Transport vehicle

Abstract

The plurality of wheels include at least one drive wheel driven by a drive source, and the vehicle body frame includes a first frame portion and a second frame portion arranged side by side in the front-rear direction. A transport vehicle is provided with: a first coupling part that couples a first frame part and a second frame part so as to be swingable around a first swing axis in the width direction; a second coupling part that couples the first frame part and the support frame so as to be swingable around a second swing axis in the width direction; and a third coupling part that couples the second frame part and the support frame so as to be able to swing around a third swing axis in the width direction and so as to be able to slide in the front-rear direction. The power storage unit is supported by the support frame in a state of being attachable to and detachable from the support frame from one side in the front-rear direction or one side in the width direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a transport vehicle comprising: a vehicle frame; a plurality of wheels supported on the vehicle frame; a support frame connected to the vehicle frame and configured to support the transported object at an upper position above the vehicle frame; and an energy storage unit that stores electricity supplied to onboard equipment. Background Technology

[0002] An example of such a transport vehicle is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-19348 (hereinafter referred to as "Patent Document 1"). In the following description of the background art, symbols from Patent Document 1 will be referenced in parentheses.

[0003] In the transport vehicle (100) of Patent Document 1, the electricity stored in the power storage unit (102) is supplied to the drive source (106). Moreover, the drive source (106) drives the drive wheels (108) including the multiple wheels. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In the transport vehicle (100) of Patent Document 1, maintenance work is performed, such as replacing the energy storage unit (102) or inspecting the control unit (101, 103) that controls onboard equipment such as the drive source (106). During such maintenance work, the work can sometimes become complicated depending on the location of the energy storage unit (102) and the control unit (101, 103).

[0005] Therefore, there is a desire to develop a transport vehicle with a structure that is easy to maintain.

[0006] In view of the above, the characteristics of the transport vehicle are as follows. A transport vehicle comprising the following components: Body frame; Multiple wheels, which are supported by the aforementioned vehicle frame; A support frame, connected to the aforementioned vehicle frame, and configured to support the transported object at an upper position than the aforementioned vehicle frame; and The energy storage unit stores the electricity supplied to the vehicle's equipment. The aforementioned wheels include at least one drive wheel driven by a drive source. Let the direction along the drive shaft, which serves as the rotation axis of the aforementioned drive wheel, be defined as the width direction, and let the direction orthogonal to the aforementioned drive shaft when viewed from the vertical direction be defined as the front-back direction. The aforementioned vehicle frame includes a first frame portion and a second frame portion arranged side by side along the aforementioned longitudinal direction. The aforementioned transport vehicle has: The first connecting part connects the aforementioned first frame part and the aforementioned second frame part in a way that allows them to swing freely around a first swing axis along the aforementioned width direction; The second connecting part freely connects the aforementioned first frame part and the aforementioned support frame around a second swing axis along the aforementioned width direction; and The third connecting part connects the aforementioned second frame part and the aforementioned support frame, which can swing freely around a third swing axis along the aforementioned width direction and slide freely along the aforementioned front-back direction. The aforementioned energy storage unit is supported on the aforementioned support frame in a manner that allows it to be detached from one side of the aforementioned front-to-back direction or the aforementioned width direction relative to the aforementioned support frame.

[0007] Based on this feature, the energy storage unit is supported in a manner that allows it to be installed and removed from one side in the longitudinal direction or the width direction relative to a support frame positioned higher than the vehicle frame. Therefore, maintenance operations such as replacing the energy storage unit can be performed more easily. Consequently, a transport vehicle structure that facilitates maintenance is easily achieved. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the transport vehicle involved in the implementation method. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the transport vehicle involved in the embodiment. Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the first connecting part of the transport vehicle according to the embodiment. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the second and third connecting parts of the transport vehicle according to the embodiment. Figure 5 This is a side view showing a portion of the transport vehicle involved in the embodiment. Figure 6 This is a side view showing a portion of the transport vehicle involved in the embodiment. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the off state of the energy storage unit. Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the open state of the energy storage unit. Figure 9 This is a top view showing a portion of the transport vehicle involved in the embodiment. Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the driven wheels of the transport vehicle according to the embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0009] Hereinafter, the transport vehicle 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1As shown, the transport vehicle 100 includes a vehicle frame 1, multiple wheels 2, a support frame 3, and an energy storage unit 8. In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 100 also includes a control unit 4. Furthermore, the vehicle frame 1, multiple wheels 2, a portion of the support frame 3, the control unit 4, and the energy storage unit 8 are covered by a cover C.

[0010] like Figure 2 As shown, the plurality of wheels 2 includes at least one drive wheel 21 driven by a drive source D. In this embodiment, the plurality of wheels 2 includes a pair of drive wheels 21, a pair of first driven wheels 22, and a pair of second driven wheels 23. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the drive source D is an electric motor.

[0011] In the following description, the direction along the drive shaft Ad, which serves as the axis of rotation of the drive wheel 21, is defined as the "width direction X". Furthermore, the direction orthogonal to the drive shaft Ad when viewed in the vertical direction is defined as the "front-rear direction Y". Moreover, one side in the front-rear direction Y is defined as "front side Y1", and the other side in the front-rear direction Y is defined as "rear side Y2". In addition, in this application, "vertical direction" refers to the vertical direction when the transport vehicle 100 is located on a horizontal plane. Furthermore, in this application, the term "along" as a reference direction or axis includes a state that is parallel and slightly (e.g., ±20°) inclined relative to the reference direction or axis.

[0012] The vehicle body frame 1 includes a first frame portion 11 and a second frame portion 12. The first frame portion 11 and the second frame portion 12 are arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction Y. In this embodiment, the first frame portion 11 is arranged at a rearward position Y2 than the second frame portion 12.

[0013] In this embodiment, both the first frame portion 11 and the second frame portion 12 are box-shaped with their upper surfaces open. Furthermore, the first frame portion 11 includes a flat first base plate portion 111 and a first side plate portion 112 erected upwards from the outer edge of the first base plate portion 111. The second frame portion 12 includes a flat second base plate portion 121 and a second side plate portion 122 erected upwards from the outer edge of the second base plate portion 121.

[0014] In this embodiment, when viewed from above, the first base plate portion 111 is formed into a rectangular shape, with the side along the width direction X being the long side and the side along the front-rear direction Y being the short side. Furthermore, the first side plate portion 112 includes a pair of first short surface portions 113 facing each other along the width direction X and a pair of first long surface portions 114 facing each other along the front-rear direction Y.

[0015] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when viewed from above, the second base plate portion 121 is formed into a rectangular shape, with the side along the width direction X being the long side and the side along the front-rear direction Y being the short side. Moreover, the second side plate portion 122 includes a pair of second short surface portions 123 facing each other along the width direction X and a pair of second long surface portions 124 facing each other along the front-rear direction Y.

[0016] like Figure 1 As shown, the support frame 3 is connected to the vehicle body frame 1. The support frame 3 is configured to support the transport object W at an upper position than the vehicle body frame 1. In this embodiment, the support frame 3 supports from below a transfer device T for transferring the transport object W relative to a predetermined location. The transfer device T includes a mounting section Ta for mounting the transport object W. In this embodiment, the mounting section Ta is constituted by a conveyor belt that transports the mounted transport object W along the width direction X.

[0017] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the support frame 3 has a pair of first pillars 31 and a pair of second pillars 32.

[0018] A pair of first pillars 31 are formed extending upward from the first frame portion 11. The pair of first pillars 31 are arranged apart from each other along the width direction X. In this embodiment, each pair of first pillars 31 has a first upper pillar portion 311 and a first lower pillar portion 312. The first upper pillar portion 311 and the first lower pillar portion 312 are fixed to each other such that the first upper pillar portion 311 extends upward from the first lower pillar portion 312. The first upper pillar portion 311 is connected to the transfer device T such that it supports the transfer device T from below. The first lower pillar portion 312 is connected to one of the first short surface portions 113 of the first frame portion 11 from the side opposite to the other first short surface portion 113 in the width direction X.

[0019] A pair of second pillars 32 are formed extending upward from the second frame portion 12. The pair of second pillars 32 are arranged apart from each other along the width direction X. In this embodiment, each pair of second pillars 32 has a second upper pillar portion 321 and a second lower pillar portion 322. The second upper pillar portion 321 and the second lower pillar portion 322 are fixed to each other such that the second upper pillar portion 321 extends upward from the second lower pillar portion 322. The second upper pillar portion 321 is connected to the transfer device T such that it supports the transfer device T from below. The second lower pillar portion 322 is connected to one of the second short surface portions 123 of the second frame portion 12 from the side opposite to the other second short surface portion 123 in the width direction X.

[0020] The control unit 4 is configured to control the vehicle-mounted equipment E. The energy storage unit 8 is configured to store the power supplied to the vehicle-mounted equipment E. In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 8 also supplies power to the control unit 4. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the vehicle-mounted equipment E includes a drive source D, a drive source for the transfer device T, and various sensors. Additionally, the controlled object controlled by the control unit 4 and the object supplied with power by the energy storage unit 8 can each be either part of the vehicle-mounted equipment E or the entire vehicle-mounted equipment E.

[0021] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the transport vehicle 100 includes a first connecting portion 5. The first connecting portion 5 is configured such that a first frame portion 11 and a second frame portion 12 are flexibly connected about a first swing axis A1 along the width direction X. In this embodiment, a pair of first connecting portions 5 are arranged side-by-side along the width direction X. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first connecting portion 5 includes a first connecting element 51 and a second connecting element 52 that are flexibly arranged about the first swing axis A1. Additionally, in this embodiment, the first swing axis A1 is located near the drive axis Ad and is different from the drive axis Ad.

[0022] The first connecting element 51 is connected to the first frame portion 11 via the first connecting member 53. The first connecting member 53 has a first fixing portion 531 that is fixed to the first frame portion 11 and a first mounting portion 532 on which the first connecting element 51 is mounted.

[0023] The first fixing part 531 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the front-rear direction Y. The first fixing part 531 is fixed from the front side Y1 to the first long surface part 114 of the front side Y1 of the first frame part 11 by bolt fastening.

[0024] The first mounting portion 532 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the width direction X. The first connecting element 51 is fixed relative to the first mounting portion 532 by bolts. In this embodiment, the first connecting element 51 in one first connecting portion 5 is disposed on the side opposite to the other first connecting portion 5 in the width direction X relative to the first mounting portion 532 on which the first connecting element 51 is mounted. Moreover, the first connecting element 51 and the first mounting portion 532 are fixed by the first bolt 55 with the head of the first bolt 55 located on the side of the first connecting element 51. In the illustrated example, a pair of first bolts 55 are disposed on both sides of the first swing axis A1 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0025] The second connecting element 52 is connected to the second frame portion 12 via the second connecting member 54. The second connecting member 54 has a second fixing portion 541 that is fixed to the second frame portion 12 and a second mounting portion 542 on which the second connecting element 52 is mounted.

[0026] The second fixing part 541 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the front-rear direction Y. The second fixing part 541 is fixed from the rear side Y2 to the second long surface part 124 of the rear side Y2 of the second frame part 12 by bolt fastening.

[0027] The second mounting portion 542 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the width direction X. The second connecting element 52 is fixed relative to the second mounting portion 542 by bolts. In this embodiment, the second connecting element 52 in one of the first connecting portions 5 is disposed on the side opposite to the other first connecting portion 5 in the width direction X relative to the second mounting portion 542 on which the second connecting element 52 is mounted, and is disposed on the same side in the width direction X relative to the first mounting portion 532 on which a first connecting element 51 in one of the first connecting portions 5 is mounted. That is, in this embodiment, the second connecting element 52 is disposed between the second mounting portion 542 and the first mounting portion 532 in the width direction X. Moreover, the second connecting element 52 and the second mounting portion 542 are fixed by the second bolt 56 with the head of the second bolt 56 located on the side of the second mounting portion 542. In the illustrated example, a pair of second bolts 56 are disposed on both sides in the vertical direction relative to the first swing axis A1.

[0028] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the second mounting portion 542 includes a through hole 54a through which the threaded portion of the first bolt 55 passes in the width direction X. The through hole 54a has an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the threaded portion of the first bolt 55. With this configuration, when the first connecting element 51 and the second connecting element 52 swing relative to each other, the threaded portion of the first bolt 55 abuts against the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 54a, thereby limiting the swing range of the first connecting element 51 and the second connecting element 52. Therefore, it is possible to make the first bolt 55 and the through hole 54a function as a limiting mechanism without having to provide a separate limiting mechanism for the swing range of the first connecting element 51 and the second connecting element 52 in the first connecting portion 5.

[0029] like Figure 2 As shown, the transport vehicle 100 has a second connecting part 6 and a third connecting part 7.

[0030] The second connecting part 6 is configured such that the first frame part 11 and the support frame 3 are flexibly connected about a second swing axis A2 along the width direction X. In this embodiment, the second connecting part 6 connects the first lower column part 312 of the first support column 31 in the first frame part 11 and the support frame 3 about the second swing axis A2. Therefore, in this embodiment, a pair of second connecting parts 6 and a pair of first support columns 31 are arranged opposite each other along the width direction X.

[0031] The third connecting part 7 is configured such that the second frame part 12 and the support frame 3 are connected in a manner that allows them to swing freely around a third swing axis A3 along the width direction X and slide freely along the front-rear direction Y. In this embodiment, the third connecting part 7 connects the second lower column part 322 of the second support column 32 in the second frame part 12 and the support frame 3 in a manner that allows them to swing freely around the third swing axis A3 and slide freely along the front-rear direction Y. Therefore, in this embodiment, a pair of third connecting parts 7 and a pair of second support columns 32 are arranged opposite each other along the width direction X. In addition, the pair of third connecting parts 7 are arranged at a position Y1 further forward than the pair of second connecting parts 6.

[0032] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the second connecting part 6 includes a second retaining member 61, a second bearing 62, a second connecting bolt 63, and a second connecting nut 64.

[0033] The second retaining member 61 is a member that retains the second bearing 62 while restricting its relative movement in a direction orthogonal to the second swing axis A2. The second retaining member 61 has a second retaining hole 61a for retaining the second bearing 62. The second retaining hole 61a has a shape identical to the outer shape of the second bearing 62 to restrict the relative movement of the second bearing 62 in a direction orthogonal to the second swing axis A2. The second retaining hole 61a is formed such that it extends through the second retaining member 61 along the width direction X.

[0034] In this embodiment, the second retaining member 61 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the width direction X. Moreover, the second retaining member 61 is fixed to the first short surface portion 113 of the first frame portion 11 from the side opposite to the first support column 31 in the width direction X.

[0035] The second bearing 62 is disposed on the second swing axis A2. The second bearing 62 is a radial bearing. In this embodiment, the first through hole 11a, whose dimension in the direction orthogonal to the second swing axis A2 is the same as or larger than that of the second retaining hole 61a, is formed such that it penetrates the first short surface portion 113 of the first frame portion 11 in the width direction X. Moreover, the second bearing 62 is disposed spanning both the first through hole 11a and the second retaining hole 61a.

[0036] The second connecting bolt 63 and the second connecting nut 64 are components used to connect the second bearing 62 and the first support column 31 relative to the first frame portion 11. In this embodiment, with the second bearing 62 disposed in the first through hole 11a and the second retaining hole 61a, and the first lower column portion 312 of the first support column 31 in contact with the first short surface portion 113 of the first frame portion 11, the second connecting bolt 63 is inserted through the second bearing 62 and the first lower column portion 312. Furthermore, the second connecting nut 64 is threadedly engaged at the threaded portion formed at the front end of the second connecting bolt 63.

[0037] In this embodiment, the third connecting part 7 includes a third retaining member 71, a third bearing 72, a third connecting bolt 73, and a third connecting nut 74.

[0038] The third retaining member 71 is a member that retains the third bearing 72 while restricting its relative movement in the up-down direction and simultaneously allowing its relative movement within a certain range in the front-rear direction Y. The third retaining member 71 has a third retaining hole 71a for retaining the third bearing 72. The third retaining hole 71a is formed as an elongated hole by extending the outer shape of the third bearing 72 along the front-rear direction Y, thereby restricting its relative movement in the up-down direction and simultaneously allowing its relative movement within a certain range in the front-rear direction Y. The third retaining hole 71a is formed to extend through the third retaining member 71 along the width direction X.

[0039] In this embodiment, the third retaining member 71 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the width direction X. Moreover, the third retaining member 71 is fixed to the second short surface portion 123 of the second frame portion 12 from the side opposite to the second support column 32 in the width direction X.

[0040] The third bearing 72 is disposed on the third swing axis A3. The third bearing 72 is a radial bearing. In this embodiment, the second through hole 12a, whose dimensions in the direction orthogonal to the third swing axis A3 are the same as or larger than those of the third retaining hole 71a, is formed to penetrate the second short surface portion 123 of the second frame portion 12 in the width direction X. Moreover, the third bearing 72 is disposed spanning both the second through hole 12a and the third retaining hole 71a.

[0041] The third connecting bolt 73 and the third connecting nut 74 are components used to connect the third bearing 72 and the second support column 32 relative to the second frame portion 12. In this embodiment, with the third bearing 72 disposed in the second through hole 12a and the third retaining hole 71a, and the second lower column portion 322 of the second support column 32 in contact with the second short surface portion 123 of the second frame portion 12, the third connecting bolt 73 is inserted through the third bearing 72 and the second lower column portion 322. Furthermore, the third connecting nut 74 is threadedly engaged at the threaded portion formed at the front end of the third connecting bolt 73.

[0042] like Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the support frame 3 includes a support member 33.

[0043] The support member 33 is connected to a pair of first pillars 31 and a pair of second pillars 32. The support member 33 is disposed on the upper side relative to the second connecting part 6 and the third connecting part 7. In this embodiment, the support member 33 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the vertical direction.

[0044] The control unit 4 is supported by the support member 33. In this embodiment, the control unit 4 is supported in a suspended state from the support member 33.

[0045] At least a portion of the control unit 4 is disposed on the inner side surrounded by the support frame 3 when viewed in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the control unit 4 is disposed entirely in the area surrounded by a pair of first pillars 31 and a pair of second pillars 32 when viewed in the vertical direction.

[0046] like Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, each of the first lower column portions 312 of the first pillar 31 includes a first mounting portion 313. Each pair of first mounting portions 313 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the vertical direction. The pair of first mounting portions 313 extend from the upper ends of the pair of first lower column portions 312 in a manner close to each other along the width direction X.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment, each second lower column portion 322 of the second pillar 32 includes a second mounting portion 323. Each pair of second mounting portions 323 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the vertical direction. The pair of second mounting portions 323 extend from the upper ends of the pair of second lower column portions 322 in a manner close to each other along the width direction X.

[0048] like Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the support member 33 is fixed to the pair of first mounting portions 313 and the pair of second mounting portions 323 while being placed on a pair of first mounting portions 313 and a pair of second mounting portions 323.

[0049] like Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the control unit 4 includes a first suspension member 41, a second suspension member 42, a third suspension member 43, a fourth suspension member 44, a first substrate 45, a second substrate 46, and a third substrate 47.

[0050] The first suspension member 41 is supported in a suspended state from the support member 33. The first suspension member 41 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the first suspension member 41 is connected to the support member 33 via a vibration-damping elastic member 34. The elastic member 34 can be, for example, rubber, polyurethane sheet, spring, etc.

[0051] In this embodiment, the first suspension member 41 has a pair of upward folds 41a formed extending upward from both ends in the front-rear direction Y. Additionally, the support member 33 has a pair of downward folds 33a formed extending downward from both ends in the front-rear direction Y.

[0052] In this embodiment, the lower fold 33a of the front Y1 is positioned further forward of the front Y1 than the upper fold 41a of the front Y1. Furthermore, with an elastic member 34 disposed between the lower fold 33a and the upper fold 41a of the front Y1 in the front-rear direction Y, they are connected to each other. Additionally, it is preferable to arrange a plurality of elastic members 34 side-by-side in the width direction X between the lower fold 33a and the upper fold 41a of the front Y1 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0053] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lower fold 33a of the rear Y2 is positioned further rearward than the upper fold 41a of the rear Y2. Moreover, with the elastic member 34 disposed between the lower fold 33a and the upper fold 41a of the rear Y2 in the front-rear direction Y, they are connected to each other. Additionally, it is preferable to arrange a plurality of elastic members 34 side-by-side in the width direction X between the lower fold 33a and the upper fold 41a of the rear Y2 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0054] The second suspension member 42 is supported in a state of being suspended from the first suspension member 41. The second suspension member 42 is formed into a plate shape orthogonal to the width direction X. The second suspension member 42 supports the first substrate 45 from one side in the width direction X. In this embodiment, the second suspension member 42 is fixed from below to the central portion of the first suspension member 41 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0055] The third suspension member 43 is supported in a state of being suspended from the first suspension member 41. The third suspension member 43 is formed into a plate shape orthogonal to the front-rear direction Y. The third suspension member 43 supports the second base plate 46 from the rear side Y2. In this embodiment, the third suspension member 43 is fixed to the first suspension member 41 from the lower side at a position Y1 further forward than the second suspension member 42.

[0056] The fourth suspension member 44 is supported in a state of suspension from the first suspension member 41. The fourth suspension member 44 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the vertical direction. The fourth suspension member 44 supports the third base plate 47 from below. In this embodiment, the fourth suspension member 44 is fixed to the first suspension member 41 from below at a rearward Y2 position compared to the second suspension member 42, and is fixed to the third suspension member 43 from the rear Y2 position compared to the front Y1 position compared to the second suspension member 42.

[0057] Thus, in this embodiment, the control unit 4 is connected to the support frame 3 via the vibration damping elastic member 34.

[0058] like Figure 7 As shown, the energy storage unit 8 is supported on the support frame 3. In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 8 is supported on at least one of a pair of first pillars 31 and a pair of second pillars 32.

[0059] The energy storage unit 8 is configured to be detachable from the support frame 3 from one side in the front-rear direction Y or the side in the width direction X. In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 8 is configured to be detachable from the front side Y1 relative to the support frame 3. Here, regarding the two components, "attachment and removal" includes not only installing or removing one component entirely relative to another component, but also installing or removing another part of one component relative to another component while a part of one component is in contact or connected to another component.

[0060] In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 8 includes an energy storage body 81, a pair of retaining bodies 82, and a door body 83.

[0061] The energy storage unit 81 is a battery that stores electricity. A pair of retaining bodies 82 hold the energy storage unit 81 from both sides in the width direction X. The pair of retaining bodies 82 are fixed to the door body 83 from the front side Y1. That is, the energy storage unit 81 is disposed on the front side Y1 relative to the door body 83 and is fixed to the door body 83 via the pair of retaining bodies 82. The door body 83 is formed in the shape of a plate extending along the width direction X across a pair of second pillars 32. The door body 83 is disposed on the front side Y1 relative to the pair of second pillars 32. In this embodiment, the energy storage unit 8 is disposed entirely outside the area surrounded by the pair of first pillars 31 and the pair of second pillars 32 when viewed in the vertical direction (here, the front side Y1).

[0062] In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 100 includes a fourth connecting part 9. The fourth connecting part 9 is configured to connect the energy storage unit 8 to the support frame 3 in a manner that allows it to swing freely around a predetermined fourth swing axis A4. In this embodiment, the fourth swing axis A4 is arranged parallel to the vertical direction.

[0063] In this embodiment, the fourth connecting part 9 has a pair of hinges 91. The pair of hinges 91 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction.

[0064] In this embodiment, the door 83 is relative to one ( Figure 7 The second lower column 322 of the second pillar 32 (right side) is connected to the second lower column 322 of the second pillar 32 via a pair of hinges 91 in a manner that allows it to swing freely around the fourth swing axis A4.

[0065] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the door body 83 is configured such that, by installing or removing two separate mounting and dismounting bolts 84 arranged side-by-side in the vertical direction, relative to the other ( Figure 7 The second lower column 322 of the second support 32 (left side) can be easily installed and removed.

[0066] The energy storage unit 8 is positioned adjacent to the control unit 4 on one side in the longitudinal direction Y or on one side in the width direction X. The energy storage unit 8 and the control unit 4 are arranged to overlap each other when viewed in the longitudinal direction Y or in the width direction X. Here, regarding the arrangement of the two elements, "overlapping when viewed in a specific direction" means that when an imaginary line parallel to the line of sight is moved in directions orthogonal to the imaginary line, there is at least a region where the imaginary line intersects both elements.

[0067] like Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the energy storage unit 8 is positioned adjacent to the control unit 4 on the front side Y1. Furthermore, the energy storage unit 8 and the control unit 4 are arranged to overlap each other when viewed along the front-rear direction Y.

[0068] Therefore, in this embodiment, the door 83 is connected to another (…) via a pair of mounting and dismounting bolts 84. Figure 7 With the second lower column portion 322 of the second pillar 32 (left side) in the closed state, viewed from the front Y1, a portion of the second base plate 46 of the control unit 4 is obscured by the door body 83. On the other hand, by removing a pair of mounting and dismounting bolts 84, the door body 83 is opened from the other (… Figure 7When the second lower column 322 of the second pillar 32 (left side) is swinging away from the fourth swing axis A4 (open state), the operator approaches the second base plate 46 of the control unit 4 from the front Y1, so that he can check the state of the second base plate 46.

[0069] like Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the transport vehicle 100 also includes a reading device 10. The reading device 10 is configured to detect multiple location information storage units (not shown) disposed on the travel surface of the transport vehicle 100 and read the location information stored in those units. In this embodiment, the reading device 10 is disposed between a pair of first connecting portions 5 in the width direction X. Furthermore, barcodes, wireless tags, etc., can be used as location information storage units. When using barcodes to construct location information storage units, the reading device 10 only needs to be configured as a barcode reader. Similarly, when using wireless tags to construct location information storage units, the reading device 10 only needs to be configured as a tag reader.

[0070] In this embodiment, a pair of drive wheels 21 are positioned separately on both sides of the width direction X, sandwiching a pair of first connecting portions 5. Furthermore, each of the drive wheels 21 is mounted to the second frame portion 12 via a third connecting member 24. The third connecting member 24 includes a third fixing portion 241 fixed to the second frame portion 12 and a third mounting portion 242 on which the drive wheels 21 are mounted.

[0071] The third fixing part 241 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the front-rear direction Y. In this embodiment, the third fixing part 241 is fixed from the rear side Y2 to the second long surface part 124 of the rear side Y2 of the second frame part 12 by bolt fastening.

[0072] The third mounting portion 242 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the width direction X. In this embodiment, one drive wheel 21 is disposed on the side opposite to the other drive wheel 21 in the width direction X relative to the third mounting portion 242 on which the drive wheel 21 is mounted.

[0073] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the drive source D that drives one drive wheel 21 is mounted on the third mounting portion 242 in such a way that it extends from the third mounting portion 242 on which the drive wheel 21 is mounted toward the other drive wheel 21 in the width direction X. Moreover, the pair of drive sources D are each disposed between the first frame portion 11 and the second frame portion 12 in the front-rear direction Y and between the third mounting portion 242 and the first connecting portion 5 in the width direction X.

[0074] In this embodiment, a pair of first driven wheels 22 are positioned separately on both sides of a fifth swing axis A5 along the front-rear direction Y. Furthermore, the pair of first driven wheels 22 are mounted on a first mounting member 25. The first mounting member 25 is mounted to the first frame portion 11 via a first swing mechanism 26. The first swing mechanism 26 is configured to allow the first mounting member 25 to swing freely relative to the first frame portion 11 around the fifth swing axis A5.

[0075] In this embodiment, a pair of second driven wheels 23 are positioned separately on both sides of the width direction X, sandwiching the fifth swing axis A5. Furthermore, the pair of second driven wheels 23 are mounted on the second mounting member 27. The second mounting member 27 is mounted to the second frame portion 12 via the second swing mechanism 28. The second swing mechanism 28 is configured to freely connect the second mounting member 27 relative to the second frame portion 12 around the fifth swing axis A5.

[0076] like Figure 10 As shown, in this embodiment, the first mounting component 25 includes a wheel support portion 251 and a swing connection portion 252.

[0077] The wheel support 251 supports a pair of first driven wheels 22. In this embodiment, the wheel support 251 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the vertical direction. Furthermore, the pair of first driven wheels 22 are positioned lower than the wheel support 251. In this embodiment, each of the pair of first driven wheels 22 is supported so as to rotate freely about an axis along the vertical direction.

[0078] The swing connection portion 252 is connected to the first swing mechanism 26. In this embodiment, the swing connection portion 252 is formed as a plate orthogonal to the front-rear direction Y. Moreover, the swing connection portion 252 is arranged such that the first long surface portion 114 opposite to the rear side Y2 of the first frame portion 11 is positioned from the rear side Y2. In addition, in this embodiment, the swing connection portion 252 is formed to extend downward from the end of the front side Y1 of the wheel support portion 251.

[0079] In this embodiment, the first swing mechanism 26 includes a first swing element 261 and a second swing element 262 that are freely swingable relative to each other around the fifth swing axis A5.

[0080] The first swing element 261 is fixed to the swing connection portion 252 of the first mounting member 25. In this embodiment, the first swing element 261 is disposed on the rear side Y2 relative to the swing connection portion 252.

[0081] The second swing element 262 is fixed to the first long surface portion 114 of the rear side Y2 in the first frame portion 11. In this embodiment, the second swing element 262 is disposed on the rear side Y2 relative to the first long surface portion 114 of the rear side Y2, and disposed on the front side Y1 relative to the swing connecting portion 252. That is, in this embodiment, the second swing element 262 is disposed between the first long surface portion 114 of the rear side Y2 and the swing connecting portion 252 in the front-rear direction Y.

[0082] Furthermore, the second mounting component 27 is constructed in the same manner as the first mounting component 25, and the second swing mechanism 28 is constructed in the same manner as the first swing mechanism 26, therefore their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0083] [Other Implementation Methods] (1) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: when the energy storage unit 8 is freely connected to the support frame 3 via the fourth connecting part 9 about the fourth swing axis A4, the energy storage unit 8 can be installed and removed from the support frame 3 using the mounting bolt 84. However, it is not limited to this configuration. For example, it may be configured such that the fourth connecting part 9 is not provided, and the entire energy storage unit 8 can be installed and removed from the support frame 3 using the mounting bolt 84.

[0084] (2) In the above embodiment, the configuration of the energy storage unit 81 being a battery is described as an example. However, it is not limited to such a configuration; for example, the energy storage unit 81 may also be a capacitor.

[0085] (3) In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the fourth swing axis A4 is parallel to the vertical direction has been described as an example. However, it is not limited to such a configuration. For example, the fourth swing axis A4 may also be parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0086] (4) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the door body 83 is connected to a ( ) via a pair of hinges 91. Figure 7 The second lower column portion 322 of the second pillar 32 (right side) and relative to the other ( Figure 7 The second lower column 322 of the second pillar 32 (left side) swings freely in a manner that approaches and moves away; in other words, it is illustrated by the following configuration as an example: the fourth swing axis A4, which serves as the swing axis of the door body 83, is located in a ( Figure 7 Near the second pillar 32 on the right side of the middle, so that the door 83 can be opened from the other ( Figure 7 The second support 32 on the left side of the middle) opens and closes. However, it is not limited to this configuration; for example, it can also be configured as follows: the fourth swing axis A4 is located on another ( Figure 7Near the second pillar 32 on the left side of the middle, so that the door 83 can be opened from one ( Figure 7 The door 83 can be opened and closed from the right side of the second support 32. Alternatively, it can be configured as follows: the fourth swing axis A4 is located near the supports of one second support 32 and another second support 32, so that the door 83 can be opened and closed from both sides in the width direction X.

[0087] (5) In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the energy storage unit 8 can be attached and detached from the front Y1 relative to the support frame 3 is described as an example. However, it is not limited to such a configuration. The energy storage unit 8 can be attached and detached from the rear Y2 relative to the support frame 3, or it can be attached and detached from one side or the other side in the width direction X.

[0088] (6) In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the energy storage unit 8 is arranged adjacent to the control unit 4 on the front side Y1 is described as an example. However, this configuration is not limited to this one; the energy storage unit 8 may be adjacent to the control unit 4 on the rear side Y2, or on one side or the other side in the width direction X. Furthermore, when the energy storage unit 8 is adjacent to the control unit 4 on the front side Y1 or the rear side Y2, it is suitable that the energy storage unit 8 and the control unit 4 are arranged to overlap each other when viewed in the front-rear direction Y. In addition, when the energy storage unit 8 is adjacent to the control unit 4 on one side or the other side in the width direction X, it is suitable that the energy storage unit 8 and the control unit 4 are arranged to overlap each other when viewed in the width direction X.

[0089] (7) In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the first frame portion 11 is disposed at a rearward position Y2 than the second frame portion 12 is described as an example. However, it is not limited to such a configuration, and the first frame portion 11 may also be disposed at a forward position Y1 than the second frame portion 12.

[0090] (8) In the above embodiment, the configuration of multiple wheels 2 including a pair of drive wheels 21, a pair of first driven wheels 22 and a pair of second driven wheels 23 has been described as an example. However, it is not limited to such a configuration. For example, it may be configured to have one or more drive wheels 21. Alternatively, all wheels 2 may be drive wheels 21.

[0091] (9) In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the first swing axis A1 is arranged on a different axis than the drive axis Ad is described as an example. However, it is not limited to such a configuration, and the first swing axis A1 may also be arranged on the same axis as the drive axis Ad.

[0092] (10) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which a pair of second connecting portions 6 and a pair of third connecting portions 7 are arranged away from each other along the width direction X is described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to this. It can be configured such that at least three or more second connecting portions 6 and third connecting portions 7 are arranged along the width direction X, or it can be configured such that at least one second connecting portion 6 and third connecting portion 7 is arranged along the width direction X.

[0093] (11) Furthermore, the configurations disclosed in the above embodiments can be combined with the configurations disclosed in other embodiments as long as they do not create contradictions. Regarding other configurations, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are merely illustrative in all respects. Therefore, various changes can be made appropriately without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0094] [Summary of this implementation method] The following is a summary of the transport vehicle described above.

[0095] A transport vehicle comprising the following components: Body frame; Multiple wheels, which are supported by the aforementioned vehicle frame; A support frame, connected to the aforementioned vehicle frame, and configured to support the transported object at an upper position than the aforementioned vehicle frame; and The energy storage unit stores the electricity supplied to the vehicle's equipment. The aforementioned wheels include at least one drive wheel driven by a drive source. Let the direction along the drive shaft, which serves as the rotation axis of the aforementioned drive wheel, be defined as the width direction, and let the direction orthogonal to the aforementioned drive shaft when viewed from the vertical direction be defined as the front-back direction. The aforementioned vehicle frame includes a first frame portion and a second frame portion arranged side by side along the aforementioned longitudinal direction. The aforementioned transport vehicle has: The first connecting part connects the aforementioned first frame part and the aforementioned second frame part in a way that allows them to swing freely around a first swing axis along the aforementioned width direction; The second connecting part freely connects the aforementioned first frame part and the aforementioned support frame around a second swing axis along the aforementioned width direction; and The third connecting part connects the aforementioned second frame part and the aforementioned support frame, which can swing freely around a third swing axis along the aforementioned width direction and slide freely along the aforementioned front-back direction. The aforementioned energy storage unit is supported on the aforementioned support frame in a manner that allows it to be detached from one side of the aforementioned front-to-back direction or the aforementioned width direction relative to the aforementioned support frame.

[0096] According to this configuration, the energy storage unit is supported in a manner that allows it to be installed and removed from one side in the longitudinal direction or the width direction relative to a support frame positioned higher than the vehicle frame. Therefore, maintenance operations such as replacing the energy storage unit can be performed more easily. Consequently, a transport vehicle structure that facilitates maintenance is easily achieved. Furthermore, according to this configuration, the first frame portion and the second frame portion are flexibly connected about a first swing axis via a first connecting portion. Moreover, the first frame portion and the support frame are flexibly connected about a second swing axis via a second connecting portion, and the second frame portion and the support frame are flexibly connected about a third swing axis via a third connecting portion. Therefore, even when there are uneven surfaces on the travel surface, the drive wheels can maintain contact with the travel surface, allowing the transport vehicle to travel appropriately.

[0097] Here, it is appropriate to say that The transport vehicle also has a control unit for controlling the aforementioned onboard equipment. The aforementioned energy storage unit is configured to also supply power to the aforementioned control unit. At least a portion of the aforementioned control unit is disposed on the inner side surrounded by the aforementioned support frame when viewed in the aforementioned vertical direction. The aforementioned energy storage unit is positioned adjacent to the aforementioned control unit on one side in the aforementioned front-to-back direction or on one side in the aforementioned width direction.

[0098] Based on this configuration, the control unit and the energy storage unit can be configured using the space on both the inner and outer sides of the support frame, while the support frame also provides proper support for both. Therefore, the maintainability of the energy storage unit can be ensured, and both the energy storage unit and the control unit can be appropriately positioned within the limited space of the transport vehicle.

[0099] Of the above configurations, the most suitable is, The transport vehicle also has a fourth connection, which connects the aforementioned energy storage unit to the aforementioned support frame and allows it to swing freely around a predetermined fourth swing axis.

[0100] Based on this configuration, when performing maintenance tasks such as inspecting the control unit, by swinging the energy storage unit around the fourth swing axis, the control unit, which is located closer to the inside of the support frame than the energy storage unit, can be easily accessed without completely disassembling the energy storage unit from the support frame. Therefore, the maintainability of the control unit is easily improved.

[0101] In addition, it is appropriate that The aforementioned support frame includes: a pair of first pillars that are spaced apart from each other along the aforementioned width direction and extend upward from the aforementioned first frame portion; a pair of second pillars that are spaced apart from each other along the aforementioned width direction and extend upward from the aforementioned second frame portion; and a support member connecting the pair of the aforementioned first pillars and the pair of the aforementioned second pillars. The pair of aforementioned second connecting parts are arranged in such a way that the aforementioned first frame part and the pair of aforementioned first pillars are flexibly connected around the aforementioned second swing axis. The pair of aforementioned third connecting parts are arranged in such a way that the aforementioned second frame part and the pair of aforementioned second pillars can swing freely around the aforementioned third swing axis and slide freely in the aforementioned front-rear direction. The aforementioned control unit is supported by the aforementioned support component. The aforementioned energy storage unit is supported by at least one of the aforementioned first pillar and the aforementioned second pillar.

[0102] According to this configuration, the support member is connected to a pair of first struts and a pair of second struts extending upward from the vehicle frame, thereby increasing the rigidity of the support frame. Furthermore, the control unit is supported on the support member, and the energy storage unit is supported on at least one of the four struts, thus the control unit and the energy storage unit can be properly supported by the support frame.

[0103] Of the above configurations, the most suitable is, The aforementioned control unit is supported in a suspended state from the aforementioned support member. The aforementioned energy storage unit and the aforementioned control unit are configured to overlap each other when viewed in the front-back direction along the aforementioned front-back direction or when viewed in the width direction along the aforementioned width direction.

[0104] Based on this configuration, the control unit can be stably supported in a suspended state by support members connected to a pair of first pillars and a pair of second pillars. Furthermore, the energy storage unit and the control unit are arranged to overlap each other when viewed in the longitudinal or width direction, thus allowing easy access to the control unit, which is located closer to the inside of the support frame than the energy storage unit, by removing the energy storage unit from the support frame. Additionally, compared to a configuration where the energy storage unit and the control unit do not overlap when viewed in the longitudinal or width direction, it is easier to minimize the vertical dimensions of the transport vehicle. [Industry Applicability]

[0105] The technology disclosed herein can be used in a transport vehicle having the following components: a vehicle frame; a plurality of wheels supported on the vehicle frame; a support frame connected to the vehicle frame and configured to support the transported object at an upper position than the vehicle frame; and an energy storage unit that stores the power supplied to the on-board equipment. [Symbol Explanation]

[0106] 100: Conveyor vehicle 1: Vehicle body frame 11: First Frame Section 12: Second Frame Section 2: Wheels 21: Drive wheel 3: Supporting Framework 31: The First Pillar 32: Second Pillar 33: Supporting components 4: Control Unit 5: First connecting part 6: Second connecting part 7: Third connecting part 8: Energy Storage Unit 9: Fourth connecting part E: Vehicle-mounted equipment W: Transported object Ad: Drive shaft A1: First oscillation axis A2: Second oscillation axis A3: Third oscillation axis A4: 4th swing axis X: Width direction Y: Forward and backward direction

Claims

1. A conveyor vehicle comprising the following components: Body frame; Multiple wheels, which are supported on the vehicle frame; A support frame, connected to the vehicle frame, and configured to support the transported object at an upper position than the vehicle frame; and The energy storage unit stores the electricity supplied to the vehicle's equipment. The transport vehicle has the following characteristics: The plurality of wheels includes at least one drive wheel driven by a drive source. The direction along the drive shaft, which serves as the axis of rotation of the drive wheel, is defined as the width direction, and the direction orthogonal to the drive shaft when viewed vertically is defined as the front-back direction. The vehicle frame includes a first frame portion and a second frame portion arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The transport vehicle is equipped with: The first connecting part connects the first frame part and the second frame part in a way that allows them to swing freely about a first swing axis along the width direction; The second connecting part connects the first frame part and the support frame to swing freely about a second swing axis along the width direction; as well as The third connecting part connects the second frame part and the support frame, which can swing freely about a third swing axis along the width direction and slide freely along the front-back direction. The energy storage unit is supported on the support frame in a manner that allows it to be attached and detached from one side of the front-to-back direction or one side of the width direction relative to the support frame.

2. The conveyor vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, It also has a control unit for controlling the on-board equipment. The energy storage unit is configured to also supply power to the control unit. At least a portion of the control unit is disposed on the inner side surrounded by the support frame when viewed in the vertical direction. The energy storage unit is positioned adjacent to the control unit on one side in the front-back direction or on one side in the width direction.

3. The conveyor vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, It also has a fourth connecting part, which connects the energy storage unit to the support frame so as to swing freely around a predetermined fourth swing axis.

4. The conveyor vehicle according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The support frame includes: a pair of first pillars that are spaced apart from each other along the width direction and extend upward from the first frame portion; a pair of second pillars that are spaced apart from each other along the width direction and extend upward from the second frame portion; and a support member connecting the pair of first pillars and the pair of second pillars. The pair of second connecting parts are arranged in such a way that the first frame part and the pair of first pillars are flexibly connected about the second swing axis. The pair of third connecting parts are arranged in such a way that the second frame part and the pair of second pillars can swing freely around the third swing axis and slide freely in the front-rear direction. The control unit is supported by the support component. The energy storage unit is supported on at least one of the pair of the first pillars and the pair of the second pillars.

5. The transport vehicle according to claim 4, wherein, The control unit is supported in a suspended state from the support member. The energy storage unit and the control unit are configured to overlap each other when viewed in the front-back direction or in the width direction.

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