Vehicle towing device, vehicle inspection system and inspection method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a vehicle towing device, a vehicle inspection system and an inspection method, wherein the vehicle towing device comprises: a towing component (1) movably arranged in a first direction (x) in a ground travel path (2), the towing component (1) having a fork arm assembly (12) provided with a first connecting portion (1211); and a support plate (4) movably arranged above the ground in the first direction (x) and located at the top of the travel path (2) and configured to carry a first vehicle (5), the support plate (4) being provided with a second connecting portion (41); wherein a first opening (21) communicating with the travel path (2) is arranged on the ground, the first opening (21) forming a channel for connecting the first connecting portion (1211) and the second connecting portion (41), and the towing component (1) is configured to drive the support plate (4) and the first vehicle (5) to move together when the first connecting portion (1211) and the second connecting portion (41) are in a connected state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of scanning and inspecting vehicle towing technology, and particularly to a vehicle towing device, a vehicle inspection system, and an inspection method. Background Technology

[0002] At highway checkpoints, customs, borders, and other locations where vehicles pass through or transport goods, it is essential to conduct security checks on vehicles to prevent them from carrying or concealing dangerous items such as drugs, explosives, or firearms, thereby enhancing security.

[0003] When inspecting vehicles, one method is to keep the vehicle stationary and use rail-mounted, vehicle-mounted, or rail-based security inspection equipment. This places high demands on the structure and installation of the security inspection equipment.

[0004] To reduce the requirements for security inspection equipment, another approach is to use fixed security inspection equipment, in which a dedicated towing device pulls the vehicle to be inspected through the inspection lane. The current problem is that the towing device is difficult to adapt to different vehicle types. For example, different types of towing devices need to be set up separately for large vehicles and small vehicles. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides a vehicle towing device, a vehicle inspection system, and an inspection method, which can improve the adaptability of the vehicle towing device.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle towing device is provided, comprising:

[0007] A towing component is movably disposed within an underground passageway along a first direction. The towing component includes a fork arm assembly, which has a first connecting portion.

[0008] A support plate is movably disposed above the ground along a first direction and located at the top of the travel channel, configured to support the first vehicle, and the support plate is provided with a second connecting part;

[0009] The ground has a first opening that connects to the travel channel. The first opening forms a channel connecting the first connecting part and the second connecting part. The dragging component is configured to drive the support plate and the first vehicle to move together when the first connecting part and the second connecting part are in the connected state.

[0010] In some embodiments, the dragging component is configured to drag a second vehicle within the travel aisle along a first direction via a fork arm assembly.

[0011] In some embodiments, the support plate has an initial position in the movement path, the initial position being configured to allow a first vehicle to drive onto the support plate; and / or the support plate has an end position in the movement path, the end position being configured to allow the first vehicle to leave the support plate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the vehicle towing device further includes a limiting structure disposed between the support plate and the ground, configured to restrict the movement of the support plate when the support plate is in its initial position, and to release the limiting of the support plate when the support plate needs to be moved.

[0013] In some embodiments, the vehicle towing device further includes: a wear-resistant plate, which is fixed to the ground and has a second opening;

[0014] The support plate is mounted on the wear-resistant plate and is movable relative to the wear-resistant plate. The first opening and the second opening together form a channel connecting the first connecting part and the second connecting part.

[0015] In some embodiments, the vehicle towing device further includes a plurality of guide wheels disposed on both sides of the support plate along a second direction and configured to guide the movement of the support plate, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction in a horizontal plane.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second connecting portion is located at the bottom of the support plate, and the dragging component also includes a main body portion, with the fork arm assembly located at the top of the main body portion.

[0017] In some embodiments, the fork arm assembly is vertically and vertically disposed along a third direction, which is consistent with the vertical direction. The fork arm assembly is configured to rise to a first preset height when the first connecting part and the second connecting part need to be connected, and to lower to a second preset height when the first connecting part and the second connecting part need to be disengaged.

[0018] In some embodiments, the fork arm assembly includes a first fork arm group, the first fork arm group including two first fork arms, the two first fork arms being arranged side by side along a second direction with their respective first ends close together, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction in a horizontal plane, the two first fork arms being rotatably arranged in a horizontal plane about their respective first ends and having half holes on their sidewalls, the two half holes being configured to together form a positioning hole as a first connecting portion when the two first fork arms rotate toward each other in a direction close to each other to extend along the first direction;

[0019] The second connecting part includes a positioning post located at the bottom of the support plate. The first connecting part and the second connecting part are connected by the cooperation of the positioning post and the positioning hole.

[0020] In some embodiments, the fork arm assembly further includes a second fork arm group arranged side by side with the first fork arm group along a first direction. The second fork arm group includes two second forks, which are arranged side by side along a second direction. The first ends of the two first forks and the two second forks are arranged close to each other, and the two second forks are rotatably arranged in a horizontal plane about their respective first ends.

[0021] In the second direction, the first and second forks located on the same side are configured to clamp the front wheel of the second vehicle in the travel channel when they rotate toward each other to extend along the second direction, so that the towing member to drag the second vehicle along the first direction.

[0022] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle inspection system is provided, comprising:

[0023] The vehicle towing device of the above embodiments; and

[0024] The first scanning device is configured to perform scanning inspections while the vehicle towing system is moving the first vehicle.

[0025] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, an inspection method based on the vehicle inspection system of the above embodiments is provided, comprising:

[0026] When the dragging component is in the position where the first connecting part and the second connecting part are aligned, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are connected.

[0027] The support plate and the first vehicle move together by dragging the component;

[0028] The scanning inspection is performed during the relative movement of the first vehicle and the first scanning device.

[0029] In some embodiments, the inspection method further includes:

[0030] When the support plate is in its initial position, the first vehicle is driven and stops on the support plate;

[0031] The dragging component is moved toward the second connecting part in the first direction so that the first connecting part is aligned with the second connecting part.

[0032] In some embodiments, the inspection method further includes:

[0033] After the first connecting part and the second connecting part are aligned, the fork arm assembly is raised to a first preset height along the third direction so that the first connecting part and the second connecting part are connected, and the third direction is consistent with the vertical direction.

[0034] In some embodiments, the inspection method further includes:

[0035] After the first vehicle is scanned and inspected, the towing component moves the support plate and the first vehicle to the end position of the support plate.

[0036] Make the first vehicle leave the support plate.

[0037] In some embodiments, the inspection method further includes:

[0038] After the first vehicle leaves the support plate, the towing component drives the support plate back to its initial position.

[0039] In some embodiments, the inspection method further includes:

[0040] After the support plate returns to its initial position, the first connecting part is disengaged from the second connecting part;

[0041] Return the dragged component to the waiting position.

[0042] In some embodiments, the inspection method further includes:

[0043] The fork arm assembly is lowered to a second preset height along a third direction, so that the first connecting part is separated from the second connecting part, and the third direction is consistent with the vertical direction.

[0044] In some embodiments, the inspection method further includes:

[0045] The towing component moves the second vehicle in the travel channel along the first direction via the fork arm assembly, and scans and inspects the second vehicle during the movement.

[0046] In some embodiments, the inspection method further includes:

[0047] When the support plate is in its initial position, the movement of the support plate is restricted by the limiting structure;

[0048] When it is necessary to move the support plate by dragging the component, release the positioning of the support plate.

[0049] The vehicle towing device of this disclosure directly tows a first vehicle on the ground via an underground towing component. This saves space occupied by a bulky towing component and eliminates the need for the first vehicle to be towed to enter an underground passage, making the towing process safer and more convenient. Furthermore, while towing a vehicle directly via a fork arm assembly requires lifting the front wheels, this disclosure uses a support plate to tow the first vehicle. This eliminates special requirements on the vehicle's model, wheelbase, etc., improving adaptability to the vehicle being towed. Towing can be achieved without altering the vehicle's posture, ensuring safety and making the towing process smoother, making it particularly suitable for towing small vehicles. Attached Figure Description

[0050] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0051] Figure 1This is a front view of some embodiments of the vehicle towing device disclosed herein.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a side sectional view of some embodiments of the vehicle towing device disclosed herein.

[0053] Figure 3 This is a top view of some embodiments of the vehicle towing device disclosed herein.

[0054] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C Front view, top view, and unfolded state schematic diagram of some embodiments of the fork arm assembly for dragging components.

[0055] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the first vehicle parked on the support plate, with the dragging component moving in direction P toward the second connecting part.

[0056] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the dragging component moves until its first connecting part aligns with its second connecting part, and the fork arm assembly rises and moves toward the second connecting part.

[0057] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the fork arm assembly rises to the first connecting part and connects to the second connecting part, and the dragging component drives the support plate and the first vehicle to move along the Q direction.

[0058] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the first vehicle moving away from the support plate in order to move the dragged component into position.

[0059] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the dragging component moves the support plate along the P direction to return the support plate to its initial position.

[0060] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the state where the fork arm assembly descends after the dragging component moves the support plate back to its initial position, causing the first connecting part to disengage from the second connecting part.

[0061] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the state after the first and second connecting parts detach, where the dragging component moves independently along direction Q to return to the waiting position.

[0062] Figure 12 Schematic diagrams of some embodiments of setting a limiting structure between the support plate and the ground.

[0063] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0064] 1. Driving component; 11. Main body; 12. Fork arm assembly; 121. First fork arm; 1211. First connecting part; 1211'. Half hole; 122. Second fork arm;

[0065] 2. Travel passage; 21. First opening; 22. Ground base;

[0066] 3. Wear-resistant plate; 31. Second opening; 32. Second hole;

[0067] 4. Support plate; 41. Second connecting part; 42. First hole;

[0068] 5. The first vehicle;

[0069] 6. Guide wheels;

[0070] 7. Limiting structure; 71. Limiting pin;

[0071] A. Initial position; B. Ending position; x. First direction; y. Second direction; z. Third direction. Detailed Implementation

[0072] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit this disclosure or its application or use. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this disclosure without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0073] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, they should be considered part of the specification.

[0074] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this disclosure; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0075] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0076] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, this disclosure provides a vehicle towing device, which in some embodiments includes a towing component 1 and a support plate 4. The towing component 1 is movably disposed in an underground travel channel 2 along a first direction x. The travel channel 2 may be a tunnel or the like, and may be constructed in a ground base 22. The towing component 1 has a fork arm assembly 12, which has a first connecting portion 1211. For example, the towing component 1 may be a fork-arm trailer or other movable component capable of providing traction. The support plate 4 is movably disposed above the ground along the first direction x and is located at the top of the travel channel 2. It is configured to carry a first vehicle 5 to be towed, and the support plate 4 has a second connecting portion 41.

[0077] The ground is provided with a first opening 21 that communicates with the travel channel 2. For example, the first opening 21 can be a long groove extending along the first direction x. The first opening 21 forms a channel connecting the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41. The dragging part 1 is configured to drive the support plate 4 and the first vehicle 5 to move together when the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 are in the connected state.

[0078] This embodiment involves setting a towing component 1 in the underground travel passage 2 and a support plate 4 on the ground at the top of the travel passage 2. A first opening 21 communicating with the travel passage 2 is provided on the ground. After the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 are connected through the first opening 21, the support plate 4 and the first vehicle 5 can be moved by moving the towing component 1 along the first direction x. At the same time, the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 also move along the first direction x in the first opening 21 while connected.

[0079] Therefore, the embodiments of this disclosure can directly tow the first vehicle 5 on the ground via the underground towing component 1, saving the space occupied by the bulky towing component 1 and eliminating the need for the first vehicle 5 to enter the underground travel passage 2, making the towing process of the first vehicle 5 safer and more convenient. Moreover, if the vehicle is towed directly via the fork arm assembly 12, the front wheels need to be lifted. The embodiments of this disclosure tow the first vehicle 5 via the support plate 4, which has no special requirements on the vehicle type, wheel spacing, etc., improving the adaptability to the vehicle to be towed. Towing can be achieved without changing the posture of the first vehicle 5, ensuring the safety of the first vehicle 5 and making the towing process more stable, which is particularly suitable for towing small vehicles.

[0080] For example, if the first vehicle 5 is towed during a safety inspection, the vehicle towing system of this disclosure can improve the efficiency of the safety inspection, facilitate the entry and exit of the first vehicle 5 from the safety inspection area, and improve the accuracy of the inspection by ensuring that the first vehicle 5 moves smoothly.

[0081] This type of vehicle towing system can be used at highway checkpoints, customs, borders, and other locations where vehicles pass through or transport vehicles. In these situations, security checks are generally required on the vehicles to prevent them from carrying or concealing dangerous goods such as drugs, explosives, or firearms.

[0082] In some embodiments, the dragging component 1 is configured to drag a second vehicle within the travel channel 2 along a first direction x via the fork arm assembly 12.

[0083] This embodiment enables the direct towing of a second vehicle within the travel channel 2 via the fork arm assembly 12 of the towing component 1. It is suitable for towing large vehicles, such as large trucks and container trucks. By having the large vehicle drive into the underground travel channel for towing and performing safety checks during the towing process, the space occupied by the large vehicle on the ground can be reduced. The fork arm assembly 12 can directly lift the front wheels of the second vehicle to clamp them for towing. This towing device has a simple structure, is flexible and convenient to use, and has low construction and maintenance costs.

[0084] Therefore, the towing component 1 can selectively tow the second vehicle directly or the first vehicle 5 via the support plate 4, depending on the needs. This allows for different towing methods to be selected for different types of vehicles, improving adaptability to vehicles of different types and sizes. When a vehicle safety inspection is required, it can meet the towing needs of small vehicles in specific scanning inspection areas without affecting the towing of large vehicles for scanning inspection within the underground passageway 2. It also integrates the towing functions for both large and small vehicles.

[0085] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the support plate 4 has an initial position A in the movement path, and the initial position A is configured to allow the first vehicle 5 to drive onto the support plate 4.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the support plate 4 has an endpoint position B in the movement path, which is configured to allow the first vehicle 5 to leave the support plate 4. After the first vehicle 5 leaves the support plate 4, the dragging component 1 can drive the support plate 4 back to the initial position A so that the next first vehicle 5 can drive onto the support plate 4.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, the vehicle towing device also includes a limiting structure 7, which is located between the support plate 4 and the ground and is configured to restrict the movement of the support plate 4 when the support plate 4 is in the initial position A, and to release the limiting of the support plate 4 when the support plate 4 needs to move.

[0088] By setting the limiting structure 7, this embodiment can make the support plate 4 more reliably and firmly in the initial position A, so that the first vehicle 5 can drive smoothly onto the support plate 4. Moreover, when the towing component 1 or the second vehicle moves in the travel channel 2, since the towing component 1 or the second vehicle are both large vehicles, it can also prevent the support plate 4 from being vibrated and misaligned or damaged, thereby improving the reliability of the vehicle towing device.

[0089] For example, such as Figure 12 As shown, the limiting structure 7 includes a limiting pin 71 disposed in the ground base 22 and a first hole 42 disposed on the support plate 4. The limiting pin 71 is movable up and down or retractable in the third direction z. The limiting pin 71 is configured to be inserted into the first hole 42 when limiting is required, and to be disengaged from the first hole 42 when limiting is required.

[0090] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle towing device also includes: a wear-resistant plate 3, which is fixed to the ground and located above the travel channel 2. The wear-resistant plate 3 has a second opening 31, such as a long groove extending along the first direction x. The wear-resistant plate 3 can be made of nylon, copper, or steel, etc. For example, Figure 2 As shown, the support plate 4 is mounted on the wear-resistant plate 3 and is movable relative to the wear-resistant plate 3. The first opening 21 and the second opening 31 together form a channel connecting the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41. For example, the shapes of the first opening 21 and the second opening 31 are adapted, and their width is smaller than the dimension of the travel channel 2 along the second direction y. The first opening 21 and the second opening 31 are connected in the third direction z, which is perpendicular to the plane containing the first direction x and the second direction y.

[0091] In an embodiment where the limiting structure 7 is provided, a second hole 32 is provided on the wear-resistant plate 3 so that the limiting pin 71 can extend into the first hole 42.

[0092] This embodiment, by setting the wear-resistant plate 3, can prevent the support plate 4 from damaging the ground substrate during repeated movement, and it is also beneficial to make the upper surface of the wear-resistant plate 3 a smooth surface so that the movement of the support plate 4 is more stable.

[0093] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the vehicle towing device also includes multiple guide wheels 6, which are disposed on both sides of the support plate 4 along a second direction y and are configured to guide the movement of the support plate 4. The second direction y is perpendicular to the first direction x in the horizontal plane. For example, the multiple guide wheels 6 are fixed to the ground, and multiple guide wheels 6 can be spaced apart along the first direction x on each side of the support plate 4.

[0094] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, the second connecting part 41 is located at the bottom of the support plate 4, and the dragging component 1 also includes a main body 11, with the fork arm assembly 12 located at the top of the main body 11. This embodiment makes the connection between the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 easier. Optionally, the second connecting part 41 can also be located on the side of the support plate 4.

[0095] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the fork arm assembly 12 is vertically and vertically arranged along a third direction z, which is consistent with the vertical direction. The fork arm assembly 12 is configured to rise to a first preset height H1 when the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 need to be connected, and to lower to a second preset height H2 when the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 need to be disengaged.

[0096] This embodiment can connect and disconnect the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 by raising and lowering the fork arm assembly 12. Lowering the fork arm assembly 12 can also prevent the towing part 1 from hitting the top of the travel channel 2 when it moves independently or tows the second vehicle, thus improving the safety of the towing part 1 during operation.

[0097] In some embodiments, such as Figures 4A to 4C The fork arm assembly 12 includes a first fork arm group, which includes two first fork arms 121. The two first fork arms 121 are arranged side by side along a second direction y and their respective first ends are close to each other. The second direction y is perpendicular to the first direction x in the horizontal plane. The two first fork arms 121 are rotatably arranged in the horizontal plane around their respective first ends, and half holes 1211' are provided on their side walls that are close to each other. The two half holes 1211' are configured to form a positioning hole as a first connecting part 1211 when the two first fork arms 121 rotate in the direction that are close to each other to extend along the first direction x.

[0098] The second connecting part 41 includes a positioning post located at the bottom of the support plate 4. The first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 are connected by the cooperation of the positioning post and the positioning hole.

[0099] This embodiment enables connection between the two first fork arms 121 when retracted, through the positioning holes formed by the two semi-holes 1211', and the positioning post at the bottom of the support plate 4; and does not affect the towing of the second vehicle by the fork arm assembly 12 when the two first fork arms 121 are extended. Moreover, the semi-holes 1211' on the first fork arms 121 do not cause any additional structures to protrude from the first fork arms 121, and when the second vehicle is towed by the fork arm assembly 12, this first connecting part 1211 will not interfere with the structural components of the second vehicle, thereby improving the reliability of the towing component 1 in towing the first vehicle 5 and the second vehicle.

[0100] Optionally, a positioning pin may be provided on the first fork arm assembly as a first connecting part 1211, and a positioning hole may be provided on the support plate 4 as a second connecting part 41. Alternatively, the first fork arm assembly and the support plate 4 may be connected by a buckle, hook, or the like.

[0101] In some embodiments, the fork arm assembly 12 further includes a second fork arm group arranged side-by-side with the first fork arm group along a first direction x. The second fork arm group includes two second fork arms 122 arranged side-by-side along a second direction y, with the first ends of the two first fork arms 121 and the two second fork arms 122 respectively positioned close to each other. Each of the two second fork arms 122 is rotatably arranged in a horizontal plane about its respective first end. In other words, the open ends of the two first fork arms 121 and the two second fork arms 122 are far apart from each other.

[0102] In the second direction y, the first fork arm 121 and the second fork arm 122 located on the same side are configured to clamp the front wheel of the second vehicle in the travel channel 2 when they rotate toward each other to extend along the second direction y, so that the towing member 1 tows the second vehicle along the first direction x.

[0103] This embodiment can be used to drag the first vehicle 5 or drag the component 1 itself when both first forks 121 and both second forks 122 are retracted; and when both first forks 121 and both second forks 122 are extended, one front wheel of the second vehicle is locked by the fork arm assembly 12 along the second direction y, and the other front wheel of the second vehicle is locked by the fork arm assembly 12 along the second direction y, thereby dragging the second vehicle.

[0104] Secondly, this disclosure provides a vehicle inspection system, including: the vehicle towing device and the first scanning device of the above embodiments. The first scanning device is configured to perform scanning inspection during the movement of the towing component 1, which moves the first vehicle 5 via the support plate 4. For example, the first scanning device may be located in the movement path of the support plate 4 from the initial position A to the final position B.

[0105] The dragging component 1 moves the first vehicle 5, enabling relative movement between the first scanning device and the first vehicle 5. Therefore, the first scanning device can be fixed, reducing the difficulty of setting up the first scanning device. Alternatively, the first scanning device can also adopt a tire-type, track-moving, or vehicle-mounted structure.

[0106] The first scanning device may include a radiation source and a detection arm, which is L-shaped or gate-shaped. The detection arm forms an inspection channel for the first vehicle 5 to pass through. Radiation emitted by the radiation source is received by the detection arm after passing through the first vehicle 5 for a safety inspection. Since the towing component 1 can move the first vehicle 5, a driver is not required to drive the first vehicle 5 through the inspection channel.

[0107] This embodiment enables safety checks to be performed while the first vehicle 5 is being moved by the dragging component 1. The first vehicle 5 is inspected on the ground without having to enter the underground passageway 2, which facilitates the entry and exit of the first vehicle 5 from the safety inspection area and improves the efficiency of the safety inspection, allowing more vehicles to be inspected. Moreover, the support plate 4 supports the first vehicle 5, making the movement of the first vehicle 5 more stable and improving the accuracy of the inspection.

[0108] In some embodiments, the support plate 4 is a flat plate structure, so that the imaging of the first vehicle 5 is unobstructed during the scanning and inspection process, and the first vehicle 5 can be inspected more comprehensively.

[0109] In some embodiments, the vehicle inspection system further includes a second scanning device disposed in the underground travel channel 2, the second scanning device being configured to perform scanning inspection as the dragging member 1 drags the second vehicle within the travel channel.

[0110] This embodiment enables safety checks to be performed while the dragging component 1 is moving the second vehicle. This vehicle inspection system can selectively perform safety checks on the ground or in underground passageways, depending on the vehicle model, thereby improving the flexibility and adaptability of vehicle safety inspections.

[0111] The following is combined Figures 5 to 11 This will explain the specific working principle of the vehicle inspection system disclosed herein.

[0112] 1. For example Figure 5 As shown, when the support plate 4 is in the initial position A, the first vehicle 5 is driven and stops on the support plate 4, and the towing component 1 moves from the waiting position C toward the second connecting part 41 along the direction P.

[0113] 2. For example Figure 6 As shown, after the dragging component 1 moves to the point where the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 are aligned in the first direction x and the second direction y, the fork arm assembly 12 is raised to the first preset height H1, thereby causing the positioning pin to be gradually inserted into the positioning hole.

[0114] 3. For example Figure 7 As shown, after the positioning pin is fully inserted into the positioning hole, the connection between the fork arm assembly 12 and the support plate 4 is realized, so that the dragging component 1 drives the support plate 4 and the first vehicle 5 to move along the direction Q, and performs a safety check during the movement.

[0115] 4. For example Figure 8 As shown, after the inspection is completed, the dragging component 1 drives the support plate 4 and the first vehicle 5 to continue moving to the end position B of the support plate 4. At this time, the dragging component 1 also reaches the waiting position C, causing the first vehicle 5 to leave the support plate 4.

[0116] 5. For example Figure 9 As shown, the dragging component 1 causes the support plate 4 to move along direction P.

[0117] 6. For example Figure 10 As shown, after the dragging component 1 drives the support plate 4 back to the initial position A, the fork arm assembly 12 is lowered to the second preset height H2, at which time the first connecting part 1211 is disengaged from the second connecting part 41.

[0118] 7. For example Figure 11 As shown, the towing component 1 moves alone along direction Q toward the waiting position C to wait for the towing task of the next vehicle.

[0119] Finally, this disclosure provides an inspection method based on the vehicle inspection system of the above embodiments, which in some embodiments includes:

[0120] Step 110: When the dragging component 1 is in the position where the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 are aligned, connect the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41.

[0121] Step 120: Move the support plate 4 and the first vehicle 5 together by dragging component 1;

[0122] Step 130: Perform scanning inspection during the relative movement of the first vehicle 5 and the first scanning device.

[0123] This embodiment enables the first vehicle 5 to perform safety checks while being towed. The first vehicle 5 can be towed by the towing component 1 in the underground passage 2 to achieve the safety check. The first vehicle 5 does not need to drive into the underground passage 2, which facilitates the entry and exit of the first vehicle 5 into the safety check area and can improve the efficiency of the safety check. Moreover, the smooth movement of the first vehicle 5 can improve the accuracy of the check.

[0124] In some embodiments, the inspection method of this disclosure further includes:

[0125] Step 101: When the support plate 4 is in the initial position A, make the first vehicle 5 drive and stop on the support plate 4;

[0126] Step 102: Move the dragging component 1 along the first direction x toward the second connecting part 41 so that the first connecting part 1211 is aligned with the second connecting part 41.

[0127] The execution order of steps 101 and 102 is not restricted. If the first vehicle 5 is stopped on the support plate 4 when the support plate 4 is in the initial position A, and then the towing component 1 is prepared to connect with the support plate 4, the reliability of the first vehicle 5 driving onto the support plate 4 can be guaranteed. If the process of the first vehicle 5 driving onto the support plate 4 and the towing component 1 moving towards the support plate 4 are synchronized, efficiency can be improved.

[0128] In some embodiments, the inspection method of this disclosure further includes:

[0129] Step 103: After aligning the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41, raise the fork arm assembly 12 along the third direction z to a first preset height H1 so that the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 are connected, wherein the third direction z is consistent with the vertical direction.

[0130] Step 103 is executed after step 102. This embodiment allows the fork arm assembly 12 to be raised only when the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 need to be connected, which can prevent the towing part 1 from interfering with the top of the travel channel 2 when it moves alone or tows the second vehicle, thus improving the safety of the towing part 1 throughout the entire working process.

[0131] In some embodiments, the inspection method of this disclosure further includes:

[0132] Step 140: After the first vehicle 5 has been scanned and inspected, the dragging component 1 moves the support plate 4 and the first vehicle 5 to the end position B of the support plate 4.

[0133] Step 150: Move the first vehicle 5 away from the support plate 4.

[0134] Steps 140 and 150 are executed after step 130. This embodiment enables the support plate 4 to be moved to a preset key position B by dragging component 1 after the first vehicle 5 has been scanned and inspected, making it easier for the first vehicle 5 to leave the support plate 4, thus making the entire inspection process smoother and improving efficiency.

[0135] In some embodiments, the inspection method of this disclosure further includes:

[0136] Step 160: After the first vehicle 5 leaves the support plate 4, the dragging component 1 drives the support plate 4 back to the initial position A.

[0137] In this embodiment, step 160 is executed after step 150. After the first vehicle 5 leaves the support plate 4, the support plate 4 is driven back to the initial position A, which facilitates the inspection of the next first vehicle 5, makes the entire inspection process smoother, saves the waiting time of the first vehicle 5, and improves inspection efficiency.

[0138] In some embodiments, the inspection method of this disclosure further includes:

[0139] Step 170: After the support plate 4 returns to the initial position A, the first connecting part 1211 is disengaged from the second connecting part 41;

[0140] Step 180: Return the dragged component 1 to the waiting position C.

[0141] In this embodiment, step 170 is executed after step 160, and step 180 is executed after step 170. After the first vehicle 5 has been inspected, the towing component 1 returns to the waiting position C, so that the towing component 1 can determine whether to tow the first vehicle 5 or the second vehicle based on the type of the next vehicle to be inspected. If it can be known in advance that the next vehicle to be inspected is still the first vehicle 5, the first connecting part 1211 and the second connecting part 41 can remain connected after the support plate 4 returns to the initial position A.

[0142] In some embodiments, the inspection method of this disclosure further includes:

[0143] Step 165: Lower the fork arm assembly 12 along the third direction z to a second preset height H2, so that the first connecting part 1211 is disengaged from the second connecting part 41, wherein the third direction z is consistent with the vertical direction.

[0144] This embodiment can easily separate the first connecting part 1211 from the second connecting part 41, and after the fork arm assembly 12 is lowered, the dragging part 1 can be made safer during movement.

[0145] In some embodiments, the inspection method of this disclosure further includes:

[0146] Step 100: The dragging component 1 drags the second vehicle in the travel channel 2 along the first direction x through the fork arm assembly 12, and scans and inspects the second vehicle during the movement.

[0147] Step 100 can be performed selectively compared to the steps described above. When the vehicle to be inspected is the second vehicle, it is directly driven into the travel channel 2 and dragged directly by the fork arm assembly 12 for safety inspection. When the vehicle to be inspected is the first vehicle 5, it is driven onto the support plate 4 on the ground, and the support plate 4 and the second vehicle are moved by the dragging component 1 to achieve safety inspection. Thus, the dragging component 1 can select different dragging methods according to needs, improving its adaptability to vehicles of different types and sizes.

[0148] In some embodiments, the inspection method of this disclosure further includes:

[0149] When the support plate 4 is in the initial position A, the movement of the support plate 4 is restricted by the limiting structure 7; this step is performed before the first vehicle 5 drives onto the support plate 4.

[0150] When it is necessary to move the support plate 4 by dragging the component 1, the positioning of the support plate 4 is released; this step is performed after the first connecting part 1211 is connected to the second connecting part 41.

[0151] By setting the limiting structure 7, this embodiment can make the support plate 4 more reliably and firmly in the initial position A, so that the first vehicle 5 can drive smoothly onto the support plate 4. Moreover, when the towing component 1 or the second vehicle moves in the travel channel 2, since the towing component 1 or the second vehicle are both large vehicles, it can also prevent the support plate 4 from being vibrated and misaligned or damaged, thereby improving the reliability of the vehicle towing device.

[0152] Each of the above steps in the inspection method of this disclosure can be performed by a controller. These controllers can be general-purpose processors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, or any suitable combination thereof for performing the functions described in this disclosure.

[0153] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the protection scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A vehicle towing device, characterized in that, include: A towing component (1) is movably disposed in an underground travel passage (2) along a first direction (x), the towing component (1) having a fork arm assembly (12) having a first connecting portion (1211); and A support plate (4) is movably disposed above the ground along the first direction (x) and located at the top of the travel channel (2), and is configured to carry the first vehicle (5). The support plate (4) is provided with a second connecting part (41). The ground is provided with a first opening (21) that communicates with the travel channel (2). The first opening (21) forms a channel connecting the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41). The dragging part (1) is configured to drive the support plate (4) and the first vehicle (5) to move together when the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41) are in a connected state. The fork arm assembly (12) includes a first fork arm group, which includes two first fork arms (121). The two first fork arms (121) are arranged side by side along a second direction (y) with their respective first ends close to each other. The second direction (y) is perpendicular to the first direction (x) in the horizontal plane. The two first fork arms (121) are rotatable in the horizontal plane about their respective first ends and are configured to connect the first connecting part (1211) with the second connecting part (41) when they are rotated to extend along the first direction (x), and to drag the second vehicle in the travel channel (2) along the first direction (x) when they are rotated to extend along the second direction (y).

2. The vehicle towing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support plate (4) has an initial position (A) in the movement path, the initial position (A) being configured to allow the first vehicle (5) to drive onto the support plate (4); and / or The support plate (4) has an endpoint position (B) in the movement path, which is configured to allow the first vehicle (5) to leave the support plate (4).

3. The vehicle towing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a limiting structure (7) disposed between the support plate (4) and the ground, configured to restrict the movement of the support plate (4) when the support plate (4) is in the initial position (A), and to release the limiting of the support plate (4) when the support plate (4) needs to be moved.

4. The vehicle towing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A wear-resistant plate (3), which is fixed on the ground and has a second opening (31); The support plate (4) is disposed on the wear-resistant plate (3) and is movable relative to the wear-resistant plate (3). The first opening (21) and the second opening (31) together form a channel connecting the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41).

5. The vehicle towing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a plurality of guide wheels (6) disposed on both sides of the support plate (4) along a second direction (y) and configured to provide guidance for the movement of the support plate (4), the second direction (y) being perpendicular to the first direction (x) in the horizontal plane.

6. The vehicle towing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second connecting part (41) is located at the bottom of the support plate (4), the dragging part (1) also includes a main body part (11), and the fork arm assembly (12) is located at the top of the main body part (11).

7. The vehicle towing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fork arm assembly (12) is vertically and vertically arranged along a third direction (z), which is consistent with the vertical direction. The fork arm assembly (12) is configured to rise to a first preset height (H1) when the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41) need to be connected, and to lower to a second preset height (H2) when the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41) need to be disconnected.

8. The vehicle towing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both of the first forks (121) are provided with half holes (1211') on their side walls. The two half holes (1211') are configured to form a positioning hole as the first connecting part (1211) when the two first forks (121) rotate toward each other to extend along the first direction (x). The second connecting part (41) includes a positioning post at the bottom of the support plate (4), and the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41) are connected by the positioning post and the positioning hole.

9. The vehicle towing device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The fork arm assembly (12) further includes a second fork arm group, which is arranged side by side with the first fork arm group along the first direction (x). The second fork arm group includes two second fork arms (122), which are arranged side by side along the second direction (y). The first ends of the two first fork arms (121) and the two second fork arms (122) are arranged close to each other. The two first fork arms (121) are rotatably arranged in the horizontal plane around their respective first ends. In the second direction (y), the first fork arm (121) and the second fork arm (122) located on the same side are configured to clamp the front wheel of the second vehicle in the travel channel (2) when rotated toward each other to extend along the second direction (y), so that the dragging member (1) drags the second vehicle along the first direction (x).

10. A vehicle inspection system, characterized in that, include: The vehicle towing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9; and The first scanning device is configured to perform scanning inspections during the movement of the first vehicle (5) by the vehicle towing system.

11. An inspection method based on the vehicle inspection system of claim 10, characterized in that, include: When the dragging member (1) is in a position where the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41) are aligned, the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41) are connected; The dragging component (1) drives the support plate (4) and the first vehicle (5) to move together; The scanning inspection is performed during the relative movement of the first vehicle (5) and the first scanning device.

12. The inspection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: When the support plate (4) is in the initial position (A), the first vehicle (5) is driven and stops on the support plate (4); Move the dragging component (1) toward the second connecting part (41) along the first direction (x) so that the first connecting part (1211) is aligned with the second connecting part (41).

13. The inspection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: After the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41) are aligned, the fork arm assembly (12) is raised to a first preset height (H1) along a third direction (z) so that the first connecting part (1211) and the second connecting part (41) are connected, wherein the third direction (z) is consistent with the vertical direction.

14. The inspection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: After the first vehicle (5) has been scanned and inspected, the dragging component (1) drives the support plate (4) and the first vehicle (5) to the end position (B) of the support plate (4). The first vehicle (5) is moved away from the support plate (4).

15. The inspection method according to claim 14, characterized in that, Also includes: After the first vehicle (5) leaves the support plate (4), the dragging component (1) drives the support plate (4) back to the initial position (A).

16. The inspection method according to claim 15, characterized in that, Also includes: After the support plate (4) returns to its initial position (A), the first connecting part (1211) is disengaged from the second connecting part (41); The dragging component (1) is returned to the waiting position (C).

17. The inspection method according to claim 16, characterized in that, Also includes: The fork arm assembly (12) is lowered to a second preset height (H2) along a third direction (z) so that the first connecting part (1211) is disengaged from the second connecting part (41), wherein the third direction (z) is consistent with the vertical direction.

18. The inspection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: The dragging component (1) is used to drag the second vehicle in the travel channel (2) along the first direction (x) via the fork arm assembly (12), and the second vehicle is scanned and inspected during the movement.

19. The inspection method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: When the support plate (4) is in the initial position (A), the movement of the support plate (4) is restricted by the limiting structure (7); When it is necessary to move the support plate (4) by the dragging component (1), the positioning of the support plate (4) is released.

Images