Overhead transport vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an overhead transport vehicle. The purpose of the present invention is to ensure a long lateral extension amount of a sliding part, and to suppress the application of an unbalanced load in a lateral extension mechanism even in a state in which the sliding part is not laterally extended. An overhead transport vehicle is provided with: a base part provided to a main body part; a sliding part on which the transfer device is disposed and which is disposed on the lower surface side of the base part; a first linear guide which is provided between the base part and the sliding part, is movable in a lateral extension direction with respect to the base part and the sliding part, and supports the sliding part so as to be laterally extendable with respect to the base part; and a first transmission mechanism that restricts the position of the first linear guide when the sliding part does not move in the lateral extension direction with respect to the base part, and that moves the first linear guide in the lateral extension direction when the sliding part moves in the lateral extension direction with respect to the base part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an overhead transport vehicle. Background Art

[0002] An overhead transport vehicle is known, which includes a main body that travels along a ceiling rail, and a lateral extension mechanism that allows a transfer device for an article to extend laterally in the left-right direction relative to the travel direction of the main body (see Patent Document 1). The lateral extension mechanism includes: a base portion provided on the main body, a sliding portion on which the transfer device is provided and arranged on the lower surface side of the base portion, and a linear guide provided between the base portion and the sliding portion. The linear guide can move in a lateral extension direction relative to the base portion and the sliding portion, and supports the sliding portion so that it can extend laterally relative to the base portion.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 4277287

[0004] The linear guide described in Patent Document 1 is movable in a lateral extension direction relative to the base and the sliding portion. Therefore, when the sliding portion is not extended laterally, the linear guide sometimes moves from the center of the base to a position significantly deviated from the center in the lateral extension direction. In this case, an unbalanced load is applied to the lateral extension mechanism, and in particular, when the transfer device holds an article, the load of the article is applied, which sometimes hinders the travel of the overhead crane. On the other hand, if the position of the linear guide is fixed in the center of the base, the movable range of the sliding portion becomes narrower and the lateral extension amount becomes shorter, so it is not preferred. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an overhead travelling vehicle which can ensure a sufficient lateral extension amount of a sliding portion and can suppress an unbalanced load from being applied to a lateral extension mechanism even when the sliding portion is not extended lateraly.

[0006] The overhead transport vehicle of the embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body that travels along a ceiling rail, and a lateral extension mechanism that causes a transfer device for articles to extend laterally in the left-right direction relative to the travel direction of the main body. The lateral extension mechanism comprises: a base portion that is provided on the main body; a sliding portion that is provided with the transfer device and is arranged on the lower surface side of the base portion; a first linear guide that is provided between the base portion and the sliding portion and can move relative to the base portion and the sliding portion in a lateral extension direction and supports the sliding portion so that it can extend laterally relative to the base portion; and a first transmission mechanism that limits the position of the first linear guide when the sliding portion does not move relative to the base portion in the lateral extension direction and moves the first linear guide in the lateral extension direction when the sliding portion moves relative to the base portion in the lateral extension direction.

[0007] According to the overhead transport vehicle of the above embodiment, when the sliding part is extended laterally relative to the base part, the position of the first linear guide relative to the lateral extension direction of the base part is restricted by the first transmission mechanism, and the first linear guide is moved in the same direction as the sliding part by a movement amount less than the lateral extension amount of the sliding part according to the lateral extension amount of the lateral extension direction of the sliding part, so that a long lateral extension amount of the sliding part relative to the base part can be ensured, and even in a state where the sliding part is not extended laterally relative to the base part, the first linear guide can be prevented from being arranged in an eccentric manner, and the application of an unbalanced load to the lateral extension mechanism can be suppressed. As a result, the overhead transport vehicle can be driven stably.

[0008] In addition, in the overhead transport vehicle of the above embodiment, the first transmission mechanism may also limit the first linear guide to the center or approximately the center of the base portion in the lateral extension direction in the initial state where the sliding portion does not extend laterally. According to this structure, the first linear guide can be positioned at the center or approximately the center of the base portion, so that a balanced load can be applied to the lateral extension mechanism.

[0009] In addition, in the overhead transport vehicle of the above embodiment, the first transmission mechanism may also move the first linear guide in the same direction as the lateral extension direction of the sliding portion by a movement amount of half the lateral extension amount of the sliding portion when the sliding portion is extended laterally from the initial state. According to this structure, the lateral extension amount of the sliding portion can be ensured, and the position of the first linear guide can be limited.

[0010] In the overhead transport vehicle of the above-mentioned embodiment, the first transmission mechanism may also include: a right winding transmission member, one end of which is fixed to a first right fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the base portion, and is wound around a left guide member provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the first linear guide, and the other end of which is fixed to a second right fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the sliding portion; and a left winding transmission member, one end of which is fixed to a first left fixing portion provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the base portion, and is wound around a right guide member provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the first linear guide, and the other end of which is fixed to a second left fixing portion provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the sliding portion. According to this structure, it is easy to realize that the first linear guide moves in the same direction as the sliding portion by a smaller amount of movement than the lateral extension amount of the sliding portion according to the lateral extension amount of the sliding portion in the lateral extension direction.

[0011] In the overhead travelling vehicle of the above embodiment, the right winding transmission member and the left winding transmission member may be set to the same or substantially the same length. According to this structure, in the initial state, the first linear guide can be positioned at the center or substantially the center of the base.

[0012] In addition, in the overhead transport vehicle in the above-mentioned embodiment, the sliding part may also include: a first sliding part, which is arranged on the lower surface side of the base part; and a second sliding part, which is provided for the transfer device and is arranged on the lower surface side of the first sliding part. The overhead transport vehicle may also include: a second linear guide, which is provided between the first sliding part and the second sliding part, and can move in a lateral extension direction relative to the first sliding part and the second sliding part, and supports the second sliding part so that it can extend laterally relative to the first sliding part; and a second transmission mechanism, which limits the position of the second linear guide when the second sliding part does not move in the lateral extension direction relative to the first sliding part, and moves the second linear guide in the lateral extension direction when the second sliding part moves in the lateral extension direction relative to the first sliding part. According to this structure, in the case where the lateral extension mechanism is a three-stage structure of a base portion, a first sliding portion, and a second sliding portion, the lateral extension amounts of the first sliding portion and the second sliding portion relative to the length of the base portion can be ensured, and even when the first sliding portion and the second sliding portion are not laterally extended relative to the base portion, the first linear guide and the second linear guide can be prevented from being eccentrically arranged, thereby suppressing the application of an unbalanced load in the lateral extension mechanism.

[0013] In the overhead transport vehicle of the above embodiment, the first transmission mechanism may limit the first linear guide to the center or substantially the center of the base portion in the lateral extension direction in the initial state in which the first sliding portion and the second sliding portion are not extended laterally, and the second transmission mechanism may limit the second linear guide to the center or substantially the center of the first sliding portion in the lateral extension direction in the initial state. According to this structure, when the lateral extension mechanism is a three-stage structure, the first linear guide and the second linear guide can be positioned in the center or substantially the center, so that a balanced load can be applied to the lateral extension mechanism.

[0014] In addition, in the overhead transport vehicle of the above-mentioned embodiment, the first transmission mechanism may also move the first linear guide in the same direction as the lateral extension direction of the first sliding portion by a movement amount of half the lateral extension amount of the first sliding portion when the first sliding portion is laterally extended from the initial state, and the second transmission mechanism may also move the second linear guide in the same direction as the lateral extension direction of the second sliding portion by a movement amount of half the lateral extension amount of the second sliding portion when the second sliding portion is laterally extended from the initial state. According to this structure, the lateral extension amount of the first sliding portion can be ensured and the position of the first linear guide can be restricted, and the lateral extension amount of the second sliding portion can be ensured and the position of the second linear guide can be restricted.

[0015] In addition, in the overhead transport vehicle of the above embodiment, the first transmission mechanism may also include: a first right-side winding transmission component, one end of which is fixed to a first right-side fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the base portion, and is wound around a first left-side guide component provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the first linear guide, and the other end is fixed to a second right-side fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the first sliding portion; and a first left-side winding transmission component, one end of which is fixed to the first left-side fixing portion provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the base portion, and is wound around the first right-side guide component provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the first linear guide, and the other end is fixed to the first left-side fixing portion provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the first sliding portion. The second transmission mechanism may also include: a second right winding transmission member, one end of which is fixed to a third right fixing member provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the first sliding member, and is wound around a second left guide member provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the second linear guide, and the other end of which is fixed to a fourth right fixing member provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the second sliding member; and a second left winding transmission member, one end of which is fixed to a third left fixing member provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the first sliding member, and is wound around a second right guide member provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the second linear guide, and the other end of which is fixed to a fourth left fixing member provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the second sliding member. According to this structure, it is easy to realize that the first linear guide moves in the same direction as the first sliding member with a smaller amount of movement than the lateral extension amount of the first sliding member according to the lateral extension amount of the lateral extension direction of the first sliding member, and it is easy to realize that the second linear guide moves in the same direction as the second sliding member with a smaller amount of movement than the lateral extension amount of the second sliding member according to the lateral extension amount of the lateral extension direction of the second sliding member.

[0016] In addition, in the overhead transport vehicle of the above embodiment, the first right winding transmission component and the first left winding transmission component may also be set to the same or substantially the same length, and the second right winding transmission component and the second left winding transmission component may also be set to the same or substantially the same length. According to this structure, in the initial state, both the first linear guide and the second linear guide can be positioned at the center or substantially the center of the base portion. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 This is a diagram conceptually showing the overhead travelling vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the first embodiment as viewed from the X direction.

[0019] Figure 3This is a diagram of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the first embodiment as viewed from the Z direction.

[0020] Figure 4 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of lateral extension in the +Y direction of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of lateral extension in the +Y direction of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 It is a diagram for explaining the lateral extension operation in the −Y direction of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining the lateral extension operation in the −Y direction of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a diagram of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the second embodiment as viewed from the X direction.

[0025] Fig. 9 This is a diagram of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the second embodiment as viewed from the Z direction.

[0026] Fig.10 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of lateral extension in the +Y direction of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the second embodiment.

[0027] Fig.11 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of lateral extension in the +Y direction of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the second embodiment.

[0028] Fig.12 It is a diagram for explaining the lateral extension operation in the −Y direction of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the second embodiment.

[0029] Fig.13 It is a diagram for explaining the lateral extension operation in the −Y direction of the lateral extension mechanism of the overhead travelling vehicle according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Fig.14 This is a diagram of the first transmission mechanism according to the modified example as viewed from the X direction.

[0031] Fig.15 This is a diagram of the first transmission mechanism according to the modified example as viewed from the Z direction.

[0032] Fig.16 This is a diagram showing a state where the sliding portion is extended laterally. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Although the present invention is described below by the embodiments, the following embodiments do not limit the invention of the technical solution. In addition, all combinations of the features described in the embodiments are not necessarily necessary for the solution mechanism of the invention. In addition, in the drawings, the same or similar parts are sometimes marked with the same figure mark, and repeated descriptions are omitted or simplified. In addition, for the sake of clear description, the shape and size of the components of the drawings are sometimes exaggerated, and the shape and size are different from the actual products. In the drawings, the XYZ coordinate system is sometimes used to illustrate the directions in the drawings. In the XYZ coordinate system, the plane parallel to the horizontal plane is set as the XY plane. In the XY plane, the travel direction of the overhead transport vehicle 1 is marked as the X direction, and the left and right directions orthogonal to the X direction are marked as the Y direction. In addition, the direction perpendicular to the XY plane is marked as the Z direction. The direction indicated by the arrow in the figure is taken as the + direction, and the direction opposite to the direction indicated by the arrow is taken as the - direction to illustrate each of the X direction, the Y direction and the Z direction.

[0034] [First embodiment]

[0035] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram conceptually showing the overhead travelling vehicle of the first embodiment. Figure 1 , a conceptual diagram of an overhead conveyor vehicle 1 of the first embodiment viewed from the +X side is shown. The overhead conveyor vehicle 1 is used to convey articles F, for example, between a processing device and a container storage device, or between two processing devices. The processing device is, for example, a film forming device, a coater / developer, an exposure device, an etching device, etc., which implement various processes in the process of manufacturing equipment (for example, semiconductor equipment). The above-mentioned container storage device is, for example, arranged in a conveying path for conveying the article F, and temporarily stores the article F. The above-mentioned container storage device is, for example, arranged near the ceiling C. Article F, for example, stores wafers or reticle sheets used for the manufacture of semiconductor elements. Article F is, for example, a FOUP (Front Opening Unified Pod), a SMIF Pod, or a reticle Pod that can purify the interior.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the overhead transport vehicle 1 includes a travel portion 2, a connecting portion 3, and a main body 4. The travel portion 2 includes a travel drive portion 2A and wheels 2B. The travel portion 2 travels along a ceiling rail R by the driving force of the travel drive portion 2A. The ceiling rail R is a predetermined travel path (rail) for the overhead transport vehicle 1 to travel, and is, for example, arranged near the ceiling C of the clean room. Figure 1 In the example shown, the ceiling rail R is suspended by a support column P fixed to the ceiling C.

[0037] The travel drive unit 2A generates a driving force for driving the overhead transport vehicle 1. The travel drive unit 2A includes, for example, a linear motor or a rotary motor, a rotary encoder or a linear encoder, etc. The wheel 2B is configured to contact the ceiling rail R. The wheel 2B is rotationally driven by the driving force of the travel drive unit 2A. In addition, the travel drive unit 2A controls the linear motor or the rotary motor based on the detection result such as the rotation speed of the wheel 2B detected by the rotary encoder or the linear encoder, and controls the speed or stop position of the overhead transport vehicle 1.

[0038] The connecting portion 3 connects the traveling portion 2 and the main body 4. For example, one end of the connecting portion 3 is connected to the traveling drive portion 2A, and the other end is connected to the main body 4. That is, the overhead transport vehicle 1 travels along the ceiling rail R with the main body 4 suspended by the traveling portion 2. The main body 4 is connected to the traveling portion 2 via the connecting portion 3, and travels along the ceiling rail R. The main body 4 includes a main frame 5 and a transfer portion 6. The main frame 5 supports the transfer portion 6. In addition, in addition to the main frame 5 and the transfer portion 6, the main body 4 may also include a control portion (not shown) for controlling the movement of the transfer portion 6.

[0039] The transfer section 6 includes a transfer device 7 and a lateral extension mechanism 8. The transfer device 7 includes a holding portion 7A and a lifting drive portion 7B. The holding portion 7A holds the article F. For example, the holding portion 7A holds the article F in a suspended manner by grabbing and holding a flange portion provided on the top of the article F from above. The holding portion 7A is, for example, a chuck having a plurality of claws 71a that can move in a horizontal direction. The holding portion 7A causes the claws 71a to enter under the flange portion of the article F and raise it, thereby holding the article F in a suspended manner. The holding portion 7A is connected to a hanging component 71b such as a wire or a belt. The holding portion 7A is suspended from the lifting drive portion 7B via the hanging component 71b, and is lifted and lowered by the lifting drive portion 7B.

[0040] The lifting drive unit 7B is controlled by, for example, a control unit (not shown) provided in the main body 4, and lowers or raises the holding unit 7A at a predetermined speed, and also holds the holding unit 7A at a target height. The lifting drive unit 7B is, for example, an elevator. The lifting drive unit 7B lowers the holding unit 7A by, for example, guiding out the hanging member 71b, and raises the holding unit 7A by winding up the hanging member 71b.

[0041] The lateral extension mechanism 8 causes the transfer device 7 to extend laterally in the left-right direction relative to the travel direction of the main body 4. The travel direction of the main body 4 is the direction in which the overhead transport vehicle 1 travels along the ceiling rail R via the travel portion 2, i.e., the X direction. The left-right direction is the direction orthogonal to the travel direction, i.e., the Y direction. The left-right direction is the direction in which the lateral extension mechanism 8 causes the transfer device 7 to extend laterally, and is hereinafter referred to as the lateral extension direction D.

[0042] Figure 2This is a diagram of the lateral extension mechanism 8 of the overhead travelling vehicle 1 according to the first embodiment as viewed from the X direction. Figure 3 This is a diagram of the lateral extension mechanism 8 of the overhead travelling vehicle 1 of the first embodiment as viewed from the Z direction. The lateral extension mechanism 8 includes a base portion 10, a slide portion 20, guide rails 30, 31, a first linear guide 40, and a first transmission mechanism 50. Figure 1 The illustrated lateral extension mechanism 8 (8A) includes slides 20 (20A) and 20B. In the first embodiment, the lateral extension mechanism 8 includes a base 10 and one slide 20. Figure 1 The reference numerals 8A, 20A, 20B, and 60 in FIG. 1 will be described in the second embodiment to be described later.

[0043] The base portion 10 is provided on the main body portion 4. For example, the base portion 10 is mounted on the lower portion of the connecting portion 3. The base portion 10 is, for example, a plate-shaped member. The base portion 10 is configured so that the plane of the base portion 10 is parallel to the horizontal direction. The sliding portion 20 is arranged on the lower surface side of the base portion 10. The sliding portion 20 is, for example, a plate-shaped member, and is configured so that the plane is parallel to the plane of the base portion 10 in the Z direction. The sliding portion 20 is based on the same shape as the base portion 10. The transfer device 7 is provided on the lower surface side of the sliding portion 20. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the transfer device 7 is provided on the slide portion 20 via the second slide portion 20B described in the second embodiment, but the transfer device 7 may be provided on the lower surface of the slide portion 20 .

[0044] The guide rail 30 is provided on the lower surface of the base 10. For example, the guide rail 30 is provided on both sides of the travel direction, that is, the X direction, on the lower surface of the base 10. The guide rail 30 provided on the +X side of the lower surface of the base 10 and the guide rail 30 provided on the -X side of the lower surface of the base 10 are parallel to each other. In addition, each guide rail 30 is arranged in a longitudinal direction parallel to the lateral extension direction D.

[0045] The guide rail 31 is provided on the upper surface of the sliding part 20. For example, the guide rail 31 is provided on both sides of the upper surface of the sliding part 20 in the travel direction, i.e., the X direction. The guide rail 31 provided on the +X side of the upper surface of the sliding part 20 and the guide rail 31 provided on the -X side of the upper surface of the sliding part 20 are parallel to each other. In addition, each guide rail 31 is configured so that the long side direction is parallel to the lateral extension direction D. In addition, the guide rail 30 on the +X side and the guide rail 31 on the +X side are opposite in the Z direction. In addition, the guide rail 30 on the -X side and the guide rail 31 on the -X side are opposite in the Z direction.

[0046] The first linear guide 40 is provided between the base 10 and the slide 20. The first linear guide 40 is movable in the lateral extension direction D relative to the base 10 and the slide 20. The first linear guide 40 supports the slide 20 so as to be able to extend laterally relative to the base 10. That is, the slide 20 is movable in the lateral extension direction D relative to the base 10 by the first linear guide 40. The first linear guide 40 includes two blocks 41 and a connection portion 42.

[0047] The two blocks 41 are respectively arranged between the guide rails 30 and 31. That is, the blocks 41 are respectively arranged between the guide rails 30 on the +X side and the guide rails 31 on the +X side, and between the guide rails 30 on the -X side and the guide rails 31 on the -X side. The blocks 41 can move in the lateral extension direction D along the guide rails 30 and 31, but are arranged not to deviate from the Z direction. Therefore, the blocks 41 are suspended from the base 10 via the guide rails 30, and the slide 20 is suspended from the blocks 41.

[0048] The connecting portion 42 connects the two blocks 41. The connecting portion 42 extends in the X direction, and one end is fixed to the block 41 provided on the +X side, and the other end is fixed to the block 41 provided on the -X side. Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 In the example shown, two blocks 41 are connected to each other using two connecting portions 42. However, the present invention is not limited to this form, and two blocks 41 may be connected by one connecting portion 42. In addition, the shape of the connecting portion 42 is not particularly limited, and may be a plate shape.

[0049] The first transmission mechanism 50 limits the position of the first linear guide 40 in the lateral extension direction D relative to the base 10. Specifically, the first transmission mechanism 50 limits the position of the first linear guide 40 when the slide 20 does not move in the lateral extension direction D relative to the base 10, and moves the first linear guide 40 in the lateral extension direction D when the slide 20 moves in the lateral extension direction D relative to the base 10. For example, the first transmission mechanism 50 moves the first linear guide 40 in the same direction as the slide 20 by a movement amount less than the lateral extension amount of the slide 20 according to the lateral extension amount of the slide 20 in the lateral extension direction D. That is, although the first linear guide 40 can move in the lateral extension direction D, the movement amount is limited to an amount corresponding to the lateral extension amount of the slide 20.

[0050] The first transmission mechanism 50 restricts the first linear guide 40 to the center or the approximate center of the base 10 in the lateral extension direction D in the initial state where the slider 20 does not extend laterally (the lateral extension amount is zero or substantially zero). When the slider 20 extends laterally from the initial state, the first transmission mechanism 50 moves the first linear guide 40 in the lateral extension direction of the slider 20 by a movement amount less than the lateral extension amount of the slider 20. When the slider 20 returns to the initial state from the lateral extension state, the first transmission mechanism 50 returns the first linear guide 40 by a movement amount less than the return amount of the slider 20 relative to the return amount of the slider 20.

[0051] The first transmission mechanism 50 includes a first right fixing portion 51A, a second right fixing portion 51B, a first left fixing portion 52A, a second left fixing portion 52B, a left guide member 53, a right guide member 54, a right winding transmission member 55, and a left winding transmission member 56. The first right fixing portion 51A is provided on the right side of the base portion 10 in the lateral extension direction D. Here, the right side is the -Y side in the lateral extension direction D (Y direction), and the left side is the +Y side in the lateral extension direction D (Y direction). The first right fixing portion 51A is fixed to the area from the center to the right side of the base portion 10 in the lateral extension direction D. As an example, the first right fixing portion 51A is fixed to the end portion or the vicinity of the end portion which is closer to the -X side than the center of the base portion 10 and on the right side of the base portion 10.

[0052] The second right side fixing portion 51B is disposed on the right side of the sliding portion 20 in the lateral extension direction D. The second right side fixing portion 51B is fixed to the area from the center to the right side of the sliding portion 20 in the lateral extension direction D. As an example, the second right side fixing portion 51B is fixed to the end portion or the vicinity of the end portion which is closer to the -X side than the center of the sliding portion 20 and on the right side of the sliding portion 20. In addition, the second right side fixing portion 51B may also be fixed in a position opposite to the first right side fixing portion 51A in the Z direction. In other words, when viewed from the Z direction, the first right side fixing portion 51A and the second right side fixing portion 51B may also be fixed so as to substantially overlap. In addition, in Figure 3 In FIG. 5 , for the sake of explanation, the first right fixing portion 51A and the second right fixing portion 51B are shown offset in the X direction.

[0053] The first left fixing portion 52A is provided on the left side of the base portion 10 in the lateral extension direction D. The first left fixing portion 52A is fixed to the region from the center to the left side of the base portion 10 in the lateral extension direction D. As an example, the first left fixing portion 52A is fixed to the end portion or the vicinity of the end portion which is closer to +X than the center of the base portion 10 and on the left side of the base portion 10.

[0054] The second left side fixing portion 52B is disposed on the left side of the sliding portion 20 in the lateral extension direction D. The second left side fixing portion 52B is fixed to the area from the center to the left side of the sliding portion 20 in the lateral extension direction D. As an example, the second left side fixing portion 52B is fixed to the end portion or the vicinity of the end portion which is closer to +X than the center of the sliding portion 20 and on the left side of the sliding portion 20. In addition, the second left side fixing portion 52B may also be fixed in a position opposite to the first left side fixing portion 52A in the Z direction. In other words, when viewed from the Z direction, the first left side fixing portion 52A and the second left side fixing portion 52B may also be fixed so as to substantially overlap. In addition, in Figure 3 In FIG. 5 , for the sake of explanation, the first left fixing portion 52A and the second left fixing portion 52B are shown staggered along the X direction.

[0055] The left side guide member 53 is provided at the connecting portion 42. The left side guide member 53 is provided on the left side of the lateral extension direction D of the first linear guide 40. Figure 3 In the example shown, the left guide member 53 is provided at the left connecting portion 42 of the two connecting portions 42. In addition, the left guide member 53 is provided at the -X side of the connecting portion 42. When viewed from the Z direction, the left guide member 53 is arranged on a straight line passing through the first right fixing portion 51A and the second right fixing portion 51B in the Y direction. For example, the surface of the left guide member 53 that contacts the right winding transmission member 55 is a curved surface. The left guide member 53 is, for example, a pulley or a roller.

[0056] The right guide member 54 is provided at the connecting portion 42. The right guide member 54 is provided at the right side of the lateral extension direction D of the first linear guide 40. Figure 3 In the example shown, the right guide member 54 is provided at the right connecting portion 42 of the two connecting portions 42. In addition, the right guide member 54 is provided at the +X side of the connecting portion 42. When viewed from the Z direction, the right guide member 54 is arranged on a straight line passing through the first left fixing portion 52A and the second left fixing portion 52B in the Y direction. For example, the surface of the right guide member 54 that contacts the left winding transmission member 56 is a curved surface. The right guide member 54 is, for example, a pulley or a roller.

[0057] One end of the right winding transmission member 55 is fixed to the first right fixing portion 51A of the base portion 10. In addition, the right winding transmission member 55 is wound around the left guide member 53, and the other end is fixed to the second right fixing portion 51B of the sliding portion 20. The right winding transmission member 55 applies a force in the right side of the lateral extension direction D, that is, in the -Y direction, to the first linear guide 40 supporting the left guide member 53. The right winding transmission member 55 is, for example, a belt or a wire. In addition, the right winding transmission member 55 may also be a belt-shaped or rope-shaped elastic member.

[0058] One end of the left winding transmission member 56 is fixed to the first left fixing portion 52A of the base portion 10. In addition, the left winding transmission member 56 is wound around the right guide member 54, and the other end is fixed to the second left fixing portion 52B of the sliding portion 20. The left winding transmission member 56 applies a force in the left side of the lateral extension direction D, i.e., in the +Y direction, to the first linear guide 40 supporting the right guide member 54. The left winding transmission member 56 is, for example, a belt or a wire. In addition, the left winding transmission member 56 may also be a belt-shaped or rope-shaped elastic member. For example, the right winding transmission member 55 and the left winding transmission member 56 are set to the same or substantially the same length.

[0059] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the first linear guide 40 is restricted from moving in the -Y direction by the left winding transmission member 56 being wound by the right guide member 54, and is restricted from moving in the +Y direction by the right winding transmission member 55 being wound by the left guide member 53. Therefore, in the initial state, the first linear guide 40 is restricted in position to the center or approximately the center of the base portion 10 (sliding portion 20) in the Y direction (lateral extension direction D), and cannot move freely in the Y direction. Therefore, the first linear guide 40 is prevented from being arranged to be biased in the Y direction. As a result, even when the article F is held by the holding portion 7A, a load is applied to the central portion of the base portion 10 from the sliding portion 20 via the first linear guide 40. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the main body 4 suspended from the travel portion 2 from tilting, and the overhead travelling vehicle 1 can be driven stably.

[0060] Next, the operation of the lateral extension mechanism 8 will be described. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 A case where the lateral extending mechanism 8 causes the slide portion 20 to lateral extend in the +Y direction will be described. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 These are diagrams for explaining the operation of lateral extension in the +Y direction by the lateral extension mechanism 8 .

[0061] The lateral extension mechanism 8 drives a driving unit (not shown) to extend the Figure 2 The initial state shown causes the sliding portion 20 to extend laterally in the +Y direction. Figure 4As shown in FIG. 1 , when the sliding portion 20 is extended laterally in the +Y direction, the end portion of the left winding transmission member 56 fixed to the second left fixing portion 52B is pulled out in the +Y direction. The right guide member 54 is pressed in the +Y direction while rotating by the left winding transmission member 56 and moves together with the connecting portion 42. As the connecting portion 42 moves in the +Y direction, the two blocks 41 (first linear guide 40) integral with the connecting portion 42 move in the +Y direction. At this time, the movement amount of the first linear guide 40 relative to the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding portion 20 in the +Y direction is a movement amount MV that is half of the lateral extension amount SL.

[0062] Furthermore, when the slide 20 extends laterally in the +Y direction, the end of the right winding transmission member 55 fixed to the second right fixing portion 51B of the slide 20 moves in the +Y direction, but the end of the first right fixing portion 51A fixed to the base 10 maintains its position. Therefore, the left guide member 53 moves in the +Y direction together with the first linear guide 40 while rotating. The first linear guide 40 is restricted from moving in the -Y direction by the left winding transmission member 56 being wound by the right guide member 54, and is restricted from moving in the +Y direction by the right winding transmission member 55 being wound by the left guide member 53.

[0063] like Figure 5 As shown, even when the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding part 20 in the +Y direction is the maximum, the first linear guide 40 moves in the +Y direction by the movement amount MV of half of the lateral extension amount SL through the first transmission mechanism 50. In this way, when the sliding part 20 is extended in the +Y direction, the first linear guide 40 moves in the +Y direction by the movement amount MV less than (half) the lateral extension amount SL through the first transmission mechanism 50. And, the movement in the Y direction (lateral extension direction D) is restricted by the left winding transmission member 56 being wound by the right guide member 54 and the right winding transmission member 55 being wound by the left guide member 53. That is, the first transmission mechanism 50 restricts the first linear guide 40 to a determined position in the +Y direction according to the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding part 20 in the +Y direction.

[0064] In this way, the lateral extension mechanism 8 can extend the slide portion 20 lateraly so as to cause the holding portion 7A provided on the lower surface side of the slide portion 20 to lateraly extend from the main body portion 4 in the +Y direction by the movement amount MV.

[0065] When the slide portion 20 is returned from the state in which it is extended laterally in the +Y direction, Figure 2In the initial state shown in FIG. 1 , the first transmission mechanism 50 limits the return amount of the first linear guide 40 (the amount of movement MV at that moment) according to the return amount of the slide 20 (the amount of lateral extension SL at that moment). At this time, the return amount of the first linear guide 40 becomes half of the return amount of the slide 20. As a result, when the slide 20 returns Figure 2 In the initial state shown, the first linear guide 40 is located at the center or substantially at the center of the base portion 10 .

[0066] Next, refer to Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 A case where the lateral extension mechanism 8 causes the slide portion 20 to lateral extend in the -Y direction will be described. Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 Each of them is a diagram for explaining the operation of lateral extension in the -Y direction by the lateral extension mechanism 8.

[0067] The lateral extension mechanism 8 drives a driving unit (not shown) to extend the Figure 2 The initial state shown causes the sliding portion 20 to extend laterally in the -Y direction. Figure 6 As shown in the figure, if the sliding part 20 extends laterally in the -Y direction, the end of the right winding transmission member 55 fixed to the second right fixing part 51B is pulled out in the -Y direction. The left guide member 53 is pressed in the -Y direction while rotating by the right winding transmission member 55 and moves together with the connecting part 42. As the connecting part 42 moves in the -Y direction, the two first linear guides 40 integral with the connecting part 42 move in the -Y direction. At this time, the movement amount of the first linear guide 40 relative to the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding part 20 in the -Y direction is the movement amount MV which is half of the lateral extension amount SL.

[0068] Furthermore, when the slide 20 extends laterally in the -Y direction, the end of the left winding transmission member 56 fixed to the second left fixed portion 52B of the slide 20 moves in the -Y direction, but the end of the first left fixed portion 52A fixed to the base 10 maintains its position. Therefore, the right guide member 54 moves in the -Y direction together with the first linear guide 40 while rotating. The first linear guide 40 is restricted in movement in the +Y direction by the right winding transmission member 55 being wound by the left guide member 53, and is restricted in movement in the -Y direction by the left winding transmission member 56 being wound by the right guide member 54.

[0069] like Figure 7As shown, even when the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding part 20 in the -Y direction is the maximum, the first linear guide 40 moves in the -Y direction by the movement amount MV of half the lateral extension amount SL through the first transmission mechanism 50. In this way, when the sliding part 20 is extended in the -Y direction, the first linear guide 40 moves in the -Y direction by the movement amount MV less than (half) the lateral extension amount SL through the first transmission mechanism 50. And, the movement in the Y direction (lateral extension direction D) is restricted by the right winding transmission member 55 being wound by the left guide member 53 and the left winding transmission member 56 being wound by the right guide member 54. That is, the first transmission mechanism 50 restricts the first linear guide 40 to a determined position in the -Y direction according to the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding part 20 in the -Y direction.

[0070] When the slide portion 20 is returned from the state of being extended laterally in the -Y direction Figure 2 In the initial state shown in FIG. 1 , the first transmission mechanism 50 limits the return amount of the first linear guide 40 (the amount of movement MV at that moment) according to the return amount of the slide 20 (the amount of lateral extension SL at that moment). At this time, the return amount of the first linear guide 40 is half of the return amount of the slide 20. As a result, when the slide 20 returns Figure 2 In the initial state shown, the first linear guide 40 is located at the center or substantially at the center of the base portion 10 .

[0071] In this way, according to the first embodiment, the position of the first linear guide 40 is restricted when the slider 20 does not move in the lateral extension direction D relative to the base 10, and the first linear guide 40 is moved in the lateral extension direction D when the slider 20 moves in the lateral extension direction D relative to the base 10. With this structure, a long lateral extension amount SL of the slider 20 can be ensured, and the movement amount MV of the first linear guide 40 in the lateral extension direction D can be restricted according to the lateral extension amount SL of the slider 20. In addition, when the slider 20 does not extend laterally, the first linear guide 40 is located at the center or substantially the center of the base 10, so that an unbalanced load can be suppressed from being applied to the lateral extension mechanism 8.

[0072] [Second Embodiment]

[0073] A lateral extending mechanism 8A according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a lateral extension mechanism 8A according to the second embodiment as viewed from the lateral direction. Fig. 9 This is a diagram showing a portion of the lateral extension mechanism 8A of the second embodiment as viewed from above. Fig. 9 , a diagram showing the first sliding portion 20A and the second sliding portion 20B viewed from above is shown. Fig. 9 In the present invention, the same reference numerals are used for the same structures as those in the first embodiment and the description thereof is omitted or simplified. Figure 1 As shown, the lateral extension mechanism 8A of the second embodiment is provided in the main body 4 of the overhead travelling vehicle 1 .

[0074] like Figure 8 As shown, the lateral extension mechanism 8A includes a base portion 10, a first slide portion 20A, a second slide portion 20B, guide rails 30, 31, 32, 33, a first linear guide 40, a second linear guide 45, a first transmission mechanism 50, and a second transmission mechanism 60. The lateral extension mechanism 8A extends the first slide portion 20A in a lateral extension direction D relative to the base portion 10 by driving a driving portion (not shown), and extends the second slide portion 20B in the same lateral extension direction D relative to the first slide portion 20A in conjunction with the lateral extension of the first slide portion 20A.

[0075] In addition, the first sliding portion 20A is the same as the sliding portion 20 of the first embodiment, so the description is omitted. In the second embodiment, the contents of the description of the first embodiment can be applied, and the sliding portion 20 is replaced by the first sliding portion 20A. The second sliding portion 20B is arranged on the lower surface side of the first sliding portion 20A. The second sliding portion 20B is, for example, a plate-shaped component, and is arranged so that the plane is parallel to the plane of the base portion 10 and the plane of the first sliding portion 20A in the Z direction. The second sliding portion 20B has, for example, the same shape as the first sliding portion 20A. The transfer device 7 is provided on the lower surface of the second sliding portion 20B.

[0076] The guide rail 31 is provided on the upper surface of the first sliding part 20A, which is the same as the first embodiment. The guide rail 32 is provided on the lower surface of the first sliding part 20A. The guide rails 32 are provided on both sides of the lower surface of the first sliding part 20A in the X direction. The guide rail 32 provided on the +X side of the lower surface of the first sliding part 20A and the guide rail 32 provided on the -X side of the lower surface of the first sliding part 20A are parallel to each other. In addition, the guide rail 32 is configured so that the long side direction is parallel to the travel direction.

[0077] The guide rail 33 is provided on the upper surface of the second sliding part 20B. The guide rail 33 is provided on both sides of the upper surface of the second sliding part 20B in the X direction. The guide rail 33 provided on the +X side of the upper surface of the second sliding part 20B and the guide rail 33 provided on the -X side of the upper surface of the second sliding part 20B are parallel to each other. In addition, the guide rail 33 is configured so that the long side direction is parallel to the travel direction. In addition, the guide rail 32 on the +X side and the guide rail 33 on the +X side are opposite in the Z direction. In addition, the guide rail 32 on the -X side and the guide rail 33 on the -X side are opposite in the Z direction.

[0078] The first linear guide 40 is provided between the base portion 10 and the first sliding portion 20A, which is the same as the first embodiment. The second linear guide 45 is provided between the first sliding portion 20A and the second sliding portion 20B. The first linear guide 40 is movable in the lateral extension direction D relative to the first sliding portion 20A and the second sliding portion 20B. The first linear guide 40 supports the second sliding portion 20B so that it can extend laterally relative to the first sliding portion 20A. That is, the second sliding portion 20B can be moved in the lateral extension direction D relative to the first sliding portion 20A by the second linear guide 45. The second linear guide 45 includes two blocks 46 and a connecting portion 47.

[0079] The two blocks 46 are respectively arranged between the guide rails 32 and 33. That is, the blocks 46 are respectively arranged between the guide rails 32 on the +X side and the guide rails 33 on the +X side, and between the guide rails 32 on the -X side and the guide rails 33 on the -X side. The blocks 46 can move in the lateral extension direction D along the guide rails 32 and 33, but are arranged not to deviate from the Z direction. Therefore, the blocks 46 are suspended from the first slide 20A via the guide rails 32, and the second slide 20B is suspended from the blocks 46.

[0080] The connecting portion 47 connects the two blocks 46. The connecting portion 47 extends in the X-axis direction, and one end is fixed to the block 46 provided on the +X side, and the other end is fixed to the block 46 provided on the -X side. Fig. 9 In the example shown, two blocks 46 are connected to each other using two connecting portions 47. However, the present invention is not limited to this form, and two blocks 46 may be connected by one connecting portion 47. In addition, the shape of the connecting portion 47 is not particularly limited, and may be a plate shape.

[0081] The second transmission mechanism 60 limits the position of the second linear guide 45 in the lateral extension direction D relative to the first slide 20A. Specifically, the second transmission mechanism 60 limits the position of the second linear guide 45 when the second slide 20B does not move in the lateral extension direction D relative to the first slide 20A, and moves the second linear guide 45 in the lateral extension direction D when the second slide 20B moves in the lateral extension direction D relative to the first slide 20A. For example, the second transmission mechanism 60 moves the second linear guide 45 in the same direction as the first slide 20A by a movement amount less than the lateral extension amount of the first slide 20A according to the lateral extension amount in the lateral extension direction D of the first slide 20A. That is, the second linear guide 45 can move in the lateral extension direction D, but is limited to a movement amount corresponding to the lateral extension amount by the second transmission mechanism 60 and does not move freely.

[0082] The second transmission mechanism 60 restricts the second linear guide 45 to the center or substantially the center of the first sliding portion 20A in the lateral extension direction D in the initial state in which the second sliding portion 20B has not been extended laterally. When the second sliding portion 20B has been extended laterally from the initial state, the second transmission mechanism 60 moves the second linear guide 45 in the direction in which the second sliding portion 20B has been extended laterally by a movement amount less than the lateral extension amount of the second sliding portion 20B. When the second sliding portion 20B returns to the initial state from the lateral extension state, the second transmission mechanism 60 returns the second linear guide 45 by a movement amount less than the return amount of the second sliding portion 20B relative to the return amount of the second sliding portion 20B.

[0083] The second transmission mechanism 60 includes a third right fixing portion 61A, a fourth right fixing portion 61B, a third left fixing portion 62A, a fourth left fixing portion 62B, a second left guide member 63, a second right guide member 64, a second right winding transmission member 65, and a second left winding transmission member 66. In the second embodiment, the right winding transmission member 55 of the first embodiment is referred to as a first right winding transmission member 55, and the left winding transmission member 56 of the first embodiment is referred to as a first left winding transmission member 56. In the second embodiment, the left guide member 53 of the first embodiment is referred to as a first left guide member 53, and the right guide member 54 of the first embodiment is referred to as a first right guide member 54.

[0084] The third right side fixing portion 61A is provided on the right side of the lower surface of the first sliding portion 20A in the lateral extending direction D. The third right side fixing portion 61A is fixed to the region from the center to the right side of the first sliding portion 20A in the lateral extending direction D. As an example, the third right side fixing portion 61A is fixed to an end portion or the vicinity of the end portion which is closer to -X than the center of the first sliding portion 20A and on the right side of the first sliding portion 20A.

[0085] The fourth right side fixing portion 61B is disposed on the right side of the upper surface of the second sliding portion 20B in the lateral extension direction D. The fourth right side fixing portion 61B is fixed to the area from the center to the right side of the second sliding portion 20B in the lateral extension direction D. As an example, the fourth right side fixing portion 61B is fixed to the end or vicinity of the end which is closer to -X than the center of the second sliding portion 20B and on the right side of the second sliding portion 20B. In addition, the fourth right side fixing portion 61B may also be fixed in a position opposite to the third right side fixing portion 61A in the Z direction. In other words, the fourth right side fixing portion 61B and the third right side fixing portion 61A may also be fixed so as to substantially overlap when viewed from the Z direction. In addition, in Fig. 9 In FIG. 6 , for the sake of explanation, the third right fixing portion 61A and the fourth right fixing portion 61B are shown offset in the X direction.

[0086] The third left side fixing portion 62A is provided on the left side of the lower surface of the first sliding portion 20A in the lateral extending direction D. The third left side fixing portion 62A is fixed to the region from the center to the left side of the first sliding portion 20A in the lateral extending direction D. As an example, the third left side fixing portion 62A is fixed to the end portion or the vicinity of the end portion which is closer to +X than the center of the first sliding portion 20A and on the left side of the first sliding portion 20A.

[0087] The fourth left side fixing portion 62B is disposed on the left side of the upper surface of the second sliding portion 20B in the lateral extension direction D. The fourth left side fixing portion 62B is fixed to an area from the center to the left side of the second sliding portion 20B in the lateral extension direction D. As an example, the fourth left side fixing portion 62B is fixed to an end portion or near an end portion which is closer to +X than the center of the second sliding portion 20B and on the left side of the second sliding portion 20B. In addition, the fourth left side fixing portion 62B may also be fixed in a position opposite to the third left side fixing portion 62A in the Z direction. In other words, the fourth left side fixing portion 62B and the third left side fixing portion 62A may also be fixed so as to substantially overlap when viewed from the Z direction. In addition, in Fig. 9 In FIG. 1 , for the sake of explanation, the third left fixing portion 62A and the fourth left fixing portion 62B are shown staggered along the X direction.

[0088] The second left side guide member 63 is provided at the connection portion 47. The second left side guide member 63 is provided on the left side of the lateral extension direction D of the second linear guide 45. Fig. 9 In the example shown, the second left guide member 63 is provided at the left connecting portion 42 of the two connecting portions 47. In addition, the second left guide member 63 is provided at the -X side of the connecting portion 47. When viewed from the Z direction, the second left guide member 63 is arranged on a straight line passing through the third right fixing portion 61A and the fourth right fixing portion 61B in the Y direction. For example, the surface of the second left guide member 63 that contacts the second right winding transmission member 65 is a curved surface. The second left guide member 63 is, for example, a pulley or a roller.

[0089] The second right side guide member 64 is provided at the connection portion 47. The second right side guide member 64 is provided at the right side of the lateral extension direction D of the second linear guide 45. Fig. 9 In the example shown, the second right guide member 64 is provided at the right connecting portion 47 of the two connecting portions 47. In addition, the second right guide member 64 is provided at the +X side of the connecting portion 47. When viewed from the Z direction, the second right guide member 64 is arranged on the straight line passing through the third left fixing portion 62A and the fourth left fixing portion 62B in the Y direction. For example, the surface of the second right guide member 64 that contacts the second left winding transmission member 66 is a curved surface. The second right guide member 64 is, for example, a pulley or a roller.

[0090] One end of the second right winding transmission member 65 is fixed to the third right fixing portion 61A of the first sliding portion 20A. In addition, the second right winding transmission member 65 is wound around the second left guide member 63, and the other end is fixed to the fourth right fixing portion 61B of the second sliding portion 20B. The second right winding transmission member 65 applies a force in the right side of the lateral extension direction D, that is, in the -Y direction, to the second linear guide 45 supporting the second left guide member 63. The second right winding transmission member 65 is, for example, a belt or a wire. In addition, the second right winding transmission member 65 may also be a belt-shaped or rope-shaped elastic member.

[0091] One end of the second left winding transmission member 66 is fixed to the third left fixed portion 62A of the first sliding portion 20A. In addition, the second left winding transmission member 66 is wound around the second right guide member 64, and the other end is fixed to the fourth left fixed portion 62B of the second sliding portion 20B. The second left winding transmission member 66 applies a force to the left side of the lateral extension direction D, i.e., the +Y direction, to the second linear guide 45 to which the second right guide member 64 is fixed. The second left winding transmission member 66 is, for example, a belt or a wire. In addition, the second left winding transmission member 66 may also be a belt-shaped or rope-shaped elastic member. For example, the second right winding transmission member 65 and the second left winding transmission member 66 are set to the same or substantially the same length.

[0092] like Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 As shown, the second linear guide 45 is restricted from moving in the -Y direction by the second left winding transmission member 66 being wound by the second right guide member 64, and is restricted from moving in the +Y direction by the second right winding transmission member 65 being wound by the second left guide member 63. Therefore, in the initial state, the second linear guide 45 is restricted in position at the center or substantially the center of the Y direction (lateral extension direction D) of the base portion 10 (the first sliding portion 20A and the second sliding portion 20B), and cannot move freely in the Y direction. Therefore, the second linear guide 45 is prevented from being arranged in a biased manner in the Y direction. In addition, as described above, in the initial state, the first linear guide 40 is restricted in position at the center or substantially the center of the Y direction of the base portion 10.

[0093] As a result, even when the article F is held by the holding portion 7A, a load is applied to the central portion of the first sliding portion 20A from the second sliding portion 20B via the second linear guide 45, and a load is applied to the central portion of the base portion 10 from the first sliding portion 20A via the first linear guide 40. Therefore, the main body 4 suspended from the traveling portion 2 can be prevented from tilting, and the overhead travelling vehicle 1 can be driven stably.

[0094] Next, the operation of the lateral extension mechanism 8A will be described. Fig.10 as well as Fig.11 A case where the lateral extending mechanism 8A causes the first slide portion 20A and the second slide portion 20B to laterally extend in the +Y direction will be described. Fig.10 as well as Fig.11 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of lateral extension in the +Y direction by the lateral extension mechanism 8A.

[0095] The lateral extension mechanism 8A drives a driving unit (not shown) to extend the Figure 8 The initial state shown makes the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B extend laterally in the +Y direction. If the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B extend laterally in the +Y direction, the first sliding part 20A moves in the +Y direction relative to the base part 10, and the second sliding part 20B moves in the +Y direction relative to the first sliding part 20A in conjunction with the lateral extension of the first sliding part 20A. Fig.10 As shown, if the first slide 20A extends laterally in the +Y direction, the end of the first left winding transmission member 56 fixed to the second left fixing portion 52B is pulled out in the +Y direction, and the first linear guide 40 moves in the +Y direction together with the first right guide member 54. At this time, the movement amount of the first linear guide 40 is a movement amount MV1 which is half of the lateral extension amount SL1 relative to the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A in the +Y direction. As in the first embodiment, the position of the first linear guide 40 is always limited by the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A.

[0096] When the second slide 20B extends laterally in the +Y direction, the end of the second left winding transmission member 66 fixed to the fourth left fixing portion 62B is pulled out in the +Y direction. The second right guide member 64 is pressed in the +Y direction while rotating by the second left winding transmission member 66 and moves together with the connecting portion 47. As the connecting portion 47 moves in the +Y direction, the two blocks 46 (second linear guides 45) integral with the connecting portion 47 move in the +Y direction. At this time, the movement amount of the second linear guide 45 is the movement amount MV2 which is half of the lateral extension amount SL2 of the second slide 20B in the +Y direction.

[0097] Furthermore, when the second slide 20B extends laterally in the +Y direction, the end of the fourth right fixing portion 61B of the second right winding transmission member 65 fixed to the second slide 20B moves in the +Y direction, but the end of the third right fixing portion 61A fixed to the first slide 20A maintains its position. Therefore, the second left guide member 63 moves in the +Y direction together with the second linear guide 45 while rotating. The second linear guide 45 is restricted from moving in the -Y direction by the second left winding transmission member 66 being wound by the second right guide member 64, and is restricted from moving in the +Y direction by the second right winding transmission member 65 being wound by the second left guide member 63.

[0098] like Fig.11 As shown, even when the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A in the +Y direction is the maximum, the first linear guide 40 moves in the +Y direction by the first transmission mechanism 50 with a movement amount MV of half the lateral extension amount SL, and moves in the +Y direction by a movement amount MV1 that is less than (half) the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A, as in the first embodiment. In addition, the position of the first linear guide 40 is limited according to the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A in the +Y direction, as in the first embodiment.

[0099] In addition, even when the lateral extension amount SL2 of the second sliding part 20B in the +Y direction is the maximum, the second linear guide 45 moves in the +Y direction by the movement amount MV2 of half the lateral extension amount SL2 through the second transmission mechanism 60. In this way, when the second sliding part 20B is extended in the +Y direction, the second linear guide 45 moves in the +Y direction by the movement amount MV2 (half) less than the lateral extension amount SL2 through the second transmission mechanism 60. And, the movement in the Y direction (lateral extension direction D) is restricted by the second left winding transmission member 66 being wound by the second right guide member 64, and the second right winding transmission member 65 being wound by the second left guide member 63. That is, the second transmission mechanism 60 restricts the second linear guide 45 to a determined position in the +Y direction according to the lateral extension amount SL of the second sliding part 20B in the +Y direction.

[0100] In this way, the lateral extension mechanism 8A can extend the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B laterally, so that the retaining part 7A arranged on the lower surface of the second sliding part 20B can be extended laterally in the +Y direction relative to the main body 4 by an amount obtained by adding the lateral extension amount SL1 and the lateral extension amount SL2.

[0101] In the state where the first slide part 20A and the second slide part 20B are extended in the +Y direction, Figure 8 In the initial state shown, the first transmission mechanism 50 limits the return amount of the first linear guide 40 (the movement amount MV1 at that moment) according to the return amount of the first sliding part 20A (the lateral extension amount SL1 at that moment). At the same time, the second transmission mechanism 60 limits the return amount of the second linear guide 45 (the movement amount MV2 at that moment) according to the return amount of the second sliding part 20B (the lateral extension amount SL2 at that moment). At this time, the return amount of the first linear guide 40 becomes half of the return amount of the first sliding part 20A, and the return amount of the second linear guide 45 becomes half of the return amount of the second sliding part 20B. As a result, when the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B return Figure 8 In the illustrated initial state, both the first linear guide 40 and the second linear guide 45 are located at the center or substantially at the center of the base 10 .

[0102] Next, refer to Fig.12 as well as Fig.13 A case where the lateral extending mechanism 8A causes the first slide portion 20A and the second slide portion 20B to laterally extend in the −Y direction will be described. Fig.12 as well as Fig.13 It is a diagram for explaining the lateral extension operation in the -Y direction performed by the lateral extension mechanism 8A.

[0103] The lateral extension mechanism 8A drives a driving unit (not shown) to extend the Figure 8 The initial state shown makes the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B extend laterally in the -Y direction. If the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B extend laterally in the -Y direction, the first sliding part 20A moves in the -Y direction relative to the base part 10, and the second sliding part 20B moves in the -Y direction relative to the first sliding part 20A in conjunction with the lateral extension of the first sliding part 20A. Fig.12 As shown, if the first slide 20A extends laterally in the -Y direction, the end of the first right winding transmission member 55 fixed to the second right fixing portion 51B is pulled out in the -Y direction, and the first linear guide 40 moves in the -Y direction together with the first left guide member 53. At this time, the movement amount of the first linear guide 40 is a movement amount MV1 which is half of the lateral extension amount SL1 relative to the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A in the -Y direction. As in the first embodiment, the position of the first linear guide 40 is always limited by the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A.

[0104] When the second sliding portion 20B extends laterally in the -Y direction, the end portion of the second right winding transmission member 65 fixed to the fourth right fixing portion 61B is pulled out in the -Y direction. The second left guide member 63 is pressed in the -Y direction while rotating by the second right winding transmission member 65 and moves together with the connecting portion 47. As the connecting portion 47 moves in the -Y direction, the two blocks 46 (second linear guides 45) integral with the connecting portion 47 move in the -Y direction. At this time, the movement amount of the second linear guide 45 is the movement amount MV2 which is half of the lateral extension amount SL2 relative to the lateral extension amount SL2 of the second sliding portion 20B in the -Y direction.

[0105] In addition, when the second slide 20B extends in the lateral direction of the -Y direction, the end of the second left winding transmission member 66 fixed to the fourth left fixing portion 62B of the second slide 20B moves in the -Y direction, but the end of the third left fixing portion 62A fixed to the first slide 20A maintains its position. Therefore, the second right guide member 64 moves in the -Y direction together with the second linear guide 45 while rotating. The second linear guide 45 is restricted in movement in the +Y direction by the second right winding transmission member 65 being wound by the second left guide member 63, and is restricted in movement in the -Y direction by the second left winding transmission member 66 being wound by the second right guide member 64.

[0106] like Fig.13 As shown, even when the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A in the +Y direction is the maximum, the first linear guide 40 moves in the -Y direction by the first transmission mechanism 50 with a movement amount MV of half the lateral extension amount SL1, and the first linear guide 40 moves in the -Y direction by a movement amount MV1 that is less than (half) the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A, as in the first embodiment. In addition, the position of the first linear guide 40 is limited according to the lateral extension amount SL1 of the first slide 20A in the -Y direction, as in the first embodiment.

[0107] In addition, even when the lateral extension amount SL2 of the second slide 20B in the -Y direction is the maximum, the second linear guide 45 moves in the -Y direction by the movement amount MV2 which is half of the lateral extension amount SL2 through the second transmission mechanism 60. Thus, when the second slide 20B is extended in the -Y direction, the second linear guide 45 moves in the -Y direction by the movement amount MV2 which is less than (half) the lateral extension amount SL2 through the second transmission mechanism 60. Furthermore, the movement in the Y direction (lateral extension direction D) is restricted by the second right winding transmission member 65 being wound by the second left guide member 63 and the second left winding transmission member 66 being wound by the second right guide member 64. That is, the second transmission mechanism 60 restricts the second linear guide 45 to a determined position in the -Y direction according to the lateral extension amount SL of the second slide 20B in the -Y direction.

[0108] In this way, the lateral extension mechanism 8A can extend the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B laterally, so that the retaining part 7A arranged on the lower surface of the second sliding part 20B can be extended laterally in the -Y direction relative to the main body 4 by an amount obtained by adding the lateral extension amount SL1 and the lateral extension amount SL2.

[0109] In the state where the first slide part 20A and the second slide part 20B are extended in the -Y direction, Figure 8 In the initial state shown in FIG. 1 , as described above, the lateral extension mechanism 8A limits the return amount (movement amount MV1, MV2 at that moment) of the first linear guide 40 and the second linear guide 45 according to the return amount (lateral extension amount SL1, SL2 at that moment) of the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B. At this time, the return amount of the first linear guide 40 becomes half of the return amount of the first sliding part 20A, and the return amount of the second linear guide 45 becomes half of the return amount of the second sliding part 20B. As a result, when the first sliding part 20A and the second sliding part 20B return, Figure 8 In the illustrated initial state, both the first linear guide 40 and the second linear guide 45 are located at the center or substantially at the center of the base 10 .

[0110] Thus, according to the second embodiment, even if the lateral extension mechanism 8A has a three-stage structure of the base portion 10, the first sliding portion 20A, and the second sliding portion 20B, the lateral extension amounts SL1 and SL2 of the first sliding portion 20A and the second sliding portion 20B can be ensured as in the first embodiment, and the movement amounts MV1 and MV2 of the first linear guide 40 and the second linear guide 45 in the lateral extension direction D can be restricted according to the lateral extension amounts SL1 and SL2 of the first sliding portion 20A and the second sliding portion 20B. In addition, when the first sliding portion 20A and the second sliding portion 20B are not extended laterally, since the first linear guide 40 and the second linear guide 45 are located at the center or substantially at the center of the base portion 10, it is possible to suppress the unbalanced load from being applied to the lateral extension mechanism 8A.

[0111] [Modifications]

[0112] Next, a first transmission mechanism 70 according to a modified example will be described. Fig.14 This is a diagram of a first transmission mechanism 70 according to a modified example as viewed from the X direction. Fig.15 This is a diagram of the first transmission mechanism 70 of the modified example as viewed from the Z direction. The first transmission mechanism 70 can be applied in place of the first transmission mechanism 50 of the first embodiment and the second embodiment. In addition, the first transmission mechanism 70 can also be applied in place of the second transmission mechanism 60 of the second embodiment. In addition, when describing this modified example, the same figure marks are marked on the same structures as those in the first embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0113] The first transmission mechanism 70 limits the position of the first linear guide 40 with respect to the lateral extension direction D of the base 10. In addition, the first transmission mechanism 70 moves the first linear guide 40 in the same direction as the sliding portion 20 by a movement amount less than the lateral extension amount of the sliding portion 20, according to the lateral extension amount of the sliding portion 20 in the lateral extension direction D. That is, the first linear guide 40 can move in the lateral extension direction D but cannot move freely, and is limited to a movement amount corresponding to the lateral extension amount of the sliding portion 20. In the initial state where the sliding portion 20 is not extended in the lateral direction (the lateral extension amount is zero or substantially zero), the first transmission mechanism 70 positions the first linear guide 40 at the center or substantially the center of the base 10 in the lateral extension direction D.

[0114] When the slider 20 extends laterally from the initial state, the first transmission mechanism 70 moves the first linear guide 40 in the direction in which the slider 20 extends laterally by a movement amount less than the amount of the slider 20 extending laterally. When the slider 20 returns to the initial state from the laterally extended state, the first transmission mechanism 70 returns the first linear guide 40 by a movement amount less than the amount of the slider 20 returning.

[0115] like Fig.14 as well as Fig.15 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first transmission mechanism 70 includes a pair of rack gears 71A and 71B, and a pinion gear 72. The rack gear 71A is provided on the lower surface of the base portion 10 and is arranged along the Y direction (lateral extension direction D). The rack gear 71B is provided on the upper surface of the sliding portion 20 and is arranged along the Y direction (lateral extension direction D). The rack gear 71A and the rack gear 71B are opposite to each other in the Z direction. Fig.15 In the figure, for the sake of explanation, the rack gear 71A and the rack gear 71B are shown offset in the X direction. The pinion gear 72 is provided to be rotatable relative to the connecting portion 42. The pinion gear 72 is arranged between the rack gear 71A and the rack gear 71B. The pinion gear 72 meshes with each of the rack gear 71A and the rack gear 71B.

[0116] Next, the operation of the lateral extension mechanism 8B to which the first transmission mechanism 70 is applied will be described. The case where the lateral extension mechanism 8B causes the slide portion 20 to extend laterally in the +Y direction will be described. Fig.16 1 is a diagram for explaining the operation of lateral extension in the Y direction by the lateral extension mechanism 8B to which the first transmission mechanism 70 is applied. The lateral extension mechanism 8B drives a driving unit (not shown) to move the slide 20 in the +Y direction relative to the base 10. The rack gear 71B moves in the +Y direction by the movement of the slide 20 in the +Y direction. The pinion 72 meshing with the rack gear 71B rotates by the movement of the rack gear 71B in the Y direction.

[0117] If the pinion 72 rotates, the pinion 72 meshes with the rack gear 71A, and the pinion 72 moves in the +Y direction together with the connecting portion 42. Therefore, the two blocks 41 (first linear guide 40) integral with the connecting portion 42 move in the +Y direction. At this time, the movement amount of the first linear guide 40 is smaller than the movement amount of the sliding portion 20. For example, the movement amount of the first linear guide 40 is half the movement amount of the sliding portion 20. In addition, by meshing the pinion 72 with both the rack gears 71A and 71B, the first linear guide 40 cannot move freely in the lateral extension direction D, and its position is restricted. That is, the first transmission mechanism 70 restricts the first linear guide 40 to a determined position in the +Y direction according to the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding portion 20 in the +Y direction.

[0118] In the state where the slide portion 20 is extended in the +Y direction, the Fig.14In the initial state shown in FIG. 1 , the first transmission mechanism 70 limits the return amount of the first linear guide 40 according to the return amount of the slide 20. At this time, the return amount of the first linear guide 40 becomes half of the return amount of the slide 20. As a result, when the slide 20 returns Fig.14 In the initial state shown, the first linear guide 40 is located at the center or substantially at the center of the base portion 10. In addition, the case where the slide portion 20 is extended laterally in the -Y direction is also described in the same manner as above.

[0119] In this way, even in the modified example, the position of the first linear guide 40 with respect to the lateral extension direction D of the base 10 is restricted, and the first linear guide 40 is moved in the same direction as the sliding portion 20 by a movement amount smaller than the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding portion 20 according to the lateral extension amount in the lateral extension direction D of the sliding portion 20. Therefore, a long lateral extension amount SL of the sliding portion 20 can be ensured, and the movement amount MV of the first linear guide 40 in the lateral extension direction D can be restricted according to the lateral extension amount SL of the sliding portion 20. In addition, when the sliding portion 20 is not extended laterally, since the first linear guide 40 is located at the center or substantially the center of the base 10, it is possible to suppress the unbalanced load from being applied to the lateral extension mechanism 8.

[0120] Alternatively, the pinion 72 may be driven to rotate by an electric motor or the like. In this case, the pinion 72 and the rack gears 71A and 71B function as a driving unit for causing the slide 20 to extend laterally in the lateral extension mechanism 8B. That is, the first transmission mechanism 70 serves as a driving unit for causing the slide 20 to extend laterally, and also serves as a structure for restricting the movement of the first linear guide 40.

[0121] Although the embodiments and modifications are described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and modifications. In addition, those skilled in the art know that various changes or improvements can be added to the above embodiments and modifications. According to the description of the technical solution, it can be known that the form of adding such changes or improvements can also be included in the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, one or more of the elements described in the above embodiments and modifications are sometimes omitted. In addition, the elements described in the above embodiments and modifications can be appropriately combined. In addition, the execution order of each action shown in the embodiment can be implemented in any order, as long as the result of the previous action is not used in the subsequent action. In addition, for the sake of convenience, the actions of the above embodiments are described using "first", "next", "next", etc., but they are not necessarily implemented in this order. In addition, to the extent permitted by law, the disclosure of the special application 2022-089789 as a Japanese patent application and all the documents cited in the above embodiments, etc. are cited and used as part of the description of this article.

[0122] Description of Reference Numerals

[0123] 1…Overhead conveyor

[0124] 2…Travel department

[0125] 3…Connection

[0126] 4…Main body

[0127] 6…Transfer unit

[0128] 7…Transfer device

[0129] 8, 8A, 8B…lateral extension mechanism

[0130] 10…Base

[0131] 20…Sliding part

[0132] 30, 31, 32, 33…guide rails

[0133] 40…First Linear Guide

[0134] 45…Second linear guide

[0135] 50, 70…First transmission mechanism

[0136] 51A…first right fixing portion

[0137] 51B…Second right fixing portion

[0138] 52A…first left fixing portion

[0139] 52B…Second left fixing portion

[0140] 53 ... left side guide member (first left side guide member)

[0141] 54 ... right side guide member (first right side guide member)

[0142] 55 ... right side winding transmission component (first right side winding transmission component)

[0143] 56 ... left side winding transmission component (first left side winding transmission component)

[0144] 60…Second transmission mechanism

[0145] 61A…Third right fixing portion

[0146] 61B…Fourth right fixing portion

[0147] 62A, 62B…left side fixing part

[0148] 63 ... second left side guide member

[0149] 64 ... second right side guide member

[0150] 65…Second right winding transmission component

[0151] 66…Second left winding transmission component

[0152] D…lateral extension direction.

Claims

1. An overhead transport vehicle, comprising: a main body that travels along a ceiling track, and a lateral extension mechanism that causes a transfer device for an article to extend lateraly to the left and right of a travel direction of the main body, wherein: The lateral extension mechanism comprises: A base portion, which is arranged on the main body portion; A sliding portion, which is provided for the transfer device and is arranged on the lower surface side of the base portion; A first linear guide is provided between the base portion and the sliding portion, is movable relative to the base portion and the sliding portion in a lateral extension direction, and supports the sliding portion to be able to extend laterally relative to the base portion; and The first transmission mechanism limits the position of the first linear guide when the sliding portion does not move relative to the base portion in the lateral extension direction, and moves the first linear guide in the lateral extension direction when the sliding portion moves relative to the base portion in the lateral extension direction.

2. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The first transmission mechanism restricts the first linear guide to a center or a substantial center of the base portion in the lateral extending direction in an initial state in which the sliding portion has not extended laterally.

3. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 2, wherein: When the sliding portion is laterally extended from the initial state, the first transmission mechanism moves the first linear guide in the same direction as the lateral extension direction of the sliding portion by a movement amount that is half of the lateral extension amount of the sliding portion.

4. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The first transmission mechanism comprises: a right winding transmission member, one end of which is fixed to a first right fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the base portion, and is wound around a left guide member provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the first linear guide, and the other end of which is fixed to a second right fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the sliding portion; as well as A left-side winding transmission component, one end of which is fixed to a first left-side fixing portion disposed on the left side in the above-mentioned lateral extension direction of the above-mentioned base portion, and is wound around a right-side guide component disposed on the right side in the above-mentioned lateral extension direction of the above-mentioned first linear guide, and the other end is fixed to a second left-side fixing portion disposed on the left side in the above-mentioned lateral extension direction of the above-mentioned sliding portion.

5. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 4, wherein: The right winding transmission member and the left winding transmission member are set to have the same or substantially the same length.

6. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The sliding part has: A first sliding portion disposed on a lower surface side of the base portion; and a second sliding portion, which is provided for the transfer device and is arranged on the lower surface side of the first sliding portion; The above-mentioned overhead transport vehicle has: a second linear guide disposed between the first sliding portion and the second sliding portion, capable of moving in a lateral extension direction relative to the first sliding portion and the second sliding portion, and supporting the second sliding portion so as to be able to extend laterally relative to the first sliding portion; and The second transmission mechanism limits the position of the second linear guide when the second sliding part does not move relative to the first sliding part along the lateral extension direction, and moves the second linear guide along the lateral extension direction when the second sliding part moves relative to the first sliding part along the lateral extension direction.

7. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 6, wherein: The first transmission mechanism restricts the first linear guide to the center or substantially the center of the base portion in the lateral extension direction in an initial state where the first sliding portion and the second sliding portion are not extended laterally. The second transmission mechanism restricts the second linear guide to a center or a substantially center of the first sliding portion in the lateral extending direction in the initial state.

8. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 7, wherein: When the first sliding part is laterally extended from the initial state, the first transmission mechanism moves the first linear guide in the same direction as the lateral extension direction of the first sliding part by a movement amount of half the lateral extension amount of the first sliding part. When the second sliding portion is laterally extended from the initial state, the second transmission mechanism moves the second linear guide in the same direction as the lateral extension direction of the second sliding portion by a movement amount that is half of the lateral extension amount of the second sliding portion.

9. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 6, wherein: The first transmission mechanism comprises: A first right winding transmission member, one end of which is fixed to a first right fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the base portion, and is wound around a first left guide member provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the first linear guide, and the other end of which is fixed to a second right fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the first sliding portion; and A first left winding transmission component, one end of which is fixed to a first left fixing portion provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the base portion, and is wound around a first right guide component provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the first linear guide, and the other end of which is fixed to a second left fixing portion provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the first sliding portion, The second transmission mechanism comprises: A second right winding transmission member, one end of which is fixed to a third right fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the first sliding portion, and is wound around a second left guide member provided on the left side in the lateral extension direction of the second linear guide, and the other end of which is fixed to a fourth right fixing portion provided on the right side in the lateral extension direction of the second sliding portion; as well as A second left-side winding transmission component, one end of which is fixed to a third left-side fixing portion disposed on the left side in the above-mentioned lateral extension direction of the above-mentioned first sliding portion, and is wound around a second right-side guide component disposed on the right side in the above-mentioned lateral extension direction of the above-mentioned second linear guide, and the other end is fixed to a fourth left-side fixing portion disposed on the left side in the above-mentioned lateral extension direction of the above-mentioned second sliding portion.

10. The overhead transport vehicle according to claim 9, wherein: The first right winding transmission member and the first left winding transmission member are set to be the same or substantially the same length. The second right-side winding transmission member and the second left-side winding transmission member are set to have the same or substantially the same length.

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