Automatic warehouse

Abstract

The present invention is an automated warehouse provided with a storage rack, a stacker crane, and maintenance equipment, the maintenance equipment being provided with a table (10), the table (10) being provided with a stand column penetration part (14), a table scaffold (16), and a support frame (8) that supports the table scaffold, the table scaffold (16) being provided with a fixed scaffold (22) that is fixed to the support frame (8), and a movable scaffold (24), the form of the movable scaffold (24) can be changed between a first retracted form that does not interfere with the movement trajectory of the column (42) and that does not function as a scaffold for a worker, and a first expanded form (T2) that does not function as a scaffold for the worker. The first expanded form (T2) interferes with the movement path of the column (42) but does not interfere with the column (42) of the stacker crane in the maintenance position (7), and functions as a scaffold for a worker.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic warehouse including a storage rack for storing a plurality of articles, a stacker crane for conveying the articles, and maintenance equipment for maintaining the stacker crane. Background Art

[0002] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-246231 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique related to an automatic warehouse. In the following description of the background art, the reference numerals in parentheses are the reference numerals of Patent Document 1.

[0003] The automatic warehouse of patent document 1 has a storage rack (storage rack row 2A) for storing a plurality of articles, a stacker crane (stacker crane C1) for transporting articles to the storage rack, and an escape area (S). The stacker crane is guided to travel along a travel track (R1) laid along the storage rack. In addition, the stacker crane is configured to be able to move to the escape area (S) adjacent to the storage rack. The escape area includes a stationary area (S1) for a prepared stacker crane to wait and a maintenance area (S2) for repairing or inspecting the stacker crane. With regard to this automatic warehouse, in the event that a stacker crane that is transporting articles malfunctions, the malfunctioning stacker crane is moved to the maintenance area (S2). Then, the standby stacker crane on standby in the storage area (S1) is used so that the conveyance of the articles can continue. Summary of the invention

[0004] In the automatic warehouse of Patent Document 1, maintenance work is performed in the maintenance area on stacker cranes that have malfunctioned or are the subject of regular inspections. During the maintenance work, in order to accommodate repairs or renovations to stacker cranes at relatively high positions, maintenance equipment with a scaffolding (foot field) is sometimes set up at a position higher than the ground. As a result, workers can use the scaffolding to perform maintenance work on the stacker crane. In such maintenance equipment, in order to improve the workability of various parts of the stacker crane, it is ideal to set the scaffolding at a position close to the stacker crane. However, if the scaffolding is set at a position close to the stacker crane, when the stacker crane is stored in the maintenance equipment, the possibility of interference between the scaffolding and the stacker crane becomes higher.

[0005] Therefore, there is a demand for an automatic warehouse equipped with maintenance equipment that can appropriately store stacker cranes and facilitate maintenance work on the stacker cranes.

[0006] The automatic warehouse involved in the present disclosure is an automatic warehouse including a storage rack for storing a plurality of articles, a stacker crane for transporting the articles, and a maintenance device for maintaining the stacker crane. The stacker crane comprises: a traveling trolley that travels along a traveling path that is set along the storage rack; a column that is erected along the vertical direction on the traveling trolley; and a lifting body that supports a transfer device that holds and transfers the articles and is lifted and lowered along the column. The maintenance equipment is configured so as to be disposed at a position not overlapping with the storage rack when viewed in the vertical direction and to store at least a portion of the stacker crane when the stacker crane is in the maintenance position set on the travel path. The maintenance equipment includes a workbench, which is arranged above the traveling vehicle. The workbench comprises a column penetration portion through which the column of the stacker crane in the maintenance position penetrates in the vertical direction, a table scaffolding provided in an area other than the column penetration portion, and a support frame supporting the table scaffolding, The table-type scaffolding comprises a fixed scaffolding fixed to the supporting frame and a movable scaffolding. The movable scaffold can change its form into a first retracted form and a first deployed form. The first retreat mode is a mode in which the scaffolding for the staff does not interfere with the moving trajectory of the pillar when the travel vehicle travels along the travel path, and does not function as a scaffolding for the staff. The first deployed state is a state that interferes with the movement trajectory of the column but does not interfere with the column of the stacker crane in the maintenance position, and functions as a scaffold for the worker.

[0007] According to this configuration, when the stacker crane is moved along the travel path between the maintenance position and other positions, the maintenance equipment can be prevented from hindering the movement of the stacker crane. Therefore, the stacker crane can be properly stored in or removed from the maintenance equipment. In addition, according to this configuration, by making the movable scaffolding into the first unfolded form, the range of movement of the maintenance worker can be expanded, and the table scaffolding can be set at a position close to the column of the stacker crane in the maintenance position. Therefore, the maintenance work performed by the worker can be easily performed. As described above, according to this configuration, the stacker crane can be appropriately stored and maintenance work on the stacker crane can be easily performed.

[0008] Further features and advantages of the automated warehouse will become apparent from the following description of exemplary and non-limiting embodiments explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 This is a top view of the automated warehouse. Figure 2 It is a side view of a stacking crane. Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the maintenance equipment. Figure 4 It is a perspective view schematically showing a state where the first-level ladder is installed. Figure 5 It is a perspective view schematically showing the workbench of the upper stage. Figure 6 This is a top view of the first floor platform. Figure 7 This is a bird's-eye view of the upper platform. Figure 8 This is a bird's-eye view of the upper platform. Fig. 9 This is a bird's-eye view of the upper platform. Fig.10 It is a front view showing the fixing part of the upper ladder. Fig.11 This is a side view schematically showing the change in the shape of the movable scaffold. Fig.12 It is a side view schematically showing the change in the shape of the auxiliary scaffold. Fig.13 It is a side view schematically showing a state where the auxiliary scaffold is supported in the second retracted state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] The implementation method of the automatic warehouse is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 As shown, the automatic warehouse 100 includes a storage rack 5 for storing a plurality of articles W, a stacker crane 4 for conveying the articles W, and a maintenance device 1 for maintaining the stacker crane 4. In the present embodiment, the storage rack 5 and the maintenance device 1 are arranged adjacent to each other. In addition, in the automatic warehouse 100, the travel path 6 of the stacker crane 4 is set along the storage rack 5 and the maintenance device 1.

[0011] In the following description, the direction along the travel path 6 when viewed from the top to the bottom is referred to as the path direction X, and the direction perpendicular to the path direction X when viewed from the top to the bottom is referred to as the path perpendicular direction Y. Furthermore, one side of the path direction X is referred to as the path direction first side X1, and the opposite side thereof is referred to as the path direction second side X2. In addition, one side of the path perpendicular direction Y is referred to as the path perpendicular direction first side Y1, and the opposite side thereof is referred to as the path perpendicular direction second side Y2. In this example, the automatic warehouse 100 is further provided with an in-and-out storage conveyor 94. Furthermore, as Figure 1As shown, the maintenance device 1 is arranged on the first side X1 in the path direction relative to the storage rack 5 , and the storage rack 5 is arranged on the first side X1 in the path direction relative to the in-and-out conveyor 94 .

[0012] exist Figure 1 In the example, a group of storage racks 5 is arranged on both outer sides of the travel path 6 in the orthogonal direction Y. In addition, the in-and-out conveyor 94 includes an out-of-warehouse conveyor 94a and an in-warehouse conveyor 94b, and these conveyors are arranged along the path direction X and facing each other with the travel path 6 sandwiched therebetween. The stacker crane 4 moves on the travel path 6 and transports the articles W between the in-and-out conveyor 94 and a group of storage racks 5. In this example, the storage rack 5 includes a plurality of storage sections (not shown) arranged side by side along the path direction X and in the up-and-down direction. Each of the plurality of storage sections is configured to store articles W.

[0013] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the stacker crane 4 includes: a traveling trolley 41 that travels along a traveling path 6 that is set along the storage rack 5; a column 42 that is erected on the traveling trolley 41 in an up-down direction; and a lifting body 44 that supports a transfer device 43 that holds and transfers the article W and is lifted and lowered along the column 42. In the present embodiment, the traveling trolley 41 is guided by a lower rail R1 laid along the traveling path 6 to travel. The traveling trolley 41 includes a plurality of traveling wheels 45 that roll on the lower rail R1, so that the traveling trolley 41 travels along the traveling path 6. Figure 1 and Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 1 , a pair of lower rails R1 are laid on the ground.

[0014] like Figure 2 As shown, the stacker crane 4 includes a first column component 42a and a second column component 42b as columns 42, which are separately arranged in the direction along the travel path 6. The first column component 42a and the second column component 42b are separately arranged in the path direction X. In the example shown in the figure, the first column component 42a is arranged on the first side X1 in the path direction relative to the second column component 42b. The upper ends of the first column component 42a and the second column component 42b are connected to each other by an upper frame 46. In this example, the upper frame 46 is guided by the upper rail R2 in the path direction X. In this example, as shown in FIG. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the lower rail R1 is arranged along the in-and-out conveyor 94 and the storage rack 5 and the end of the first side X1 of the path direction extends to the inside of the maintenance device 1. On the other hand, the upper rail R2 is arranged along the in-and-out conveyor 94 and the storage rack 5, but is not arranged inside the maintenance device 1.

[0015] like Figure 2As shown, the lifting body 44 moves the conveyed article W in the up-down direction by lifting and lowering along the column 42. The lifting body 44 supports the transfer device 43 from below. The article W is held on the lifting body 44 while being placed on the transfer device 43. The transfer device 43 moves the article W in the direction Y orthogonal to the path, and transfers the article W between the transfer target parts (here, the storage sections of the storage rack 5 and the in-and-out conveyor 94). In this example, the transfer mechanism of the transfer device 43 is a fork type, but it can also be a conveyor device. When the stacker crane 4 is in contact with the in-and-out conveyor 94 ( Figure 1 ), the lifting body 44 moves to a height corresponding to the outgoing conveyor 94a or the incoming conveyor 94b. The transfer device 43 transfers the articles W between these conveyors. Figure 1 ), when the stacker crane 4 moves to the front of the storage section to be transferred, the lifting body 44 moves to the height corresponding to the storage section. And the transfer device 43 transfers the article W between the storage section.

[0016] As described above, the stacker crane 4 moves along the path direction X to transport the articles W between the storage and unloading conveyor 94 and the storage rack 5. On the other hand, when the stacker crane 4 fails or when the stacker crane 4 is to be repaired, the stacker crane 4 is moved to the maintenance equipment 1. In addition, the movement of the stacker crane 4 may be performed by a worker operating a remote control device to move the stacker crane 4 to the maintenance equipment 1, or the control device of the automatic warehouse 100 may automatically move the stacker crane 4 to the maintenance equipment 1 if a failure occurs in the stacker crane 4. In the maintenance equipment 1, maintenance work such as repair or refurbishment of the stacker crane 4 is performed by the worker. In addition, here, "refurbishment" includes the adjustment of the stacker crane 4 when the stacker crane 4 is initially configured or the adjustment of the stacker crane 4 during periodic inspections.

[0017] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the maintenance device 1 is configured in the following manner: it is arranged at a position that does not overlap with the storage rack 5 when viewed in the vertical direction, and stores at least a portion of the stacker crane 4 when the stacker crane 4 is in the maintenance position 7 set on the travel path 6. As described above, the maintenance device 1 is adjacent to the storage rack 5 on the first side X1 in the path direction. In addition, the maintenance device 1 is arranged in a manner to surround the end of the travel path 6 of the stacker crane 4 on the first side X1 in the path direction. Figure 1 and Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 1 , the maintenance device 1 is arranged along the path direction X and the path orthogonal direction Y.

[0018] In this embodiment, if Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, the maintenance equipment 1 is constructed in a manner to accommodate the entire stacker crane 4 when it is in the maintenance position 7. In addition, the maintenance equipment 1 is constructed in a manner not to interfere with the stacker crane 4 that moves along the travel path 6 and enters the interior of the maintenance equipment 1. In addition, the maintenance equipment 1 may also be constructed in a manner to accommodate a part of the stacker crane 4. For example, any one of the first column member 42a and the second column member 42b may be arranged at a position that does not overlap with the maintenance equipment 1 when viewed in the up and down direction, or the upper frame 46 may be arranged at a position higher than the upper end of the maintenance equipment 1. The specific structure of the maintenance equipment 1 is described below.

[0019] like Figure 3 As shown, the maintenance equipment 1 has a multi-level work platform 10 arranged side by side in the vertical direction. These work platforms 10 are arranged on the upper side of the traveling trolley 41. Therefore, the staff can use the work platforms 10 on each level to perform maintenance work on the portion of the stacker crane 4 that is higher than the traveling trolley 41. In the following, one of the multi-level work platforms 10 arranged on the upper side of the traveling trolley 41 is referred to as the first level platform 11, and the work platform 10 that is higher than the first level platform 11 is referred to as the upper level platform 12. In this embodiment, the first level platform 11 is the lowest level work platform 10 among the multi-level work platforms 10.

[0020] In this embodiment, if Figure 3 As shown, the maintenance equipment 1 includes a first upper platform 12a and a second upper platform 12b one level above the first upper platform 12a as the upper platform 12. That is, the maintenance equipment 1 includes a first platform 11 as the lowest workbench 10, a first upper platform 12a one level above the first platform 11, and a second upper platform 12b. Here, each of the height from the ground to the first platform 11, the height from the first platform 11 to the first upper platform 12a, and the height from the first upper platform 12a to the second upper platform 12b is preferably set to a height slightly higher than the height of a general worker. For example, it is appropriate that these heights are set to the same height as the maximum position in the vertical direction that the hand of the worker standing on the workbench 10 can reach. By having a multi-level workbench 10 in this way, it is possible to avoid performing maintenance work on the upper side of the maximum position in the vertical direction that the hand of the worker standing on the workbench 10 can reach. Therefore, there is no need to use a relatively high double-sided ladder (footstand) or the like, and the work efficiency and safety of the workers working on each workbench 10 can be improved.

[0021] exist Figure 3In the example, as described above, the first platform 11, the first upper platform 12a and the second upper platform 12b are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, but a work platform 10 may be provided above the second upper platform 12b in accordance with the scale of the stacker crane 4 used. In addition, only the first upper platform 12a may be provided as the upper platform 12. A platform for workers to work may also be provided between the ground and the first platform 11. For example, the workers may use the platform as a scaffold to perform maintenance work on the traveling trolley 41 or the lifting body 44 and the transfer device 43 arranged between the ground and the first platform 11. Thus, in this example, a work scaffold (platform) different from the work platform 10 may be provided between the lowest work platform 10 and the ground. Similarly, a work scaffold different from the work platform 10 may be provided between the first level work platform 10 and the work platform 10 of the level above it.

[0022] like Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the first platform 11 and the upper platform 12 are provided with a column penetration portion 14 through which the column 42 of the stacking crane 4 in the maintenance position 7 passes in the vertical direction, a table scaffold 16 provided in an area other than the column penetration portion and functioning as a scaffold for workers, and a support frame 8 supporting the table scaffold 16. In this embodiment, the work platform 10 (here, the first platform 11, the first upper platform 12a, and the second upper platform 12b) is an area surrounded by the outer edge of the table scaffold 16 and includes the column penetration portion 14. Moreover, the support frame 8 supporting the multi-stage work platform 10 is arranged at a position surrounding the outer periphery of the multi-stage work platform 10. In this example, a plurality of support frames 8 are provided corresponding to each stage of the multi-stage work platform 10. Here, the so-called "positioned at the periphery surrounding the workbench 10" is not limited to the entire area (in other words, the entire circumference) of the position arranged at the periphery surrounding the workbench 10, but also includes only a portion of the position (in other words, only a portion of the entire circumference) arranged at the periphery surrounding the workbench 10. Figure 3 and Figures 6 to 9 In the example of FIG. 1 , the support frame 8 is not provided at a position that interferes with the travel path 6 of the stacker crane 4 among positions surrounding the outer circumference of each stage of the work platform 10 .

[0023] like Figure 3As shown, regarding the maintenance device 1, a plurality of pillars 91 are erected on the ground in a manner along the up-down direction. In this example, each of the plurality of pillars 91 is separately arranged in the path direction X and the path-orthogonal direction Y in such a manner that the maintenance device 1 as a whole becomes a rectangular parallelepiped. Moreover, a plurality of (here three) support frames 8 are supported by these pillars 91 in a state separated from each other in the up-down direction. The support frame 8 is arranged in a manner along the path direction X and the path-orthogonal direction Y and in a rectangular shape when viewed in the up-down direction. A group of pillar penetration portions 14 is provided corresponding to the first pillar part 42a and the second pillar part 42b of the maintenance position 7. The group of pillar penetration portions 14 are separately arranged along the travel path 6 and in the path direction X. In Figures 5 to 9 In the example, the support frame 8 corresponding to each stage of the workbench 10 supports both ends of the table scaffold 16 in the path orthogonal direction Y, and supports both ends of the table scaffold 16 in the path direction X. On the other hand, the support frame 8 is not provided at the portion corresponding to the column through-hole 14 on the second side X2 in the path direction. Thus, the stacker crane 4 can move from the second side X2 in the path direction to the first side X1 in the path direction and enter the maintenance equipment 1. In addition, in the example shown in the figure, the maintenance equipment 1 is separated from the plurality of pillars 91 and has a plurality of longitudinal components 92 for reinforcing the maintenance equipment 1. The support frame 8 is also supported by the plurality of longitudinal components 92.

[0024] like Figures 6 to 9 As shown, regarding the stacker crane 4 that has entered the maintenance equipment 1, the first column member 42a is arranged at the column penetration portion 14 on the first side X1 in the path direction, and the second column member 42b is arranged at the column penetration portion 14 on the second side X2 in the path direction. In addition, the lifting body 44 is arranged at a position that does not interfere with the work platforms 10 at each level in the vertical direction, and is arranged in a manner that overlaps with the central area of ​​the work platform 10 (specifically, a part of a group of column penetration portions 14 and the movable scaffold 24 and auxiliary scaffold 25 described later) when viewed in the vertical direction. In this example, the position where the stacker crane 4 is arranged in this way is referred to as the maintenance position 7.

[0025] like Figure 4 As shown, in this example, the maintenance equipment 1 has a wall K covering the interior of the maintenance equipment 1. The wall K is configured to cover the maintenance equipment 1 except for the first entrance and exit 90, the second entrance and exit 93, and the area that intercepts the travel path 6 of the stacker crane 4 (here, the area where the stacker crane 4 enters and exits the column penetration portion 14 on the second side X2 in the path direction), and is supported by a plurality of pillars 91. The first entrance and exit 90 is provided between the ground and the lowest work platform 10 (first level platform 11). The staff enters the work area between the ground and the first level platform 11 through the first entrance and exit 90. Figure 4In the example, the first ladder 2 described later is arranged at the first entrance 90, but when the staff enters and exits the working area between the ground and the first platform 11, the first ladder 2 is removed from the first entrance 90. The second entrance 93 is arranged between the first platform 11 and the first upper platform 12a. The staff can enter the first upper platform 12a through the second entrance 93. In addition, it is not necessary to set up the wall K, and the area where the wall K is arranged can be appropriately changed. Figure 3 In the figure, the record of wall K is omitted.

[0026] like Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the table scaffold 16 includes a fixed scaffold 22 fixed to the support frame 8, and a movable scaffold 24. In this embodiment, the table scaffold 16 also includes an auxiliary scaffold 25. In addition, the fixed scaffold 22 and the movable scaffold 24 are provided on the table scaffold 16 of the first platform 11, the first upper platform 12a, and the second upper platform 12b. In addition, in this example, the first upper platform 12a and the second upper platform 12b have the same structure. Therefore, in the following, the first upper platform 12a and the second upper platform 12b are sometimes described as the upper platform 12 according to the need.

[0027] like Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the fixed scaffold 22 includes a moving track ( Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The fixed scaffold 22 includes a first side fixed scaffold 26 arranged on one side of the path orthogonal direction Y and a second side fixed scaffold 27 arranged on the other side of the path orthogonal direction Y. In addition, the fixed scaffold 22 includes a plurality of inner side fixed scaffolds 28 arranged on the inner side of the first side fixed scaffold 26 and the second side fixed scaffold 27 in the path orthogonal direction Y. In this example, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, on each of the first platform 11 and the upper platform 12, the first side fixed scaffold 26 is arranged on the first side in the path width direction relative to the second side fixed scaffold 27. In addition, between the first side fixed scaffold 26 and the second side fixed scaffold 27, a travel path 6 for the stacking crane 4 including the column through-portion 14 is formed. On the first platform 11 and the upper platform 12, the second side fixed scaffold 27 is arranged in the entire area of ​​the path direction X. On the first platform 11, the first side fixed scaffold 26 is arranged in the entire area of ​​the path direction X ( Figure 6 However, on the upper platform 12, the first side fixed scaffold 26 is not arranged in the entire area of ​​the path direction X ( Figures 7 to 9 ) On the upper platform 12, the first side fixed scaffold 26 is arranged adjacent to the passage through portion 13 described later on the second side X2 in the path direction.

[0028] A plurality of (four in this case) inner fixed scaffolds 28 are arranged separately along the path direction X and the path orthogonal direction Y, sandwiching the moving track of the movable scaffold 24. In addition, these inner fixed scaffolds 28 are arranged separately on the inner side of the first side fixed scaffold 26 and the second side fixed scaffold 27 in the path orthogonal direction Y and at both ends of the path direction X of the workbench 10. Figures 6 to 9 In the example, two inner fixed scaffolds 28 arranged on the first side X1 in the path direction among the four inner fixed scaffolds 28 are supported by the support frame 8. In addition, two inner fixed scaffolds 28 arranged on the second side X2 in the path direction are supported by either the first side fixed scaffold 26 or the second side fixed scaffold 27.

[0029] like Figures 5 to 9 and Fig.11 As shown, the movable scaffold 24 can change its form into a first retreat form T1 and a first deployment form T2. The first retreat form T1 is a form that does not interfere with the movement trajectory of the column 42 when the travel vehicle 41 travels along the travel path 6 and does not function as a scaffold for the staff, and the first deployment form T2 is a form that interferes with the movement trajectory of the column 42 but does not interfere with the column 42 of the stacker crane 4 in the maintenance position 7 and functions as a scaffold for the staff. Fig.11 As shown, the movable scaffold 24 is in a standing position in the first retreat position T1, and is in a position along a horizontal plane in the first deployment position T2. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, the travel path 6 of the stacking crane 4 will not be interrupted by the movable scaffold 24. When the movable scaffold 24 is in the first deployment state T2, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the travel path 6 of the stacker crane 4 is interrupted by the movable scaffold 24. Specifically, the movable scaffold 24 is arranged so as to overlap the travel path 6 when viewed in the vertical direction in the first unfolded form T2. In the present embodiment, the movable scaffold 24 is arranged between the first column member 42a and the second column member 42b of the stacker crane 4 in the maintenance position 7 in the first unfolded form T2. In other words, the movable scaffold 24 is arranged between a group of column penetration portions 14 in the first unfolded form T2. In addition, the movable scaffold 24 is arranged so as to span the first side fixed scaffold 26 and the second side fixed scaffold 27 in the first unfolded form T2. In other words, the first side fixed scaffold 26 and the second side fixed scaffold 27 are connected by the movable scaffold 24 becoming the first unfolded form T2.

[0030] like Figures 5 to 9 and Fig.11As shown, the movable scaffold 24 is configured to swing around the swing axis P1 installed on the fixed scaffold 22. Specifically, the movable scaffold 24 is configured to swing around the swing axis P1 installed on the second side fixed scaffold 27. In this example, the movable scaffold 24 is installed on the second side fixed scaffold 27 via a connecting mechanism 52. Here, the connecting mechanism 52 is a hinge. Moreover, the movable scaffold 24 swings around the swing axis P1 along the path direction X through the connecting mechanism 52, so that the shape can be changed between the first retracted shape T1 and the first deployed shape T2. Figures 5 to 9 In the example of FIG. 1 , the second side fixed scaffold 27 is a concave shape that is concave toward the second side Y2 in the path orthogonal direction when viewed from the top to the bottom. Furthermore, the movable scaffold 24 is installed to be able to swing freely around the swing axis P1 along the path direction X in the concave portion of the second side fixed scaffold 27 (the portion cut toward the second side Y2 in the path orthogonal direction). Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the movable scaffold 24 is configured to connect the first side fixed scaffold 26 and the second side fixed scaffold 27 in the first deployment state T2. The worker moves along the path orthogonal direction Y on the movable scaffold 24, so that he can go back and forth between the first side fixed scaffold 26 and the second side fixed scaffold 27. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , Fig.11 As shown, the movable scaffold 24 is arranged so as to overlap with the second side fixed scaffold 27 when viewed in the vertical direction in the first retreat state T1. In all workbenches 10, when the movable scaffold 24 is in the first retreat state T1, the travel path 6 is not interrupted by the movable scaffold 24, so the stacker crane 4 can move along the travel path 6 and travel back and forth between the maintenance position 7 outside the maintenance equipment 1 and inside the maintenance equipment 1.

[0031] like Figures 5 to 9 and Fig.11 As shown, the maintenance equipment 1 includes a force-applying mechanism 9 for applying force to the movable scaffold 24 in the swing direction around the swing axis P1. The force-applying mechanism 9 is configured to apply force to the movable scaffold 24 toward the first retreat state T1 side. In this example, the movable scaffold 24 is mounted on the second side fixed scaffold 27 via the connecting mechanism 52 and the force-applying mechanism 9. In this example, the force-applying mechanism 9 is configured as a separate part from the connecting mechanism 52, but the connecting mechanism 52 may also have the function of the force-applying mechanism 9. For example, the connecting mechanism 52 and the force-applying mechanism 9 may be hinges with power assistance. In this embodiment, as Fig.11As shown, the intermediate state between the first retreat state T1 and the first deployment state T2 is the intermediate state T3, and the torque of the force applying mechanism 9 is set as follows: when the movable scaffold 24 is located closer to the first retreat state T1 than the intermediate state T3, the torque is greater than the torque around the swing axis P1 acting on the movable scaffold 24 due to its own weight, and when the movable scaffold 24 is located closer to the first deployment state T2 than the intermediate state T3, the torque is smaller than the torque around the swing axis P1 acting on the movable scaffold 24 due to its own weight. In this example, the worker uses the first side fixed scaffold 26 when going up and down between the ground and the first platform 11 and the upper platform 12. And the worker on the first side fixed scaffold 26 changes the state of the movable scaffold 24. Here, the worker hooks the movable scaffold 24 in the first retreat state T1 with a hook rod, for example, and pulls it toward the first side Y1 in the path orthogonal direction, so that the movable scaffold 24 in the first retreat state T1 can be changed to the first deployment state T2. In addition, when the worker changes the movable scaffold 24 in the first deployment state T2 to the first retreat state T1, the worker uses the handle (not shown) of the movable scaffold 24 in the first deployment state T2 to lift the movable scaffold 24 and swing it. In addition, the worker can use the above-mentioned force applying mechanism 9, so compared with the case where the force applying mechanism 9 is not provided, the shape of the movable scaffold 24 can be changed with a relatively small force.

[0032] like Figures 5 to 9 and Fig.13 As shown, the auxiliary scaffolding 25 is connected to the fixed scaffolding 22 or the supporting frame 8 via a connecting mechanism 52. In this example, the auxiliary scaffolding 25 is connected to the fixed scaffolding 22 (here, the inner fixed scaffolding 28) via the connecting mechanism 52. A plurality of auxiliary scaffoldings 25 are provided corresponding to the plurality of inner fixed scaffoldings 28. Moreover, the auxiliary scaffolding 25 is arranged between the inner fixed scaffolding 28 and the movable scaffolding 24 in the first deployment form T2. In the illustrated example, the plurality of auxiliary scaffoldings 25 are separately arranged on both sides of the path orthogonal direction Y of the travel path 6 of the stacker crane 4 including a group of column penetrations 14, and on both sides of the path direction X of the movable scaffolding 24 in the first deployment form T2. In this embodiment, the auxiliary scaffolding 25 can change its form to a second retreat form U1 and a second deployment form U2, and the second retreat form U1 is a lifting trajectory ( Figures 6 to 9The second unfolded form U2 is a form that interferes with the lifting trajectory of the lifting body 44 of the stacking crane 4 in the maintenance position 7 and does not function as a scaffold for the staff. The plurality of auxiliary scaffolds 25 are each arranged as described above in the second unfolded form U2. Here, the connecting mechanism 52 is a hinge. And as Fig.13 As shown, the auxiliary scaffolding 25 is swung around the axis P2 along the path orthogonal direction Y by the connecting mechanism 52, thereby changing the form to the second retreat form U1 and the second deployment form U2. The auxiliary scaffolding 25 of the second deployment form U2 connects the inner fixed scaffolding 28 and the movable scaffolding 24 of the first deployment form T2. In this example, the auxiliary scaffolding 25 of the second retreat form U1 is configured to overlap with the inner fixed scaffolding 28 when viewed in the up and down direction. In the illustrated example, the auxiliary scaffolding 25 of the second retreat form U1 is in a form along a horizontal plane, but it can also be in an upright form like the movable scaffolding 24 of the first retreat form T1. Here, in the present embodiment, as Fig.13 As shown, the movable scaffold 24 is provided with a support portion 23, which supports a portion of the auxiliary scaffold 25 different from the portion provided with the connection mechanism 52 from the lower side. A plurality of (here, four) support portions 23 are provided in a manner corresponding to each of the plurality of auxiliary scaffolds 25. The support portion 23 is provided in a manner protruding from the end of the path direction X of the movable scaffold 24 toward the outer side of the path direction X. These support portions 23 are configured in a manner of supporting the auxiliary scaffold 25 in the second deployment form U2 from the lower side. In this way, the auxiliary scaffold 25 is supported by the inner fixed scaffold 28 and the support portion 23. In addition, in this example, the support portion 23 supports the auxiliary scaffold 25 on the opposite side of the connection mechanism 52 that sandwiches the auxiliary scaffold 25. In this way, the auxiliary scaffold 25 in the second deployed form U2 can be supported by the connecting mechanism 52 (the hinge installed on the inner fixed scaffold 28) and the support portion 23 which are separately arranged along the path direction X, so it is easy to improve the stability of the auxiliary scaffold 25 in the second deployed form U2. In addition, it is not necessary to provide the support portion 23 for supporting the auxiliary scaffold 25 on the movable scaffold 24. By adopting a configuration in which the support portion 23 is not provided on the movable scaffold 24, for example, the auxiliary scaffold 25 can be in the deployed form earlier than the movable scaffold 24. In addition, in the following, the above-mentioned forms of the movable scaffold 24 and the auxiliary scaffold 25 are sometimes collectively referred to as "retracted form" and "deployed form".

[0033] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9As shown, the auxiliary scaffold 25 overlaps the lifting body 44 in the maintenance position 7 when viewed from the vertical direction in the second deployed state U2. On the other hand, the auxiliary scaffold 25 does not overlap the lifting body 44 in the maintenance position 7 when viewed from the vertical direction in the second retracted state U1. Figure 8 As shown, when a workbench 10, the auxiliary scaffold 25 is in the second deployment state U2, and the movable scaffold 24 is in the first retreat state T1, when the stacker crane 4 is configured in the maintenance position 7, the lifting body 44 cannot pass through the workbench 10 in the vertical direction. Fig. 9 As shown, when one workbench 10 and the auxiliary scaffold 25 are in the second retracted state U1 and the movable scaffold 24 is in the first retracted state T1 , and the stacker crane 4 is arranged in the maintenance position 7 , the lifting body 44 can pass through the workbench 10 in the vertical direction.

[0034] like Figures 5 to 9 and Fig.12 As shown, in the present embodiment, guide fences 61 are provided along the two side edges of the path direction X of the movable scaffolding 24. Moreover, the guide fence 61 can change its form into a guide form V1 which is provided upright relative to the movable scaffolding 24, and a folded form V2 which is a form along the movable scaffolding 24. The guide fences 61 are provided on the two side edges of the path direction X of the movable scaffolding 24 in a range where the first unfolded form T2 interferes with the travel path 6. In the illustrated example, a pair of guide fences 61 is arranged in the central area of ​​the two side edges of the path direction X of the movable scaffolding 24. The guide fence 61 is connected to the movable scaffolding 24 via a connecting mechanism 52. Here, the connecting mechanism 52 is a hinge. And as Fig.12 As shown, the guide fence 61 swings around the axis P3 along the path orthogonal direction Y through the connecting mechanism 52, thereby changing the form to the guide form V1 and the folded form V2. The guide fence 61 in the folded form V2 overlaps with the movable scaffold 24 in the first unfolded form T2 when viewed in the vertical direction. In the example shown in the figure, the guide fence 61 in the folded form V2 is in a form along the horizontal plane, but it is not limited to this.

[0035] In addition, a plurality of such guide fences 61 are also provided on scaffolds other than the movable scaffold 24. Figures 5 to 9As shown, the guide fence 61 is also provided on the auxiliary scaffolding 25 and the fixed scaffolding 22 (here, the inner fixed scaffolding 28). In this example, a guide fence 61 is provided on the side edge of each of the auxiliary scaffolding 25 and the inner fixed scaffolding 28 adjacent to each other along the path direction X, on the inner side (the side facing the column through-portion 14) of the path orthogonal direction Y. The guide fence 61 provided on the auxiliary scaffolding 25 via the connecting mechanism 52 (here, the hinge) is constructed to be able to change its form to a guide form V1 that is upright relative to the auxiliary scaffolding 25 and a folded form V2 that is a form along the auxiliary scaffolding 25, similarly to the guide fence 61 provided on the movable scaffolding 24. On the other hand, the guide fence 61 provided on the inner fixed scaffolding 28 is fixed in a state of being upright relative to the inner fixed scaffolding 28, and is not constructed to be able to change its form. Figure 5 In the example of , the following state is shown: when the movable scaffold 24 is in the first unfolded state T2 and the auxiliary scaffold 25 is in the second unfolded state U2, all the guide fences 61 are set upright. In this way, the guide fences 61 are set in all parts of the table scaffold 16 adjacent to one set of column penetrations 14, so that it is possible to prevent the feet of the workers who perform maintenance work on the table scaffold 16 from extending into the column penetrations 14, or the tools or parts placed on the table scaffold 16 from accidentally falling from the column penetrations 14. In addition, when the movable scaffold 24 and the auxiliary scaffold 25 are changed to the retreat state (the first retreat state T1, the second retreat state U1), it is appropriate to set the guide fences 61 to the folded state V2 in advance. Thus, it is easy to avoid the movable scaffolding 24 or the auxiliary scaffolding 25 changing its form due to the guide fence 61 maintaining the guide form V1 unchanged, for example, the guide fence 61 interferes with other components, and the movable scaffolding 24 or the auxiliary scaffolding 25 does not become a suitable retreat form but becomes a halfway form.

[0036] like Figure 3 and Figures 7 to 9As shown, the upper platform 12 is provided with a through-hole 13 for passage, which is passed in the vertical direction in a manner that a worker can pass through the upper ladder 3 in the vertical direction. The through-hole 13 for passage is arranged at a position overlapping with the table-type scaffold 16 of the first platform 11 when viewed in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the through-hole 13 for passage is provided on each of the first upper platform 12a and the second upper platform 12b. The worker passes through the through-hole 13 for passage of the first upper platform 12a to move from the first platform 11 to the first upper platform 12a. Similarly, the worker passes through the through-hole 13 for passage of the second upper platform 12b to move from the first upper platform 12a to the second upper platform 12b. When passing through the through-hole 13 for passage, the upper ladder 3 provided on the first platform 11 and the first upper platform 12a is used. Such a passage penetration portion 13 is disposed at a position overlapping with the first side fixed scaffold 26 of the first stage 11 when viewed in the up-down direction.

[0037] In this example, the through-hole 13 is provided at a position of the upper platform 12 adjacent to the first side fixed scaffold 26 on the first side X1 in the path direction. In addition, the through-hole 13 is not provided on the side of the upper platform 12 where the second side fixed scaffold 27 is arranged. In the example shown in the figure, the through-hole 13 is arranged in a manner surrounded by the inner side fixed scaffold 28, the auxiliary scaffold 25, the first side fixed scaffold 26 and the support frame 8. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the upper platform 12 is provided with an opening and closing scaffold 17 as a part of the table scaffold 16. Moreover, the opening and closing scaffold 17 is configured to be able to change the state to a closed state (a closed state) in which the through-hole 13 for passage is closed and functions as the table scaffold 16. Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 ), and an open state in which the passage-through portion 13 is opened so that a worker can pass through the passage-through portion 13 ( Fig. 9). The opening and closing scaffolding 17 is supported by the support frame 8 via a connecting mechanism 52 (here, a hinge). Moreover, the opening and closing scaffolding 17 is swung around the axis along the path direction X by the connecting mechanism 52, thereby changing the state (changing the form) to a closed state and an open state. If a worker, for example, uses the upper ladder 3 to reach the first upper platform 12a from the first platform 11 through the passage through portion 13, the opening and closing scaffolding 17 is changed from an open state to a closed state. As a result, the passage through portion 13 is closed by the opening and closing scaffolding 17, so the worker can perform maintenance work on the first upper platform 12a using the opening and closing scaffolding 17. In addition, by making the opening and closing scaffolding 17 in a closed state, it is possible to prevent the worker from accidentally falling from the passage through portion 13. Here, the opening and closing scaffolding 17 in a closed state is in a form along a horizontal plane. Furthermore, it is preferable that no step difference is generated between the closed-state opening and closing scaffold 17 of the workbench 10, the first side fixed scaffold 26, the inner side fixed scaffold 28, the movable scaffold 24 in the first expanded state T2, the auxiliary scaffold 25 in the second expanded state U2, and the second side fixed scaffold 27. In the example shown in the figure, two opening and closing scaffolds 17 are arranged side by side in the path direction X on the upper stage 12. In addition, it is preferable that a support body that supports the closed-state opening and closing scaffold 17 from the bottom is provided in other components adjacent to these opening and closing scaffolds 17.

[0038] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the first ladder 2, which is a ladder for workers to climb up the first platform 11 from the ground, is arranged outside the first platform 11 when viewed from the top and bottom. As described above, the first ladder 2 is arranged outside the first platform 11 to block the first entrance 90 ( Figure 3 ) is set up in a manner. The staff can move from the ground to the first platform 11 using the first ladder 2 set up in a manner to block the first entrance and exit 90. In this embodiment, the first ladder 2 is set up in a manner connected to the first side fixed scaffolding 26 of the first platform 11. Figure 4 As shown, the first entrance 90 is arranged on the second side X2 in the path direction relative to the wall K when viewed in the path orthogonal direction Y. Therefore, the first ladder 2 is arranged in a manner connected to the area of ​​the first side fixed scaffold 26 of the first platform 11, which is close to the second side X2 in the path direction relative to the central part of the path direction X. The first ladder 2 is freely loadable and unloadable relative to the support frame 8 forming the first entrance 90.

[0039] like Figure 3 and Figures 6 to 8As shown, the upper ladder 3, which is a ladder for workers to climb from the first platform 11 to the upper platform 12, is arranged at a position overlapping with the first platform 11 when viewed in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the upper ladder 3 is arranged at a position overlapping with the first side fixed scaffold 26 of the first platform 11 when viewed in the vertical direction. Moreover, the upper ladder 3 is freely loadable and unloadable relative to the multi-level workbench 10, and is freely loadable and unloadable relative to the support frame 8.

[0040] In this example, the first ladder 2 and the upper ladder 3 have the same structure. Therefore, the structure of the upper ladder 3 will be described below, and the structure of the first ladder 2 will be omitted. Fig.10 As shown, a hook-shaped engaging portion 82 is installed at the upper end of the upper ladder 3. In addition, an anti-skid component 18b is installed at the lower end of these ladders via a connecting component 18a. The connecting component 18a is fixed to the lower end of the upper ladder 3 and to the upper surface of the anti-skid component 18b. Moreover, an insertion through hole 20 for inserting a fixing component 19 is formed in the portion of the connecting component 18a that abuts against the anti-skid component 18b and the anti-skid component 18b. Here, the fixing component 19 is a pin, but it can also be a fastening bolt or the like. In addition, it is appropriate that the anti-skid component 18b is an elastic component.

[0041] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the first ladder 2 is mounted on the front side of the first entrance 90 (on the outside of the first entrance 90 in the path-orthogonal direction Y) by engaging the engaging portion 82 with the support frame 8 forming the first entrance 90. In the illustrated example, when the engaging portion 82 is engaged with the support frame 8, the anti-slip component 18b abuts against the upper surface of the auxiliary frame 83 arranged along the path direction X. In addition, a first retaining portion 35 is provided on the wall K adjacent to the first side X1 in the path direction relative to the first entrance 90. The first retaining portion 35 is configured to retain the first ladder 2. Specifically, the first ladder 2 is retained by the first retaining portion 35 by engaging the engaging portion 82 with the frame of the first retaining portion 35. Therefore, it is appropriate to retain the first ladder 2 by the first retaining portion 35 when the first ladder 2 is not in use.

[0042] like Figures 6 to 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the lower portion of the upper ladder 3 is supported by a table-type scaffold 16 other than the movable scaffold 24 of the workbench 10 on which the upper ladder 3 is arranged. Figure 6 As shown, the lower part of the upper ladder 3 for ascending from the first platform 11 to the first upper platform 12a is supported by the first side fixed scaffold 26 of the first platform 11 in the area close to the first side X1 in the path direction relative to the central part of the path direction X. Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the lower part of the upper ladder 3 for ascending from the first upper platform 12a to the second upper platform 12b is constructed in a manner supported by the opening and closing scaffolding 17 in the closed state of the first upper platform 12a. On the upper platform 12, the upper ladder 3 is provided on the opening and closing scaffolding 17 in the closed state. In this way, the upper ladder 3 is arranged on the table-type scaffolding 16 other than the movable scaffolding 24, so that the staff can go up and down between the first upper platform 12a and the second upper platform 12b regardless of the form of the movable scaffolding 24. In this example, the upper ladders 3 provided on the plurality of work platforms 10 (first platform 11, upper platform 12) are arranged at the same position of each level of the work platform 10 in an overlapping manner when viewed in the up and down direction. In this embodiment, as Fig.10 As shown, the maintenance equipment 1 is further provided with a fixing portion 18 for fixing the lower portion of the upper ladder 3 and the portion of the platform-type scaffold 16 other than the movable scaffold to each other. In this example, the fixing portion 18 is a connecting member 18a, an anti-slip member 18b and a fixing member 19 installed at the lower end of the upper ladder 3. A through hole (not shown) through which the fixing member 19 passes is formed at the mounting position of each of the upper ladder 3 of the first side fixed scaffold 26 of the first platform 11 and the opening and closing scaffold 17 of the upper platform 12.

[0043] like Fig.10 As shown, above each level of the workbench 10, there is provided an engaging portion 81 that branches downward from the support frame 8 that supports the upper level table-type scaffolding 16. The upper ladder 3 is engaged with the engaging portion 81 through the engaging portion 82, and is arranged on each level of the table-type scaffolding 16. In this way, the upper part of the upper ladder 3 is directly supported by the support frame 8, but the engaging portion 81 may be provided as an independent component different from the support frame 8, so that the upper ladder 3 is indirectly supported by the support frame 8 via the engaging portion 81. In addition, in a state where the engaging portion 82 is engaged with the engaging portion 81, the anti-slip component 18b abuts against the installation position of the first side fixed scaffolding 26 of the first platform 11 or the opening and closing scaffolding 17 of the upper platform 12. Moreover, the fixing component 19 is inserted through the insertion through hole 20 and the through hole not shown in the figure, so that the lower part of the upper ladder 3 is fixed to the workbench 10 at each level. In addition, when the upper ladder 3 is not used, as shown in FIG. Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the upper ladder 3 is held by a second holding portion 36 provided at the end of the first side Y1 in the path-orthogonal direction of the workbench 10. The second holding portion 36 has the same structure as the first holding portion 35. Thus, the upper ladder 3 not in use can be stored at a position of the table-type scaffold 16 that is unlikely to become an obstacle to maintenance work. Figure 3In the example of FIG. 1 , a support member 84 is fixed to the upper frame of the maintenance device 1. The support member 84 overlaps the through-hole 13 when viewed in the vertical direction and is arranged above the uppermost workbench 10. Safety devices such as anti-drop wiring can be installed on the support member 84.

[0044] Hereinafter, as an example, a case where a worker performs maintenance work on the second upper stage 12 b will be described. Here, the stacker crane 4 is already arranged at the maintenance position 7 .

[0045] In this embodiment, if Figure 4 As shown, the worker uses the first ladder 2 installed on the support frame 8 of the first entrance 90 to move from the second entrance 93 to the first platform 11. And, if the worker fixes the upper ladder 3 to the installation position of the first side fixed scaffold 26, the worker uses the upper ladder 3 to move to the first upper platform 12a. At this time, the worker moves to the first side fixed scaffold 26 of the first upper platform 12a through the through-hole 13 for passage of the first upper platform 12a. As described above, the first side fixed scaffold 26 of the upper platform 12 is arranged adjacent to the through-hole 13 for passage on the second side X2 of the path direction. Then, the worker changes the opening and closing scaffold 17 from the open state to the closed state, and fixes the upper ladder 3 to the installation position of the opening and closing scaffold 17. The worker uses the upper ladder 3 to move to the second upper platform 12b. At this time, the worker moves to the first side fixed scaffold 26 of the second upper platform 12b through the through-hole 13 for passage of the second upper platform 12b. Then, the worker changes the opening and closing scaffolding 17 from the open state to the closed state. Thus, the worker can use the opening and closing scaffolding 17 to perform maintenance work. Therefore, even when the through-hole 13 for passage is provided inside the upper platform 12, it is possible to ensure that the scaffolding for the worker to perform maintenance work is spacious. Here, the movable scaffolding 24 in the first retreat state T1 is arranged in a manner overlapping with the second side fixed scaffolding 27 when viewed in the vertical direction as described above. In this way, the movable scaffolding 24 in the first retreat state T1 is arranged in a place where it will not hinder the worker who moves on the first side fixed scaffolding 26 and the opening and closing scaffolding 17, so that the work efficiency of the maintenance work including the movement of the worker can be improved.

[0046] Next, the worker on the first side fixed scaffold 26 or the closed openable scaffold 17 changes the movable scaffold 24 from the first retreat state T1 to the first deployment state T2. Thus, the worker can perform maintenance work using the movable scaffold 24 and the second side fixed scaffold 27. Next, the worker changes the auxiliary scaffold 25 from the second retreat state U1 to the second deployment state U2. Thus, the worker can perform maintenance work using the auxiliary scaffold 25.

[0047] Here, when the second upper platform 12b is used for maintenance work on the lifting body 44 or the transfer device 43, the worker moves the lifting body 44 to a position higher than the table scaffold 16 of the second upper platform 12b before entering the interior of the maintenance equipment 1. Therefore, when the stacker crane 4 is used for maintenance work, the movable scaffold 24 and the auxiliary scaffold 25 need to be in the retreat state (first retreat state T1, second retreat state U1) at each stage of the work platform 10 before the stacker crane 4 is stored in the maintenance equipment 1. In addition, when the maintenance equipment 1 is not used, it is appropriate to open the opening and closing scaffold 17 of the upper platform 12.

[0048] In this example, the connection mechanism 52 attached to the movable scaffold 24 , the auxiliary scaffold 25 , and the opening and closing scaffold 17 is a hinge, but the connection mechanism 52 may be a linear guide mechanism or the like.

[0049] [Other implementation methods] (1) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is used as an example for explanation: the maintenance device 1 is adjacent to the storage rack 5 and is arranged at the end area of ​​the first side X1 of the travel path 6 of the stacker crane 4. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the maintenance device 1 may be arranged at a position away from the storage rack 5. In addition, the maintenance device 1 may be arranged in the middle of the travel path 6 of the stacker crane 4. In this case, the stacker crane 4 may pass through the maintenance device 1. In addition, Figure 1 A plurality of stacker cranes 4 may be arranged in the path, and a plurality of maintenance equipment 1 may be arranged in a manner corresponding to each of the plurality of stacker cranes 4. For example, when two stacker cranes 4 are arranged along a storage rack 5, a maintenance equipment 1 may be arranged on each of the two outer sides of the storage rack 5 in the path direction X. In addition, when a storage rack 5 is arranged on each of the two outer sides of the path direction X of a maintenance equipment 1, a stacker crane 4 may be arranged along each storage rack 5. In addition, Figure 1 In one example, the in-and-out conveyor 94 is arranged on the second side X2 in the path direction relative to the storage rack 5, but it is not limited to this, and the location where the in-and-out conveyor 94 is arranged can be appropriately changed. In this way, the number or arrangement of the maintenance equipment 1, the stacker crane 4, the travel path 6, and the in-and-out conveyor 94 provided in the automatic warehouse 100 can be appropriately changed.

[0050] (2) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the upper platform 12 is provided with an opening and closing scaffold 17 as a part of the table scaffold 16, and the opening and closing scaffold 17 is supported by the support frame 8 via the connecting mechanism 52, and can be changed to a closed state and an open state by swinging through the connecting mechanism 52, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the upper platform 12 may not be provided with the opening and closing scaffold 17. In addition, even in the case where the upper platform 12 is provided with the opening and closing scaffold 17, it is also possible that the opening and closing scaffold 17 is freely detachable relative to the support frame 8, and the staff installs the opening and closing scaffold 17 on the support frame 8 to achieve a closed state. In addition, the opening and closing scaffold 17 may also be configured in a manner supported by a member other than the support frame 8.

[0051] (3) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the table scaffold 16 is provided with the auxiliary scaffold 25, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The table scaffold 16 may not necessarily be provided with the auxiliary scaffold 25. In addition, even if the table scaffold 16 is provided with the auxiliary scaffold 25, the auxiliary scaffold 25 may not be configured to be able to change its configuration between the second retracted configuration U1 and the second deployed configuration U2. In this case, for example, the auxiliary scaffold 25 may be freely detachable from the workbench 10.

[0052] (4) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the upper ladder 3 is freely attachable and detachable relative to the multi-stage workbench 10 and is freely attachable and detachable relative to the support frame 8, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The upper ladder 3 may be fixed to at least one of the multi-stage workbench 10 and the support frame 8 in a non-detachable manner.

[0053] (5) In the above-mentioned embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the auxiliary scaffolding 25 is connected to the inner fixed scaffolding 28 of the fixed scaffolding 22 via the connecting mechanism 52, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the following configuration is also possible: the auxiliary scaffolding 25 is connected to the first side fixed scaffolding 26 or the second side fixed scaffolding 27 of the fixed scaffolding 22 via the connecting mechanism 52, and the auxiliary scaffolding 25 in the second deployed form U2 is supported by the inner fixed scaffolding 28 and the movable scaffolding 24 (specifically, the support portion 23) from both sides of the path direction X. In addition, the auxiliary scaffolding 25 may also be connected to the support frame 8 via the connecting mechanism 52. For example, it is also possible to Figures 5 to 9 In the example, in the configuration where the auxiliary scaffold 25 is connected to the support frame 8 via the connection mechanism 52, a part of the inner fixed scaffold 28 is also made into the auxiliary scaffold 25. In this case, the support frame 8 corresponding to the inner fixed scaffold 28 on the second side X2 of the path direction can be further arranged.

[0054] (6) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the lower part of the upper ladder 3 for ascending from the first upper platform 12a to the second upper platform 12b is supported by the closed opening and closing scaffolding 17 of the first upper platform 12a, but the present invention is not limited to this. The lower part of the upper ladder 3 for ascending from the first upper platform 12a to the second upper platform 12b may be supported by, for example, a fixed scaffolding 22 adjacent to the opening and closing scaffolding 17.

[0055] (7) In the above embodiment, the stacker crane 4 is described as an example in which the stacker crane 4 includes the first column member 42a and the second column member 42b as the column 42, which are separated and arranged in the direction along the travel path 6. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The stacker crane 4 may also be configured to include only the first column member 42a as the column 42.

[0056] (8) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the maintenance equipment 1 includes a fixing portion 18 for fixing the lower portion of the upper ladder 3 and the portion of the table-type scaffold 16 other than the movable scaffold, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The maintenance equipment 1 may not include such a fixing portion 18. In this case, for example, the lower portion of the upper ladder 3 may not be fixed to the table-type scaffold 16.

[0057] (9) In the above embodiment, the movable scaffold 24 is described as an example in which the movable scaffold 24 swings around the swing axis P1 attached to the second side fixed scaffold 27, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The movable scaffold 24 may be provided so as to swing around the swing axis attached to the first side fixed scaffold 26.

[0058] (10) In the above embodiment, the maintenance equipment 1 is described as an example in which the urging mechanism 9 urges the movable scaffold 24 in the swing direction around the swing axis P1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The maintenance equipment 1 does not necessarily need to include such an urging mechanism 9.

[0059] (11) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the guide fences 61 are provided along the two side edges of the path direction X of the movable scaffold 24, and the guide fences 61 can change their form to a guide form V1 provided upright relative to the movable scaffold 24 and a folded form V2 provided along the movable scaffold 24, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The guide fences 61 may be fixed to the movable scaffold 24 in the guide form V1 instead of changing their form as described above. In addition, the movable scaffold 24 may not be provided with the guide fences 61.

[0060] (12) In addition, as long as no contradiction occurs, the configuration disclosed in each of the above-mentioned embodiments can also be combined with the configuration disclosed in other embodiments (including the combination of the embodiments described as other embodiments). Even with respect to other configurations, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are merely illustrative in all aspects. Therefore, various changes can be appropriately made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0061] [Summary of the above-mentioned embodiments] The following is an overview of the automatic warehouse described above.

[0062] The automatic warehouse involved in the present disclosure is an automatic warehouse including a storage rack for storing a plurality of articles, a stacker crane for transporting the articles, and a maintenance device for maintaining the stacker crane. The stacker crane comprises: a traveling trolley that travels along a traveling path that is set along the storage rack; a column that is erected along the vertical direction on the traveling trolley; and a lifting body that supports a transfer device that holds and transfers the articles and is lifted and lowered along the column. The maintenance equipment is configured so as to be disposed at a position not overlapping with the storage rack when viewed in the vertical direction and to store at least a portion of the stacker crane when the stacker crane is in the maintenance position set on the travel path. The maintenance equipment includes a workbench, which is arranged above the traveling vehicle. The workbench comprises a column penetration portion through which the column of the stacking crane in the maintenance position penetrates in the vertical direction, a table scaffolding provided in an area other than the column penetration portion, and a support frame supporting the table scaffolding. The table-type scaffolding comprises a fixed scaffolding fixed to the supporting frame and a movable scaffolding. The movable scaffold can change its form into a first retracted form and a first deployed form. The first retreat mode is a mode in which the scaffolding for the staff does not interfere with the moving trajectory of the pillar when the travel vehicle travels along the travel path, and does not function as a scaffolding for the staff. The first deployed state is a state that interferes with the movement trajectory of the column but does not interfere with the column of the stacker crane in the maintenance position, and functions as a scaffold for the worker.

[0063] According to this configuration, when the stacker crane is moved along the travel path between the maintenance position and other positions, the maintenance equipment can be prevented from hindering the movement of the stacker crane. Therefore, the stacker crane can be properly stored in or removed from the maintenance equipment. In addition, according to this configuration, by making the movable scaffolding into the first unfolded form, the range of movement of the maintenance worker can be expanded, and the table scaffolding can be set at a position close to the column of the stacker crane in the maintenance position. Therefore, the maintenance work performed by the worker can be easily performed. As described above, according to this configuration, the stacker crane can be appropriately stored and maintenance work on the stacker crane can be easily performed.

[0064] Here, the aforementioned table scaffolding also has an auxiliary scaffolding. The auxiliary scaffolding can change its form into a second retracted form and a second deployed form, wherein the second retracted form is a form that does not interfere with the lifting trajectory of the lifting body of the stacker crane in the maintenance position and does not function as a scaffolding for the staff, and the second deployed form is a form that interferes with the lifting trajectory of the lifting body of the stacker crane in the maintenance position and functions as a scaffolding for the staff.

[0065] According to this configuration, by making the auxiliary scaffolding in the retreated state, it is possible to prevent the maintenance equipment from becoming an obstruction when the lifting body is raised or lowered. In addition, when the lifting body has stopped at a position that does not interfere with the workbench, the auxiliary scaffolding is made into the second unfolded state, so that the table scaffolding can be set at a position close to the column of the stacking crane. Therefore, it is possible to facilitate the maintenance work performed by the staff.

[0066] In addition, it is appropriate that The auxiliary scaffold is connected to the fixed scaffold or the supporting frame via a connecting mechanism. The movable scaffold is provided with a support portion that supports, from below, a portion of the auxiliary scaffold different from a portion where the connection mechanism is provided.

[0067] According to this configuration, the auxiliary scaffold can be stably supported by the fixed scaffold or the supporting frame and the movable scaffold.

[0068] In addition, it is appropriate that The stacker crane includes, as the column, a first column member and a second column member that are separately arranged in a direction along the travel path. The movable scaffold is arranged between the first column member and the second column member of the stacker crane in the maintenance position in the first deployed state.

[0069] According to this configuration, when the stacker crane is in the maintenance position, the movable scaffold is in the first unfolded state, so that the table scaffold can be set between the first column member and the second column member. Therefore, the worker can perform maintenance work between the first column member and the second column member, which can make the maintenance work performed by the worker easier.

[0070] In addition, it is appropriate that The fixed scaffolding includes a first side fixed scaffolding arranged on one side and a second side fixed scaffolding arranged on the other side so as to sandwich the moving track of the column. The movable scaffold is configured to swing around a swing axis installed on the second side fixed scaffold.

[0071] According to this configuration, the movable scaffold swings around the swing axis installed on the second side fixed scaffold different from the first side fixed scaffold, so the worker can change the movable scaffold to the first deployment state and the first retreat state on the first side fixed scaffold. Therefore, the work of changing the state of the movable scaffold can be easily and safely performed.

[0072] In addition, it is appropriate that A ladder for the aforementioned workers to climb onto the aforementioned work platform from the ground is arranged in a manner connected to the aforementioned first side fixed scaffolding.

[0073] According to this configuration, a worker can climb up to the first side fixed scaffold of the work platform from the ground using a ladder, and perform work of changing the shape of the movable scaffold on the first side fixed scaffold.

[0074] In addition, it is appropriate that The movable scaffold is configured to swing around a swing axis mounted on the fixed scaffold. The maintenance equipment includes a force applying mechanism for applying force to the movable scaffold in a swinging direction around the swing axis. The intermediate state between the first retreat state and the first expansion state is defined as an intermediate state. The force applying mechanism applies force to the movable scaffold toward the first retreat state. The torque of the force-applying mechanism is set in the following manner: when the movable scaffold is located closer to the first retreat state than the intermediate state, the torque is greater than the torque around the swing axis acting on the movable scaffold due to its own weight; and when the movable scaffold is located closer to the first deployment state than the intermediate state, the torque is smaller than the torque around the swing axis acting on the movable scaffold due to its own weight.

[0075] According to this structure, when the movable scaffold is located closer to the first retreat form than the intermediate form, the movable scaffold is forced toward the first retreat form, and when the movable scaffold is located closer to the first deployment form than the intermediate form, the movable scaffold is forced toward the first deployment form, so the staff can easily change the movable scaffold from the first retreat form to the first deployment form and from the first deployment form to the first retreat form. In addition, according to this structure, compared with the case where there is no force applying mechanism, the force required in the case of changing the movable scaffold from the first deployment form to the first retreat form and the case of changing the movable scaffold from the first retreat form to the first deployment form can be reduced, so the burden on the staff for changing the form of the movable scaffold can be reduced. Furthermore, according to this configuration, when the movable scaffold is in the first retracted state, the first deployed state is maintained by the movable scaffold's own weight, thereby reducing the need for providing an additional mechanism such as a locking mechanism to maintain the movable scaffold in the first deployed state.

[0076] In addition, it is appropriate that The direction along the aforementioned driving path when viewed from the top and bottom is the path direction, and the direction orthogonal to the aforementioned path direction when viewed from the top and bottom is the path orthogonal direction. The fixed scaffolding includes a first side fixed scaffolding arranged on one side of the path orthogonal to the moving track of the column and a second side fixed scaffolding arranged on the other side of the path orthogonal to the moving track. The movable scaffold is arranged to span the first side fixed scaffold and the second side fixed scaffold in the first expanded state. Guide fences are provided along the two side edges of the movable scaffold in the direction of the path. The guide fence can be changed into a guide form in which it is erected relative to the movable scaffold and a folded form in which it is arranged along the movable scaffold.

[0077] According to this configuration, when the movable scaffold is in the first deployed configuration, the guide fence is in the guide configuration, thereby reducing the possibility that the feet of the worker working on the movable scaffold extend outside the movable scaffold, or the tools placed on the movable scaffold fall, etc. In addition, according to this configuration, the guide fence is in the folded configuration, thereby preventing the guide fence from interfering with the fixed scaffold and the like and becoming an obstacle to the change of the configuration of the movable scaffold when the movable scaffold is in the first retracted configuration.

[0078] The automatic warehouse involved in the present disclosure only needs to be able to achieve at least one of the above-mentioned effects. [Explanation of Reference Numerals]

[0079] 1: Maintain equipment 5: Storage rack 6: Driving path 7: Maintenance position 8: Support frame 9: Force applying mechanism 10: Workbench 14: Column penetration 15: Ladder 16: Desktop Scaffolding 22: Fixed scaffolding 23: Support 24: Movable scaffolding 25: Auxiliary scaffolding 26: Fixed scaffolding on the first side 27: Second side fixed scaffolding 42: Column 42a: First column component 42b: Second column component 43: Transfer device 44: Lifting body 52: Connecting mechanism 61: Guide Fence 100: Automated Warehouse P1: Swing axis T1: The first retreat pattern T2: First expansion pattern T3: Intermediate Form U1: Second retreat mode U2: Second expansion form V1: Guiding form V2: Folding form W: Items X: Path direction Y: Path orthogonal direction

Claims

1. An automatic warehouse comprising a storage rack for storing a plurality of articles, a stacker crane for transporting the articles, and a maintenance device for maintaining the stacker crane, The automatic warehouse has the following characteristics: The stacker crane comprises: a traveling trolley that travels along a traveling path set along the storage rack; a column that is erected on the traveling trolley in a vertical direction; and a lifting body that supports a transfer device that holds and transfers the articles and is lifted and lowered along the column. The maintenance equipment is configured so as to be disposed at a position not overlapping with the storage rack when viewed in the vertical direction, and to store at least a portion of the stacker crane when the stacker crane is in a maintenance position set on the travel path. The maintenance equipment includes a workbench, which is arranged above the traveling vehicle. The workbench includes a column penetration portion through which the column of the stacker crane in the maintenance position penetrates in the vertical direction, a table scaffolding provided in an area other than the column penetration portion, and a support frame supporting the table scaffolding, The table-type scaffolding includes a fixed scaffolding fixed to the support frame and a movable scaffolding. The movable scaffold can change its form into a first retracted form and a first deployed form. The first retreat mode is a mode in which the support for the workers does not interfere with the movement trajectory of the column when the travel vehicle travels along the travel path and does not function as a support for the workers. The first deployed state is a state that interferes with the movement trajectory of the column but does not interfere with the column of the stacker crane in the maintenance position and functions as a scaffold for the worker.

2. The automatic warehouse according to claim 1, in, The table scaffold also has an auxiliary scaffold. The auxiliary scaffolding can change its form into a second retracted form and a second deployed form, the second retracted form is a form that does not interfere with the lifting trajectory of the lifting body of the stacker crane in the maintenance position and does not function as a scaffolding for the staff, and the second deployed form is a form that interferes with the lifting trajectory of the lifting body of the stacker crane in the maintenance position and functions as a scaffolding for the staff.

3. The automatic warehouse according to claim 2, in, The auxiliary scaffold is connected to the fixed scaffold or the supporting frame via a connecting mechanism. The movable scaffold is provided with a support portion that supports a portion of the auxiliary scaffold different from a portion where the coupling mechanism is provided from a lower side.

4. The automated warehouse according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in, The stacker crane includes, as the column, a first column member and a second column member that are separately arranged in a direction along the travel path. The movable scaffold is arranged between the first column member and the second column member of the stacker crane in the maintenance position in the first deployed state.

5. The automated warehouse according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in, The fixed scaffolding includes a first side fixed scaffolding arranged on one side and a second side fixed scaffolding arranged on the other side so as to sandwich the moving track of the column. The movable scaffold is configured to swing around a swing axis installed on the second side fixed scaffold.

6. The automatic warehouse according to claim 5, in, A ladder for the worker to climb onto the work platform from the ground is arranged in a manner connected to the first side fixed scaffold.

7. The automated warehouse according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in, The movable scaffold is configured to swing around a swing axis mounted on the fixed scaffold. The maintenance equipment includes a biasing mechanism for biasing the movable scaffold in a swinging direction around the swing axis. A state between the first retreat state and the first expansion state is defined as an intermediate state, The force applying mechanism applies force to the movable scaffold toward the first retreat state. The torque of the force applying mechanism is set in the following manner: when the movable scaffold is located closer to the first retreat state than the intermediate state, the torque is greater than the torque around the swing axis acting on the movable scaffold due to its own weight, and when the movable scaffold is located closer to the first deployment state than the intermediate state, the torque is smaller than the torque around the swing axis acting on the movable scaffold due to its own weight.

8. The automated warehouse according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in, The direction along the driving path when viewed from top to bottom is the path direction, and the direction orthogonal to the path direction when viewed from top to bottom is the path orthogonal direction. The fixed scaffolding includes a first side fixed scaffolding arranged on one side of the path orthogonal to the path and a second side fixed scaffolding arranged on the other side of the path orthogonal to the path, The movable scaffold is arranged to span the first side fixed scaffold and the second side fixed scaffold in the first expanded state. Guide fences are provided on both side edges of the movable scaffolding along the path direction. The guide fence can change its form into a guide form provided upright with respect to the movable scaffold and a folded form which is a form along the movable scaffold.

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