Adjustable support unit for automated shelving
By using a motor-driven rotating and fixing assembly, combined with clamping rods and gear mechanisms, the automatic adjustment and stable fixing of the shelf panels are achieved, solving the problems of poor adaptability and insufficient stability of existing shelves, and improving space utilization and operational efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TAICANG ZHONGYUN METAL PROD CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-03
AI Technical Summary
The existing shelving support units are designed to be fixed and difficult to adjust, resulting in poor adaptability, low efficiency in the adjustment process, insufficient stability, and potential safety hazards.
The system employs a motor-driven rotating and fixing assembly, combined with clamping rods and gear mechanisms, to achieve automatic adjustment and stable fixing of the shelf distance. The motor and mechanical mechanism enable rapid adjustment and dual fixing of the shelves.
It improves the space utilization and versatility of the shelving, ensures the stability of the shelves, and is easy and quick to operate, saving manpower and time.
Smart Images

Figure CN119349089B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of automated shelving, and more particularly to adjustable support units for automated shelving. Background Technology
[0002] In the field of automated warehousing, racking is a key piece of equipment for storing goods, and the design of its support units directly affects the racking's flexibility, space utilization, and operational efficiency. However, existing racking support unit technologies have several shortcomings, mainly in the following aspects:
[0003] First, traditional shelving units often employ a fixed structural design, making it difficult to adjust the height and position of shelves once set. This fixed nature limits the shelving's adaptability to goods of different sizes. Second, adjusting shelf height on existing shelving units typically relies on manual operation, such as using screwdrivers and wrenches for disassembly or adjustment. This adjustment method is not only inefficient but also prone to causing structural damage or safety hazards due to improper operation.
[0004] In addition, traditional shelving is designed with an adjustable structure, but such a structure is usually not stable enough, resulting in insufficient stability of the shelves, which in turn affects the safe storage of goods.
[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide adjustable support units for automated shelving, which can achieve the functions of easy adjustment and stability. Summary of the Invention
[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an adjustable support unit for automated shelving to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.
[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an adjustable support unit for automated shelving, comprising a frame, an adjusting component, and a fixing component, wherein the adjusting component is disposed inside the frame, and the fixing component corresponds to the adjusting component;
[0008] The adjustment component includes a motor, which is fixedly connected to the top interior of the frame. The output end of the motor is connected to a rotating component. A moving block is connected to one side of the rotating component. A through slot is opened inside the moving block. Multiple shelves are arranged in the middle of two moving blocks. Protrusions are fixedly connected to both sides of each shelf. The protrusions correspond to the through slots. A telescopic component is connected to the bottom of the moving block.
[0009] The fixing assembly includes clamp rod one and clamp rod two. The shelf is located in the middle of clamp rod one and clamp rod two. A locking assembly is connected to the side of the frame. A short rod one is connected to one side of the locking assembly. A pulley one and a gear one are connected to the outer side of the short rod one. A short rod two is connected to one side of the frame. A pulley two and a gear two are connected to the outer side of the short rod two. A belt is fitted on the outer side of pulley one and pulley two. A rack is meshed at the upper and lower ends of gear one and gear two. A long rod and a round rod are connected to the rack. The round rod is connected to clamp rod one, and the long rod is connected to clamp rod two.
[0010] In one embodiment, the rotating assembly includes a rotating shaft fixedly connected to the output end of a motor, a block connected to the outer side of the rotating shaft, and crossbars fixedly connected to both sides of the block, wherein the crossbars and the moving block are fixedly connected.
[0011] In one embodiment, the outer side of the rotating shaft is threaded, the block and the rotating shaft are threadedly connected, and the block and the top interior of the frame are slidably connected.
[0012] In one embodiment, the number of through slots corresponds to the number of shelves, the middle plates of the multiple shelves and the frame are fixedly connected, the upper and lower slots of the through slots are inclined slots, the middle slots are straight slots, the upper and lower slots of the through slots are symmetrical about the middle slot, and the moving block and the interior of the frame are slidably connected.
[0013] In one embodiment, the telescopic assembly includes a telescopic plate, the telescopic plate and the movable block are slidably connected, one side of the movable block has a plurality of grooves I, one side of the telescopic plate has a groove II, the grooves I and II correspond to each other, the other side of the movable block has a groove III, the other side of the telescopic plate has a groove IV, the grooves III and IV correspond to each other.
[0014] In one embodiment, the first short rod and the frame are rotatably connected, the first short rod, the first pulley, and the first gear are fixedly connected, the frame and the second short rod are rotatably connected, the second short rod, the second pulley, and the second gear are fixedly connected, the rack and the frame are slidably connected, the round rod and the first clamping rod are fixedly connected, the long rod and the second clamping rod are fixedly connected, and the long rod and the first clamping rod are slidably connected.
[0015] In one embodiment, there are four racks, which are arranged in pairs facing each other. Gear 1 and Gear 2 form a Z-shape with the racks, and the upper and lower racks move in the same direction.
[0016] In one embodiment, the locking assembly includes a ratchet, which is fixedly connected to a short lever, a pawl is rotatably connected to one side of the frame, the pawl corresponds to the ratchet, a spring is fixedly connected to one side of the frame, the spring is fixedly connected to the pawl, and a rocker arm is fixedly connected to one side of the short lever.
[0017] In one embodiment, a storage compartment is provided on one side of the frame.
[0018] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects achieved by the present invention are:
[0019] 1. This invention, by incorporating a rotating component and an adjusting component, uses a motor to drive the rotating component, thereby controlling the movement of the moving blocks and enabling automatic adjustment of the distance between shelves. This improves the space utilization of the shelving unit, allowing it to accommodate goods of different heights and enhancing its versatility. Furthermore, the invention includes a telescopic component at the bottom, which can utilize the bottom space to add more shelves and increase the capacity for goods.
[0020] 2. This invention combines a fixing component, a clamping rod, and a rack and pinion mechanism. Rotating a short rod drives the gear to rotate, thereby controlling the movement of the rack and clamping rod, achieving stable fixing and rapid release of the shelf. This ensures the stability of the adjusted shelf. A locking component further ensures double fixation, preventing accidental movement or shaking. The entire adjustment process is achieved through a motor and simple mechanical mechanisms, making operation simple and quick. Operators only need to use the controller or manually rotate the rocker arm to adjust and fix the shelf distance, greatly saving manpower and time. Attached Figure Description
[0021] The technical solution and other beneficial effects of this application will become apparent from the following detailed description of specific embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
[0022] In the attached diagram:
[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;
[0024] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the adjustment component of the present invention;
[0025] Figure 3 This is a partial three-dimensional schematic diagram of the frame of the present invention;
[0026] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the locking component of the present invention;
[0027] Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of the fixing and locking components of the present invention;
[0028] Figure 6This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the fixing component of the present invention;
[0029] Figure 7 This is a partial perspective view of the fixing component of the present invention;
[0030] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the gear and rack of the present invention;
[0031] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the movable plate and telescopic assembly of the present invention;
[0032] In the diagram: 1. Frame; 101. Storage compartment; 102. Spring; 103. Pawl;
[0033] 2. Motor; 201. Rotating shaft; 202. Block; 203. Crossbar; 204. Moving block; 205. Through slot; 206. Shelf; 207. Protrusion; 208. Groove 1;
[0034] 3. Ratchet; 301. Rocker arm; 302. Short rod one; 303. Pulley one; 304. Belt; 305. Pulley two; 306. Gear two; 307. Rack; 308. Long rod; 309. Round rod; 310. Clamping rod one; 311. Clamping rod two; 312. Gear one; 313. Short rod two;
[0035] 4. Telescopic plate; 401. Groove II. Detailed Implementation
[0036] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing different structures of this application. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, various specific examples of processes and materials are provided in this application, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.
[0037] Please see Figure 1-9 The present invention provides a technical solution: an adjustable support unit for automated shelving, comprising a frame 1, an adjustment component, and a fixing component, wherein the adjustment component is disposed inside the frame 1, and the fixing component corresponds to the adjustment component;
[0038] The adjustment component includes a motor 2, which is fixedly connected to the top interior of the frame 1. The output end of the motor 2 is connected to a rotating component. A moving block 204 is connected to one side of the rotating component. A through groove 205 is opened inside the moving block 204. Multiple shelves 206 are provided in the middle of the two moving blocks 204. Protrusions 207 are fixedly connected to both sides of the shelf 206. The protrusions 207 correspond to the through grooves 205. A telescopic component is connected to the bottom of the moving block 204.
[0039] The fixing assembly includes clamp rod 1 310 and clamp rod 2 311. The shelf 206 is located in the middle of clamp rod 1 310 and clamp rod 2 311. A locking assembly is connected to the side of the frame 1. A short rod 1 302 is connected to one side of the locking assembly. A pulley 1 303 and a gear 1 312 are connected to the outside of the short rod 1 302. A short rod 2 313 is connected to one side of the frame 1. A pulley 2 305 and a gear 2 306 are connected to the outside of the short rod 2 313. A belt 304 is sleeved on the outside of pulley 1 303 and pulley 2 305. A rack 307 is meshed with the upper and lower ends of gear 1 312 and gear 2 306. A long rod 308 and a round rod 309 are connected to the rack 307. The round rod 309 is connected to clamp rod 1 310, and the long rod 308 is connected to clamp rod 2 311.
[0040] Specifically, when the staff prepares to adjust the distance between the shelves 206, the clamping rods 310 and 311 initially clamp the shelves 206 to fix them in place. The side of the clamping rods 310 and 311 closest to the shelves 206 is covered with rubber, so the elasticity of the rubber makes the fixation more stable. First, the worker opens and releases the locking mechanism. Then, by rotating short rod 302, the worker drives pulley 303 and gear 312 to rotate. Pulley 303, driven by belt 304, rotates pulley 305 above it. Simultaneously, gear 306 also rotates. Since both gears rotate in the same direction, they drive racks 307 to move closer or further apart. This causes long rod 308 and round rod 309 to move in opposite directions, meaning clamping rod 310 and clamping rod 311 move in opposite directions—one to the left, the other to the right—clamping or releasing them, thus completing the locking and unlocking process. At this point, the worker only needs to rotate short rod 302 to release the lock.
[0041] Then, the operator activates motor 2 via the controller, causing the rotating component to rotate. This rotation translates into movement of the moving block 204. As the moving block 204 moves, the protrusions 207 move along the direction of the through groove 205. Multiple protrusions 207 move closer or further apart, thus reducing or increasing the distance between the shelves 206 to accommodate different goods sizes. When the distance between the shelves 206 decreases, the bottom space of the frame 1 increases. The operator then adjusts the telescopic component to the appropriate position and unfolds and secures it, adding another shelf and increasing the capacity. After adjustment, the operator re-secures the shelves 206. The adjustable component allows for flexible adjustment of the distance between the shelves 206, enabling the shelving to accommodate goods of different sizes. Increased bottom space improves space utilization and the shelving's versatility. The double-fixing mechanism and locking mechanism ensure the shelves 206 are highly stable.
[0042] The rotating assembly includes a rotating shaft 201, which is fixedly connected to the output end of the motor 2. A block 202 is connected to the outside of the rotating shaft 201. A crossbar 203 is fixedly connected to both sides of the block 202. The crossbar 203 and the moving block 204 are fixedly connected.
[0043] Specifically, when the operator turns on motor 2 through the controller, the rotating shaft 201 at the output end rotates, which moves block 202. In this way, the two horizontal bars 203 move, which moves moving block 204. By controlling different rotation directions of motor 2, moving block 204 can be moved forward or backward.
[0044] The outer side of the rotating shaft 201 is threaded, the block 202 and the rotating shaft 201 are threadedly connected, and the block 202 and the top interior of the frame 1 are slidably connected.
[0045] Specifically, the top of block 202 and frame 1 are slidably connected, indicating that block 202 can move stably in one direction, thus ensuring stable movement of moving block 204. The rotating shaft 201 and block 202 are threadedly connected, so when the rotating shaft 201 rotates, block 202 should rotate and move accordingly. However, the connection between block 202 and the top of frame 1 restricts the rotation of block 202, and the space at the top also restricts its rotation. Therefore, block 202 can only move, thus moving moving block 204 to adjust the height of shelf 206.
[0046] The number of through slots 205 corresponds to the number of shelves 206. The middle plates of multiple shelves 206 are fixedly connected to the frame 1. The upper and lower slots of the through slot 205 are inclined slots, and the middle slot is a straight slot. The upper and lower slots of the through slot 205 are symmetrical with respect to the middle slot. The moving block 204 and the interior of the frame 1 are slidably connected.
[0047] Specifically, the middle shelf 206 is fixed because the middle through-slot 205 is straight, and the moving block 204 also moves in a straight direction. When the moving block 204 moves, it does not move the middle protrusion 207. The upper and lower through-slots 205 have smaller distances at one end and larger distances at the other. Therefore, when the moving block 204 moves, the protrusion 207 moves along the inclined groove, either from a larger distance to a smaller distance or vice versa. This allows the middle shelf 206 to remain stationary while the two outer shelves move towards the center, reducing the distance between the shelves. Alternatively, the distance can increase, achieving automatic distance adjustment. For the upper and lower shelves 206, the corresponding through-slots 205 use an inclined groove design, with a smaller distance at one end and a larger distance at the other. When the moving block 204 moves in a straight direction, the protrusions 207 on the shelf 206 are forced to move along the inclined groove trajectory through the guiding action of these inclined grooves. During this process, depending on the moving direction of the moving block 204, the shelf 206 can achieve two movement modes: one is to move from the end with a larger gap to the end with a smaller gap, thereby achieving centripetal aggregation between the shelves 206 and reducing the gap between the shelves 206; the other is to move from the end with a larger gap to the end with a smaller gap, thereby achieving centrifugal dispersion, which saves manpower and makes it easier for staff to operate.
[0048] The telescopic assembly includes a telescopic plate 4, which is slidably connected to a movable block 204. One side of the movable block 204 has multiple grooves 208, and one side of the telescopic plate 4 has a groove 401. Grooves 208 and 401 correspond to each other. The other side of the movable block 204 has a groove 3, and the other side of the telescopic plate 4 has a groove 4. Grooves 3 and 4 correspond to each other.
[0049] Specifically, the telescopic plate 4 and the movable block 204 are slidably connected. When the telescopic plate 4 is not in use, it slides to the bottom and moves with the movable block 204 without affecting the movement. After the overall distance is reduced, the blank space at the bottom becomes larger. At this time, the staff moves the telescopic plate 4 upward to a suitable position. At this time, the groove 401 on the telescopic plate 4 is exactly aligned with the groove 208 on one side of the movable block 204. The staff inserts a pin into the groove to fix it. Then the staff unfolds the telescopic plate 4. The other end of the telescopic plate 4 also has a groove 4, which corresponds to the groove 3 on the other side of the movable block 204. Inserting another pin completes the fixation of the telescopic plate 4, increasing the placement space.
[0050] Short rod 302 and frame 1 are rotatably connected; short rod 302, pulley 303, and gear 312 are fixedly connected; frame 1 and short rod 313 are rotatably connected; short rod 313, pulley 305, and gear 306 are fixedly connected; rack 307 and frame 1 are slidably connected; round rod 309 and clamp rod 310 are fixedly connected; long rod 308 and clamp rod 311 are fixedly connected; long rod 308 and clamp rod 310 are slidably connected.
[0051] Specifically, the short rod 302 is rotatable under the action of the rocker arm 301, and is therefore rotatably connected to the frame 1. The side of the frame 1 has a small plate, and the short rod 302 is connected to the small plate. Short rod 302, pulley 303, and gear 312 are fixedly connected, so that the rotation of short rod 302 can cause pulley 303 and gear 312 to rotate together. Short rod 313 also needs to rotate, so it is rotatably connected to frame 1. Pulley 305 and gear 306 are fixedly connected to short rod 313, so that they can rotate with short rod 313. Rack 307 needs to move under the meshing of the gear, so it is slidably connected to frame 1. Frame 1 provides a certain support force for rack 307. Round rod 309 and clamp rod 310 are fixedly connected, so that the movement of round rod 309 can cause clamp rod 310 to move. The movement of long rod 308 can cause clamp rod 311 to move. Long rod 308 and clamp rod 310 are slidably connected, so that the movement of long rod 308 will not affect the movement of clamp rod 310.
[0052] There are four racks 307, which are arranged in pairs. Gear 1 312 and gear 2 306 form a Z-shape with the racks 307, and the upper and lower racks 307 move in the same direction.
[0053] Specifically, there are two racks 307 on the top and two on the bottom. The rotation directions of the two racks are the same, so the movement of the upper and lower racks 307 is consistent, which can clamp or separate the clamping rod.
[0054] The locking assembly includes a ratchet 3, which is fixedly connected to a short lever 302. A pawl 103 is rotatably connected to one side of the frame 1, which corresponds to the ratchet 3. A spring 102 is fixedly connected to one side of the frame 1, which is fixedly connected to the pawl 103. A rocker arm 301 is fixedly connected to one side of the short lever 302.
[0055] Specifically, when the staff wants to unlock, they move the pawl 103 and turn the ratchet 3 counterclockwise. This causes the gear to turn counterclockwise as well, allowing the two clamps to open. When the pawl is moved, the spring 102 is stretched. When the pawl 103 is released, the spring 102 has a retraction force, pulling the pawl 103 back to its original position. With the restriction of the pawl 103, the ratchet 3 can only turn clockwise. This is driven by the rocker arm 301. Clockwise rotation causes the gear to turn clockwise as well. Clockwise rotation clamps the two clamps together. Once clamped, clockwise rotation is no longer possible, and the entire assembly is completely secured.
[0056] A storage compartment 101 is provided on one side of the frame 1.
[0057] Specifically, one side of the frame 1 has some space that can accommodate tall items or tools, improving usability.
[0058] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection, the internal communication between two components, or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.
[0059] The above provides a detailed description of the adjustable support unit for automated shelving provided in the embodiments of this application. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the technical solutions and core ideas of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. An adjustable support unit for automated shelving, comprising a frame (1), an adjustment component, and a fixing component, characterized in that: The adjustment component is disposed inside the frame (1), and the fixing component corresponds to the adjustment component; The adjustment component includes a motor (2), which is fixedly connected to the top interior of the frame (1). The output end of the motor (2) is connected to a rotating component. A moving block (204) is connected to one side of the rotating component. A through slot (205) is provided inside the moving block (204). Multiple shelves (206) are provided in the middle of the two moving blocks (204). Protrusions (207) are fixedly connected to both sides of the shelves (206). The protrusions (207) correspond to the through slots (205). A telescopic component is connected to the bottom of the moving block (204). The fixing assembly includes clamp rod one (310) and clamp rod two (311). The shelf (206) is located in the middle of clamp rod one (310) and clamp rod two (311). A locking assembly is connected to the side of the frame (1). A short rod one (302) is connected to one side of the locking assembly. A pulley one (303) and a gear one (312) are connected to the outside of the short rod one (302). A short rod two (313) is connected to one side of the frame (1). The outside of the short rod two (313) A second pulley (305) and a second gear (306) are connected to the side. A belt (304) is sleeved on the outer side of the first pulley (303) and the second pulley (305). The upper and lower ends of the first gear (312) and the second gear (306) are meshed with racks (307). The racks (307) are connected to a long rod (308) and a round rod (309). The round rod (309) is connected to a clamping rod (310), and the long rod (308) is connected to a clamping rod (311). The short rod (302) and the frame (1) are rotatably connected. The short rod (302), pulley (303), and gear (312) are fixedly connected. The frame (1) and the short rod (313) are rotatably connected. The short rod (313), pulley (305), and gear (306) are fixedly connected. The rack (307) and the frame (1) are slidably connected. The round rod (309) and clamp rod (310) are fixedly connected. The long rod (308) and clamp rod (311) are fixedly connected. The long rod (308) and clamp rod (310) are slidably connected. The number of racks (307) is four, and the racks (307) are opposite each other in pairs. The gear one (312) and gear two (306) form a Z-shape with the racks (307). The upper and lower racks (307) move in the same direction. The locking assembly includes a ratchet (3). The ratchet (3) and the short rod one (302) are fixedly connected. A pawl (103) is rotatably connected to one side of the frame (1). The pawl (103) corresponds to the ratchet (3). A spring (102) is fixedly connected to one side of the frame (1). The spring (102) and the pawl (103) are fixedly connected. A rocker arm (301) is fixedly connected to one side of the short rod one (302). The number of through slots (205) corresponds to the number of shelves (206). The middle plates of multiple shelves (206) and the frame (1) are fixedly connected. The upper and lower slots of the through slots (205) are inclined slots, and the middle slots are straight slots. The upper and lower slots of the through slots (205) are symmetrical with respect to the middle slot. The moving block (204) and the interior of the frame (1) are slidably connected.
2. The adjustable support unit for automated shelving according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotating assembly includes a rotating shaft (201), which is fixedly connected to the output end of the motor (2). A block (202) is connected to the outside of the rotating shaft (201), and a crossbar (203) is fixedly connected to both sides of the block (202). The crossbar (203) and the moving block (204) are fixedly connected.
3. The adjustable support unit for automated shelving according to claim 2, characterized in that: The outer side of the rotating shaft (201) is provided with threads, the block (202) and the rotating shaft (201) are threadedly connected, and the block (202) and the top interior of the frame (1) are slidably connected.
4. The adjustable support unit for automated shelving according to claim 1, characterized in that: The telescopic assembly includes a telescopic plate (4), the telescopic plate (4) and the moving block (204) are slidably connected, a plurality of grooves 1 (208) are provided on one side of the moving block (204), a groove 2 (401) is provided on one side of the telescopic plate (4), the grooves 1 (208) and 2 (401) correspond to each other, a groove 3 is provided on the other side of the moving block (204), and a groove 4 is provided on the other side of the telescopic plate (4), the grooves 3 and 4 correspond to each other.
5. The adjustable support unit for automated shelving according to claim 1, characterized in that: A storage compartment (101) is provided on one side of the frame (1).