Conveying device comprising an automatic opening unit of the box cover

Abstract

The present invention relates to a conveying device including an automatic box cover opening unit, and provides a conveying device including a bar code reader which accommodates a reel and reads a bar code attached to a box having a cover, a conveyor unit on which the box is placed, a centering unit which adjusts the position of the box in X-axis and Y-axis directions, a fork unit which engages the cover of the box in the X-axis direction and includes a box cover cylinder for movement in the X-axis direction when the cover is engaged, a box detection sensor for sensing the cover, and a distance sensor for sensing the distance to the cover, a travel driving unit for lifting the fork unit in the Z-axis direction and moving the fork unit in the Y-axis direction, and a control unit which controls the Z-axis centering of the fork unit by combining the bar code reader and the distance sensor, the X-axis centering of the fork unit by combining the box detection sensor, and the Z-axis lifting and Y-axis movement of the fork unit, thus automatically controlling the opening of the cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a conveying device, and more particularly to a conveying device including an automatic opening unit for a box lid. Background Technology

[0002] To lift the lid of a box containing raw materials (such as foil), it must be manually lifted from both sides by a group of two workers. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical issues

[0004] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a conveying device that automatically opens the lid by adding an automatic lid opening unit to the conveying device facility.

[0005] Technical solution

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a conveying device comprising: a barcode reader for reading a barcode attached to a box, the box containing a roll loaded with raw materials and having a lid; a conveyor unit for placing the box; a centering unit mounted outside the conveyor unit and adjusting the position of the box in an X-axis direction corresponding to the width or transverse direction and a Y-axis direction corresponding to the longitudinal or travel direction; and a fork unit mounted on the upper part of the conveyor unit, engaging the lid of the box in the X-axis direction, and provided with means for adjusting the position of the box in the X-axis direction when the lid is engaged. The system includes a movable lid cylinder, a lid detection sensor for sensing the lid, and a distance sensor for sensing the distance to the lid; a travel drive unit connected to the fork unit at the top of the fork unit, which lifts the fork unit in the Z-axis direction corresponding to the height direction or lifting direction, and moves the fork unit in the Y-axis direction; and a control unit for controlling the Z-axis alignment of the fork unit in conjunction with the barcode reader and the distance sensor, controlling the X-axis alignment of the fork unit in conjunction with the lid detection sensor, and controlling the Z-axis lifting and Y-axis movement of the fork unit to automatically control the opening of the lid.

[0007] In this invention, the conveyor unit may include: a free roller conveyor for moving the box along the Y-axis; a box stop mounted at the rear end of the free roller conveyor along the Y-axis for centering the box along the Y-axis; a cargo alignment sensor positioned adjacent to the box stop to check whether the box is positioned to contact the box stop; an entrance guide block mounted at the front end of the free roller conveyor along the Y-axis to guide the entrance path of the transport vehicle; and a transport vehicle end stop positioned adjacent to the box stop to prevent collisions between transport vehicles.

[0008] In this invention, the centering unit may include: a box pusher that contacts the box for centering the box; an X-axis cylinder connected to the box pusher to move the box pusher in the X-axis direction; a moving plate on which the X-axis cylinder is mounted; a Y-axis cylinder connected to the moving plate to move the box pusher in the Y-axis direction; an LM (linear motion) guide connected to the moving plate to guide movement in each axial direction; a centering unit frame in which the Y-axis cylinder is mounted; and a size inspection sensor mounted on the upper part of the centering unit frame to inspect the size of the box.

[0009] In this invention, the fork unit may include: a fork unit frame having a plate-like structure; an orthogonal robot equipped with a motor and mounted on the lower part of the fork unit frame to move along the X-axis; a fork arm mounted on the lower part of the orthogonal robot; a fork mounted on the inner side of the lower end of the fork arm to engage the spool; and a lid cylinder comprising a cylinder rod positioned on the outer side of the fork arm, a lid pusher positioned on the inner side of the fork arm, and a connecting member connecting the cylinder rod and the lid pusher. A box detection sensor is mounted on the connecting member of the box cover cylinder; a distance sensor is mounted on the lower part of the orthogonal robot, reaching the inner side of the fork arm; an engagement sensor is mounted at the lower end of the fork arm; a lifting guide shaft is mounted on the upper part of the fork unit frame; a sensor support is mounted facing the upper part of the fork unit frame; and a lifting normal position sensor and a lifting limit sensor are mounted on the sensor support.

[0010] In this invention, the traveling drive unit includes: a traveling drive unit frame having a plate-like structure; a traveling motor for movement along the Y-axis direction, mounted on the upper part of the traveling drive unit frame; a lifting motor for movement along the Z-axis direction, mounted on the upper part of the traveling drive unit frame; a rack jack for lifting along the Z-axis direction within the traveling drive unit frame, converting the rotation of the lifting motor into linear motion, and connected to the fork unit to lift the fork unit; a lifting guide sleeve for installation within the traveling drive unit frame and inserted by the lifting guide shaft of the fork unit; a sensor support for installation along the Z-axis direction within the traveling drive unit frame; and a lifting conventional position sensor and a lifting limit sensor mounted on the sensor support.

[0011] The conveying device according to the invention may further include a main frame unit; wherein the main frame unit may include: a three-dimensional main frame; a light curtain sensor mounted on the side of the main frame for interlocking during lower maintenance; a cable drag chain mounted on the upper part of the main frame to guide cables; an LM guide mounted on the upper part of the main frame and connected to the travel drive unit frame to guide the travel direction of the travel drive unit frame; and a travel regular position sensor and a travel restriction sensor mounted on the upper part of the main frame.

[0012] The conveying device according to the invention may further include a reel stacking platform mounted at the rear end of the main frame unit along the Y-axis to place the reels thereon; wherein the reel stacking platform may include: a three-dimensional stacking platform frame; a guide block mounted on the upper part of the stacking platform frame to prevent the reels from being pushed in the axial direction; a cargo detection sensor mounted on the upper part of the stacking platform frame to determine whether a reel is present in the stacking platform; a reel detection sensor mounted on the guide block to determine whether a reel is present in the guide block; and a transport vehicle end stop mounted toward the rear end of the stacking platform frame along the Y-axis to prevent collision between the transport vehicle and the stacking platform.

[0013] The conveying device according to the invention may further include a cover assembly mounted on the top and side surfaces of the main frame unit; wherein the cover assembly may include: a three-dimensional cover assembly frame; a ladder mounted on the side surface of the cover assembly frame to provide a movement path during upper maintenance; and a safety helmet mounted on the side surface of the cover assembly frame.

[0014] The conveying device according to the invention may further include an inlet guide installed at the entrance of the main frame unit to guide the path of the transport vehicle when the box is input; wherein the inlet guide may include: a three-dimensional inlet guide frame; a roller installed inside the inlet guide frame in the Z-axis direction to prevent friction between the transport vehicle and the inlet guide; and a pad installed toward the front end of the inlet guide frame to prevent damage to the transport vehicle and the inlet guide.

[0015] The conveying device according to the invention may further include a maintenance frame mounted on the upper part of the main frame unit for mounting the motor during maintenance.

[0016] The conveying device according to the invention may further include a lid stacking platform mounted at the rear end of the Y-axis of the conveyor unit; wherein the lid stacking platform may include: a stacking platform frame having a plate-like structure; a centering cylinder mounted at both ends of the stacking platform frame in the X-axis direction for centering the lid in the Y-axis direction; an end bracket mounted at the rear end of the stacking platform frame in the Y-axis direction for Y-axis centering of the lid; and a detection sensor mounted at both ends of the stacking platform frame in the X-axis direction for checking the normal position of the lid.

[0017] Beneficial effects

[0018] By automating the opening of the box lid using the conveying device according to the present invention, the number of workers can be reduced. In this invention, automation is achieved by opening the box lid to convey the reel while it is being manually opened and then conveyed. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1a and Figure 1b The overall structure of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0020] Figure 2a and Figure 2b The main frame unit structure of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0021] Figure 3a , Figure 3b , Figure 3c and Figure 3d The structure of the travel drive unit of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0022] Figure 4a , Figure 4b and Figure 4c The fork unit structure of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0023] Figure 5a , Figure 5b and Figure 5c The centering unit structure of the transmission device according to the present invention is shown.

[0024] Figure 6 The conveyor unit structure of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0025] Figure 7a and Figure 7b The construction of a reel stacking platform for a conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0026] Figure 8 The structure of the cover assembly of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0027] Figure 9 The structure of the inlet guide of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0028] Figure 10 The construction of a box cover stacking platform for a conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0029] Figure 11 The maintenance frame structure of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 12a and Figure 12b The foil, reel, and box are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Reference Figure 1a and Figure 1b When roughly divided according to the conveying device of the present invention, the conveying device may be composed of a main frame unit (10), a travel drive unit (20), a fork unit (30), a centering unit (40), a conveyor unit (50), a reel loading platform (60), a cover assembly (70), an entrance guide (80), a box cover loading platform (90), a maintenance frame (100), a barcode reader, a control unit, etc.

[0033] The conveying device according to the present invention can be used to convey raw materials. The raw materials may be, for example, foils or films made of metal, plastic, etc., and may include, for example, metal foils or plastic films. The foil may be, for example, foil used in batteries (for automobiles, etc.), and specifically, the foil may be a foil used as a substrate (current collector) for electrodes (positive electrode, negative electrode), and more specifically, copper (Cu) foil (negative electrode) and aluminum (Al) foil (positive electrode), etc.

[0034] refer to Figure 12a The foil (2) can be transported in a rolled-up state around the spool (1). Even in the case of a film, it can be transported in a rolled-up state around the spool (1). The spool (1) can be made of a hollow cylindrical structure, and both ends of the spool (1) can be open hollow ends (1a), and the fork unit (30) can engage the spool (1) when the fork (33b) of the fork unit (30) is inserted into these hollow ends (1a).

[0035] The roll (1) around which the foil (2) is wound can be contained (loaded) in a box (3). The box (3) can be, for example, a wooden box made of wood, or it can be made of metal, plastic, paper, or other materials.

[0036] Reference Figure 12b The box (3) may include a lower box body (3a) and an upper box lid (3b). The box body (3a) may have a hexahedral structure with an internal space and an open top, and the box lid (3b) may have a hexahedral structure with an internal space and an open bottom. A groove may be formed at the upper end of the box body (3a), and the spool (1) is placed in the groove. After the spool (1) wound with the foil (2) is placed on the box body (3a), the box body (3a) can be covered with the box lid (3b), and then it can be transported in this packaged box state.

[0037] In the accompanying drawings, the X-axis can be the width or lateral direction of the conveying device. The Y-axis can be the longitudinal or traveling direction of the conveying device. The Z-axis can be the height or lifting direction of the conveying device. Figure 1a In this context, the front of the Y-axis represents forward (front), and the back of the Y-axis represents backward (backward). Conversely, in... Figure 1b In the diagram, the front represents the rear end of the Y-axis. The size of the conveying device is not particularly limited and can be appropriately set; in particular, unlike the accompanying drawings, the length of the conveying device can be very long as needed.

[0038] Reference Figure 2a and Figure 2b The main frame unit (10) may be composed of a main frame (11), a light curtain sensor (12), a cable drag chain (13), an LM guide (14), a travel regular position sensor (15), and travel restriction sensors (16, 17), etc.

[0039] The main frame (11) forms a basic skeleton, which may be composed of a three-dimensional structure in the form of a hexahedron and may have a size close to the overall size of the conveying device.

[0040] The light curtain sensor (12) can be mounted on the side surface of the main frame (11) for interlocking during lower maintenance. In the side surface of the main frame (11), for example, as... Figure 2b As shown in the side view, the light curtain sensor (12) can be installed in five positions: one light curtain sensor at the front end in the Z-axis direction, one light curtain sensor at the front end facing downwards in the Y-axis direction, one light curtain sensor at the center in the Y-axis direction, one light curtain sensor at the lower end of the rear end in the Y-axis direction, and one light curtain sensor at the rear end in the Z-axis direction. The light curtain sensor (12) is a safety sensor; when it detects workers or other abnormalities, the operation of the conveyor device can be temporarily stopped.

[0041] The cable drag chain (13) can be installed on the upper part of the main frame (11) to guide the cable. The cable drag chain (13) can be installed sequentially on both sides of the upper part of the main frame (11) in the Y-axis direction.

[0042] The LM guide (14) can be mounted on the upper part of the main frame (11) and can be connected to the travel drive unit frame (21) to guide the travel direction of the travel drive unit (20). The LM guide (14) can be mounted sequentially on both sides of the cable drag chain (13) along the Y-axis direction and can be connected to the lower part of the travel drive unit frame (21).

[0043] The travel position sensor (or travel start sensor) (15) can be mounted on the upper part of the main frame (11) to confirm the initial operation or completion of the travel drive unit (20). The travel position sensor (15) can be mounted from the upper part of the main frame (11) toward the rear end of the support member at the center. The travel position sensor (15) can be a horseshoe-shaped sensor.

[0044] The travel restriction sensors (16, 17) can be mounted on the upper part of the main frame (11) to stop the travel drive unit (20) while generating an alarm when its limit is exceeded. The travel restriction sensors (16, 17) can consist of a backward travel restriction sensor (16) and a forward travel restriction sensor (17), wherein the travel restriction sensors can be mounted from the rear end of the support member towards the center and the front end of the support member towards the center, respectively, on the upper part of the main frame (11). The travel restriction sensors (16, 17) can be restriction switch sensors.

[0045] Reference Figure 3a , Figure 3b , Figure 3c and Figure 3d The travel drive unit (20) may be composed of a travel drive unit frame (21), a travel motor (22), a lifting motor (23), a rack jack (24), a lifting guide sleeve (25), a sensor support (26), a lifting conventional position sensor (27), and lifting limit sensors (28, 29).

[0046] The travel drive unit (20) itself can move in the Y-axis direction, or it can be connected to the top of the fork unit (30) and lift the fork unit (30) in the Z-axis direction and reciprocate in the Y-axis direction.

[0047] The driving unit frame (21) forms a basic skeleton, which may be composed of a rectangular plate structure and reciprocates in the Y-axis direction when connected to the LM guide (14) of the main frame unit (10) at its lower part.

[0048] The travel motor (22) can be a travel motor for moving along the Y-axis direction, and it is mounted on the upper part of the travel drive unit frame (21). Although not shown in the figure, the rotation axis of the travel motor (22) can be connected to one of a pair of pulleys (or gears) through a suitable power transmission mechanism, and a belt (or chain) can be wound around the pair of pulleys to be rotated, and the belt can be directly or indirectly connected to the travel drive unit frame (21). The pair of pulleys can be placed facing the front end and rear end of the Y-axis respectively, and can be fixed to the main frame unit (10), etc. The belt can be placed long along the Y-axis direction. By rotating the pulleys and belt in the forward and reverse directions, the travel drive unit frame (21) can reciprocate along the Y-axis direction. In addition to these pulley and belt mechanisms, other drive mechanisms can also be used, such as cylinder and piston (or rod) mechanisms, rack and pinion mechanisms, etc.

[0049] The lifting motor (23) can be a lifting motor for movement along the Z-axis direction, and it is mounted on the upper part of the travel drive unit frame. (See reference) Figure 3a The rotating shaft of the lifting motor (23) can be connected to the rack jack (24) through a suitable power transmission mechanism (belt / chain, pulley / gear, rotating shaft, reduction gear, pinion, etc.).

[0050] A rack jack (24) can be mounted on the travel drive unit frame (21) along the Z-axis to enable lifting and convert the rotation of the lifting motor (23) into linear motion, and is connected to the fork unit (30) to lift the fork unit (30). The rack jack (24) is a rack that can engage with a pinion to allow linear motion in the Z-axis direction. The rack jacks (24) can be arranged in pairs on each side of the X-axis direction, resulting in a total of four rack jacks, wherein the upper parts of the pairs of rack jacks 24 can be connected by a connecting member. The lower end of the rack jack 24 can be connected to the upper end of the fork unit frame 31 of the fork unit 30. In Figure 3, the rack jack (24) is in the state of being raised to its maximum height.

[0051] The lifting guide sleeve 25 can be mounted on the travel drive unit frame 21, and the lifting guide shaft 38 of the fork unit 30 can be inserted into the lifting guide sleeve 25. There can be a total of four lifting guide sleeves (25), which are positioned adjacent to the inside of each rack jack (24) in the X-axis direction.

[0052] The sensor support 26 can be mounted on the travel drive unit frame 21 along the Z-axis, and the conventional position sensor 27 and the lifting limit sensors 28 and 29 can be attached to the sensor support 26.

[0053] The lifting position sensor (or lifting origin sensor) (27) can be mounted toward the upper end of the sensor support (26) to confirm the origin operation or operation completion of the fork unit (30). The lifting position sensor (27) can be a horseshoe-shaped sensor.

[0054] The lift limit sensors (28, 29) can be mounted towards the upper end and the lower end of the sensor support (26) to stop the fork unit (30) while generating an alarm when its limit is exceeded. The lift limit sensors (28, 29) can be composed of a lift-up limit sensor (28) and a lift-down limit sensor (29). The lift limit sensors (28, 29) can be limit switch sensors.

[0055] Reference Figure 4a , Figure 4b and Figure 4c The fork unit (30) can be composed of a fork unit frame (31), an orthogonal robot (32), a fork arm (33a), a fork (33b), a box cover cylinder (34a), a box detection sensor (35), a distance sensor (36), a locking sensor (37), a lifting guide shaft (38), a sensor support (39a), a lifting origin sensor (39b), and a lifting limit sensor (39c).

[0056] The fork unit (30) can be installed on the lower part of the travel drive unit (20) and the upper part of the conveyor unit (50), and can engage the cover (3b) of the box (3) whose position is adjustable in the X-axis direction, and can also engage the reel loaded in the box (3) in the X-axis direction.

[0057] The fork unit frame (31) forms the basic skeleton, which can be composed of a rectangular plate structure and moves up and down along the Z-axis when its upper end is connected to the lower end of the rack jack (24) of the travel drive unit (20).

[0058] An orthogonal robot (32) is used for the linear reciprocating motion of the engaging member in the X-axis direction, and it is movably mounted on the lower part of the fork unit frame (31) in the X-axis direction. The orthogonal robot (32) may include a motor for moving in the X-axis direction when engaging the spool (1). The orthogonal robot 32 may consist of two orthogonal robots 3 placed at both ends of the fork unit frame 31 in the X-axis direction.

[0059] The fork arm 33a can be mounted on the lower part of the two orthogonal robots 32 along the Z-axis to support the fork 33b and the box cover cylinder 34a. The fork arm 33a can reciprocate linearly along the X-axis of the orthogonal robot 32.

[0060] Forks 33b can be installed on the inner side of the lower end of the two fork arms 33a respectively along the X-axis direction to engage the spool 1. Forks 33b can be inserted into the open hollow ends 1a at both ends of the spool 1 to engage the spool 1, and can reciprocate linearly along the fork arms 33a along the X-axis direction.

[0061] The lid cylinder 34a is a cylinder used to move in the X-axis direction when the lid 3b is engaged. It can be installed in the middle of the two fork arms 33a in the X-axis direction to engage the lid 3b. The lid cylinder (34a) may be provided with a cylinder rod (34b) placed on the outside of the fork arm (33a), a lid pusher (34c) placed on the inside of the fork arm (33a), and a connecting member (34d) for connecting the cylinder rod (34b) and the lid pusher (34c). The lid cylinder (34a) may be a pneumatic cylinder.

[0062] The cylinder rod 34b can reciprocate linearly from the outside of the fork arm 33a in the X-axis direction, and the cover pusher 34c, which is connected to the cylinder rod 34b via the connecting member 34d, can reciprocate linearly from the inside of the fork arm 33a in the X-axis direction. Therefore, regardless of the movement of the fork arm 33a, the cover pusher 34c can autonomously reciprocate linearly in the X-axis direction.

[0063] Figure 4a -c shows the state in which the cover pusher (34c) is pushed to the inside of the fork arm (33a) at its maximum, i.e., the state in which the cover (3b) is engaged, wherein it can move backward to make close contact with the fork arm (33a) so as not to interfere with the engagement of the spool (1) of the fork (33b) when the spool (1) is engaged.

[0064] The box detection sensor 35 can be installed in the connecting member 34d of the two box cover cylinders 34a, on the inner side of the fork arm 33a, to sense the box cover 3b. When the box cover (3b) is engaged, the box detection sensor (35) is required for X-axis alignment of the fork unit (30). The box detection sensor (35) can be a photoelectric sensor.

[0065] Distance sensor 36 can be mounted on the lower part of the two orthogonal robots 32, reaching the inside of the two forks 33a, to sense the distance (height) between the spool 1 and the lid 3b, and to determine if there is a lifting height error. When the lid (3b) is engaged and the spool (1) is engaged, distance sensor (36) is required to be linked with a barcode reader for Z-axis alignment of the fork unit (30). Distance sensor (36) can be an ultrasonic sensor.

[0066] Engagement sensor 37 can be mounted at the lower ends of the two fork arms 33a to sense engagement of the spool 1. When the spool (1) is engaged, engagement sensor (37) is required for X-axis alignment of the fork unit (30). Engagement sensor (37) can be a proximity sensor.

[0067] The lifting guide shafts 38 are mounted on the upper part of the fork unit frame 31 along the Z-axis to serve as guides when the fork unit 30 is lifted. The four lifting guide shafts 38 can be respectively inserted into the four lifting guide sleeves 25 of the travel drive unit 20.

[0068] The sensor support (lifting DOG unit) (39a) can be mounted on the upper part of the fork unit frame (31) along the Z-axis direction, and the lifting conventional position sensor (39b) and the lifting limit sensor (39c) can be attached to the sensor support (39a).

[0069] The lifting position sensor (or lifting origin sensor) (39b) can be mounted towards the upper end of the sensor support (39a) to confirm the origin operation or completion of the fork unit (30). The lifting position sensor (39b) can be a horseshoe-shaped sensor.

[0070] The lift limit sensor (39c) can be mounted facing the upper and lower ends of the sensor support (39a) respectively, to stop the fork unit (30) while generating an alarm when its limit is exceeded. The lift limit sensor (39c) can be composed of a lift-up limit sensor and a lift-down limit sensor. The lift limit sensor (39c) can be a limit switch sensor.

[0071] When the sensor support (26), the conventional lifting position sensor (27), and the lifting limit sensor (28, 29) are installed in the travel drive unit (20), the sensor support (39a), the conventional lifting position sensor (39b), and the lifting limit sensor (39c) can be omitted. That is, the sensor support, the conventional lifting position sensor, and the lifting limit sensor can be installed in either the travel drive unit (20) or the fork unit (30), or they can be installed in both units.

[0072] Reference Figure 5a , Figure 5b and Figure 5c The centering unit (40) can be composed of a centering unit frame (41), a Y-axis cylinder (42), a moving plate (43), an X-axis cylinder (44), a box pusher (45), an LM guide (46), a dimension inspection sensor (47), etc.

[0073] The centering unit (40) can be installed outside the conveyor unit (50) along the X-axis direction to adjust the position of the (centering, alignment) box (3) in the X-axis and Y-axis directions. Regarding the centering sequence, X-axis centering can be performed first, and then Y-axis centering can be performed.

[0074] The centering unit frame 41 forms a basic skeleton, which can be composed of an approximately rectangular plate structure and can be installed on both sides of the outside of the conveyor unit 50 along the X-axis direction.

[0075] The Y-axis cylinder (42) can be mounted on two centering unit frames (41) along the Y-axis direction to cause the box pusher (45) to reciprocate along the Y-axis direction. The rod of the Y-axis cylinder 42 can be connected to the lower part of the moving plate 43. The Y-axis cylinder (42) can be a pneumatic cylinder.

[0076] The movable plate 43 can be connected to the rods of two Y-axis cylinders 42 for reciprocating motion in the Y-axis direction. The movable plate 43 may have a rectangular plate structure and can be connected to the end of the rod of the Y-axis cylinder 42. The X-axis cylinder 44 may be mounted on the upper part of the movable plate 43.

[0077] X-axis cylinder 44 can be mounted on two movable plates 43 along the X-axis direction to reciprocate along the Y-axis direction together with the movable plates 43. The rod of X-axis cylinder 44 can be connected to box pusher 45 to move box pusher 45 in the X-axis direction. X-axis cylinder (44) can be a pneumatic cylinder.

[0078] When the box pusher 45 reciprocates in the Y-axis direction and the X-axis direction respectively via the Y-axis cylinder 42 and the X-axis cylinder 44, the box pusher 45 can bring the box 3 into contact with the box 3. The box pusher (45) can be positioned elongated in the X-axis direction, wherein the outer end in the X-axis direction can be connected to the LM guide (46) mounted on the moving plate (43), the Y-axis front end in the inner end in the X-axis direction can be connected to the rod end of the X-axis cylinder (44), and the pad can be attached to the Y-axis rear end in the inner end in the X-axis direction. Figures 5a-5c In the middle, the box pusher (45) is in the maximum forward state in the Y-axis direction and the X-axis direction respectively.

[0079] The LM guide (46) can be mounted on both the centering unit frame (41) and the moving plate (43) to guide movement in each axial direction. The LM guide 46 can be mounted in the centering unit frame 41 along the Y-axis and connected to the lower part of the moving plate 43. In addition, the LM guide 46 can be mounted on the moving plate 43 along the X-axis and connected to the upper part of the moving plate 43 and the lower part of the box pusher 45, respectively.

[0080] A dimension inspection sensor 47 can be mounted on the upper part of the centering unit frame 41 to inspect the dimensions of the box 3. The dimension inspection sensor (47) can consist of multiple sensors (e.g., five sensors), as shown, and the spacing between the respective sensors can gradually narrow towards the rear end of the Y-axis. The dimension inspection sensor (47) can be an optical transmitting / receiving sensor. The dimension inspection sensor (47) can be supported on the centering unit frame (41) by a suitable support device (bracket, support member, etc.).

[0081] refer to Figure 6 The conveyor unit (50) can be composed of a free roller conveyor (51), a box stop (52), a cargo alignment sensor (53), an inlet guide block (54), and a transport vehicle end stop (55).

[0082] The conveyor unit (50) is a conveyor used to adjust the position of the box (3) installed at the front end of the conveying device, where the box (3) is first placed and the conveying begins.

[0083] The free roller conveyor (51) is used for the movement of the box (3) in the Y-axis direction, wherein the free rollers themselves are not driven, but can rotate freely by external force. The free roller conveyor 51 can be composed of multiple tracks, such as three tracks, arranged along the Y-axis direction, as shown in the figure. Specifically, the main roller conveyor can be placed at both ends in the X-axis direction, and the auxiliary roller conveyor, which is narrower than the width of the main roller conveyor, can be placed in the center. The space between the main roller conveyor and the auxiliary roller conveyor can be the space for transport vehicles (forklifts, pallet trucks, etc.) to enter. Each track (51) can be equipped with multiple free rollers, such as eight free rollers, as shown in the figure.

[0084] A box stop (52) is used for Y-axis alignment of the box (3), and it can be installed at the rear end of the Y-axis of the two main rollers in the free roller conveyor (51). The box stop (52) can be an approximately plate-shaped structure placed along the Z-axis direction. Y-axis alignment can be performed while the box placed on the free roller conveyor (51) is pushed along the Y-axis by the alignment unit (40) to make close contact with the box stop (52).

[0085] The cargo alignment sensor (or box end sensor) (53) can be placed adjacent to the box stop (52) at the rear end of the Y-axis of the two main rollers in the free roller conveyor (51) and confirm whether the box (3) is positioned in contact with the box stop (52), that is, to identify whether the loaded cargo (box) is aligned. The cargo alignment sensor (53) can be a direct reflection sensor.

[0086] An inlet guide block (54) can be installed at the front end of the Y-axis of the auxiliary roller conveyor in the free roller conveyor (51) to guide the inlet path of transport vehicles (carriers, etc.).

[0087] The transport vehicle end stop (55) can be placed adjacent to the box stop (52) to prevent collisions between the transport vehicle (forklift, etc.) and the box cover frame (90). The transport vehicle end stop (55) can be a plate-shaped structure placed along the Z-axis and can be placed on the same line as the box stop (52) inside the two box stops (52).

[0088] Reference Figure 7a and Figure 7b The reel stacking platform 60 can be composed of a stacking platform frame 61, a guide block 62, a cargo detection sensor 63, a reel detection sensor 64, and a transport vehicle end stop 65.

[0089] The reel stacking stand (60) is where the reels (1) are placed, and they can be mounted at the rear end of the Y-axis of the main frame unit (10).

[0090] The stacked platform frame (61) forms the basic skeleton, which can be composed of a three-dimensional structure in the form of a hexahedron.

[0091] Guide blocks 62 can be mounted on the upper part of the stacking platform frame 61 to prevent the reel 1 from being pushed in the axial direction. Guide blocks 62 can be placed at both ends in the X-axis direction along the Y-axis direction in the upper end of the stacking platform frame 61, and can include two inclined surfaces facing each other at the center.

[0092] Cargo detection sensor 63 can be mounted on the upper part of stacking rack frame 61 to determine whether cargo (reel) is loaded in stacking rack frame 60. Cargo detection sensor (63) can be arranged to intersect each other diagonally at both ends in the X-axis direction at the upper end of stacking rack frame (61). Cargo detection sensor (63) can be an optical transmitting / receiving sensor.

[0093] A reel detection sensor 64 can be mounted on a guide block 62 to determine whether a reel 1 is present in the guide block 62. The reel detection sensor 64 can be mounted at both ends of the guide block 62 in the Y-axis direction. The reel detection sensor (64) can be a photoelectric sensor.

[0094] A transport vehicle end stop (65) can be installed at the rear end of the stacking platform frame (61) along the Y-axis to prevent collisions between transport vehicles (forklifts, pallet trucks, etc.) and the reel stacking platform (60). The transport vehicle end stop (65) can be an approximately plate-like structure placed along the Z-axis, and two can be installed, for example.

[0095] refer to Figure 8 The cover assembly 70 may consist of a cover assembly frame 71, a ladder 72, a safety door 73, etc.

[0096] The cover assembly (70) is installed on the top and side surfaces of the main frame unit (10) and is an assembly of guardrails, ladders and safety doors above the conveyor facility.

[0097] The cover component frame (71) forms the basic skeleton, which can be composed of a three-dimensional structure in the form of a hexahedron.

[0098] A ladder (72) may be mounted on the side surface of the cover assembly frame (71) to provide a movement path during upper maintenance, i.e., the movement path may be a passageway to the upper part of the conveyor facility during maintenance.

[0099] Safety door 73 can be installed on the side surface of cover assembly frame 71 and the lower part of ladder 72. When safety door (73) is open, operation of the conveyor facility may be stopped due to interlocking.

[0100] refer to Figure 9 The inlet guide 80 may be composed of an inlet guide frame 81, rollers 82, pads 83, etc.

[0101] An entrance guide (80) is installed at the entrance of the main frame unit (10) to guide the path of the transport vehicle (carrier, etc.) when the box (3) is placed in.

[0102] The entrance guide frame (81) forms a basic skeleton, which can be composed of a three-dimensional structure. The entrance guide frame (81) can be placed along the Y-axis toward the front end of the two centering units (40), and can be provided with a plate-like structure object placed along the Z-axis, as well as a support for supporting the plate-like structure object.

[0103] Roller (82) can be installed inside the inlet guide frame (81) along the Z-axis to prevent friction between the transport vehicle (trolley, etc.) and the inlet guide (80). Roller (82) can consist of multiple rollers, such as three rollers, as shown in the figure.

[0104] The pad (83) can be installed facing the front end of the entrance guide frame (81) to prevent damage to the transport vehicle (trolley, etc.) and the entrance guide (80). The pad 83 can be made of stainless steel (SUS).

[0105] Reference Figure 10 The box cover stacking platform (90) can be composed of a stacking platform frame (91), a centering cylinder (92), an end bracket (93), and a sensor for mounting (94).

[0106] The lid stacking stand (90) is where the lids (3b) are placed. It can be installed in the middle of the conveying device, for example, between the conveyor unit (50) and the reel stacking stand (60).

[0107] The stacked platform frame 91 forms the basic skeleton, which can be composed of plate-like structures.

[0108] The centering cylinder (92) is a cylinder used for Y-axis centering of the lid (3b), which can be mounted at both ends of the stacking frame (91) in the X-axis direction. The rod end of the centering cylinder 92 can be connected to a lid pusher placed in the X-axis direction, and the lid pusher can reciprocate in the Y-axis direction via the centering cylinder 92. The centering cylinder (92) can be a pneumatic cylinder.

[0109] The end bracket (93) is a stop for Y-axis alignment of the cover (3b), which can be mounted at the rear end of the stacking frame frame (91) along the Y-axis direction, and two can be mounted along the X-axis direction. The end bracket 93 can be a plate-like structure object placed along the Z-axis direction. Y-axis alignment can be performed while the cover (3b) is pushed by the cover pusher of the alignment cylinder (92) to make close contact with the end bracket (93).

[0110] The detection sensor (94) can be mounted at both ends of the stacking frame (91) along the X-axis to check the normal position of the box cover (3b).

[0111] Reference Figure 11 The maintenance frame (100) is used to mount the motor during maintenance and can be mounted on the upper part of the main frame unit (10). The maintenance frame 100 can be composed of a three-dimensional structure and can be placed on the upper part of the motor (22, 23).

[0112] A barcode reader is a device for reading barcodes attached to a box (3) containing a reel (1), wherein various information about the reel (1) and the box (3) can be stored in the barcode. Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, the barcode reader can be installed at an appropriate location between the main frame unit (10), the travel drive unit (20), the fork unit (30), the centering unit (40), the conveyor unit (50), and the entrance guide (80).

[0113] The control unit can automatically control the lifting of the reel (1) by controlling the Z-axis alignment of the fork unit (30) by combining the barcode reader and the distance sensor (36), controlling the X-axis alignment of the fork unit (30) by combining the engagement sensor (37), and controlling the Z-axis lifting and Y-axis movement of the fork unit (30).

[0114] In addition, the control unit can automatically control the opening of the box lid (3b) by controlling the Z-axis alignment of the fork unit (30) in conjunction with the barcode reader and the distance sensor (36), controlling the X-axis alignment of the fork unit (30) in conjunction with the box detection sensor (35), and controlling the Z-axis lifting and Y-axis movement of the fork unit (30).

[0115] Although not shown in the figure, the control unit can be installed in a suitable location, such as the main frame unit (10), and can be connected to each sensor, motor, cylinder, etc. Furthermore, the control unit can be equipped with an arithmetic / processing unit (CPU, MPU, etc.), storage devices (memory, drive, etc.), input devices (keyboard, mouse, buttons, switches, etc.), output devices (monitor, touchscreen, etc.), communication devices (LAN, modem, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.), circuit boards (motherboard, graphics card, etc.), etc.

[0116] The operation of the conveying device according to the present invention will be described below.

[0117] The first step is to open the box lid (3b), and the second step is to remove the packaging. The first step can be performed automatically by the conveyor, and the second step can be performed manually by the worker.

[0118] First, the barcode attached to the box (3) is read by a barcode reader (BCR), and then the box (3) is placed into the conveyor unit (50).

[0119] Next, the centering unit (40) is used to automatically center the box (3), wherein the control unit combines the BCR reading value and the box size check sensor (47) to perform the X-axis centering and Y-axis centering of the box (3).

[0120] Next, the lid (3b) is automatically opened using the lid cylinders (34a) of the fork unit (30), along with the lid detection sensor (35) and distance sensor (36). The control unit performs Z-axis alignment of the fork unit (30) using the BCR reading and the distance sensor (36), and X-axis alignment using the lid detection sensor (35). The lid pushers 34c of the two lid cylinders 34a advance along the inside of the X-axis to engage the lid 3b.

[0121] Next, via the travel drive unit (20), the fork unit (30) rises along the Z-axis and moves backward along the Y-axis while the lid (3b) is engaged, then descends from the lid stacking platform (90) and releases the engagement to load the lid (3b) onto the lid stacking platform (90). Even when the lid (3b) moves and the engagement is released, the control unit can interlock with the distance sensor (36) and the box detection sensor (35).

[0122] Next, the box cover (3b) is centered on the Y-axis using the centering cylinder (92) on the box cover stacking platform (90).

[0123] The third step is the engagement and transmission of the reel (1), and the fourth step is the worker's reel transmission step. The third step can be performed automatically by the transmission device, and the fourth step can be performed manually by the worker.

[0124] First, the traveling drive unit (20) and the fork unit (30), which are the conveying components, move to the position of the conveyor unit (50), which is the origin.

[0125] Next, the orthogonal robot (32) and the forks (33b) of the fork unit (30), the distance sensor (36), and the engagement sensor (37) automatically engage and lift the spool (1), wherein the control unit performs Z-axis alignment of the fork unit (30) in conjunction with the BCR reading and the distance sensor (36), and performs X-axis alignment in conjunction with the engagement sensor (37). The two forks (33b) of the fork unit (30) advance inside the X-axis to insert into the hollow end (1a) of the spool (1) and simultaneously engage the spool (1).

[0126] Next, via the travel drive unit (20), the fork unit (30) rises along the Z-axis and moves backward along the Y-axis while the spool (1) is engaged, then descends from the spool stacking stand (60) and releases the engagement to load the spool (1) onto the spool stacking stand (60). Even when the spool (1) moves and the engagement is released, the control unit can interlock with the distance sensor (36) and the engagement sensor (37).

[0127] Next, the fork unit (30) moves to the position of the box cover stacking platform (90), which is the standby position.

[0128] Next, workers use transport vehicles to move the reels (1) loaded on the reel stacking platform (60).

[0129] The fifth step is to return the lid (3b), and the sixth step is to recycle the empty container. The fifth step can be performed automatically by the conveyor, and the sixth step can be performed manually by a worker.

[0130] First, the fork unit (30) moves to the box cover position, which is the middle position of the conveyor.

[0131] Next, the fork unit (30) engages the box cover (3b) with the centering cylinder (92) on the box cover stacking platform (90) in the same manner as described above, by centering the Z-axis and the X-axis, in the state of being centered on the Y-axis.

[0132] Next, via the travel drive unit (20), the fork unit (30) rises along the Z-axis and moves forward along the Y-axis while the box cover (3b) is engaged, then descends from the conveyor unit (50) and releases the engagement to reassemble the box cover (3b) with the empty box body (3a) without the reel (1).

[0133] Next, the fork unit (30) moves to the position of the box cover stacking platform (90), which is the standby position.

[0134] Finally, workers use transport vehicles to transfer and collect the reassembled empty boxes (3) from the conveyor unit (50).

[0135] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0136] 1: Reel, 1a: Hollow end, 2: Foil, 3: Box, 3a: Box body, 3b: Box cover, 10: Main frame unit, 11: Main frame, 12: Light curtain sensor, 13: Cable drag chain, 14: LM guide, 15: Traveling normal position sensor, 16: Traveling backward restriction sensor, 17: Traveling forward restriction sensor, 20: Traveling drive unit, 21: Traveling drive unit frame, 22: Traveling motor, 23: Lifting motor, 24: Rack and pinion jack, 25: 26: Lifting guide sleeve; 27: Sensor support component; 28: Lifting conventional position sensor; 29: Lifting upward limit sensor; 30: Lifting downward limit sensor; 31: Fork unit; 32: Fork unit frame; 33a: Orthogonal robot; 33b: Fork; 34a: Box lid cylinder; 34b: Cylinder rod; 34c: Lid pusher; 34d: Connecting component; 35: Box detection sensor; 36: Distance sensor; 37: Engagement sensor; 38: Lifting guide shaft; 39a 39b: Sensor support component; 39c: Lift origin sensor; 40: Lift limit sensor; 41: Centering unit; 42: Centering unit frame; 43: Y-axis cylinder; 44: Moving plate; 45: X-axis cylinder; 46: Box pusher; 47: LM guide; 50: Dimension check sensor; 51: Conveyor unit; 52: Free roller conveyor; 53: Box stop; 54: Cargo alignment sensor; 55: Entrance guide block; 60: Transport vehicle end stop; 51: Reel stacking table Frame, 61: Stacking platform frame, 62: Guide block, 63: Cargo detection sensor, 64: Reel detection sensor, 65: Transport vehicle end stop, 70: Cover assembly, 71: Cover assembly frame, 72: Ladder, 73: Safety gate, 80: Entrance guide, 81: Entrance guide frame, 82: Roller, 83: Pad, 90: Box cover stacking platform, 91: Stacking platform frame, 92: Centering cylinder, 93: End bracket, 94: Placement detection sensor, 100: Maintenance frame

Claims

1. A conveying device, comprising: A barcode reader for reading barcodes attached to a box that contains a roll of raw materials and has a lid; A conveyor unit for placing the box; A centering unit is installed on the outside of the conveyor unit and adjusts the position of the box in the X-axis direction corresponding to the width or transverse direction and in the Y-axis direction corresponding to the longitudinal or traveling direction. A fork unit is mounted on the upper part of the conveyor unit to engage the lid of the box in the X-axis direction, and is provided with a box lid cylinder for moving along the X-axis direction when the lid is engaged, a box detection sensor for sensing the lid, and a distance sensor for sensing the distance to the lid. A travel drive unit is connected to the fork unit at the top of the fork unit, which lifts the fork unit in the Z-axis direction corresponding to the height direction or lifting direction, and moves the fork unit in the Y-axis direction; The control unit is configured to control the Z-axis alignment of the fork unit in conjunction with the barcode reader and the distance sensor, control the X-axis alignment of the fork unit in conjunction with the box detection sensor, and control the Z-axis lifting and Y-axis movement of the fork unit, so as to automatically control the opening of the lid. The conveyor unit includes: a free roller conveyor for moving the box along the Y-axis; a box stop installed at the rear end of the free roller conveyor along the Y-axis for centering the box along the Y-axis; a cargo alignment sensor positioned adjacent to the box stop to check whether the box is positioned to contact the box stop; an entrance guide block installed at the front end of the free roller conveyor along the Y-axis to guide the entrance path of the transport vehicle; and a transport vehicle end stop positioned adjacent to the box stop to prevent collisions between transport vehicles.

2. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, The centering unit includes: a box pusher that contacts the box for centering the box; an X-axis cylinder connected to the box pusher for moving the box pusher along the X-axis direction; a moving plate on which the X-axis cylinder is mounted; a Y-axis cylinder connected to the moving plate for moving the box pusher along the Y-axis direction; an LM guide connected to the moving plate for guiding movement in each axial direction; a centering unit frame in which the Y-axis cylinder is mounted; and a dimension checking sensor mounted on the upper part of the centering unit frame for checking the dimensions of the box.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein, The fork unit includes: a fork unit frame having a plate-like structure; an orthogonal robot equipped with a motor and mounted on the lower part of the fork unit frame for movement along the X-axis; a fork arm mounted on the lower part of the orthogonal robot; a fork mounted on the inner side of the lower end of the fork arm for engaging the spool; a box cover cylinder having a cylinder rod placed on the outer side of the fork arm, a cover pusher placed on the inner side of the fork arm, and a connecting member connecting the cylinder rod and the cover pusher; and a box detection sensor. A detection sensor is mounted on the connecting member of the box cover cylinder; a distance sensor is mounted on the lower part of the orthogonal robot, reaching the inner side of the fork arm; an engagement sensor is mounted at the lower end of the fork arm; a lifting guide shaft is mounted on the upper part of the fork unit frame; a sensor support is mounted facing the upper part of the fork unit frame; and a lifting normal position sensor and a lifting limit sensor are mounted on the sensor support.

4. The conveying device according to claim 3, wherein, The travel drive unit includes: a travel drive unit frame having a plate-like structure; a travel motor for movement along the Y-axis direction, the travel motor being mounted on the upper part of the travel drive unit frame; a lifting motor for movement along the Z-axis direction, the lifting motor being mounted on the upper part of the travel drive unit frame; a rack jack for movement along the Z-axis direction within the travel drive unit frame to achieve lifting, converting the rotation of the lifting motor into linear motion, and being connected to the fork unit to lift the fork unit; a lifting guide sleeve for installation within the travel drive unit frame and inserted by the lifting guide shaft of the fork unit; a sensor support for installation along the Z-axis direction within the travel drive unit frame; and a lifting conventional position sensor and a lifting limit sensor for installation on the sensor support.

5. The conveying device according to claim 4, further comprising: Main frame unit; among which, The main frame unit includes: a three-dimensional main frame; a light curtain sensor mounted on the side of the main frame for interlocking during lower maintenance; a cable drag chain mounted on the upper part of the main frame to guide cables; an LM guide mounted on the upper part of the main frame and connected to the travel drive unit frame to guide the travel direction of the travel drive unit frame; and a travel normal position sensor and a travel restriction sensor mounted on the upper part of the main frame.

6. The conveying device according to claim 5, further comprising: A reel stacking stand is mounted at the rear end of the Y-axis of the main frame unit to place the reels thereon. in The reel stacking platform includes: a three-dimensional stacking platform frame; a guide block mounted on the upper part of the stacking platform frame to prevent the reel from being pushed in the axial direction; a cargo detection sensor mounted on the upper part of the stacking platform frame to determine whether the reel is present in the stacking platform; a reel detection sensor mounted on the guide block to determine whether the reel is present in the guide block; and a transport vehicle end stop mounted towards the rear end of the stacking platform frame along the Y-axis to prevent collision between the transport vehicle and the stacking platform.

7. The conveying device according to claim 5, further comprising: A cover assembly, wherein the cover assembly is mounted on the top and side surfaces of the main frame unit; wherein, The cover assembly includes: a three-dimensional cover assembly frame; a ladder mounted on a side surface of the cover assembly frame to provide a movement path during upper maintenance; and a safety door mounted on a side surface of the cover assembly frame.

8. The conveying device according to claim 5, further comprising: An entrance guide is installed at the entrance of the main frame unit to guide the path of the transport vehicle when the box is entered; in The inlet guide includes: a three-dimensional inlet guide frame; a roller mounted inside the inlet guide frame in the Z-axis direction to prevent friction between the transport vehicle and the inlet guide; and a pad mounted toward the front end of the inlet guide frame to prevent damage to the transport vehicle and the inlet guide.

9. The conveying device according to claim 5, further comprising: A maintenance frame is mounted on the upper part of the main frame unit for mounting the motor during maintenance.

10. The conveying device according to claim 1, further comprising: A box cover stacking platform is installed at the rear end of the Y-axis of the conveyor unit; wherein, The lid stacking platform includes: a stacking platform frame having a plate-like structure; a centering cylinder mounted at both ends of the stacking platform frame in the X-axis direction to center the lid in the Y-axis direction; an end bracket mounted at the rear end of the stacking platform frame in the Y-axis direction for Y-axis centering of the lid; and a placement detection sensor mounted at both ends of the stacking platform frame in the X-axis direction to check the normal position of the lid.

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