level 60. This allows very flexible storage, retrieval and, if necessary, sorting processes to be carried out. The hanging goods warehouse 58 further comprises at least one loading station 63 for loading the hanging goods carriers 31 of a number of transport carriers 1 and at least one unloading station 64 for unloading the hanging goods carriers 31 of a number of transport carriers 1. In the embodiment shown, a loading station 63 and an unloading station 64 are provided merely as an example, as is indicated schematically in Fig. 18. The representation is exemplary and serves merely for illustrative purposes.The loading station 63 and unloading station 64 can, of course, also be located at a different location in the hanging goods warehouse 58. Preferably, the loading station 63 and the unloading station 64 are located on the lowest storage level of the hanging goods warehouse 58, here, storage level 59. This is particularly advantageous in single-story buildings, in which the entire hanging goods warehouse 58 is located on one floor, particularly the ground floor. In multi-story buildings, however, the loading station 63 and the unloading station 64 could also be located, for example, on different storage levels 59, 60, whereby the storage levels 59, 60 could be located on different floors of the building.

[0166] In the loading station 63, the hanging goods carriers 31 can be filled with goods W manually or automatically (e.g. by a handling robot), wherein preferably one item of goods W is provided per hanging goods carrier W. The hanging goods carriers 31 can be filled sequentially, wherein the transport carriers 1 can be stationary or, if necessary, can also be moved slowly. Several hanging goods carriers 31 can also be filled simultaneously. The loading station 63 is connected here via a first section 52, in particular a straight module (see Fig. 14), to a second section 53, in particular an intersection module (see Fig. 15). After loading their hanging goods carrier 31, the transport carriers 1 can be moved to a fixed or definable storage location in the storage area 68 for storing the transported goods W.The storage location can be transmitted, for example, in the form of a target position from the central control device 38 to the transport carrier 1, in particular directly via the first communication device 37 of the transport carrier 1 (see Fig.3) or indirectly via the communication network 41 and the third communication device 40 of the transport carrier 1 (see Fig.3).

[0167] In an analogous manner, the goods W can be unloaded from the hanging goods carriers 31 in the unloading station 64 manually or automatically (e.g. by a handling robot). The hanging goods carriers 31 can in turn be unloaded sequentially, wherein the transport carriers 1 are at a standstill or can be moved slowly if necessary. However, several hanging goods carriers 31 can also be unloaded simultaneously. In the example shown, the unloading station 64 is connected via a first section 52, in particular a straight module (see Fig. 14), to a second section 53, in particular an intersection module (see Fig. 15). The transport carriers 1 can be moved from their storage location in the storage area 68 to the unloading station 64 for unloading the transported goods W.The instruction for retrieval can, for example, be transmitted from the central control device 38 to the transport carrier 1, in particular directly via the first communication device 37 of the transport carrier 1 (see Fig.3) or indirectly via the communication network 41 and the third communication device 40 of the transport carrier 1 (see Fig.3).

[0168] During the movement of a transport carrier 1 along a first section 52 of the transport network 61, in particular along a straight line module, it is advantageous if a yaw movement of the transport carrier 1 about its vertical axis H and / or a roll movement about its longitudinal axis L are reduced, preferably suppressed, by guiding the support body 29 of the transport carrier 1 in the intermediate space 33 of the traction section 42, which is formed between the traction surfaces 43, 44 (see Fig. 1 + Fig. 10 + Fig. 14).

[0169] During the movement of a transport carrier 1 along a second track section 53, in particular a crossing module, it is advantageous if a yaw movement of the transport carrier 1 about its vertical axis H and / or a rolling movement about its longitudinal axis L is reduced, preferably suppressed, by guiding the central current collector 8, in particular its guide sleeve 16, in the guide channel 54, 55, 56 of the respective movement path B1, B2, B3 (see Fig. 11-Fig. 13).

[0170] During a movement of the transport carrier 1 along a curved movement path B2, B3 of a second section 53 of the transport structure 3, in particular a crossing module, it is advantageous if a lateral force FS acting transversely to the movement path B2, B3 is exerted on the longer current collector in the direction of the vertical axis H, here the middle current collector 8, in particular its guide sleeve 16, by which the drive wheel 4 on the outside of the curve is lifted off the respective traction surface 43, 44. The lateral force FS preferably acts in the region of a guide channel 54, 55, 56 on the guide sleeve 16 of the movable middle current collector 8. The lateral force FS is indicated by way of example in Fig. 2. By lifting the drive wheel 4 on the outside of the curve, on the one hand, no speed compensation of the drive wheels 4 is required due to the different curve radii, which improves driving stability and reduces wear.On the other hand, the gap in the divergence area DB, which is larger than the gap 33, can be traversed essentially contactlessly in the lifted state, whereby shocks can be reduced or avoided.

[0171] For example, the end positions ESI, ES2 of the middle pantograph 8 can be set such that a sufficiently large lateral force FS automatically acts in the curve to lift the drive wheel 4 on the outside of the curve. The guide device 23 is preferably designed to be self-locking in order not to overload the actuator 24. On the other hand, the end positions ESI, ES2 of the middle pantograph 8 could also be set such that initially no or only a small lateral force FS acts at the beginning of the curve and the actuator 24 is only activated afterwards in order to generate a sufficiently large lateral force FS. If necessary, a force sensor (not shown) could also be provided for detecting an actual value of the lateral force FS and the control unit 6 could be designed to activate the actuator 24 in order to regulate a specified or definable target value of the lateral force. The actual value of the lateral force FS could be approximately, for example,can also be determined from the current consumption of the actuator 24.

[0172] Alternatively or additionally, a suitable sensor could be provided to detect an actual value of a roll angle (around the longitudinal axis L), and the control unit 6 could be configured to control the actuator 24 to adjust the roll angle to a specified or definable target value. Control based on the roll angle would have the advantage over force control of being independent of the load weight.

[0173] During the movement of a transport carrier 1 along the transport network 61, a state variable, in particular the position and / or speed and / or acceleration of the transport carrier 1 and / or the distance of the transport carrier 1 from another transport carrier 1, is preferably detected by means of at least one sensor 36, and the control unit 6 of the transport carrier 1 controls or regulates a movement of the transport carrier 1 depending on the detected state variable and preferably depending on a target value of the respective state variable. By specifying a target value for the respective state variable to the control unit 6, for example from the central control device 38, the control unit 6 can control the transport carrier 1 accordingly in order to achieve the target value.

[0174] A target position, target speed, target acceleration or target distance on straight track sections can be adjusted via the drive device 5, for example using a suitable controller.

[0175] When the transport carrier 1 moves along straight movement paths B1 of the support structure 3, for example on first track sections 52, in particular straight-line modules, distance control is preferably carried out, wherein a speed of the transport carrier 1 is controlled as a function of a detected distance from the adjacent transport carrier 1. When the transport carrier 1 moves along curved movement paths B2, B3 of the support structure 3, for example on second track sections 53, in particular intersection modules, distance control is preferably omitted, and the transport carrier 1 is moved through the curve at a fixed or definable, preferably constant, speed. This allows the use of simply constructed distance sensors, in particular TOF sensors with a substantially linear detection range in the direction of the longitudinal axis L.

[0176] A desired position in the sense of a global target position in the transport network 61 can be reached, for example, by appropriately controlling the drive device 5 and the actuator 24 of the middle pantograph 8. An additional temporal dimension (for example, a duration of the journey to the predetermined target position) can be taken into account, for example, via the speed and, if applicable, acceleration. A virtual image of the transport network 61 (geometry, length, etc.) is preferably stored or storable in the transport carrier 1, in particular a storage unit. It can, for example, be sent from the central control device 38 to the transport carrier 1. The control unit 6 thus knows at which times or at which positions steering movements of the middle pantograph 8 must be carried out in order to reach a specific target position.The actual position of the transport carrier 1 can, on the one hand, be determined incrementally, for example based on the known rotational speed and the known wheel diameter of the drive wheels 4. On the other hand, the actual position can be determined using the position markers 65 (see Fig. 14) or the incrementally determined position can be corrected. According to an advantageous method, the overhead conveyor device 2, in particular the support structure 3, is loaded with a transport carrier 1 by first aligning the transport carrier 1 with its vertical axis H essentially parallel to the traction surfaces 43, 44. The transport carrier 1 is then inserted laterally in a horizontal direction into the travel gap, which is formed in the vertical direction between the traction surfaces 43, 44 and the power supply section 45. A height of the travel gap corresponds, for example, to the conductor spacing X10 shown in Fig. 10.Finally, the transport carrier 1 is moved by a rotation about its transverse axis Q into a designated operating position on the support structure (3), which is shown, for example, in Fig.10 or Fig.14.

[0177] The transport carrier 1 can be removed from the overhead conveyor device 2, in particular from the support structure 3, in the reverse direction. First, the transport carrier 1, in its intended operating position, is rotated about its transverse axis Q until its vertical axis H is aligned substantially parallel to the traction surfaces 43, 44. The transport carrier 1 is then guided laterally out of the travel gap in a horizontal direction.

[0178] Loading or removal can be automated, preferably with a robot arm of a handling robot (not shown) that includes a gripping device for gripping the transport carrier 1. The handling robot can, for example, be a known multi-axis, in particular 6-axis, industrial robot.

[0179] It is advantageous if, immediately after loading, a functional test, in particular a driving function test, is performed by means of the control unit 6 of the transport carrier 1. If the functional test fails, the transport carrier 1 is removed from the support structure 3. This ensures that only functional transport carriers 1 are located on the support structure 3.

[0180] The exemplary embodiments show possible variants. It should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated variants. Rather, various combinations of the individual variants are also possible. This variation possibility, based on the teaching of technical action based on the present invention, lies within the skill of the person skilled in the art. The scope of protection is determined by the claims. However, the description and the drawings are to be used to interpret the claims. The problem underlying the independent inventive solutions can be derived from the description.

[0181] All information on value ranges in this description is to be understood as including any and all sub-ranges thereof, e.g. the information 1 to 10 is to be understood as including all sub-ranges starting from the lower limit of 1 and the upper limit of 10, ie all sub-ranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, e.g. 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0182] For the sake of clarity, it should finally be pointed out that, in order to better understand the structure, some elements have been shown out of scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

[0183] Reference symbol list

[0184] Transport carrier 32 End stop overhead conveyor device 33 Intermediate space supporting structure 34 Impact protection drive wheel 35 Electronic component drive device 36 Sensor control unit 37 First communication device outer pantograph 38 Central control device middle pantograph 39 Second communication device outer pantograph contact element 40 Third communication device contact surface 41 Communication network buffer storage 42 Traction section wheel contact surface 43 Traction surface base body 44 Traction surface suspension unit 45 Energy supply section guide sleeve 46 Outer conductor track guide block 47 Middle conductor track guide slot 48 Outer conductor track guide pin 49 Gear retaining bracket 50 Conductor contact surface coupling unit 51 Energy source spring element 52 First track section guide device 53 Second track section actuator 54 Outer guide channel rack drive 55 Middle guide channel linear motor 56 OuterGuide channel electrical coil 57 Position marker permanent magnet core 58 Hanging goods storage support body 59 First storage level holder 60 Second storage level

[0185] Hanging goods carrier 61 Transport net 62 Conveyor system XI first axle distance

[0186] 63 Loading station X2 second axle distance

[0187] 64 Unloading station X3 distance

[0188] 65 Holding element X4 distance

[0189] 66 Transmitting and / or receiving unit X5 Contact surface distance

[0190] 67 Bearing area X6 Contact surface distance

[0191] 68 Transport rail X7 Fixing point distance

[0192] 69 Guide element X8 distance

[0193] 70 Guide carriage X9 Center of gravity distance

[0194] L Longitudinal axis X10 first conductor distance

[0195] Q Transverse axis XII second conductor distance

[0196] H vertical axis X12 first swivel axis distance

[0197] A wheel axle X13 second swivel axis distance

[0198] Bl straight path of movement Y 1 Width of the middle conductor track

[0199] B2 curved path of motion Y2 width of the outer conductor track

[0200] B3 curved movement path Y3 width of the gap

[0201] D Wheel diameter El first intersection entrance

[0202] DB Divergence area E2 second crossing entrance b Width of the supporting body E3 third crossing entrance

[0203] 11 Length of the supporting body E4 fourth crossing entrance

[0204] KP crossing point V 1 first leverage ratio

[0205] LV imaginary connecting line V2 second lever ratio

[0206] FS lateral force V3 third lever ratio

[0207] ESI first end position

[0208] ES2 second end position

[0209] RI first direction of travel

[0210] R2 second direction of travel

[0211] ZS1 central position

[0212] BP attachment point l_max maximum extension

[0213] 51 first swivel axis

[0214] 52 Second swivel axis

[0215] SP Focus

Claims

Patent claims 1. Transport carrier (1) for movement along a support structure (3), in particular a suspended conveyor device (2), comprising: - a longitudinal axis (L), a transverse axis (Q) and a vertical axis (H), - one, in particular exactly one, wheel axle (A) lying parallel to the transverse axis (Q) with two drive wheels (4), - an electric drive device (5) for driving the drive wheels (4), - a control unit (6) for controlling at least the drive device (5) - an energy supply device with at least two current collectors (7, 8) for supplying the transport carrier (1), in particular the drive device (5) and the control unit (6), with electrical energy, and - a support body (29) with a receptacle (30) having a fastening point (BP) for fastening a load, in particular a hanging goods carrier (31), wherein the fastening point (BP) is spaced apart in the direction of the vertical axis (H) at a fastening point distance (X7) from a wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4) provided for rolling on the support structure (3), characterized in that the at least two current collectors (7, 8) comprise at least one current collector (7, 8) which comprises a contact element (10) designed for electrically contacting a conductor track (46, 47) of the support structure (3), which contact element is pivotable about a pivot axis (SI, S2) running parallel to the transverse axis (Q), wherein the pivot axis (SI, S2) is located in the direction of the vertical axis (H) on a side of the wheel axle (A) facing away from the receptacle (30) and is spaced apart at a pivot axis distance (X12, X13) from the Wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4) is spaced,wherein a first lever ratio (VI) between the attachment point distance (X7) and the pivot axis distance (X12, X13) is preferably 1.9 to 3.6, particularly preferably 2.4 to 3.4, in particular 2.5 to 3.

2.

2. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that a contact surface (11) of the pivotable contact element (10) provided for contacting the conductor track (46, 47) is spaced in the direction of the vertical axis (H) at a contact surface distance (X5, X6) from the associated pivot axis (S1, S2) and that a second lever ratio (V2) between the pivot axis distance (X12, X13) and the contact surface distance (X5, X6) is 4.1 to 6.2, preferably 4.8 to 5.3 and / or a third lever ratio (V3) between the attachment point distance (X7) and the contact surface distance (X5, X6) is 11 to 18, preferably 13 to 16.

3. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) comprises at least two current collectors (7, 8) spaced apart in the direction of the transverse axis (Q), wherein the contact element (10) of one current collector (8) is pivotable about a first pivot axis (S1) which has a first pivot axis distance (X12) and the contact element (10) of the at least one further current collector (7) is pivotable about a second pivot axis (S2) which has a second pivot axis distance (X13) which is smaller than the first pivot axis distance (S1).

4. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the contact elements (10) of the at least two current collectors (7, 8) each comprise a sliding contact with a sliding contact surface or a rolling body with a rolling contact surface.

5. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that a first axial distance (XI) between a contact surface (11) of the contact element (10) of the current collector (8) with the first pivot axis distance (X12) and the wheel axis (A) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) is greater than a second axial distance (X2) between a contact surface (11) of the contact element (10) of the at least one further current collector (7) with the second pivot axis distance (X13).

6. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that a tangential plane of the contact surface (11) of the contact element (10) of at least one current collector (7, 8) is aligned substantially parallel to a plane spanned by the longitudinal axis (L) and the transverse axis (Q).

7. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) has an electrical buffer storage (12), in particular a buffer capacitor, for the temporary energy supply of the drive device (5) and / or the Control unit (6), wherein the energy supply device is designed to feed the buffer storage (12).

8. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 1 or 7, characterized in that the drive device (5) comprises a DC motor which preferably drives the drive wheels (4) directly.

9. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the wheel axle (A) has a rigid axle.

10. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 3 to 9, characterized in that a distance (X3) between a contact surface (11) of the contact element (10) of the current collector (8) with the first pivot axis distance (X12) and the wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) is 110% to 130% of the first pivot axis distance (X12) and / or that a distance (X4) between the contact surface (11) of the contact element (10) of the at least one further current collector (7) with the second pivot axis distance (X13) and the wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) is 110% to 130% of the second pivot axis distance (X13).

11. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the contact element (10) of at least one current collector (7, 8) is movable in the direction of the vertical axis (H) relative to a base body (14) of the transport carrier (1) and is sprung by means of a suspension unit (15).

12. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the suspension unit (15) comprises at least one of the following springs: leaf spring, coil spring, elastomer spring, tension spring, torsion spring.

13. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 3 to 12, characterized in that a first contact surface distance (X5) between a contact surface (11) of the contact element (10) of the at least one current collector (8) with the first pivot axis distance (X12) and the pivot axis (S1) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) is 15% to 25% of the first pivot axis distance (X12) and / or that a second contact surface distance (X6) between a contact surface (11) of the contact element (10) of the at least one second current collector (7, 9) with the second pivot axis distance (X13) and the second pivot axis (S2) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) is 15% to 25% of the second pivot axis distance (X13).

14. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that at least one current collector (8) comprises a guide sleeve (16) and that the contact element (10) of the current collector (8) is guided within the guide sleeve (16) and / or that at least one current collector (7) comprises a guide block (17) and that the contact element (10) of the current collector (7) is guided externally on the guide block (17).

15. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the guide sleeve (16) comprises a guide slot (18) on each of the inner surfaces facing one another in the direction of the transverse axis (Q), and in that the contact element (10) comprises a guide pin (19) on each of the outer sides facing away from one another in the direction of the transverse axis (Q), which guide pin is received in the guide slot (18), or vice versa.

16. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the base body (14) comprises at least one holding bracket (20) and that the at least one guide block (17) is mounted on the holding bracket (20) so as to be pivotable about the pivot axis (S2).

17. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 3 to 16, characterized in that the at least one current collector (7, 8) comprises three current collectors (7, 8, 9) spaced apart in the direction of the transverse axis (Q), wherein two current collectors (7, 9) are provided, the contact elements (10) of which each have the second pivot axis (S2) with the second pivot axis distance (X13) and wherein the middle current collector (8) is arranged in the direction of the transverse axis (Q) between the two current collectors (7, 9) and wherein the contact element (10) of the third current collector (8) has the first pivot axis (S1) with the first pivot axis distance (X12).

18. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that the contact elements (10) of the two outer current collectors (7, 9) are mechanically coupled by means of a coupling unit (21) and are movable together in the direction of the vertical axis (H), wherein the two contact elements (10) each have a suspension unit (15) with which they are sprung relative to the base body (14) of the transport carrier (1), wherein the suspension units (15) each have two intersecting elongate spring elements (22), wherein an imaginary connecting line (LV) between crossing points (KP) of the spring elements (22) of the two spring units (22) runs substantially parallel to the wheel axis (A) and transverse axis (Q).

19. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 18, characterized in that the coupling unit (21) has a frame which surrounds the central current collector (8).

20. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the at least one current collector (8), preferably the middle one of three current collectors (7, 8, 9), is arranged on the transport carrier (1) so as to be movable in a direction parallel to the transverse axis (Q), wherein a guide device (23) for guiding and an actuator (24) for moving the at least one current collector (8) are provided.

21. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 20, characterized in that the actuator (24) comprises a rack and pinion drive (25) or a linear motor (26).

22. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the guide device (23) is self-locking when a lateral force (FS) acting on the at least one current collector (8) in the direction of the transverse axis (Q) is exceeded.

23. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that the control unit (6) is designed to control the actuator (24) such that the at least one current collector (8) can be moved continuously or discretely between a first end position (ES1), a second end position (ES2) and an intermediate central position (ZS).

24. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 23, characterized in that a mechanical end stop (32) is provided for each end position (ES1, ES2), wherein the end stops (32) are preferably arranged on the base body (14) or are formed by the base body (14), in particular the holding brackets (20).

25. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 23 or 24, characterized in that the linear motor (26) comprises a plurality, in particular three, electrical coils (27) spaced apart from one another in the direction of the transverse axis (Q) and arranged coaxially to one another, in that the movable at least one current collector (8), in particular its guide sleeve (16), comprises a permanent magnet core (28) and in that the control unit (6) is designed to selectively energize the coils (27) in order to move the at least one current collector (8) between the end positions (ES1, ES2) and the central position (ZS).

26. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that the support body (29) is arranged in the direction of the wheel axis (A), preferably centrally, between the two drive wheels (4), wherein the support body (29) in the arranged state of the transport carrier (1) on the support structure (3) extends downwards in the vertical direction through an intermediate space (33) of a traction section (42) of the support structure (3), so that the receptacle (30) is located below the support structure (3).

27. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 26, characterized in that a length (11) of the support body (29) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) at least in a section of the support body (29) which is located in the intermediate space (33) in the arranged state of the transport carrier (1) on the support structure (3), a wheel diameter (D) of the drive wheels (4) ± 10% and / or that a width (b) of the support body (29) in the direction of the transverse axis (Q) at least in the same section, 10% to 30%, preferably 15 to 25%, in particular 20% of the wheel diameter (D) of the drive wheels (4).

28. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that the support body (29) has, at least in a section which is located in the intermediate space (33) in the arranged state of the transport carrier (1) on the support structure (3), a ram protection (34) and / or a sliding element and / or a sliding coating and / or a friction-reducing material.

29. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 26 to 28, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) comprises a hanging goods carrier (31) which is or can be fastened rigidly or articulately to the receptacle (30), wherein the receptacle (30) preferably comprises an eyelet to which the hanging goods carrier (31) is fastened, in particular suspended, preferably in an operationally detachable manner.

30. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 29, characterized in that the hanging goods carrier (31) is rotatable on the holder (30) about an axis of rotation lying parallel to the longitudinal axis (L) of the transport carrier (1) relative to the support body (29), wherein preferably other rotational degrees of freedom are blocked.

31. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 29 or 30, characterized in that a distance (X8) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) between the fastening point (BP) of the receptacle (30) and a lower free end of the hanging goods carrier (31) in the fastened state is 300% to 400% of the fastening point distance (X7).

32. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 29 to 31, characterized in that the hanging goods carrier (31) comprises a hanging bag which is at least partially flexible or a substantially rigid container for receiving piece goods or a liquid container or a hanger for receiving items of clothing.

33. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 29 to 32, characterized in that the hanging goods carrier (31) is or can be fastened to the receptacle (30) in an operational, in particular non-destructive, releasably manner and that the receptacle (30) and the hanging goods carrier (31) are designed such that the hanging goods carrier (31) can be fastened only in a defined orientation.

34. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 33, characterized in that at least a part of the control unit (6) or a device connected thereto standing electrical or electronic component (35) of the transport carrier (1) is located within the carrying body (29).

35. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that a wheel diameter (D) of the drive wheels (4) is a maximum of 150 mm, preferably a maximum of 100 mm, in particular a maximum of 70 mm, and that a maximum extension (l_max) of the transport carrier (1) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) corresponds to the wheel diameter (D) ± 20%.

36. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 35, characterized in that the contact elements (10) contain copper and graphite and / or that the contact elements (10) designed as sliding contacts are each bevelled or rounded at the front and rear in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) and / or that the contact surfaces (11) of the contact elements (10) are flat or convexly curved.

37. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 36, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) comprises a number of sensors (36) for detecting at least one state variable, in particular position, and / or speed and / or acceleration, of the transport carrier (1) and in that the control unit (6) is designed to control the transport carrier (1), in particular the drive device (5) as a function of the detected state variable, wherein the transport carrier (1) is preferably designed according to claim 20 and the control unit (6) is additionally designed to control the actuator (24) as a function of the detected state variable.

38. Transport carrier (1) according to claim 37, characterized in that the number of sensors (36) comprises at least one of the following sensors: distance sensor, in particular TOF sensor, position sensor, in particular Hall sensor, speed sensor, weight sensor.

39. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 38, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) has a first communication device (37) for wireless communication with a central control device (38) of the overhead conveyor device (2) and that the control unit (6) is designed to control the transport carrier (1), in particular the drive device (5) as a function of information received from the control device (38) of the overhead conveyor device (2) and / or to send information to the central control device (38) of the overhead conveyor device (2), wherein preferably the transport carrier (1) is designed according to claim 20 and the control unit (6) is designed to control the actuator (24) of the at least one current collector (8) as a function of information received from the control device (38) of the overhead conveyor device (2).

40. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 39, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) comprises a second communication device (39) for communicating with a further transport carrier (1) and in that the control unit (6) is designed to control the transport carrier (1), in particular the drive device (5) in dependence on information received from the further transport carrier (1) and / or to send information to the further transport carrier (1), wherein preferably the transport carrier (1) is designed according to claim 20 and the control unit (6) is designed to control the actuator (24) of the at least one current collector (8) in accordance with information received from the further transport carrier (1).

41. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 40, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) comprises a third communication device (40) for communicating with a communication network (41) of the overhead conveyor device (2) and in that the control unit (6) is designed to control the transport carrier (1), in particular the drive device and / or the actuator of the at least one current collector (8), as a function of information received from the communication network (41) and / or to send information to the communication network (41).

42. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 41, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) is designed to be moved in opposite directions of travel (RI, R2) with respect to its longitudinal axis (L) with the same driving characteristics.

43. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 42, characterized in that a weight distribution of the transport carrier (1), preferably including hanging goods carrier (31), is determined such that the vertical axis (H) of the transport carrier (1) is aligned substantially vertically on the support structure (3) in a stationary state and / or that a pitching movement about the transverse axis (Q) occurring during the movement can be reduced, in particular avoided.

44. Transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 43, characterized in that a center of gravity (SP) of the transport carrier (1) without hanging goods carrier (31) lies on a side of the wheel axle (A) facing away from the current collectors (7, 8) in the direction of the vertical axis (H), wherein the center of gravity (SP) is preferably spaced from the wheel contact surface (13) at a center of gravity distance (X9) of preferably 5% to 15% of the pivot axis distance (X12, X13), wherein a weight of the transport carrier (1) without hanging goods carrier (31) is preferably 450g to 650g, in particular 500g to 600g and / or that a center of gravity (SP) of the transport carrier (1) with hanging goods carrier (31) lies between the receptacle (30) and the lower free end of the hanging goods carrier (31), wherein the center of gravity (SP) is preferably spaced from the wheel contact surface (13) at a center of gravity distance (X9) preferably 150% to 190% of the attachment point distance (X7) from the wheel contact surface (13),wherein a weight of the hanging goods carrier (31) is preferably 450g to 750g, in particular 550g to 650g., 45. Overhead conveyor device (2) comprising a support structure (3) and at least one transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 44, which is movable on the support structure (3) along a substantially horizontal movement path (B1-B3) defined by the support structure (3), characterized in that the support structure (3) comprises a traction section (42) which has two traction surfaces (43, 44) spaced apart from one another transversely to the movement path (B1) by an intermediate space (33), for each of the drive wheels (4) of the transport carrier (1), and in that the support body (29) of the transport carrier (1) extends downwards in the vertical direction through the intermediate space (33), so that the receptacle (30) is located below the support structure (3), and comprises a power supply section (45) for supplying the transport carrier (1) with electrical energy, wherein the power supply section (45) has a power supply unit (46) which is arranged with the number of current collectors (7,8) the transport carrier (1) corresponding number of conductor tracks (46, 47), and the conductor tracks (46, 47) each have a conductor contact surface (50) facing the traction surfaces (43, 44) for contacting by the respective current collector (7, 8).

46. ​​Overhead conveyor device (2) according to claim 45, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) is designed according to claim 17 and that the energy supply section (45) comprises three conductor tracks (46, 47, 48) which are spaced apart from one another transversely to the movement path (B1), wherein the conductor contact surfaces (50) of the outer conductor tracks (46, 48) of the three conductor tracks (46, 47, 48) are spaced apart from the traction surfaces (43, 44) by a first conductor spacing (X10) and are preferably parallel thereto, and the conductor contact surface (50) of the middle conductor track (47) is spaced apart from the traction surfaces (43, 44) by a larger second conductor spacing (X11) and is preferably parallel thereto.

47. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to claim 46, characterized in that the first conductor spacing (X10) is smaller than the spacing (X4) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) between the contact surfaces (11) of the contact elements (10) of the outer current collectors (7, 9) and the wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4) of the transport carrier (1) not arranged on the support structure (3), wherein a difference between the first conductor spacing (X10) and the spacing (X4) preferably corresponds at most to one spring travel of the contact elements (10) of the outer current collectors (7, 9) that are movable in the direction of the vertical axis (H) and are sprung by means of a spring unit (15), and / or that the second conductor spacing (X11) is smaller than a spacing (X3) in the direction of the vertical axis (H) between the contact surface (11) of the contact element (10) of the middle current collector (8) and the wheel contact surface (13) of the Drive wheels (4) of the transport carrier (1) not arranged on the support structure (3),wherein a difference between the second conductor distance (X1 1) and the distance (X3) preferably corresponds to a maximum of one spring travel of the contact element (10) of the central current collector (8) which is movable in the direction of the vertical axis (H) and sprung by means of a spring unit (15).

48. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 45 to 47, characterized in that the overhead conveyor device (2) has at least one energy source (51), in particular a direct current source or direct voltage source, for supplying energy to the energy supply section (45).

49. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 46 to 48, characterized in that the outer conductor tracks (46, 48) have the same electrical polarity, preferably the negative pole, and that the middle conductor track (47) has an electrical polarity opposite to the polarity of the outer conductor tracks (46, 48), preferably the positive pole.

50. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 46 to 49, characterized in that the support structure (2) comprises a first section (52) which forms exactly one movement path (Bl) for the transport carrier (1), wherein a width (Yl) of the middle conductor track (47) is greater than a width (Y2) of the outer conductor tracks (46, 48), in each case transversely to the movement path (Bl), wherein the width (Yl) of the middle conductor track (47) preferably corresponds at least to a distance between the two end positions (ES1, ES2) of the movable middle current collector (8) in the direction of the transverse axis (Q).

51. Suspended conveyor device (2) according to claim 45 or 50, characterized in that a width (Y3) of the intermediate space (33) transverse to the movement path (B1) corresponds to a maximum of 150%, preferably a maximum of 130%, in particular a maximum of 120% of the width (b) of the section of the support body (29) of the transport carrier (1) located in the intermediate space (33).

52. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to claim 50 or 51, characterized in that the first section (52) is designed as a straight module with a straight movement path (B1) or as a curved module with a curved movement path.

53. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 45 to 52, characterized in that the support structure (3) comprises a second section (53), preferably adjacent to the first section (52), on which the precisely one movement path (B1) diverges in a divergence region (DB) into at least two movement paths (B1, B2, B3), that the traction section (42) of the second section (53) each Movement path (Bl, B2, B3) has two traction surfaces (43, 44) for each of the drive wheels (4), which are spaced apart from one another by an intermediate space (33) transversely to the respective movement path (Bl, B2, B3), in that the energy supply section (45) has a guide channel (54, 55, 56) for each movement path (Bl, B2, B3) for guiding the central current collector (8) of the transport carrier (1), in particular its guide sleeve (16), which runs parallel to the respective movement path (Bl, B2, B3), the guide channels (54, 55, 56) enclosing the central conductor track (47).

54. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to claim 53, characterized in that the second section (53) is designed as a preferably rotationally symmetrical crossing module, wherein the crossing module comprises four crossing entrances (E1, E2, E3, E4), wherein adjacent crossing entrances (E1, E2; E2, E3; E3, E4; E4, E1) are arranged at right angles to one another, wherein opposite crossing entrances (E1, E3; E2, E4) are connected by a straight movement path (B1), wherein the straight movement paths (B1) intersect in a central crossing area (KB), wherein adjacent crossing entrances (E1, E2; E2, E3; E3, E4; E4, E1) are connected by a curved movement path (B2, B3), and wherein at the crossing entrances (E1, E2, E3, E4) the two curved movement paths (B2, B3) and the intermediate straight movement path (Bl) in the divergence area (DB) converge to a, in particular straight, movement path (Bl).

55. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to claim 54, characterized in that the curved movement paths (B2, B3) each have a circular arc-shaped curve section which is central with respect to their length and have two clothoid-shaped curve sections which each connect the circular arc-shaped curve section to a straight movement path of a crossing entrance.

56. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 45 to 55, characterized in that position markers (57) are provided at fixed positions along the support structure (3), which position markers can be detected by a sensor (36) of a transport carrier (1) and in that the control unit (6) of the respective transport carrier (1) is designed to use the position of the detected position marker (57) to determine and / or correct a position of the transport carrier (1), wherein the position markers (57) preferably each comprise a permanent magnet and the sensor (46) of the transport carrier (1) comprises a Hall sensor.

57. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 45 to 56, characterized in that the overhead conveyor device (2) comprises a central control device (38) which is designed to send information to the at least one transport carrier (1), in particular the first communication device (37), and / or to receive information from the at least one transport carrier (1), in particular the first communication device (37).

58. Overhead conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 45 to 57, characterized in that the overhead conveyor device (2) comprises a communication network (41) which is designed to send information to the at least one transport carrier (1), in particular the third (40) communication device, and / or to receive information from the at least one transport carrier (1), in particular the third communication device (40), wherein the communication network (41) is preferably designed to communicate with a higher-level central control device (38).

59. Hanging goods warehouse (58) comprising a hanging conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 45 to 58 with a plurality of transport supports (1), each with a hanging goods carrier (31) attached thereto, characterized in that the hanging goods warehouse (58) comprises a plurality of superimposed storage levels (59, 60), wherein in each storage level (59, 60) a transport network (61) constructed from the support structure (3) is provided with a number of storage areas, wherein the transport networks (61) of the storage levels (59, 60) are connected by means of a number of conveyor devices (62), each of which is designed to convey a number of transport supports (1) continuously or discontinuously between the transport networks (61) of the storage levels (59, 60),that the hanging goods warehouse (58) comprises at least one loading station (63) for loading the respective hanging goods carriers (31) of a number of transport carriers (1) and that the hanging goods warehouse (58) comprises at least one unloading station (64) for unloading the hanging goods carriers (31) of a number of transport carriers (1).

60. Hanging goods storage (58) according to claim 59, characterized in that the hanging goods storage (58) comprises at least two storage levels (59, 60) which are at different heights.

61. Method for operating a single-axle transport carrier (1) which is moved on a support structure (3), preferably a suspended conveyor device (2), along a substantially horizontal movement path (B1, B2, B3) defined by the support structure (3), wherein drive wheels (4) of the transport carrier (1) each roll on a traction surface (43, 44) of a traction section (42) of the support structure (3), wherein a hanging load, in particular a hanging goods carrier (31), is transported at a fastening point (BP) of a receptacle (30) of a support body (29) of the transport carrier (1), said fastening point being spaced apart in the direction of a vertical axis (H) of the transport carrier (1) at a fastening point distance (X7) from a wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4), wherein a drive torque transmitted from a drive device (5) to the drive wheels (4) is absorbed by a,A contact element (10) of at least one current collector (8) of at least two current collectors (7, 8) of the transport carrier (1) pivotable about a pivot axis (S1, S2) running parallel to the transverse axis (X) and in the direction of the vertical axis (H) on a side of the wheel axle (A) facing away from the receptacle (30) and spaced at a first pivot axis distance (X12, X13) from the wheel contact surface (13) of the drive wheels (4), contacts a corresponding conductor track (46, 47) of the support structure (3), and a weight force (FG) of the load generates a counter-torque counteracting the drive torque, wherein a first lever ratio (V1, V2) between the attachment point distance (X7) and the pivot axis distance (X12, X13) is preferably 1.9 to 3.6, particularly preferably 2.4 to 3.4, in particular 2.5 to 3.

2.

62. Method according to claim 61, characterized in that the method is carried out with a transport carrier (1) according to one of claims 1 to 44, preferably on a suspended conveyor device (2) according to one of claims 45 to 49.

63. Method according to one of claims 61 to 62, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) is moved along a first section (52), wherein yawing movements of the transport carrier (1) about its vertical axis (H) and / or rolling movements about its longitudinal axis (L) is reduced, preferably suppressed, by guiding the support body (29) of the transport carrier (1), which is arranged preferably centrally between the two drive wheels (4), in the intermediate space (33) of the traction section (42).

64. Method according to one of claims 61 to 63, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) is moved along a second section (53), wherein yaw movements of the transport carrier (1) about its vertical axis (H) and / or roll movements about its longitudinal axis (L) are reduced, preferably suppressed, by guiding at least one current collector (8) movable in a direction parallel to the transverse axis (Q) of the transport carrier (1), preferably the middle one of three current collectors (7, 8, 9), in particular a guide sleeve (16) of the first current collector (8), in a guide channel (54, 55, 56) comprising one of the conductor tracks (46, 47, 48).

65. Method according to one of claims 61 to 64, characterized in that the transport carrier (1) detects a state variable, in particular position and / or speed and / or acceleration of the transport carrier (1) and / or a distance to another transport carrier (1) by means of at least one sensor (36), and in that a control unit (6) of the transport carrier (1) controls or regulates a movement of the transport carrier (1) depending on the detected state variable or a variable derived therefrom.

66. Method according to claim 65, characterized in that when the transport carrier (1) moves along straight movement paths (B1) of the support structure (3), a distance control is carried out, wherein a speed of the transport carrier (1) is controlled as a function of a detected distance, and that the distance control is omitted when the transport carrier (1) moves along curved movement paths (B2, B3) of the support structure (3) and the transport carrier (1) is moved at a fixed or fixable, preferably constant, speed.

67. Method according to one of claims 61 to 66, characterized in that information is sent wirelessly to the transport carrier (1) from a central control device (38) and / or a communication network (41) of the overhead conveyor device (2) and in that a control unit (6) of the transport carrier (1) controls a movement of the Transport carrier (1) in dependence on the information received and / or that information is sent from the transport carrier (1) to the control device (38) and / or the communication network (41) of the overhead conveyor device (2) and the control device (38) controls the overhead conveyor device (2) in dependence on the information received or the communication network (41) forwards the information to the control device (38).

68. Method according to one of claims 61 to 67, characterized in that information is sent wirelessly from the transport carrier (1) to a further transport carrier (1) and the control device (6) of the further transport carrier (1) controls a movement of the further transport carrier (1) depending on the information received and / or that information is sent wirelessly from a further transport carrier (1) to the transport carrier (1) and the control device (6) of the transport carrier (1) controls a movement of the transport carrier (1) depending on the information received.

69. Method according to one of claims 61 to 68, characterized in that during a movement of the transport carrier (1) along a curved movement path (B2, B3) of a second section (53) of the transport structure (3), a lateral force (FS) acting transversely to the movement path (B2, B3) acts on one of the current collectors (7, 8, 9), by means of which the drive wheel (4) on the outside of the curve is lifted off the traction surface (43, 44), wherein the lateral force (FS) preferably acts in the region of a guide channel (54, 55, 56) on the guide sleeve (16) of the movable middle current collector (8) of the three current collectors (7, 8, 9).

70. Method for operating a suspended conveyor device (2), in particular according to one of claims 45 to 58, comprising a support structure (3) for at least one single-axle transport carrier (1), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 44, which is movable on the support structure (3) along a substantially horizontal movement path (B1, B2, B3) defined by the support structure (3), wherein drive wheels (4) of the transport carrier (1) each roll on a traction surface (43, 44) of a traction section (42) of the support structure (3), and comprising a power supply section (45) spaced apart from the at least one traction surface (43, 44) in the vertical direction for supplying the transport carrier (1) with electrical energy, wherein between the traction surfaces (43, 44) of the support structure (3) and the energy supply section (45), and wherein a) the overhead conveyor device (2) is loaded with a transport carrier (1) by first aligning the transport carrier (1) with its vertical axis (H) substantially parallel to the at least one traction surface (43, 44), then inserting it laterally into the travel space in a horizontal direction and then displacing it into a designated operating position on the support structure (3) by rotating it about its transverse axis (Q), or b) a transport carrier (1) is removed from the overhead conveyor device (2) by rotating the transport carrier (1) from a designated operating position on the support structure (3) about its transverse axis (Q) until its vertical axis (H) is aligned substantially parallel to the at least one traction surface (43, 44) and then guiding it laterally out of the travel space in a horizontal direction.

71. Method according to claim 70, characterized in that the loading or removal is carried out automatically, preferably with a robot arm which comprises a gripping device for gripping the transport carrier (1).

72. Method according to claim 70 or 71, characterized in that immediately after loading, a functional test, in particular a driving function test, is carried out by means of a control unit (6) of the transport carrier (1) and, if the functional test fails, the transport carrier (1) is removed again.