An automated storage system and method for liquid cargo

Abstract

This invention discloses an automated liquid cargo storage system and method, relating to the field of liquid cargo storage technology. In the automated liquid cargo storage system, a first mobile device carrying a delivery pipe moves along a first travel track corresponding to a target first container to above the target first container. The delivery pipe is used to extract liquid cargo to be released from the target first container into an outbound buffer container, or to inject liquid cargo to be received from an inbound buffer container into the target first container. The automated liquid cargo storage method is applied to a host computer connected to the automated liquid cargo storage system. First, the host computer determines the task information, and then controls the first mobile device carrying the delivery pipe to move along the first travel track to above the target first container. The host computer then injects the liquid cargo to be received into the target first container, or extracts liquid cargo to be released from the target first container into an outbound buffer container. This invention achieves automated operation and reduces manual labor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of liquid cargo storage technology, specifically to an automated liquid cargo storage system and method. Background Technology

[0002] During the processing of the liquor, the freshly processed liquor needs to be transported to the inbound buffer container for storage, then transferred from the inbound buffer container to the storage area for cellaring, and finally transferred from the storage area to the outbound buffer container to await bottling.

[0003] Currently, when transferring wine from the inbound buffer container to the storage area and from the storage area to the outbound buffer container, the wine jars need to be manually moved to achieve the transfer of wine.

[0004] The aforementioned manual operation will bring the following problems: First, low work efficiency; second, high labor costs; third, high labor intensity for workers; fourth, the risk of damage to the wine jars due to bumps and scratches during manual handling increases, increasing the risk of accidents; fifth, the high value of the wine increases the risk of theft and losses during manual operation; sixth, manual operation increases the risk of contamination, increases losses, and reduces efficiency; seventh, workers working in an environment filled with the smell of alcohol will affect their health.

[0005] Therefore, how to reduce manual operations is a technical problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention addresses the aforementioned shortcomings of the existing technology by providing an automated liquid cargo storage system and method. The present invention enables automated operation and reduces manual labor.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0008] An automated liquid cargo storage system includes: a first container, an inbound buffer container, an outbound buffer container, a storage area, a first traveling track, a first moving device, a conveying pipeline, and an extraction device;

[0009] The storage area is provided with at least one row of storage positions, and each storage position corresponds to the placement of the first container; the first container is used to store liquid goods.

[0010] The first travel track is located above the first container, and the first travel track is used to guide the movement direction of the first mobile device;

[0011] The first mobile device is used to carry the delivery pipe along the first travel track corresponding to the target first container to the top of the target first container, the target first container being the first container that needs to be injected or extracted;

[0012] The conveying pipeline is used to draw liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container to the shipping buffer container; the shipping buffer container is used to store the liquid goods to be shipped; the liquid goods to be shipped are liquid goods that need to be drawn from the first container; or,

[0013] The delivery pipeline is used to inject liquid goods to be stored from the storage buffer container into the target first container; the storage buffer container is used to store the liquid goods to be stored; the liquid goods to be stored are the liquid goods that need to be injected into the first container;

[0014] The extraction device is used to provide extraction and conveying power to the conveying pipeline.

[0015] Furthermore, the first mobile device autonomously moves to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

[0016] Furthermore, it also includes a second mobile device, which is used to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

[0017] Furthermore, the second mobile device is also used to store the delivery pipeline.

[0018] Furthermore, the storage area includes at least one row of shelves, the shelves having at least one shelf in the vertical direction, each shelf having a row of storage positions, and each shelf having the first travel track.

[0019] Furthermore, it also includes a lifting platform, which is used to lift the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target cargo layer, the target cargo layer being the cargo layer where the target first container is located.

[0020] Furthermore, the lifting platform is located at the end of the shelf. After the first mobile device moves onto the lifting platform, the lifting platform directly lifts the first mobile device to the first travel track corresponding to the target shelf; or,

[0021] The lifting platform is mounted on the second mobile device, which is used to transport the lifting platform to the end of the target shelf, the target shelf being the shelf where the target first container is located, and the first mobile device is movably mounted on the lifting platform.

[0022] Furthermore, it also includes a second walking track, a third mobile device, and a fourth mobile device;

[0023] The second travel track is located within each of the cargo floors and below the cargo location. The second travel track is used to guide the movement direction of the fourth mobile device.

[0024] The third mobile device is used to sequentially transport a plurality of the first containers to the first cargo position at the end of the corresponding cargo layer;

[0025] The fourth mobile device runs along the second walking track below the cargo location, and the fourth mobile device is used to sequentially transport the first container placed on the first cargo location to the corresponding cargo location.

[0026] Furthermore, the third mobile device is also used to transport the fourth mobile device from the current cargo layer to the second travel track corresponding to the cargo layer, so that the fourth mobile device can transport the first container on the corresponding cargo layer.

[0027] Furthermore, the extraction device includes an extraction pump;

[0028] The extraction pump is installed on the ground; or...

[0029] The extraction pump is mounted on the first mobile device; or...

[0030] The extraction pump is mounted on the second mobile device; or...

[0031] Both the first mobile device and the second mobile device are equipped with the extraction pump.

[0032] Furthermore, it also includes a second container, which is used for temporary storage of liquid goods to be received or to be shipped out;

[0033] The first mobile device is used to inject the liquid goods to be stored in the second container into the target first container through the delivery pipe and the extraction device; or...

[0034] The first mobile device is used to extract liquid goods to be shipped out from the target first container into the second container through the delivery pipe and the extraction device.

[0035] Furthermore, the second container is disposed on the first mobile device or the second mobile device.

[0036] Furthermore, it also includes the transfer device, on which the second container is disposed, and the transfer device is used to transfer the second container;

[0037] The transfer equipment is used to transfer the liquid goods to be stored in the inbound buffer container to the end of the row where the target first container is located via the second container; or,

[0038] The transfer equipment is specifically used to transfer the second container containing the liquid goods to be shipped out to the outbound buffer container.

[0039] Furthermore, it also includes a third mobile device, which is used to sequentially transport multiple first containers to the corresponding storage locations in the storage area.

[0040] Furthermore, it also includes a telescopic device. After the first mobile device carries the delivery pipe along the first travel track to above the target first container, the telescopic device is not only used to carry one end of the delivery pipe to extend into the interior of the target first container, but also to carry one end of the delivery pipe to retract from the interior of the target first container.

[0041] Furthermore, the telescopic device is disposed on the first mobile device.

[0042] Furthermore, the first container is provided with a container identifier, which is used to identify at least the number of the first container. The first mobile device is provided with an identification device, which is used to identify the container identifier in order to obtain and confirm whether the first container is the target first container.

[0043] An automated liquid cargo storage method, applied to a host computer, wherein the host computer is connected to an automated liquid cargo storage system, comprising:

[0044] The task information is determined, which includes at least the quantity of liquid goods to be stored and the location information of the target first container.

[0045] According to the task information, the host computer controls the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to move above the target first container, and injects the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the delivery pipe and the extraction device.

[0046] Furthermore, before executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to the top of the target first container according to the task information, the method further includes: the host computer controlling the first mobile device to autonomously move to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

[0047] Furthermore, before executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to the top of the target first container according to the task information, the method further includes: the host computer controlling the second mobile device to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

[0048] Furthermore, when executing the step of the host computer controlling the second mobile device to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container, it includes: the host computer controlling the second mobile device to move the first mobile device to the shelf corresponding to the target first container, and the host computer controlling the lifting platform set on the second mobile device to lift the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target shelf, wherein the target shelf is the shelf where the target first container is located.

[0049] Furthermore, the step of injecting the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device includes:

[0050] The host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container;

[0051] The host computer controls the first mobile device to inject the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device;

[0052] After injection is completed, the host computer controls the telescopic device to retract one end of the delivery pipe from the inside of the target first container.

[0053] Furthermore, when executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to inject the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device, it includes:

[0054] The host computer controls the transfer equipment to transfer the second container containing the liquid goods to be stored from the storage buffer container to the end of the row where the target first container is located;

[0055] The host computer controls the first mobile device to inject the liquid goods to be stored in the second container into the target first container through the delivery pipe and the extraction device.

[0056] Furthermore, the task information also includes the number of the target first container;

[0057] When executing the step of the host computer controlling the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container, the following steps are included:

[0058] The host computer controls the identification device set on the first mobile device to identify the container identifier set on the target first container. The container identifier is used to identify the number of the first container. The host computer confirms whether the number of the target first container is correct based on the task information.

[0059] If the number of the first target container is confirmed to be correct, the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the first target container.

[0060] An automated liquid cargo storage method, applied to a host computer, wherein the host computer is connected to an automated liquid cargo storage system, comprising:

[0061] The task information is determined, which includes at least the outbound quantity of the liquid goods to be shipped and the location information of the target first container;

[0062] According to the task information, the host computer controls the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to move above the target first container, and extracts the liquid goods to be released from the target first container into the release buffer container according to the release quantity through the delivery pipe and the extraction device.

[0063] Furthermore, before executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to the top of the target first container according to the task information, the method further includes: the host computer controlling the first mobile device to autonomously move to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

[0064] Furthermore, before executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to the top of the target first container according to the task information, the method further includes: the host computer controlling the second mobile device to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

[0065] Furthermore, when executing the step of the host computer controlling the second mobile device to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container, it includes: the host computer controlling the second mobile device to move the first mobile device to the shelf corresponding to the target first container, and the host computer controlling the lifting platform set on the second mobile device to lift the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target shelf, wherein the target shelf is the shelf where the target first container is located.

[0066] Furthermore, the step of extracting the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container into the shipping buffer container according to the shipping volume through the conveying pipeline and the extraction device includes:

[0067] The host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container;

[0068] The host computer controls the first mobile device to extract the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container into the outbound buffer container according to the outbound quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device.

[0069] After extraction is completed, the host computer controls the telescopic device to retract one end of the delivery pipe from the inside of the target first container.

[0070] Furthermore, when executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to extract the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container to the shipping buffer container according to the shipping quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device, the method includes:

[0071] The host computer controls the first mobile device to extract the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container into the second container carried by the transfer device according to the outbound quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device.

[0072] The host computer controls the transfer equipment to transfer the second container containing the liquid goods to be shipped out to the outbound buffer container.

[0073] Furthermore, the task information also includes the number of the target first container;

[0074] When executing the step of the host computer controlling the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container, the following steps are included:

[0075] The host computer controls the identification device set on the first mobile device to identify the container identifier set on the target first container. The container identifier is used to identify the number of the first container. The host computer confirms whether the number of the target first container is correct based on the task information.

[0076] If the number of the first target container is confirmed to be correct, the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the first target container.

[0077] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0078] 1. In the process of transferring liquid goods to be stored from the inbound buffer container to the target first container in the storage area, and in the process of transferring liquid goods to be discharged from the target first container in the storage area to the outbound buffer container, the automatic liquid goods storage system of the present invention can realize mechanical automation without manual operation.

[0079] 2. Automated operation reduces manual labor, resulting in the following advantages: First, increased work efficiency; second, reduced labor costs; third, reduced labor intensity for workers; fourth, facilitated transfer of liquid goods, keeping containers stationary and reducing handling and accident risks; fifth, reduced theft risk, minimizing losses; sixth, reduced contamination risk, further reducing losses and increasing efficiency; and seventh, avoids impacting workers' health.

[0080] 3. When the liquid cargo automatic storage system of the present invention performs injection or extraction operations, since it is a transfer of liquid cargo, the first container remains stationary, and there is no need to move the first container out of the storage area, which improves the efficiency of liquid cargo entry and exit.

[0081] 4. When the first container is placed underground and the first traveling track is set on the ground; or when the first container is set on the first floor and the second traveling track is set on the second floor, the first mobile device with multi-directional autonomous movement capability can meet the needs of transferring between rows of first containers. In addition, the first mobile device can be transported between rows of first containers by the help of the second mobile device. The solution is flexible and adaptability is improved.

[0082] 5. When both the first container and the first traveling track are located in the shelf layer, the height of the first mobile device can be adjusted by setting up a lifting platform, thereby enabling injection and extraction operations on the first container at any shelf height, improving adaptability.

[0083] 6. When using shelves, make full use of each shelf in the vertical direction to store the first container, which helps to improve space utilization, increase the storage rate of the first container, and save space.

[0084] 7. When the lifting platform is set on the second mobile device and the first mobile device is set on the lifting platform, the second mobile device can carry the lifting platform and the first mobile device to transfer between various shelves, so that multiple shelves can share a single lifting platform, which can reduce the number of lifting platforms and help save equipment costs.

[0085] 8. When extracting liquid goods to be released from the target first container, if the liquid level of the liquid goods to be released is low, the extension device can be set to allow the conveying pipe to contact the liquid goods to be released in the target first container, so as to avoid failing to extract the liquid goods to be released and ensure the reliability of the extraction operation.

[0086] 9. When injecting liquid goods to be stored into the first target container, the telescopic device allows the conveying pipe to enter the interior of the first container, which can prevent the liquid goods to be stored from splashing to the outside of the first container during the injection process, thus reducing contamination.

[0087] 10. When both the first and second mobile equipment are equipped with extraction pumps, the extraction head can be increased, the extraction power can be improved, and liquid goods that are about to run dry can be extracted more thoroughly, avoiding waste.

[0088] 11. By setting up transfer equipment and a second container, the transfer equipment can be used to transport the second container containing liquid goods to the vicinity of the target first container. When performing extraction or injection operations, the conveying pipeline only needs to meet the distance between the second container and the target first container, which can shorten the extension length of the conveying pipeline, making the plant environment cleaner, and reducing the length restriction of the conveying pipeline. This can expand the operating range of injecting or extracting liquid goods and improve flexibility.

[0089] 12. By using identification devices to identify container identifiers, the target primary container can be confirmed before injection and extraction operations, improving the accuracy of extraction or injection operations and reducing the risk of errors.

[0090] 13. By using a third mobile device to move the first container, or by using a third mobile device and a fourth mobile device in combination to move the first container, the mechanized handling of the first container can be achieved without manual handling, which is beneficial to improving handling efficiency, improving handling safety, and reducing the labor intensity of workers.

[0091] 14. In the method of injecting liquid goods to be received into the target first container from the receiving buffer container, or in the method of extracting liquid goods to be discharged from the target first container into the discharge buffer container, mechanical automation can be achieved without manual operation. Attached Figure Description

[0092] Figure 1A schematic diagram of the structure of Embodiment 1 when the extraction pump is installed on the first mobile device;

[0093] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of Example 1 when the pump is installed on the ground;

[0094] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of Embodiment 1 when using two first mobile devices;

[0095] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of Embodiment 1 when a docking device is provided;

[0096] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of case (iii) in Example 3;

[0097] Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of case (iv) in Example 3;

[0098] Figure 7 This is a structural diagram of case (v) in Example 3;

[0099] Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of case (vi) in Example 3;

[0100] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in case (vii) of Example 3;

[0101] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of Embodiment 4 when the telescopic rod is installed in the first mobile device;

[0102] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of Example 6;

[0103] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of Example 7;

[0104] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of Example 8;

[0105] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of Example 9;

[0106] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of Example 10. Figure 1 ;

[0107] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of Example 10. Figure 2 ;

[0108] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of Example 11. Figure 1 ;

[0109] Figure 18This is a flowchart of Example 11. Figure 2 ;

[0110] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the application of an automated liquid cargo storage system.

[0111] In the picture:

[0112] 1-Inbound buffer container, 2-Storage area, 3-Outbound buffer container, 31-Docking device, 4-Wine jar, 41-Lid, 42-Container identification, 5-First traveling track, 6-First mobile device, 7-Pipeline, 8-Extraction pump, 9-Shelf, 91-Cargo layer, 10-Lifter, 101-Loading platform, 20-Second mobile device, 30-Scissor lift, 40-Telescopic rod, 50-Transfer equipment, 60-Second container, 70-Identification device, 80-Third mobile device, 90-Second traveling track, 100-Fourth mobile device, 1001-Pallet, 1002-Lifting mechanism, 110-Valve. Detailed Implementation

[0113] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0114] Example 1:

[0115] An automated liquid cargo storage system includes a first container, an inbound buffer container 1, an outbound buffer container 3, a storage area 2, a first traveling track 5, a first moving device 6, a conveying pipeline, and an extraction device.

[0116] The first container is used to store liquid goods. The liquid goods include liquid goods awaiting shipment and liquid goods awaiting receipt. Liquid goods awaiting shipment are those that need to be drawn from the first container. Liquid goods awaiting receipt are those that need to be injected into the first container.

[0117] The inbound buffer container 1 is used to store liquid goods that are to be received into the warehouse.

[0118] Outbound buffer container 3 is used to store liquid goods to be shipped out.

[0119] Storage area 2 is provided with at least one row of storage locations, and each storage location corresponds to a first container.

[0120] The first travel track 5 is set above each row of first containers, and the first travel track 5 is used to guide the movement direction of the first mobile device 6.

[0121] The first mobile device 6 is used to move the delivery pipeline along the first travel track 5 corresponding to the target first container to above the target first container, which is the first container that needs to be injected or extracted.

[0122] The delivery pipeline is used to extract liquid goods to be shipped from the first target container to the outbound buffer container 3; or, the delivery pipeline is used to inject liquid goods to be received from the inbound buffer container 1 into the first target container.

[0123] The extraction device is used to provide extraction and conveying power to the conveying pipeline. If the extraction device is installed on the first mobile device 6, then the first mobile device 6 will move along with the extraction device while carrying the conveying pipeline.

[0124] As can be seen from the above description, in the process of transferring liquid goods to be stored from the storage buffer container 1 to the target first container in the storage area 2, and in the process of transferring liquid goods to be discharged from the target first container in the storage area 2 to the discharge buffer container 3, the automatic liquid goods storage system of this embodiment can realize mechanical automation without manual operation.

[0125] Automating operations reduces manual labor, resulting in the following advantages: First, increased work efficiency; second, reduced labor costs; third, reduced labor intensity for workers; fourth, enabling the transfer of liquid goods while keeping the containers stationary, reducing handling and accident risks; fifth, reduced risk of theft, minimizing losses; sixth, reduced risk of contamination, further reducing losses and increasing efficiency; and seventh, avoiding impacts on workers' health.

[0126] In this embodiment of the automatic liquid cargo storage system, when performing injection or extraction operations, the first container remains stationary because it is a transfer of liquid cargo, thus improving the efficiency of liquid cargo entry and exit.

[0127] Specific examples: See Figure 1 or Figure 2 When the liquid cargo is wine, the first container is a wine jar 4. The conveying pipeline can be equipped with two pipes 7. The first pipe 7 connects the first mobile device 6 and the receiving buffer container 1, and the second pipe 7 connects the first mobile device 6 and the outgoing buffer container 3. The extraction equipment includes an extraction pump 8, which can be connected to the first pipe 7 and the second pipe 7 respectively via two valves 110. (See also...) Figure 2 Pump 8 can be installed on the ground; or, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 The extraction pump 8 can be installed on the first mobile device 6.

[0128] When the wine needs to be aged, it needs to be transferred from the storage buffer container 1 to the storage area 2. The specific process is as follows: the first mobile device 6, carrying two pipes 7 (if the extraction pump 8 is installed on the first mobile device 6, the first mobile device 6 also carries the extraction pump 8 along with it), moves along the first travel track 5 to the top of the target wine jar 4. Then, the extraction pump 8 and the valve 110 corresponding to the first pipe 7 are activated. Under the pumping of the extraction pump 8, the wine in the storage buffer container 1 can be pumped and injected into the target wine jar 4 in the storage area 2.

[0129] When it is necessary to fill the wine, the wine needs to be transferred from the storage area 2 to the outgoing buffer container 3. The specific process is as follows: the first mobile device 6, carrying two pipes 7 (if the extraction pump 8 is installed on the first mobile device 6, the first mobile device 6 also carries the extraction pump 8 along with it), moves along the first travel track 5 to the top of the target wine jar 4. Then, the extraction pump 8 and the valve 110 corresponding to the second pipe 7 are activated. Under the pumping of the extraction pump 8, the wine in the target wine jar 4 can be pumped to the outgoing buffer container 3.

[0130] During the transfer of the wine from the inbound buffer container 1 to the storage area 2, and then from the storage area 2 to the outbound buffer container 3, the wine jar 4 remains stationary. The transfer of the wine is carried out using the first mobile device 6, the conveying pipeline, and the extraction device, thus realizing automated mechanical operation.

[0131] In the above Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example shown, only one first mobile device 6 is set up. This first mobile device 6 is used for both inbound and outbound operations, so the conveying pipeline needs to use two pipelines 7 to connect the inbound buffer container 1 and the outbound buffer container 3 respectively.

[0132] This embodiment also provides Figure 3 The example shown: Two first mobile devices 6 are set up, one for inbound operations and one for outbound operations. In this case, only one pipeline 7 is needed. Pipeline 7 on the first first mobile device 6 connects to the inbound buffer container 1, and pipeline 7 on the second first mobile device 6 connects to the outbound buffer container 3. During inbound operations, the first first mobile device 6 is used; during outbound operations, the second first mobile device 6 is used. Therefore, in... Figure 3 In the example shown, the wine jar 4 can remain stationary, and automated mechanical operation can also be achieved.

[0133] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 A portion of the pipe 7 can be wound up and stored on the first mobile device 6.

[0134] As one possible implementation, to facilitate inbound and outbound operations, a docking device 31 can be installed at a suitable location near storage area 2. The docking device 31 is directly connected to either the inbound or outbound buffer container 1 to reduce the length of the pipeline 7. The docking device 31 can be used for outbound docking or inbound docking, or two docking devices 31 can be installed for outbound and inbound docking respectively. Taking the installation of two docking devices 31 as an example... Figure 4 As shown, the first docking device 31 is connected to the inbound buffer container 1 through a pipe, and the second docking device 31 is connected to the outbound buffer container 3 through a pipe. For the application scenario of wine entering and leaving the warehouse, the docking device 31 is the wine dispensing point for outbound or inbound wine dispensing.

[0135] Furthermore, in cases where a warehouse has multiple floors, the inbound buffer container 1 can be installed on the floor above the storage area 2. An inbound pipe can be installed on the inbound buffer container 1, extending downwards to the docking device 31 on the floor where the storage area 2 is located, which is the inbound dispensing point. During the inbound operation, the pipe 7 of the first mobile device 6 is connected to the inbound pipe.

[0136] The outbound buffer container 3 can be installed on the floor below the storage area 2. The outbound buffer container 3 can be equipped with an outbound pipe, which extends upwards to the docking device 31 on the floor where the storage area 2 is located, i.e., the outbound wine dispensing point. During the outbound operation, the pipe 7 of the first mobile device 6 is connected to the outbound pipe.

[0137] Example 2:

[0138] In this embodiment, the first container is placed underground in the storage area 2, and the first travel track 5 is set on the ground of the storage area 2; or, the first container is set on the first floor of the factory area, and the first travel track 5 is set on the ground of the second floor. In both of these cases, it is not necessary to set up a shelf 9 to raise the height of the first travel track 5, which can meet the requirement that the first travel track 5 is set above the first container.

[0139] In this embodiment, the first mobile device 6 can move autonomously to the first walking track 5 corresponding to the target first container. If multiple rows of first containers share one first mobile device 6 for liquid goods entering and leaving the warehouse, then it is necessary to realize the transfer of the first mobile device 6 between different first walking tracks 5.

[0140] For example, a junction track is provided between the two ends of two adjacent rows of first walking tracks 5. The junction track can be a curved track or a cross track. When the junction track is a curved track, the first mobile device 6 is provided with a first walking mechanism along the extension direction of the first walking track 5. The first walking mechanism is used to cooperate with the first walking track 5 or the curved track to walk. When the junction track is a cross track, the first mobile device 6 is also provided with a second walking mechanism perpendicular to the extension direction of the first walking track 5. The second walking mechanism is used to walk along the cross track to realize the transfer between different first walking tracks 5.

[0141] Alternatively, the automated liquid cargo storage system may also include a second mobile device 20, which can be an AGV. The second mobile device 20 is used to transport the first mobile device 6 to the first travel track 5 corresponding to the target first container. With the help of the second mobile device 20, the first mobile device 6 can be transferred between rows of first containers. The second mobile device 20 can also reel in and store a portion of the pipeline 7.

[0142] Example 3:

[0143] In this embodiment, the storage area 2 includes at least one row of shelves 9, each shelf 9 having at least one shelf layer 91 in the vertical direction. Each shelf layer 91 has a row of storage positions, and each storage position corresponds to a first container. Each shelf layer 91 is also provided with a first travel track 5. Thus, shelves 9 are provided in this embodiment.

[0144] For details, see Figure 5 Each cargo level 91 is equipped with a first mobile device 6 on the first travel track 5, so that the first mobile device 6 carries the conveying pipe (and extraction equipment) to travel on the first travel track 5 of its respective cargo level 91.

[0145] Or see Figure 6 To enable multiple shelves 91 on the same shelf 9 to share a single first mobile device 6, the automated liquid storage system also includes a lifting platform. The lifting platform can be located at the end of each shelf 9. The lifting platform can lift the first mobile device 6 to the first travel track 5 corresponding to the target shelf 91, which is the shelf containing the target first container. For example, the lifting platform can be a hoist 10 or other lifting equipment, such as a scissor lift. In this way, each shelf 9 can be equipped with one or more first mobile devices 6, eliminating the need to install a first mobile device 6 on every shelf 91 of each shelf 9. This meets the inbound and outbound needs of liquid goods stored on each shelf 9, thereby improving the utilization rate of the first mobile device 6, reducing its number, and saving equipment costs.

[0146] Furthermore, to facilitate the transfer of the first mobile device 6 between the first travel tracks 5 of different shelves 9, a transfer track is provided between the first travel tracks 5 at the same height of adjacent shelves 9. The specific configuration of the transfer track can be found in Embodiment 2, and will not be repeated here. Alternatively, a transfer track can be provided at each height level, or at any height.

[0147] As another possible implementation, to facilitate the transfer of the first mobile device 6 between the first travel tracks 5 of different shelves 9, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 The automated liquid storage system also needs to include a second mobile device 20 and a lifting platform. The lifting platform can be a hoist 10, and each shelf 9 is equipped with a hoist 10 at its end. The second mobile device 20 can be an AGV.

[0148] The working principle of this setup is as follows: (1) The second mobile device 20 is used to transport the first mobile device 6 to the bottom of the elevator 10; (2) The first mobile device 6 actively moves from the second mobile device 20 to the loading platform 101 of the elevator 10; or, the second mobile device 20 is equipped with a conveyor, which transmits the first mobile device 6 to the loading platform 101 of the elevator 10; or, the loading platform 101 of the elevator 10 is equipped with a retrieval mechanism, which retrieves the first mobile device 6 from the second mobile device 20 to the loading platform 101 of the elevator 10; (3) The elevator 10 lifts the first mobile device 6 on the loading platform 101 to the first traveling track 5 corresponding to the target cargo layer 91.

[0149] In this case, the second mobile device 20 can carry the first mobile device 6 between the various lifting platforms, further improving the flexibility of the first mobile device 6.

[0150] As another possible implementation, to facilitate the transfer of the first mobile device 6 between the first travel tracks 5 of different shelves 9, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 8 The first mobile device 6 can move autonomously to the bottom of the target lifting platform, and then move autonomously to the cargo platform 101 of the target lifting platform. After that, the target lifting platform lifts the first mobile device 6 to the first traveling track 5 corresponding to the target cargo layer 91.

[0151] Further, see Figure 9The lifting platform is mounted on the second mobile device 20, and the first mobile device 6 is movably mounted on the lifting platform. The working principle of this configuration is as follows: the second mobile device 20 carries the lifting platform and the first mobile device 6 together. When the second mobile device 20 moves the lifting platform to the end of the shelf 9, the lifting platform lifts the first mobile device 6 to the first travel track 5 corresponding to the target shelf 91. After leaving the lifting platform, the first mobile device 6 travels along the first travel track 5 to the target first container. It should be noted that the lifting platform can be a scissor lift 30, but other lifting methods can also be used; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0152] This setup eliminates the need for a lifting platform at the end of each shelf 9. The second mobile device 20 can carry the lifting platform between shelves 9, reducing the number of lifting platforms and saving equipment costs.

[0153] Example 4:

[0154] In embodiments 1-3, when the first mobile device 6 moves above the target first container to perform extraction or injection operations, the conveying pipe it carries can enter the target first container by its own gravity. However, when extracting liquid goods to be released from the target first container, if the liquid level of the liquid goods to be released is low, there may be a problem that the conveying pipe cannot contact the liquid goods to be released in the target first container. When injecting liquid goods to be stored into the target first container, if the length of the conveying pipe extending into the target first container is short, it may cause the liquid goods to splash out.

[0155] To avoid the aforementioned problems, this embodiment provides an automated liquid cargo storage system. In addition to the components included in any of the automated liquid cargo storage systems of embodiments 1-3 above, it also includes a telescopic device. After the first mobile device 6, carrying the conveying pipe, moves along the first travel track 5 to above the target first container, the telescopic device is used to transport one end of the conveying pipe into the interior of the target first container. In this way, by setting the telescopic device, the conveying pipe can contact the liquid cargo to be retrieved from the target first container, avoiding the inability to retrieve the liquid cargo and ensuring the reliability of the retrieval operation. Simultaneously, when injecting liquid cargo into the target first container, the telescopic device ensures that the conveying pipe enters the interior of the first container, preventing the liquid cargo from splashing onto the outside of the first container during injection, reducing contamination. After the injection or retrieval operation is completed, the telescopic device is also used to retract one end of the conveying pipe from the interior of the target first container.

[0156] The telescopic device can be a telescopic equipment, which can be a telescopic rod 40, and the telescopic rod 40 can be a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric push rod, etc.

[0157] The telescopic device can be installed on the first mobile device 6. The first mobile device 6 carries the telescopic device to move above the target first container, and the telescopic device then drives one end of the delivery pipe to enter the interior of the target first container.

[0158] For example, when the first container is a wine jar 4, the mouth of the wine jar 4 is equipped with a wine jar lid. The wine jar lid can be made of puncturable tin foil. When the telescopic rod 40 carrying one end of the conveying pipe enters the wine jar 4, it can directly puncture the tin foil serving as the wine jar lid. See also... Figure 10 The lid of the wine jar can be a cover plate 41 that is hinged to the mouth of the jar via a hinge shaft. A torsion spring is provided on the hinge shaft that connects the cover plate 41 and the mouth of the jar. When the telescopic rod 40 carries one end of the conveying pipe into the wine jar 4, the telescopic rod 40 can directly overcome the elastic force of the torsion spring and push the cover plate 41 down to allow the conveying pipe to enter the interior of the wine jar 4. When the telescopic rod 40 carries the conveying pipe out of the wine jar 4, the cover plate 41 returns to its original position and covers the mouth of the jar under the elastic force of the torsion spring.

[0159] In addition, the telescopic device can be installed on each shelf 91 of the shelving 9. When there is no shelving 9, the telescopic device can be installed on the ground.

[0160] Example 5:

[0161] The extraction device includes an extraction pump 8; the extraction pump 8 can be installed in the following four ways: first, the extraction pump 8 is installed on the ground; second, the extraction pump 8 is installed on the first mobile device 6; third, the extraction pump 8 is installed on the second mobile device 20; fourth, both the first mobile device 6 and the second mobile device 20 are equipped with extraction pump 8.

[0162] In the fourth configuration described above, since both the first mobile device 6 and the second mobile device 20 are equipped with extraction pumps 8, the extraction head can be increased, the extraction power can be improved, and liquid goods that are about to run dry can be extracted more thoroughly, thus avoiding waste.

[0163] Example 6:

[0164] To further improve the convenience of automated entry and exit of liquid goods and reduce the length of the conveying pipeline, the automated storage system for liquid goods provided in this embodiment also includes a transfer device 50 and a second container 60. The transfer device 50 includes a movable chassis, and the second container 60 is arranged on top of the movable chassis. The second container 60 is used to temporarily store liquid goods to be entered into the warehouse or liquid goods to be exited from the warehouse.

[0165] See Figure 11 When using the transfer device 50 and the second container 60, the delivery pipeline includes a pipe 7, one end of which is connected to the second container 60 and the other end of which is connected to the first mobile device 6.

[0166] When the transfer device 50 transfers the second container 60 containing the liquid goods to be stored from the storage buffer container 1 to the end of the row where the target first container is located, the first mobile device 6 injects the liquid goods to be stored in the second container 60 into the target first container through the conveying pipe and extraction device.

[0167] When the first mobile device 6 extracts the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container into the second container 60 on the transfer device 50, the transfer device 50 transfers the second container 60 containing the liquid goods to be shipped to the outbound buffer container 3.

[0168] As can be seen from the above process, since the second container 60 can be transported to the vicinity of the target first container by the transfer equipment 50, the conveying pipeline only needs to meet the distance between the second container 60 and the target first container. This can shorten the extension length of the conveying pipeline, making the factory environment cleaner, and reducing the length restriction of the conveying pipeline. It can expand the operation range of injecting or extracting liquid goods and improve flexibility.

[0169] It should be noted that the transfer equipment 50 can be an AGV chassis or a forklift, etc., and this application does not impose any restrictions on it.

[0170] As another possible implementation, the transfer device 50 may not be used, and the second container 60 may be placed on the first mobile device or the second mobile device.

[0171] As another possible implementation, the second container 60 can be equipped with autonomous movement capabilities without using the transfer device 50. For example, a walking mechanism can be installed at the bottom of the second container 60 to enable autonomous movement.

[0172] A specific example of the above implementation is as follows: When the wine enters the warehouse, the second container 60 autonomously moves to the docking device 31 (i.e., the wine entry point) to receive the wine flowing out from the entry pipe. The second container 60 then autonomously moves to the end of the row where the target first container is located, waiting for the delivery pipe to inject the wine to be stored in the second container 60 into the target first container. When the wine leaves the warehouse, the second container 60 containing the wine to be discharged autonomously moves to the discharge point, and the wine in the second container 60 is released into the discharge pipe, flowing into the discharge buffer container 3. When discharging the wine, a discharge pipe can be installed at the bottom of the second container 60, and a solenoid valve is installed on the discharge pipe. When the second container 60 moves to the docking device 31 (i.e., the wine exit point), the discharge pipe connects to the discharge pipe, the solenoid valve opens, and the wine inside the second container 60 flows out into the discharge pipe under the action of gravity.

[0173] As another possible implementation, when the transfer device 50 is not used, the second container 60 may be placed on the first mobile device 6 and moved by the first mobile device 6; or, the second container 60 may be placed on the second mobile device 20 and moved by the second mobile device 20.

[0174] Example 7:

[0175] In automated storage systems for liquid cargo, see Figure 12 The first container is provided with a container identifier 42, which is used to identify the number of the first container. The container identifier 42 may be a barcode or a character. The first mobile device 6 is provided with an identification device 70, which is used to identify the container identifier 42 in order to obtain and confirm whether the first container is the target first container.

[0176] By using the identification device 70 to identify the container identifier 42, the target first container can be identified before injection and extraction operations are performed, improving the accuracy of extraction or injection operations and reducing the risk of errors.

[0177] Example 8:

[0178] See Figure 13 The automated liquid cargo storage system also includes a third mobile device 80, which is used to sequentially transport multiple first containers to their corresponding storage locations in storage area 2. The third mobile device 80 may be an AGV forklift or similar equipment.

[0179] By using a third mobile device 80 to move the first container, mechanized handling operations are achieved, eliminating the need for manual handling. This improves handling efficiency, enhances handling safety, and reduces the labor intensity of workers.

[0180] Example 9:

[0181] See Figure 14 The automated liquid cargo storage system also includes a second travel track 90, a third mobile device 80, and a fourth mobile device 100.

[0182] The second travel track 90 is located within each cargo floor 91 and is positioned below the cargo location. The second travel track 90 is used to guide the movement direction of the fourth mobile device 100.

[0183] The third mobile device 80 is used to sequentially transport multiple first containers to the first storage location at the end of the corresponding storage layer 91. The third mobile device 80 may also be an AGV forklift.

[0184] The fourth mobile device 100 runs along the second travel track 90 below the storage location. The fourth mobile device 100 is used to sequentially move the first container placed at the first storage location to the corresponding storage location. See also... Figure 14 The fourth mobile device 100 is equipped with a pallet 1001 and a lifting mechanism 1002 for adjusting the height of the pallet 1001. When the fourth mobile device 100 is transporting the first container along the second travel track 90, the lifting mechanism 1002 is in a state of raising the pallet 1001; when the first container moves to the target storage location, the lifting mechanism 1002 drives the pallet 1001 to fall back, and the first container lands on the storage location. Then the fourth mobile device 100 returns to the first storage location. When there is another first container to be transported, the lifting mechanism 1002 raises the pallet 1001 again.

[0185] The fourth mobile device 100 can be configured in three ways: First, one fourth mobile device 100 is configured on each shelf 91; second, at least one fourth mobile device 100 is configured on each shelf 9; third, multiple shelves 9 share one fourth mobile device 100. In the second and third configurations, the third mobile device 80 is also used to move the fourth mobile device 100 from its current shelf 91 to the second travel track 90 of the corresponding shelf 91, so that the fourth mobile device 100 can move the first container on the corresponding shelf 91.

[0186] The working principle is as follows: the third mobile device 80 moves the first first container to the first storage location at the end of the corresponding storage layer 91, and the fourth mobile device 100 moves the first first container to the storage location corresponding to this first container; the third mobile device 80 moves the second first container to the first storage location at the end of the corresponding storage layer 91, and the fourth mobile device 100 moves the second first container to the storage location corresponding to this first container, and so on.

[0187] As can be seen from the above process, this embodiment can also realize the mechanized handling of the first container without the need for manual handling, which is conducive to improving handling efficiency, improving handling safety, and reducing the labor intensity of workers.

[0188] See Figure 19 , Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the application of an automated liquid cargo storage system. Figure 19In this system, wine jars 4 are placed on shelves 9. A second mobile device 20 moves a first mobile device 6 to the end of the target shelf 9. The first mobile device 6, carrying a conveying pipe, travels along a first track 5 on the shelf 9 above the wine jars 4 to perform extraction or injection operations. A transfer device 50 carries a second container 60 to the front of the target shelf 9 to connect with the conveying pipe. Taking wine out of storage as an example, the first mobile device 6 extracts the wine to be out of storage into the second container 60. The transfer device 50 moves the second container 60 to the docking device 31 (the dispensing station), which connects to the out-of-storage buffer container 3 to realize the out-of-storage of the wine. Additionally, the system also includes a third mobile device 80 and a fourth mobile device 100 to cooperate in realizing the entry and exit of wine jars 4.

[0189] Example 10:

[0190] See Figure 15 and Figure 16 An automated liquid cargo storage method is applied to a host computer, which is connected to an automated liquid cargo storage system, and includes the following steps:

[0191] Step S101 determines the task information, which includes at least the quantity of liquid goods to be stored and the location information of the target first container.

[0192] Specifically, when executing the liquid cargo warehousing method, the host computer needs to first confirm the task information. The task information includes at least the warehousing quantity of the liquid cargo to be warehoused and the location information of the target first container, so as to control the first mobile device 6 to reach the location of the designated target first container and inject the liquid cargo to be warehoused into it.

[0193] In step S102, based on the task information, the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track 5 to move above the target first container.

[0194] Specifically, when the first container is placed underground and the first walking track 5 is set on the ground; or when the first container is set on the first floor and the first walking track 5 is set on the second floor. If the first mobile device 6 can move autonomously in multiple directions, then the first mobile device 6 can transfer between the rows of first containers. Therefore, before executing step S102, the host computer can directly control the first mobile device 6 to autonomously move to the first walking track 5 corresponding to the target first container, and then execute step S102.

[0195] When the first container is placed underground and the first travel track 5 is set on the ground; or when the first container is set on the first floor and the first travel track 5 is set on the second floor. If the first mobile device 6 can only move bidirectionally in a straight line, then the first mobile device 6 cannot be transferred between the rows of first containers. Therefore, before executing step S102, the host computer needs to control the second mobile device 20 to transport the first mobile device 6 to the first travel track 5 corresponding to the target first container before executing step S102. In summary, the second mobile device 20 can transport the first mobile device 6 between the rows of first containers.

[0196] As one possible implementation, when the first container and the first travel track 5 are both set in the shelf 91 of the shelf 9, and the second mobile device 20 is equipped with a lifting platform, and the first mobile device 6 is located on the lifting platform, the specific execution process of step S102 is as follows: the host computer controls the second mobile device 20 to move the first mobile device 6 to the shelf 9 corresponding to the target first container, the host computer controls the lifting platform set on the second mobile device 20 to lift the first mobile device 6 to the first travel track 5 corresponding to the target shelf 91, the target shelf 91 is the shelf 91 of the shelf 9 where the target first container is located, and the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to carry the conveying pipe along the first travel track 5 to the top of the target first container.

[0197] This improvement makes it suitable for applications using shelving 9, increasing adaptability. Furthermore, the lifting platform is mounted on the second mobile device 20, which can carry the lifting platform between the various shelving units 9, improving operational flexibility and eliminating the need to configure a lifting platform for each shelving unit 9, thus saving equipment costs.

[0198] In step S103, the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to inject the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipeline and extraction equipment.

[0199] Specifically, when the first mobile device 6 moves above the target first container, the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to inject the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction equipment.

[0200] To prevent the liquid goods to be stored from splashing onto the outside of the target first container during injection, the first mobile device 6 is equipped with a telescopic device. The telescopic device is used to send the conveying pipe into the inside of the target first container. Therefore, step S103 is specifically as follows: the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the conveying pipe into the inside of the target first container. Then, the host computer controls the extraction device to start. The first mobile device 6 injects the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device. After the injection is completed, the host computer controls the telescopic device to retract one end of the conveying pipe from the inside of the target first container.

[0201] When the automated liquid cargo storage system also includes a transfer device 50 and a second container 60, step S103 specifically involves: the host computer controlling the transfer device 50 to transfer the second container 60 containing the liquid cargo to be stored from the storage buffer container 1 to the end of the row where the target first container is located; then, the host computer controlling the first mobile device 6 to inject the liquid cargo to be stored in the second container 60 into the target first container through a conveying pipeline and an extraction device. This improved step can shorten the required length of the conveying pipeline, avoid messy pipelines on site, make the site environment cleaner, and enable the transfer of liquid cargo over a larger area, reducing the impact of the length of the conveying pipeline, expanding the operating range, and improving flexibility.

[0202] To further ensure the accuracy of warehousing, after the first mobile device 6 reaches above the target first container, it is necessary to control the first mobile device 6 to confirm whether the target first container is correct. At this time, the task information in step S101 also includes the number of the target first container. The first container is provided with a container identifier 42, which is used to identify at least the number of the first container. The first mobile device 6 is provided with an identification device 70. The specific operation of the above step "the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the conveying pipe to the inside of the target first container" is as follows: the host computer controls the identification device 70 on the first mobile device 6 to identify the container identifier 42 on the target first container. The host computer confirms whether the number of the target first container is correct according to the task information. If the number of the target first container is confirmed to be correct, the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the conveying pipe to the inside of the target first container. This improved step can realize the confirmation of the target first container, which is conducive to improving the accuracy of the operation of injecting liquid goods to be stored.

[0203] Example 11:

[0204] See Figure 17 and Figure 18 An automated liquid cargo storage method is applied to a host computer, which is connected to an automated liquid cargo storage system, and includes the following steps:

[0205] Step S111 determines the task information, which includes at least the outbound quantity of the liquid goods to be shipped and the location information of the target first container;

[0206] Specifically, when executing the liquid cargo outbound method, the host computer needs to first confirm the task information. The task information includes at least the outbound quantity of the liquid cargo to be outbound and the location information of the target first container, so as to control the first mobile device 6 to reach the location of the designated target first container and extract the liquid cargo to be outbound.

[0207] In step S112, based on the task information, the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to carry the delivery pipe and move along the first walking track 5 to the top of the target first container.

[0208] Specifically, when the first container is placed underground and the first walking track 5 is set on the ground; or when the first container is set on the first floor and the first walking track 5 is set on the second floor. If the first mobile device 6 can move autonomously in multiple directions, then the first mobile device 6 can transfer between the rows of first containers. Therefore, before executing step S112, the host computer can directly control the first mobile device 6 to autonomously move to the first walking track 5 corresponding to the target first container, and then execute step S112.

[0209] When the first container is placed underground and the first travel track 5 is set on the ground; or when the first container is set on the first floor and the first travel track 5 is set on the second floor. If the first mobile device 6 can only move bidirectionally in a straight line, then the first mobile device 6 cannot be transferred between rows of first containers. Therefore, before executing step S112, the host computer needs to control the second mobile device 20 to transport the first mobile device 6 to the first travel track 5 corresponding to the target first container before executing step S112. In summary, the second mobile device 20 can transport the first mobile device 6 between rows of first containers.

[0210] As one possible implementation, when the first container and the first travel track 5 are both set in the shelf 91 of the shelf 9, and the second mobile device 20 is equipped with a lifting platform, and the first mobile device 6 is located on the lifting platform, the specific execution process of step S112 is as follows: the host computer controls the second mobile device 20 to move the first mobile device 6 to the shelf 9 corresponding to the target first container, the host computer controls the lifting platform set on the second mobile device 20 to lift the first mobile device 6 to the first travel track 5 corresponding to the target shelf 91, the target shelf 91 is the shelf 91 of the shelf 9 where the target first container is located, and the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to carry the conveying pipe along the first travel track 5 to the top of the target first container.

[0211] This improvement makes it suitable for applications using shelving 9, increasing adaptability. Furthermore, the lifting platform is mounted on the second mobile device 20, which can carry the lifting platform between the various shelving units 9, improving operational flexibility and eliminating the need to configure a lifting platform for each shelving unit 9, thus saving equipment costs.

[0212] In step S113, the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to extract liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container to the shipping buffer container 3 according to the shipping quantity through the conveying pipeline and extraction equipment.

[0213] Specifically, when the first mobile device 6 moves above the target first container, the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to extract the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container to the shipping buffer container 3 according to the shipping quantity through the conveying pipe and extraction equipment.

[0214] In order to enable the conveying pipe to extract liquid goods with low liquid levels to be discharged, the first mobile device 6 is equipped with a telescopic device. The telescopic device is used to send the conveying pipe into the interior of the target first container. Therefore, step S113 is specifically as follows: the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the conveying pipe into the interior of the target first container. Then, the host computer controls the first mobile device 6 to extract the liquid goods to be discharged from the target first container into the discharge buffer container 3 according to the discharge volume through the conveying pipe and the extraction device. After the extraction is completed, the host computer controls the telescopic device to retract one end of the conveying pipe from the interior of the target first container.

[0215] When the automated liquid cargo storage system also includes a transfer device 50 and a second container 60, step S113 specifically involves: the host computer controlling the first mobile device 6 to extract the liquid cargo to be shipped from the target first container according to the outbound quantity through the conveying pipeline and extraction device to the second container 60 carried on the transfer device 50; then, the host computer controlling the transfer device 50 to transfer the second container 60 containing the liquid cargo to be shipped to the outbound buffer container 3. This improved step can shorten the required length of the conveying pipeline, avoid messy pipelines on site, make the site environment cleaner, and enable the transfer of liquid cargo over a larger area, reducing the impact of the length of the conveying pipeline, expanding the operating range, and improving flexibility.

[0216] To further ensure the accuracy of outbound shipments, after the first mobile device 6 reaches the target first container, it needs to confirm whether the target first container is correct. At this point, the task information in step S111 also includes the target first container's number. The first container is equipped with a container identifier 42, which at least identifies the first container's number. The first mobile device 6 is also equipped with an identification device 70. The specific operation of the step "the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the conveying pipe into the target first container" is as follows: the host computer controls the identification device 70 on the first mobile device 6 to identify the container identifier 42 on the target first container. The host computer confirms whether the target first container's number is correct based on the task information. If the target first container's number is confirmed to be correct, the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the conveying pipe into the target first container. This improved step enables confirmation of the target first container, which helps improve the accuracy of extracting liquid goods awaiting outbound shipments.

[0217] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, if these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this invention and their equivalents, this invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. An automated storage system for liquid cargo, characterized in that, include: First container, inbound cache container, outbound cache container, storage area, first traveling track, first moving device, conveying pipeline, extraction device; The storage area is provided with at least one row of storage positions, and each storage position corresponds to the placement of the first container; the first container is used to store liquid goods. The first travel track is located above the first container, and the first travel track is used to guide the movement direction of the first mobile device; The first mobile device is used to carry the delivery pipe along the first travel track corresponding to the target first container to the top of the target first container, the target first container being the first container that needs to be injected or extracted; The conveying pipeline is used to draw liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container to the shipping buffer container; the shipping buffer container is used to store the liquid goods to be shipped; the liquid goods to be shipped are liquid goods that need to be drawn from the first container; or, The delivery pipeline is used to inject liquid goods to be stored from the storage buffer container into the target first container; the storage buffer container is used to store the liquid goods to be stored; the liquid goods to be stored are the liquid goods that need to be injected into the first container; The extraction device is used to provide extraction and conveying power to the conveying pipeline.

2. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first mobile device autonomously moves to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

3. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a second mobile device, which is used to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

4. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The second mobile device is also used to store the delivery pipeline.

5. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The storage area includes at least one row of shelves, each shelf having at least one shelf layer in the vertical direction, each shelf layer having a row of storage positions, and each shelf layer having the first travel track.

6. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a lifting platform, which is used to lift the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target cargo layer, the target cargo layer being the cargo layer where the target first container is located.

7. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The lifting platform is located at one end of the shelf. After the first mobile device moves onto the lifting platform, the lifting platform directly lifts the first mobile device to the first travel track corresponding to the target shelf; or... The lifting platform is mounted on the second mobile device, which is used to transport the lifting platform to the end of the target shelf, the target shelf being the shelf where the target first container is located, and the first mobile device is movably mounted on the lifting platform.

8. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a second walking track, a third mobile device, and a fourth mobile device; The second travel track is located within each of the cargo floors and below the cargo location. The second travel track is used to guide the movement direction of the fourth mobile device. The third mobile device is used to sequentially transport a plurality of the first containers to the first cargo position at the end of the corresponding cargo layer; The fourth mobile device runs along the second walking track below the cargo location, and the fourth mobile device is used to sequentially transport the first container placed on the first cargo location to the corresponding cargo location.

9. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The third mobile device is also used to move the fourth mobile device from the current cargo layer to the second travel track corresponding to the cargo layer, so that the fourth mobile device can move the first container on the corresponding cargo layer.

10. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The extraction device includes an extraction pump; The extraction pump is installed on the ground; or... The extraction pump is mounted on the first mobile device; or... The extraction pump is mounted on the second mobile device; or... Both the first mobile device and the second mobile device are equipped with the extraction pump.

11. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a second container, which is used for temporary storage of liquid goods to be received or to be shipped out; The first mobile device is used to inject the liquid goods to be stored in the second container into the target first container through the delivery pipe and the extraction device; or... The first mobile device is used to extract liquid goods to be shipped out from the target first container into the second container through the delivery pipe and the extraction device.

12. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The second container is disposed on the first mobile device or the second mobile device.

13. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 11, characterized in that, It also includes a transfer device, on which the second container is disposed, and the transfer device is used to transfer the second container; The transfer equipment is used to transfer the liquid goods to be stored in the inbound buffer container to the end of the row where the target first container is located via the second container; or, The transfer equipment is specifically used to transfer the second container containing the liquid goods to be shipped out to the outbound buffer container.

14. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a third mobile device, which is used to sequentially move a plurality of the first containers to the corresponding storage locations in the storage area.

15. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a telescopic device, which, after the first mobile device carries the delivery pipe along the first travel track to above the target first container, is used not only to carry one end of the delivery pipe to extend into the interior of the target first container, but also to carry one end of the delivery pipe to retract from the interior of the target first container.

16. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The telescopic device is mounted on the first mobile device.

17. The automated liquid cargo storage system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first container is provided with a container identifier, which is used to identify at least the number of the first container. The first mobile device is provided with an identification device, which is used to identify the container identifier in order to obtain and confirm whether the first container is the target first container.

18. An automated storage method for liquid cargo, applied to a host computer, wherein the host computer is connected to an automated storage system for liquid cargo as described in any one of claims 1-17, characterized in that, include: The task information is determined, which includes at least the quantity of liquid goods to be stored and the location information of the target first container. According to the task information, the host computer controls the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to move above the target first container, and injects the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the delivery pipe and the extraction device.

19. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 18, characterized in that, Before performing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to the top of the target first container according to the task information, the method further includes: the host computer controlling the first mobile device to autonomously move to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

20. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 18, characterized in that, Before executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to the top of the target first container according to the task information, the method further includes: the host computer controlling the second mobile device to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

21. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 20, characterized in that, When performing the step of the host computer controlling the second mobile device to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container, the steps include: the host computer controlling the second mobile device to move the first mobile device to the shelf corresponding to the target first container, and the host computer controlling the lifting platform set on the second mobile device to lift the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target shelf, wherein the target shelf is the shelf where the target first container is located.

22. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 18, characterized in that, When performing the step of injecting the liquid cargo to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device, the following steps are included: The host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container; The host computer controls the first mobile device to inject the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device; After injection is completed, the host computer controls the telescopic device to retract one end of the delivery pipe from the inside of the target first container.

23. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 22, characterized in that, When executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to inject the liquid goods to be stored into the target first container according to the storage quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device, the following steps are included: The host computer controls the transfer equipment to transfer the second container containing the liquid goods to be stored from the storage buffer container to the end of the row where the target first container is located; The host computer controls the first mobile device to inject the liquid goods to be stored in the second container into the target first container through the delivery pipe and the extraction device.

24. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 22, characterized in that, The task information also includes the number of the target first container; When executing the step of the host computer controlling the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container, the following steps are included: The host computer controls the identification device set on the first mobile device to identify the container identifier set on the target first container. The container identifier is used to identify the number of the first container. The host computer confirms whether the number of the target first container is correct based on the task information. If the number of the first target container is confirmed to be correct, the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the first target container.

25. An automated storage method for liquid cargo, applied to a host computer, wherein the host computer is connected to an automated storage system for liquid cargo as described in any one of claims 1-17, characterized in that, include: The task information is determined, which includes at least the outbound quantity of the liquid goods to be shipped and the location information of the target first container; According to the task information, the host computer controls the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to move above the target first container, and extracts the liquid goods to be released from the target first container into the release buffer container according to the release quantity through the delivery pipe and the extraction device.

26. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 25, characterized in that, Before performing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to the top of the target first container according to the task information, the method further includes: the host computer controlling the first mobile device to autonomously move to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

27. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 25, characterized in that, Before executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to carry the delivery pipe along the first walking track to the top of the target first container according to the task information, the method further includes: the host computer controlling the second mobile device to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container.

28. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 27, characterized in that, When performing the step of the host computer controlling the second mobile device to transport the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target first container, the steps include: the host computer controlling the second mobile device to move the first mobile device to the shelf corresponding to the target first container, and the host computer controlling the lifting platform set on the second mobile device to lift the first mobile device to the first walking track corresponding to the target shelf, wherein the target shelf is the shelf where the target first container is located.

29. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 25, characterized in that, When performing the step of extracting the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container into the shipping buffer container according to the shipping volume through the conveying pipeline and the extraction equipment, the steps include: The host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container; The host computer controls the first mobile device to extract the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container into the outbound buffer container according to the outbound quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device. After extraction is completed, the host computer controls the telescopic device to retract one end of the delivery pipe from the inside of the target first container.

30. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 29, characterized in that, When executing the step of the host computer controlling the first mobile device to extract the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container to the shipping buffer container according to the shipping quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device, the following steps are included: The host computer controls the first mobile device to extract the liquid goods to be shipped from the target first container into the second container carried by the transfer device according to the outbound quantity through the conveying pipe and the extraction device. The host computer controls the transfer equipment to transfer the second container containing the liquid goods to be shipped out to the outbound buffer container.

31. The automatic storage method for liquid cargo as described in claim 29, characterized in that, The task information also includes the number of the target first container; When executing the step of the host computer controlling the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container, the following steps are included: The host computer controls the identification device set on the first mobile device to identify the container identifier set on the target first container. The container identifier is used to identify the number of the first container. The host computer confirms whether the number of the target first container is correct based on the task information. If the number of the target first container is confirmed to be correct, the host computer controls the telescopic device to transport one end of the delivery pipe into the interior of the target first container.

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