An automated vending system and method for conveying articles using a three-dimensional track

Abstract

This invention discloses an automated sales system and method for transporting goods using a three-dimensional track system. The automated sales system includes a storage area, a receiving area, a track system, and a conveying device. The conveying device includes a frame, an elastic element, a drive unit, and rollers. The elastic element, drive unit, and rollers are connected to the frame. The rollers are connected to the conveying track of the track system. The drive unit drives the rollers to move the conveying device along the conveying track. The elastic element applies an elastic force to the rollers through the frame, pointing towards the conveying track, so that the rollers abut against the conveying track. The automated sales system and method for transporting goods of this application help to automate the operation of stores or warehouses, reducing labor costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an automated sales system, and more particularly to an automated sales system that utilizes a three-dimensional track for transporting goods, and a method for transporting goods using the automated sales system. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of the sales and logistics industry, higher demands are being placed on the fast and accurate delivery of goods and / or packages. Currently, most stores and small warehouses still rely on manual methods to deliver goods and / or packages to customers. Mechanized transport systems for transporting items, such as gravity conveyor systems, are now available.

[0003] Gravity-based transport systems involve placing items in a conveyor belt, which then slides down a track under gravity, transporting the items to a table connected to the end of the track. Because gravity transport is used, the track's starting point needs to be located above the track's ending point, or a lifting device needs to raise the items to a position above the track's ending point. This reduces space utilization and increases the complexity of the transport system. Ensuring the conveyor belt can slide down the track under gravity places higher demands on the design of both the track and the conveyor belt. Furthermore, the sliding motion of the conveyor belt under gravity generates significant noise. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application proposes an automated sales system that utilizes a three-dimensional track to transport goods. This system can transport goods within the three-dimensional space of a store or warehouse, improving space utilization and achieving precise "point-to-point" delivery of goods to users. The automated sales system can operate automatically, requiring little or no staff and exhibiting low operating noise.

[0005] To achieve the objectives of this application, the following technical solution is adopted:

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides an automated sales system that utilizes a three-dimensional track for transporting goods. The automated sales system includes: a storage area for storing or distributing goods; a receiving area for users to receive goods; a track system for connecting the storage area and the receiving area; and a conveying device for loading goods and conveying them along the track system. The conveying device includes a frame, an elastic element, a drive device, and rollers. The elastic element, drive device, and rollers are connected to the frame. The rollers are connected to the conveying track of the track system. The drive device drives the rollers to move the conveying device on the conveying track. The elastic element applies an elastic force to the rollers through the frame, pointing towards the conveying track, so that the rollers abut against the conveying track.

[0007] In one possible design, the conveying device further includes a speed controller fixed to the frame, which is an electronic speed control switch or a gear set.

[0008] In one possible design, the rollers of the conveying device are connected to the inner side of the conveying track. The frame includes two main beams that are hinged together. The elastic element is connected to the two main beams respectively and generates compressive deformation. An elastic force pointing outward from the conveying track is applied to the rollers through the two main beams so that the rollers abut against the inner side of the conveying track.

[0009] In one possible design, the roller is connected to the inner side of the conveyor track, the frame includes at least one main beam and two wheel frames, the elastic element is connected to the two wheel frames respectively and generates compressive deformation, and an elastic force pointing towards the inner side of the conveyor track is applied to the roller through the two wheel frames so that the roller abuts against the inner side of the conveyor track.

[0010] In one possible design, the conveying device further includes a positioning device fixed to the frame, which acquires the position information of the conveying device in the track system.

[0011] In one possible design, the positioning device of the conveying device is an RFID reader, which scans the RFID tags on the conveying track to obtain the position information of the conveying device on the conveying track.

[0012] In one possible design, the positioning device of the conveying device is an optical sensor that scans an optical tag on the conveying track to obtain the position information of the conveying device on the conveying track.

[0013] In one possible design, the transmission device further includes a main controller and a communication device, wherein the main controller is used to control the operation of the transmission device, and the communication device is used to receive remote control commands or send status information of the transmission device.

[0014] In one possible design, the transmitting device also includes a multimedia device for generating various combinations of video, images, sound, and / or light.

[0015] In one possible design, the track system includes one transport track, two parallel transport tracks, or three or more parallel transport tracks; the cross-sectional shape of the transport tracks is circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, T-shaped, or I-shaped.

[0016] Secondly, this application provides a method for conveying goods using an automated sales system according to any one of the first aspects above, the method comprising: loading goods into a conveying device in a storage area; the conveying device running along a track system to convey the goods from the storage area to a receiving area; wherein, rollers of the conveying device are connected to the conveying track of the track system, a driving device drives the rollers to drive the conveying device to run on the conveying track, and an elastic member applies an elastic force to the rollers through the frame, pointing towards the conveying track, so that the rollers abut against the conveying track.

[0017] In one possible design, the conveying device also includes a speed controller fixed to the frame. The speed controller is an electronic speed control switch or a gear set. The speed controller controls the rotational speed of the motor, thereby controlling the running speed of the conveying device on the conveying track.

[0018] In one possible design, the roller is connected to the inner side of the conveyor track, and the elastic element is connected to the two main beams respectively and generates compression deformation. The two main beams apply an elastic force to the roller pointing outward from the conveyor track, and the elastic force is used to make the roller abut against the inner side of the conveyor track.

[0019] In one possible design, the roller is connected to the inner side of the conveyor track, and the elastic element is connected to two wheel frames respectively and generates compression deformation. The two wheel frames apply an elastic force to the roller pointing towards the inner side of the conveyor track, and the elastic force is used to make the roller abut against the inner side of the conveyor track.

[0020] In one possible design, the positioning device obtains the position information of the conveying device in the track system, and the operating speed of the conveying device is controlled according to the position information.

[0021] In one possible design, the location information of the transmission device on the transmission track is obtained by scanning the RFID tag on the transmission track with the RFID reader.

[0022] In one possible design, the optical sensor scans an optical tag on the transport track to obtain the position information of the transport device on the transport track.

[0023] In one possible design, the transmission device also includes a main controller and a communication device. The main controller controls the operation of the transmission device, and the communication device receives remote control commands or sends status information of the transmission device.

[0024] In one possible design, the multimedia device generates various combinations of video, images, sound, and / or light.

[0025] This application discloses an automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track for transporting goods. Because the conveying device is power-driven, it can flexibly move up and down along the track system in three-dimensional space. The track system eliminates the need for a gravity-driven structure where the starting point is higher than the ending point, improving space utilization and reducing operating noise. The conveying device applies an elastic force to the rollers to maintain their connection with the track, reducing the risk of slippage or derailment and enhancing system safety and reliability. The track system and conveying device are equipped with positioning devices, enabling precise "point-to-point" transport of goods to users. This automated sales system and method of transporting goods facilitate automated operation of stores or warehouses, reducing the number of staff, lowering labor costs, and enhancing the enjoyment of the goods transport process, thus possessing significant market application value. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an automated sales system for transporting goods using a three-dimensional track, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the conveyor track according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a side view of the conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention running on a track system;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the spatial structure of the transmission device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a top view of the conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a bottom view of the conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a side view of the conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the elastic element of the conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the elastic element of another conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the conveying device and the conveying track according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the transmission device of the present invention operating in a positioning system according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Figure 12 This is a circuit structure block diagram of the transmission device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To further illustrate the technical means and effects adopted by this application to achieve its intended purpose, the specific structure and effects of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. Hereinafter, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features, nor should they be construed as limiting the order of technical features. Therefore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0039] This application provides an automated sales system that utilizes a three-dimensional track for transporting goods, applicable to stores or warehouses with one or more three-dimensional spaces for transporting merchandise or packages. This application uses a store as an example to illustrate the automated sales system. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an automated sales system that utilizes a three-dimensional track for transporting goods is shown, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the automated sales system includes a storage area 1, a receiving area 2, a track system 4, and a conveyor device 5. The storage area 1 may include a warehouse for centralized storage of goods. The storage area 1 may also include a delivery area for packaging goods retrieved from the warehouse, allocating them to designated track systems, loading them onto corresponding conveyor devices 5, and transporting them to specific locations within the store. In one example, the storage area 1 may be equipped with robots, such as multi-degree-of-freedom swing-arm robots, which can retrieve goods from the shelves of the storage area 1 and load them onto the conveyor device 5. It is understood that the robots described above can employ existing intelligent robot systems, and this application does not limit this. In another example, the storage area 1 may be manually operated to retrieve goods from the shelves and load them onto the conveyor device 5.

[0040] Receiving area 2 can be an area for customers to experience or inspect items, where one or more tables 21 and chairs 22 can be placed; receiving area 2 can also be an area where customers pick up their items; receiving area 2 can also be a shipping area where logistics personnel pick up items and send them to their destination via other logistics methods (such as trucks or conveyor systems). Optionally, when a customer wants to return or exchange an item, the item can also be loaded onto a conveyor device 5 in this area and sent back to storage area 1 via the conveyor device 5.

[0041] Optionally, the automated sales system may also include a recycling area 3, used to recycle goods returned or exchanged by customers from the conveyor device 5. The number of storage area 1, receiving area 2, and recycling area 3 can be one or more, depending on actual needs; this application does not impose any restrictions. It is understood that in situations with limited store space, storage area 1 and recycling area 3 can be combined into one area. Optionally, the automated sales system of this application may also include a main control device, used to control the operation and function of each part of the automated sales system, acquire and store relevant information about each part, such as the status information of the conveyor device. This status information includes the position of the conveyor device on the track system, its operating speed, battery level, the contents of the transported items, and the destination location. The main control device can be any known type of server or smart terminal, such as a mobile phone or tablet computer; this application does not impose any restrictions.

[0042] Storage area 1, receiving area 2, and recycling area 3 are interconnected via a track system 4. In one example, track system 4 forms a closed loop R1 between the three areas. A conveyor device 5 can start from any of these areas and return to that area via track system 4, thus achieving cyclical operation. Therefore, the conveyor device 5 can continuously move to a specific position on track system 4 without the need for personnel or additional automated equipment intervention. Optionally, track system 4 can form a closed loop between any two areas of storage area 1, receiving area 2, and recycling area 3. Optionally, multiple closed-loop track systems can be set up in the store space, and each closed loop of the aforementioned closed-loop track system can operate one or more conveyor devices 5, thereby further reducing the intervention of personnel or automated equipment.

[0043] In another example, the track system 4 sequentially connects three areas: storage area 1, receiving area 2, and recycling area 3, forming an open loop R2. The conveyor device 5 can start from the starting point (storage area 1) of the track system 4 and travel along the track to the ending point (recycling area 3). After reaching the ending point, the conveyor device 5 can be returned to the starting point of the track system by staff or automated equipment. Optionally, the track system 4 sequentially connects storage area 1 and receiving area 2, forming an open loop R3-R5. The conveyor device 5 can carry goods and / or packages from storage area 1 to receiving area 2, thereby delivering the goods and / or packages to the customer.

[0044] In another example, the track system 4 may include a branching device located at the branching point of the track system to change the route of the track system 4, thereby adjusting the operating path of the conveyor 5. Optionally, the track system may be a single line in the storage area, and this single line may be extended to two or more lines via one or more branching devices. After loading items in the storage area 1, the conveyor 5 travels via the branching device to the target line, thereby transporting the items to the corresponding receiving area 2. Optionally, the track system may be a single line in the recycling area, and two or more lines connecting two or more receiving areas 2 may be connected to the aforementioned single line via one or more branching devices. During the return journey of the conveyor 5 from the receiving area 2 to the recycling area 3, it travels via the branching device to the aforementioned single line. It is understood that the branching device can be set according to the needs of the track system 4 route, and can extend from one line to two or more lines, or can converge from two or more lines to one line. Thus, fewer lines, such as one or two lines, can be set in a smaller spatial location, while more lines can be set in a larger spatial location. Since the storage area of ​​a store (such as a warehouse for the distribution of goods and / or parcels) is generally small, by setting up one or two lines in the warehouse, it is convenient to place conveyor devices on one or two lines and to allow the conveyor devices to be transported to more lines.

[0045] The following describes the conveying process of closed-loop and open-loop track systems in more detail. In one example, taking closed-loop path R1, track system 4 connects sequentially between storage area 1, receiving area 2, and recycling area 3. The beginning and end of track system 4 are interconnected. Conveyor device 5 can move continuously on the track, thereby conveying prepared goods and / or packages from storage area 1 to receiving area 2 and returning items from storage area to recycling area 3. These returned items are retrieved in recycling area 3, where conveyor device 5 can be sorted or cleaned. Then, conveyor device 5 returns to storage area 1 to continue the next cycle of delivery.

[0046] In another example, taking the open-loop path R3 as an example, the track system 4 connects the storage area 1 and the receiving area 2. The track system 4 has one end in the storage area 1 as the track start point and the other end in the receiving area 2 as the track end point. The conveyor 5 transports the prepared goods and / or packages from the storage area to the receiving area, that is, from the track start point to the track end point. At the track end point, the conveyor 5 is collected by staff or automated guided vehicles and transported back to the track start point in the storage area for the next delivery. Optionally, the conveyor 5 can return from the receiving area 2 to the storage area 1 along the track system 4.

[0047] The track system 4 may include one or more conveying tracks for guiding the movement of the conveying device 5. Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the conveyor track is shown. Figure 2As shown, the cross-section of the conveyor track can be circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, T-shaped, I-shaped, or U-shaped. In one embodiment, the track system 4 consists of a single (or "one") conveyor track, such as... Figure 2 As shown in (A), the cross-section of the conveyor track includes a T-shape, an I-shape, or a U-shape, or a variation of the above cross-sections. To prevent the conveyor device 5 from detaching from a conveyor track, the conveyor device 5 is surrounded by rollers at its bottom. In another embodiment, the track system 4 consists of two parallel conveyor tracks, such as... Figure 2 As shown in (B), the cross-section of the track includes a circle, ellipse, square, or rectangle, or a variation thereof. In another embodiment, the track system 4 includes four parallel conveyor tracks, the cross-section of which includes a circle, ellipse, square, or rectangle, or a variation thereof. The distance between the two inner conveyor tracks is smaller than the distance between the outer tracks. The two inner tracks are sliding planes, and the two outer tracks are guide planes. The sliding planes are lower than the guide planes. The item is in the conveyor device 5, which runs on the two inner tracks, while the two outer tracks prevent the conveyor device from tipping off the tracks during operation. For cases where the track system has three or four conveyor tracks, the cross-section of the conveyor tracks can be referenced. Figure 2 The track cross-section setup shown is not described in detail here.

[0048] Figure 3 A side view of the conveyor 5 running on the track system 4 is shown. The track system 4 includes track units such as a substantially horizontal track 41, a continuously spiral track 42, an upwardly inclined ascending track 43, and a downwardly inclined descending track 44. It is understood that, depending on the store space and the overall structure of the track system 4, other shapes of track units can be arranged to guide the conveyor 5 to different positions on the track system 4, thereby allowing the conveyor 5 to run to a specific location in the store and achieve the purpose of conveying items to that specific location. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0049] The aforementioned track units can be used to construct track systems of various lines and shapes according to actual needs. In one embodiment, such as... Figure 3As shown, the conveyor 5 enters the spiral track 42 along the horizontal track 41, then enters the ascending track 43 after leaving the spiral track 42, passes through the horizontal track 41, enters the descending track 44, and climbs through the spiral track 42 to enter another horizontal track 41, continuing its journey to the target area. Through this process, the conveyor 5 can move up and down within the store's three-dimensional space, thereby transporting goods and / or packages to specific locations within the store. Since the conveyor 5 is power-driven, it can climb without external force and reduces noise generated when sliding by gravity. Optionally, tables and chairs can be installed below the spiral track 42. The conveyor 5 stops when it reaches the position below the spiral track, allowing customers to remove goods and / or packages from the conveyor 5. Optionally, tables and chairs can be installed in the space formed between the ascending track 43 and the descending track 44, allowing the conveyor to transport goods and / or packages to an adjacent pick-up station, from which customers can retrieve their goods and / or packages. Optionally, a passageway, also known as a store circulation path, is provided in the lower space formed between the ascending track 43 and the descending track 44. This passageway is used for staff, customers, or automated equipment to move around. By raising the tracks, the store circulation path is not interrupted by the track system 4, and staff or customers can easily walk under the tracks, thus overcoming the shortcomings of traditional rotary transmission systems.

[0050] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 4-9 The conveying device 5 will be described. Figure 4 A spatial structure schematic diagram of a conveying device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5-8 A plan view of the conveying device along its main direction is shown. (As shown) Figure 4-8 As shown, the conveying device 5 is used to load various items and transport them along a track system. The conveying device includes a frame 501, a drive unit 507, and rollers 503. The frame 501 is used to install or mount the various components of the conveying device, the drive unit 507 is used to drive the rollers 503 to rotate, and the rollers 503 are connected to the conveying track to form a rolling guide mechanism, which drives the conveying device to run on the conveying track.

[0051] The frame 501 is used to mount or suspend the various components of the conveying device. In one example, the frame 501 includes two main beams, which are hinged at or near their centers by hinges 504, forming a symmetrical "X" shape or a similar "X" shape. Each main beam has a shaft hole 506 at both ends, for a total of four shaft holes 506 in the frame 501. The shaft holes 506 are used to fix and mount axles 514. The axles 514 are mounted in the shaft hole positions by fasteners 505. Rollers 503 are mounted on the axles by bearings and can rotate around the axles. The fasteners 505 can be fasteners such as fixing nuts, fixing flanges, or fixing bushings. In another example, such as... Figure 9As shown, the frame 601 of the conveying device can be "H" shaped or similar, with two main beams 630 arranged parallel to each other on the front and rear sides, and the two main beams 630 connected by an "H"-shaped connecting rod. In another example, the frame 601 of the conveying device can be "I" shaped or similar, with two main beams arranged parallel to each other on the front and rear sides, and the two main beams 630 connected by a connecting rod.

[0052] The drive unit 507 drives the roller 503 to rotate. The roller 503 cooperates with the conveyor track to form a rolling guide mechanism, driving the conveyor device to run on the conveyor track. The drive unit 507 can be a motor. The main body of the motor is fixedly connected to the main beam of the frame through motor mounting holes 513 around the shaft hole. The motor shaft is fixedly connected to the roller 503. When the motor shaft rotates, it can drive the roller 503 to rotate around the axle, thereby driving the conveyor device 5 to move on the conveyor track. The frame 501 is fixedly connected to the housing 502. The housing 502 is used to house the circuit part of the conveyor device and other necessary components. A switch 508 and a sensor 509 are provided on the outside of the housing. The switch 508 is connected to the power supply of the conveyor device and is used to control the power supply and power-off of the conveyor device. The sensor 509 is used to acquire specific information. For example, the sensor 509 can be used as a positioning device for the conveyor device. Specifically, it can be an optical sensor or a radio frequency sensor, which scans the tags located on the conveyor track to obtain the position information of the conveyor device on the track. Sensor 509 can also be a distance sensor, used to obtain the distance to the forward-moving conveyor, thereby determining whether to slow down or stop to avoid collisions. Optionally, in addition to installing motors on two rollers, motors can also be installed on all four rollers, or on any one or three of them. The installation method of the motors can refer to the installation method on two rollers, and will not be repeated here.

[0053] Optionally, in Figure 9 In the structure shown, one main beam can be used to connect the drive device and the roller, while another main beam connects to a non-powered roller; alternatively, two main beams can be used to connect the drive device and the roller; or more main beams can be used, with all or some of them connecting the drive device and the roller, and the remaining main beams connecting to non-powered rollers, thus achieving combinations of different drive methods. It is understood that the non-powered roller can also be a guide that can slide on the conveyor track, such as a guide that surrounds the circumference or part of the circumference of the conveyor track. In the case of a drive device and rollers, this application does not limit the structure or type of the guide.

[0054] Optionally, a bracket may also be installed above the rack 501. The bracket is used to support items, such as goods and / or packages. The bracket can be configured to conform to the shape of the items, such as... Figure 8As shown, the tray can be, for example, a disc-shaped container suitable for product packaging boxes, or a deep-groove container suitable for holding bottles, etc.

[0055] To control the speed of the conveyor on the conveyor track, the conveyor may include a speed controller, which can be electronic or mechanical. In one example, the speed controller may be an electronic speed control switch, which can be located in the housing 502 or other suitable locations. The electronic speed control switch can preset the motor speed, or it can receive speed control commands from the conveyor's main controller and adjust the speed of the motor 507 based on these commands, thereby adjusting the conveyor's operating speed. In another example, the speed controller may be a gear set, which can be located between the motor 507 and the roller 503. Specifically, the input shaft of the gear set is connected to the output shaft of the motor 507, and the output shaft is connected to the roller 503. The gear set may have two or more preset input / output gear ratios, which can be manually selected to adjust the roller speed and the conveyor's operating speed. Optionally, the gear set can be an electronically controlled gear set. The electronically controlled gear set receives speed control commands sent by the main controller of the transmission device, and sets or adjusts the input / output gear ratio based on the speed control commands, thereby adjusting the rotational speed of the rollers and the operating speed of the transmission device.

[0056] To ensure smooth operation of the conveying device on the conveying track and prevent it from slipping or derailing, the rollers of the conveying device need to maintain a good fit with the conveying track. The conveying device of this application also includes an elastic element 512, which is fixed to the frame 501 and applies an elastic force F to the roller 503 through the frame 510. This elastic force points towards the contact surface between the roller 503 and the conveying track, thereby maintaining the fit between the roller and the conveying track.

[0057] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4-8 As shown, on each of the two main beams of the frame 501, symmetrical elastic element mounting holes 511 are provided. Both ends of the elastic element 512 are fixed to the elastic element mounting holes 511 via fasteners 510, thus fixing the elastic element 512 to the two main beams. The parameters of the elastic element can be set as follows: when the roller 503 of the conveying device is engaged with the inner side of the conveying track, such as... Figure 8As shown, the elastic element 512 undergoes compressive deformation, thereby generating an elastic force F extending outward along the axial direction of the elastic element. This elastic force F is transmitted to the roller 503 through the two main beams of the frame 501, pressing the roller 503 against the conveying track. That is, the main beams apply an elastic force pointing outward toward the conveying track to the roller 503, causing the roller to abut against the inner contact surface of the conveying track. Thus, during operation of the conveying device, the roller can always maintain a good fit with the track. The elastic element can be a helical spring or an elastic sheet, or other components or structures capable of generating elastic force; this application does not limit this. Optionally, when the roller 503 of the conveying device is fitted to the outer surface of the conveying track, the elastic element 512 undergoes tensile deformation, thereby generating an elastic force F extending inward along the axial direction of the elastic element. This elastic force F is transmitted to the roller 503 through the two main beams of the frame 501, pressing the roller 503 against the conveying track. That is, the main beams apply an elastic force pointing inward toward the conveying track to the roller 503, causing the roller to abut against the outer contact surface of the track.

[0058] In another embodiment, such as Figure 9 As shown, the frame 601 includes a main beam 630 and a wheel frame 631. The main beam 630 can guide the wheel frame 631 to slide axially along the main beam. One end of the wheel frame 631 is provided with a shaft hole 606 for mounting the drive device 607 and the roller 603, and the other end is provided with an elastic element mounting hole 611. The way in which the drive device 607 and the roller 603 are fixed to the wheel frame 631 through the shaft hole 606 is the same as the way in which the drive device 507 and the roller 503 are fixed to the frame 501 through the shaft hole 506, and will not be described again here. The elastic element 612 surrounds the main beam 630, and both ends of the elastic element 612 are fixed to the elastic element mounting hole 611 by fasteners 610, thereby connecting to the wheel frame 631. Limiting nuts 632 are provided at both ends of the main beam 630. These nuts limit the maximum wheelbase between the two wheel frames 631 (corresponding to the two rollers 603) and prevent the wheel frames 631 from slipping off the main beam. The parameters of the elastic element can be set as follows: when the rollers 603 of the conveying device are engaged with the inner surface of the conveying track, such as... Figure 9As shown, the elastic element 612 undergoes compressive deformation, thereby generating an elastic force F extending outward along the axial direction of the elastic element. This elastic force F is transmitted to the roller 603 through the main beam 630 and wheel frame 631 of the frame 601, pressing the roller 603 against the conveying track so that the roller abuts against the inner contact surface of the conveying track. Thus, during operation, the roller can always maintain a good fit with the track. Optionally, when the roller 603 of the conveying device is fitted to the outer side of the conveying track, the elastic element 612 undergoes tensile deformation, thereby generating an elastic force F extending inward along the axial direction of the elastic element. This elastic force F is transmitted to the roller 603 through the two main beams 630 and wheel frame 631 of the frame 601, pressing the roller 603 against the conveying track so that the roller abuts against the outer contact surface of the track. Furthermore, to improve the adaptability of the conveying device to the track system, for example, the spacing of the conveying tracks in the track system may be different, the elastic force generated by the elastic element 512 can be set or adjusted by the elastic force adjustment device, thereby flexibly adjusting the contact pressure and friction between the rollers of the conveying device and the track.

[0059] Furthermore, to improve the adaptability of the conveying device to the track system, for example, the spacing of the conveying tracks in the track system may be different, the elastic force generated by the elastic element 512 can be set or adjusted by the elastic force adjustment device, thereby flexibly adjusting the contact pressure and friction between the rollers of the conveying device and the track.

[0060] In one example, such as Figure 4 and 8 As shown, the elastic force adjustment device includes a sleeve 516, an adjusting nut 517, and an adjusting bolt 518. The side of the sleeve 516 is fixed to the elastic element mounting hole 511. One end of the sleeve is provided with the adjusting nut and adjusting bolt, and the other end of the sleeve accommodates the end of the elastic element 512. When the adjusting nut is rotated, the adjusting bolt moves along the axial direction of the sleeve, changing the depth to which the elastic element extends into the sleeve. With the sleeve position unchanged, the relative positions of the two ends of the elastic element 512 are changed, thereby enabling the setting or adjustment of the contact pressure and friction between the roller and the conveyor track.

[0061] In another example, the elastic element fixing holes 511 on the two main beams can be configured as slots extending along the axial direction of the main beams. The fixing element 510 can move within the slot. By adjusting the position of the fixing element, the relative position of the two ends of the elastic element 512 is changed, thereby enabling the setting or adjustment of the contact pressure and friction between the roller and the conveyor track. Optionally, a notch can be provided at a predetermined position in the slot, so that when the fixing element moves within the slot, the notch can guide the fixing element to stop at an appropriate position, thereby achieving the purpose of symmetrically adjusting the position of the two ends of the elastic element.

[0062] In another example, such as Figure 9As shown, the elastic element fixing hole 611 on the wheel frame 631 can be configured as a slot extending along the axial direction of the wheel frame 631. The fixing element 610 can move in the slot. By adjusting the position of the fixing element, the relative positions of the two ends of the elastic element 612 are changed, thereby setting or adjusting the contact pressure and friction between the roller and the conveyor track. Optionally, a notch can be provided at a predetermined position in the slot, so that when the fixing element moves in the slot, the notch can guide the fixing element to stop at an appropriate position, thereby achieving the purpose of symmetrically adjusting the positions of the two ends of the elastic element.

[0063] The following combination Figure 10 The schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the conveyor running on the track system further illustrates the connection between the conveyor and the conveyor track. In one example, such as... Figure 10 As shown in (A), the track system consists of two parallel conveyor tracks. Rollers for the conveying device are positioned inside the two tracks, with their cross-sections conforming to the track cross-sections. For example, when the track cross-section is a convex circle, the roller cross-section is an arc-shaped groove conforming to the aforementioned circle. This allows for greater contact between the roller and the track, thus better maintaining the roller on the conveyor track. An elastic element (not shown) applies an elastic force F pointing outwards from the track to the roller via the frame, thereby maintaining the roller's mating connection with the conveyor track. In another example, as... Figure 9 As shown in (B), the track system consists of two parallel conveyor tracks. Rollers for the conveying device are positioned on the outer sides of the two tracks, with their cross-sections conforming to the cross-sections of the tracks. For example, when the track cross-section is a convex circle, the roller cross-section is a groove conforming to that circle. An elastic element (not shown) applies an elastic force F, pointing inwards towards the track, to the rollers via the frame, thereby maintaining the rollers' engagement with the conveyor tracks. In another example, as... Figure 10 As shown in (C), the track system is a single conveyor track. Rollers on both sides of the conveyor are positioned on the outer sides of the single track. The cross-section of the rollers is adapted to the cross-section of the track. For example, when the track cross-section is similar to an I-beam, the protrusions of the rollers are adapted to the shape of the recesses in the track. An elastic element (not shown) applies an elastic force F towards the track to the rollers through the frame, thereby maintaining the rollers' engagement with the conveyor track. Optionally, to ensure the conveyor runs smoothly on the single conveyor track without tipping over, a safety device can be provided, such as a safety wheel positioned below the rollers against the conveyor track or its support. The safety device can employ common safety structures for monorail systems in the art, and this application is not limited to this. In yet another example, such as... Figure 10As shown in (D), the track system consists of two parallel conveyor tracks. Rollers on both sides of the conveyor device are positioned above the two tracks, with the cross-section of the rollers conforming to the cross-section of the tracks. For example, when the track cross-section is a convex circle, the roller cross-section is a groove conforming to that circle. Elastic members 512 are located on both sides of the frame and fixedly connected to it. When the conveyor device is placed on the track, the elastic members 512 press against the track from the outside and deform, thereby applying an elastic force F pointing downwards towards the track to the rollers through the frame, maintaining the rollers' engagement with the conveyor tracks. It is understood that the engagement between the rollers and the conveyor tracks is not limited to the above form; even if the cross-sectional shapes of the rollers and the conveyor tracks are interchanged, they can still engage and maintain the rollers on the conveyor tracks.

[0064] The following combination Figure 11 The positioning device of the conveying device and its working method are explained. Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a conveyor operating on a track system is shown. The conveyor includes a positioning device that acquires corresponding position information on the track system and sends the position information to the main controller of the conveyor. The main controller controls the operating speed of the conveyor based on the position information, such as accelerating, decelerating, continuing operation, or stopping.

[0065] In one embodiment, the positioning device of the conveying device can be an RFID positioning device, which can be an RFID reader. One or more RFID tags (e.g., N tags) are installed on the conveying track of the track system. The RFID tags can be placed on the conveying track or on the track support, so that when the RFID reader approaches the RFID tag, it can scan the information on the RFID tag. Each RFID tag can be associated one-to-one with a specific location point on the track system, thereby identifying the location information of these specific locations. Figure 11 As shown, RFID tags T1, T2, T3...Tn can be placed on a conveyor track next to a table or chair to identify the position information of that table or chair. Optionally, the tags T1, T2, T3...Tn can also identify product information on the table. For simplicity, Figure 11 Only the table and chair corresponding to RFID tag T2 are shown, so that tag T2 can uniquely identify the table and chair at that location. Optionally, the RFID tag can also be placed slightly forward of the aforementioned track position, thereby allowing an appropriate braking distance for the conveyor device to stop next to the table or chair. During the operation of conveyor devices V1-V3, the RFID reader can scan RFID tags T1-T3 to obtain the ID information of the RFID tags.

[0066] In another embodiment, the positioning device of the conveying device can be an optical positioning device, which can be an optical sensor. One or more optical tags (e.g., N tags) are disposed on the conveying track of the track system. The optical tags can be disposed on the inside of the conveying track or on the track support, with the pattern or graphic on the optical tag facing the optical sensor so that the pattern or graphic on the optical tag can be scanned by the optical sensor. Each optical tag can correspond one-to-one with a specific location point on the track system, thereby identifying the position information of these specific location points. The positional distribution of optical tags T1, T2, T3...Tn on the track can refer to the distribution method of RFID tags described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0067] The following explanation uses a radio frequency positioning device as an example to illustrate the positioning operation of the transmission device. For example... Figure 11 As shown, when a customer sits down at a table or chair marked with an RFID tag, the information of the selected item and the RFID tag T2 is returned to the store's main control device along with the order, establishing a correspondence between the item and the RFID tag T2. The order can be completed by handwritten notes from staff or by an ordering device placed on each table or chair, for example, by scanning the RFID tag T2 or the QR code on the item. The ordering device can be any known type of smart terminal, such as a mobile phone or tablet; the store's main control device can be a known type of server or smart terminal, and this application does not impose any limitations on this. Using the ordering device, customers can generate an order immediately after selecting items, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of customer shopping. It should be noted that the table or chair number, the ordering device ID placed on the table or chair, and the tag ID at the track position next to the table or chair are in a one-to-one correspondence. This correspondence can be stored on the store's main control device or on each conveyor device, allowing for retrieval of the correspondence at any time when needed. To reduce the complexity of the description, this application uses the term "label" for description. It should be understood that the label corresponds to the table or chair, and the ordering device placed on the table or chair, in terms of location. It is understood that, when the customer's mobile phone is logged into the store's shopping system, the aforementioned ordering device can also be the customer's own smart terminal, such as a mobile phone or tablet computer. The customer scans the label through this smart terminal, and the label information can be returned to the store's main control device or transmission device.

[0068] For the product selected by the customer using RFID tag 2, after the store has prepared the product package, it can affix a product tag to the outer packaging. The information on this product tag corresponds to the information on RFID tag T2, which can be obtained from the aforementioned order. Before or during the product placement into the conveyor, the conveyor scans the product tag using an RFID reader to obtain the information of the tag at the target location and stores it within the conveyor. Figure 9 In this system, at least three conveyor devices V1, V2, and V3 operate on the track. Goods can be placed in any of these three conveyor devices. Taking conveyor device V2 as an example, after acquiring and storing the information of the target location tag T2, conveyor device V2 begins to run along the track system, sequentially scanning RFID tags T1 and T2, and comparing the acquired RFID tag information with the stored target location tag information (i.e., tag T2). When the information is inconsistent, the main controller of the conveyor device controls the conveyor device to continue running along the track; when the information is consistent, the main controller sends a stop signal to the speed controller, causing the conveyor device to stop at RFID tag T2, waiting for the customer to take the goods loaded by the conveyor device. Optionally, the above information comparison process can be performed in the store's main control equipment. In this case, the conveyor device sends the RFID tag information and the stored target location tag information to the store's main control equipment. The main control equipment receives the information, compares it, and then sends the result back to the conveyor device. Optionally, when passing a tag at a predetermined position, the main controller or main control equipment can control the conveyor device to accelerate or decelerate.

[0069] When the positioning device of the transmission device is an optical sensor, its working method is similar to that of the radio frequency positioning device mentioned above, except that the method of scanning the tag to obtain tag information is different, which will not be described in detail here.

[0070] In some embodiments, when the positioning device of the conveying device is a radio frequency (RFID) positioning device, the product tag can be an optical tag. In this case, an optical sensor can be further provided on the conveying device to obtain information identifying the product tag. In other embodiments, when the positioning device of the conveying device is an optical positioning device, the product tag can be an RFID tag. In this case, an RFID reader can be further provided on the conveying device to obtain information identifying the product tag.

[0071] In some other embodiments, the conveying device may be equipped with a keyboard input device, allowing staff to input information about the target label into the conveying device, thereby enabling the conveying device to transport the package containing the goods to the location of the target label.

[0072] Alternatively, a simplified track system can be used to position the conveyor. In one example, each conveyor track corresponds to a table or chair, and there is only one label at the corresponding position on the track. Goods can be directly placed into the conveyor, which will then transport the goods to the target label and stop, thus eliminating the need to scan the product labels. In another example, each conveyor track corresponds to a table or chair, and a braking device is provided at the corresponding position on the track to prevent the conveyor from continuing forward after reaching that position. The braking device can be a fence or similar barrier that stops the conveyor from moving further when it reaches the corresponding position. This further simplifies the structure of the conveyor, allowing it to be positioned at a predetermined location on the track system. There is no need to install complex positioning devices on the conveyor.

[0073] The conveying device of this application can also be combined into two or more conveying device combinations through a traction structure between the conveying devices, thereby transporting a larger number of items to a target location at one time. Optionally, the conveying device combination can be composed of the aforementioned powered conveying device pulling unpowered conveying devices. The unpowered conveying devices can include only the necessary components for conveying items on the track, such as frames, rollers, and brackets, omitting the drive device and circuitry.

[0074] The following combination Figure 12 The circuitry of the transmission device will be described. Figure 12 A circuit block diagram of the transmission device is shown, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the circuit 5100 of the transmission device includes components such as a main controller 5110, a speed controller 5120, a sensor 5130, a wireless communication circuit 5140, an input unit 5150, a memory 5160, a display screen 5170, a multimedia circuit 5180, and a power supply 190. Those skilled in the art will understand that... Figure 12 The circuit structures shown are merely examples of implementation methods and do not constitute a limitation on the transmission device. The transmission device may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0075] The main controller 5110, also known as a processor, is the control center of the transmission device. It connects to various circuit components of the transmission device via various interfaces and lines. It performs various functions and processes data by running or executing software programs and / or modules stored in the memory 5160 and calling data stored in the memory 5160. The connections are used to transmit current and / or control signals. The main controller 5110 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. The main controller 5110 can implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. The main controller 5110 can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as including one or more microprocessor combinations, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, etc. Optionally, the main controller 5110 may include one or more processor units. Optionally, the main controller 5110 may also integrate an application processor and a modem processor. The application processor mainly handles the operating system, user interface, and applications, while the modem processor is mainly used for wireless communication. It is understood that the modem processor may not be integrated into the main controller 5110.

[0076] Speed ​​controller 5120 is connected to both main controller 5110 and motor 507, and is used to control the motor speed, thereby controlling the running speed of the conveyor on the conveyor track. In one example, speed controller 5120 is the electronic speed control switch mentioned above. The electronic speed control switch can receive control commands sent by the main controller, and output corresponding current according to the control commands. Under the drive of the current, the motor outputs the corresponding speed, thereby realizing the control of the motor speed. In another example, speed controller 5120 is the electronically controlled gear set mentioned above. The electronically controlled gear set can receive control commands sent by the main controller, adjust the gear combination according to the control commands, and output the corresponding speed. Optionally, speed controller 5120 can automatically or manually preset the required speed, so that the conveyor runs on the conveyor track at the preset speed.

[0077] Sensor 5130 includes at least one optical sensor and / or an RFID reader. The optical sensor is used to scan optical tags on the conveyor track, and the RFID reader is used to scan RFID tags on the conveyor track. The optical sensor and / or RFID reader can also be used to scan product tags. The information acquired by sensor 5130 is processed by the sensor controller and sent to the main controller 5110 for positioning of the conveyor. Optionally, sensor 5130 may also include a distance sensor, a pressure sensor, and other sensors. The distance sensor can be positioned in front of the conveyor to detect the distance to the conveyor and send the distance information to the main controller 5110. The pressure sensor can be positioned on the tray of the conveyor to detect the gravity information transmitted by the tray and send the gravity information to the main controller 5110. The gravity includes the weight of the tray itself and the weight of the loaded items. In one example, the pressure sensor can be used to detect whether the tray of the conveyor is loaded with goods. Optionally, after the conveyor belt loaded with goods reaches a specific location and stops, the customer removes the goods. The main controller 5110 detects a decrease in gravity through a pressure sensor, confirming that the goods have been taken by the customer, and then controls the conveyor belt to continue running along the track system, returning to the storage area or recycling area. Other sensors can be set according to actual needs, and this application does not limit them.

[0078] The wireless communication circuit 5140 can be used to receive and transmit various signals, such as receiving remote control commands or transmitting status information of the transmission device. The wireless communication circuit includes, but is not limited to, an antenna, at least one amplifier, a transceiver, a coupler, a low-noise amplifier (LNA), a duplexer, etc. The wireless communication circuit 5140 can communicate with other devices via a wireless communication network, such as the main control equipment of a store and other transmission devices. The wireless communication circuit can use any communication standard or protocol, including but not limited to 3G networks, 4G networks, 5G networks, etc. The wireless communication circuit may also include short-range wireless transmission modules such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ZigBee; these communication modules can be existing communication modules and will not be described in detail here.

[0079] Input unit 5150 can be used to receive input numerical or character information. Specifically, input unit 5150 may include touch panel 5152 and other input devices 5154. Touch panel 5152, also known as a touch screen, can collect touch operations performed by the user on or near it (such as operations performed by the user using a finger, stylus, or any suitable object or accessory on or near the touch panel). Optionally, touch panel 5152 can convert the received touch information into touch point coordinates and send them to main controller 5110, and can also receive and execute commands sent by main controller 5110. In addition, touch panel can be implemented using various types such as resistive, capacitive, infrared, and surface acoustic wave. In addition to touch panel, input unit 5150 may also include other input devices 5154. Specifically, other input devices 5154 may include, but are not limited to, one or more of physical keyboards, function keys (such as volume control buttons, power buttons, etc.), joysticks, etc.

[0080] The memory 5160 can be used to store software programs and modules. The main controller 5110 executes various functions and data processing of the transmission device by running the software programs and modules stored in the memory 5160. The memory 5160 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system, application programs required for at least one function (such as sound playback function, image playback function, etc.), etc.; the data storage area may store data created according to the use of the transmission device (such as audio data, video data, etc.). In addition, the memory may include volatile memory, such as nonvolatile random access memory (NVRAM), phase change RAM (PRAM), magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), etc., and may also include non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory devices, such as NOR flash memory or NAND flash memory, semiconductor devices, such as solid state disks (SSDs), etc.

[0081] The display screen 5170 can be used to display information input by the user or information provided to the user, as well as various interfaces of the transmission device, such as status information. The display screen 5170 can be in the form of a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), Thin Film Transistor LCD (TFT-LCD), Light Emitting Diode (LED), Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED), etc. Optionally, a touch panel 5152 can be placed over the display screen 5170 to form a touch display screen. The display screen can be mounted on the bracket of the transmission device or on both sides of the frame of the transmission device.

[0082] The multimedia circuit 5180 includes an audio circuit 5182 and a lighting circuit 5184. The audio circuit 5182 may include a speaker and a microphone, and also provides an audio interface between the user and the transmission device. The audio circuit 5182 can receive sound control signals sent by the main controller, thereby controlling the speaker to emit sound effects. The lighting circuit 5184 can receive lighting control signals sent by the main controller, thereby controlling the lighting devices installed on the transmission device. Optionally, the transmission device can emit sound, such as playing a birthday song, greeting customers, or prompting customers to take goods and / or packages from the transmission device, when a trigger condition is met, through a preset program. Alternatively, when a trigger condition is met, the transmission device can emit a specific combination of lights, such as fast flashing, slow flashing, etc., to prompt customers to take goods and / or packages from the transmission device. The transmission device can also be controlled to emit a combination of sound, light, and video content through a preset program. This can improve the entertainment value of the transmission device, thereby enhancing the customer experience. The above-mentioned preset program can be written using existing programming tools or integrated into the operating system and application of the transmission device using existing program code; this application does not impose any limitations on this. The aforementioned display screen 5170 and multimedia circuit 5180 can also be collectively referred to as a multimedia device. The multimedia device can generate various combinations of video, images, sound and / or light under the control of the main controller 5110.

[0083] Power supply 5190 supplies power to the various electrical components of the conveyor device. The power supply includes a battery and switch 508 (not shown in the attached diagram). Optionally, the power supply can be logically connected to the main controller 5110 through a power management system. This power management system manages charging, discharging, and power consumption, allowing the main controller 5110 to obtain battery power information and send it to the main control device of the store. Optionally, the battery can be a rechargeable battery to charge the conveyor device. Further, the battery can be removed from the conveyor device, thus occupying less charging space. In another example, the conveyor device can draw power from the conveyor track of the track system, eliminating the need for a battery. Specifically, the rollers of the conveyor device can be made of conductive material and electrically connected to the power line. Optionally, a power rail or power line can be installed outside the conveyor track, and brushes can be installed on the frame of the conveyor device, electrically connected to the power line. It is understood that, to ensure electrical safety, the conveyor track, power rail, or power line can use a low-voltage power supply sufficient to drive the motor, such as 5V DC. This application will not elaborate further on this.

[0084] In summary, the automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track for transporting goods, as described in this application, features a power-driven conveyor that runs on the track. Because the conveyor is power-driven, it can flexibly move up and down along the track system in three-dimensional space. The track system eliminates the need for a gravity-based transmission system where the starting point is higher than the ending point, thus improving space utilization and reducing operating noise. The conveyor applies an elastic force to the rollers to maintain their connection with the track, reducing the risk of slipping or derailing and improving system safety and reliability. The track system and conveyor have positioning devices, enabling precise "point-to-point" delivery of goods to the user. This automated sales system and method for transporting goods contribute to automated store operations, reducing the number of staff, lowering labor costs, and enhancing the enjoyment of the delivery process, thus possessing significant market application value.

[0085] The above embodiments of this application are only used to illustrate the principles and structure of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application are included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. An automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track for transporting goods, comprising: Storage area, used for storing or distributing goods; The receiving area is used by customers to receive their items. A track system for connecting the storage area and the receiving area; A conveying device for loading articles and conveying the articles along the track system; Its features are, The conveying device includes a frame, elastic elements, a drive unit, and multiple rollers; The elastic element, driving device, and multiple rollers are fixed to the frame. The multiple rollers are connected to the conveying track of the track system. The driving device drives at least some of the multiple rollers to drive the conveying device to run on the conveying track. The elastic element applies an elastic force to the multiple rollers through the frame, pointing towards the conveying track, so that the multiple rollers abut against the conveying track. The frame includes two main beams, which are hinged at or near their centers to form a symmetrical "X" shape or a similar "X" shape. Each main beam has a shaft hole at both ends for mounting a wheel axle. Rollers are mounted on the wheel axles via bearings and rotate around the axles. The rollers are connected to the outer surface of the conveyor track. Elastic elements are connected to the two main beams of the frame and undergo tensile deformation. An elastic force is applied to the rollers, pointing inwards towards the conveyor track, through the two main beams, causing the rollers to abut against the outer surface of the conveyor track. Alternatively, the rollers are connected to the inner surface of the conveyor track, and the elastic elements are connected to the two main beams of the frame and undergo compressive deformation. An elastic force is applied to the rollers, pointing outwards towards the conveyor track, through the two main beams, causing the rollers to abut against the inner surface of the conveyor track. The conveying device also has an elastic force adjustment device and a positioning device; The elastic force adjustment device includes: a sleeve, an adjusting nut, and an adjusting bolt. The side of the sleeve is fixed to the mounting hole of the elastic element. One end of the sleeve is provided with an adjusting nut and an adjusting bolt, and the other end of the sleeve accommodates the end of the elastic element. The positioning device is fixed to the frame to obtain the position information of the conveying device in the track system.

2. The automated sales system for transporting goods using a three-dimensional track according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying device also includes: A speed controller, which is fixed to the frame, is an electronic speed control switch or a gear set.

3. The automated sales system for transporting goods using a three-dimensional track according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The positioning device is an RFID reader, which scans RFID tags at preset locations on the track system to obtain the location information of the transmission device on the track system.

4. The automated sales system for transporting goods using a three-dimensional track according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The positioning device is an optical sensor, which scans an optical tag at a preset position on the track system to obtain the position information of the transmission device on the track system.

5. The automated sales system for transporting goods using a three-dimensional track according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission device further includes a main controller and a communication device. The main controller is used to control the operation of the transmission device, and the communication device is used to receive remote control commands or send status information of the transmission device.

6. The automated sales system for transporting goods using a three-dimensional track according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission device further includes a multimedia device for generating various combinations of video, images, sound, and / or light.

7. The automated sales system for transporting goods using a three-dimensional track according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orbital system includes: One conveyor track, two parallel conveyor tracks, or three or more parallel conveyor tracks; The cross-sectional shape of the conveyor track can be circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, T-shaped, or I-shaped.

8. A method for conveying goods using an automated sales system employing a three-dimensional track system as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, include: Load items into the conveyor system in the storage area; The conveyor system runs along the track system, transporting goods from the storage area to the receiving area; The rollers of the conveying device are connected to the conveying track of the track system. The drive device drives the rollers to run on the conveying track. The elastic element on the frame applies an elastic force to the rollers pointing towards the conveying track, and the elastic force causes the rollers to abut against the conveying track. Furthermore, when the frame has two main beams, the rollers are connected to the inner side of the conveying track, so that the elastic element is connected to the two main beams respectively and generates compression deformation. The two main beams apply an elastic force to the rollers pointing towards the outer side of the conveying track, and the elastic force causes the rollers to abut against the inner side of the conveying track.

9. The method for conveying items in an automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track for item transport according to claim 8, characterized in that, The speed of the motor is controlled by a speed controller fixed to the frame, thereby controlling the running speed of the conveyor on the track system.

10. The method for conveying items in an automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track for item transport according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The positioning device obtains the position information of the conveying device in the track system, and controls the operating speed of the conveying device according to the position information.

11. The method for conveying items in an automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track for item transport according to claim 10, characterized in that, When the positioning device is an RFID reader, the RFID reader scans the RFID tag at a preset position on the track system to obtain the position information of the transmission device on the transmission track.

12. The method for conveying items in an automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track system according to claim 11, characterized in that, When the positioning device is an optical sensor, the optical sensor scans the optical tag at a preset position on the track system to obtain the position information of the conveying device on the conveying track.

13. The method for conveying items in an automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track system according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the transmission device includes a main controller and a communication device, the main controller controls the operation of the transmission device, and the communication device receives remote control commands or sends status information of the transmission device.

14. The method for conveying items in an automated sales system utilizing a three-dimensional track system according to claim 13, characterized in that, Also includes: Multimedia devices that transmit signals can produce various combinations of video, images, sound, and / or light.

Images