Internal electric power steering device of forklift

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of manual forklifts, and discloses a forklift internal electric power steering device which comprises an electric power unit, forks are symmetrically mounted on the outer surface of the electric power unit, supporting wheels are mounted at the bottoms of the sides, away from the electric power unit, of the forks, and a bearing frame is mounted on the side, away from the forks, of the electric power unit; a handle is mounted at the top of the bearing frame, a driving part is mounted at the bottom of the handle, an aligning and centering assembly is arranged in the pallet fork, the aligning and centering assembly comprises rotating grooves which are linearly distributed at equal intervals and symmetrically formed in the pallet fork, and the rotating grooves abut against the ground through auxiliary wheels at different positions; the auxiliary wheel and the driving wheel jointly form two key point positions for bearing the gravity of the goods, the two key point positions can be automatically adjusted till the goods are located at the relatively-centered position, then it is guaranteed that the goods are kept balanced on the pallet fork, and therefore the problem that in the prior art, the goods are difficult to be accurately positioned in the middle of the pallet fork is effectively solved through the structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of manual forklift technology, specifically to an internal electric power steering device for forklifts. Background Technology

[0002] The forklift's internal electric power steering system incorporates an advanced electric power steering system, which can provide users with precise forward and backward assistance, effectively reducing the difficulty of operation and making driving easier.

[0003] However, existing electric forklifts still have some problems: First, during loading, it is difficult to accurately position the goods in the center of the forks. Although the pallet size is relatively fixed, the fork length is usually greater than the pallet. This requires operators to rely on rich experience and skilled operation to ensure that the goods are aligned. Once the operation is slightly off, it is very easy to cause misalignment between the goods and the pallet. This misalignment problem has many problems. On the one hand, it will cause the forks to bear uneven loads, resulting in increased local wear of the forks, greatly shortening the service life of the forks and increasing equipment maintenance costs. On the other hand, when running fully loaded, the shift of the center of gravity of the goods will disrupt the overall balance of the vehicle, making the electric power assist system unable to play its due role. This is because electric power assist provides precise assistance based on the balance and stability of the vehicle. The shift of the center of gravity will interfere with the normal judgment and output of the power assist system, thereby reducing the effect of electric power assist. This makes it more difficult for operators to perform operations such as steering, acceleration, and deceleration, seriously affecting work efficiency.

[0004] Secondly, when the forks are picking up goods, it is difficult to accurately align them with the centering position on both sides of the bottom of the cargo pallet. Due to the large space under the cargo pallet and the lack of an effective positioning and guiding device, it is quite difficult to accurately align the forks with the centering position of the bottom of the cargo pallet in actual operation. This is especially true when the goods are piled high, the center of gravity of the vehicle is further raised, and the stability is reduced. Once there is a deviation between the centering position of the forks and the bottom of the cargo pallet, even a slight bump or turning operation during the journey may cause the center of gravity of the vehicle to shift, which may lead to the cargo overturning. This will not only cause damage to the goods, but may also pose a serious safety threat to the surrounding personnel and equipment, and may even cause a safety accident, resulting in huge economic losses and adverse effects on the enterprise.

[0005] Secondly, in the actual use of existing electric-assisted forklifts, the difficulty for operators to turn the handlebars under full load is a prominent problem. The electric power assist system of electric-assisted forklifts mainly focuses on assisting in the forward and backward directions, and has obvious shortcomings in steering assistance. When the forklift is fully loaded, the negative impact of this problem is significantly amplified.

[0006] From a mechanical perspective, when a forklift is fully loaded, the weight of the cargo is entirely applied to the forklift, significantly increasing its overall weight. As one of the main support points, the drive wheels need to overcome enormous friction and torque generated by gravity when turning. At this time, without effective steering assistance, the operator must rely on their own strength to turn the handle and overcome these strong resistances.

[0007] This problem first and foremost has a significant impact on the workload of operators. Performing steering operations under full load for extended periods requires operators to expend a great deal of physical strength, which can easily lead to fatigue. This fatigue not only reduces work efficiency but also makes it difficult for operators to concentrate, increasing the risk of operational errors.

[0008] From the equipment's perspective, because operators need to apply considerable force when turning the handle, this will generate additional stress on various components of the steering system. Long-term exposure to this excessive stress will accelerate the wear rate of components such as the steering shaft, steering knuckle, and steering tie rod, greatly shortening the service life of these components. Frequent replacement of these components not only increases maintenance costs but also leads to extended forklift downtime, affecting normal production operations.

[0009] Therefore, this invention proposes an internal electric power steering device for forklifts. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide an internal electric power steering device for forklifts to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an internal electric power steering device for forklifts, comprising an electric power steering unit, forks symmetrically mounted on the outer surface of the electric power steering unit, support wheels mounted on the bottom of the forks on the side away from the electric power steering unit, a carrier frame mounted on the side of the electric power steering unit away from the forks, a handle mounted on the top of the carrier frame, a drive component mounted on the bottom of the handle, an alignment and centering assembly disposed inside the forks, the alignment and centering assembly comprising rotating grooves arranged linearly and equidistantly and symmetrically inside the forks, an L-shaped bracket disposed in the middle of every two rotating grooves, a rotating shaft fixedly connected to both sides of the L-shaped bracket, the rotating shafts being rotatably connected to the inside of the rotating grooves, a slot being opened at the bottom of each L-shaped bracket, a carrier block being installed inside each slot, and an auxiliary wheel being mounted on the bottom of each carrier block.

[0012] Preferably, a torsion spring is fixedly connected between each L-shaped bracket and the rotating groove, and each fork is linearly and equidistantly arranged at its top and fixedly connected with an abutment shaft. The abutment shaft is used to prevent the L-shaped bracket from reversing. A ring compartment is opened on the side of the rotating groove away from the L-shaped bracket. The ring compartments are all semi-circular. A magnetic block is installed inside the ring compartment. A magnetic block is installed on the outer surface of each rotating shaft. The opposing surfaces of the magnetic block and the magnetic block have opposite magnetic properties.

[0013] Preferably, the outer surface of each support wheel is rotatably connected to a pin, and the side of each pin away from the support wheel is rotatably connected to the bottom of the fork. A mating gear is fixedly connected at the connection between the pin and the fork. The outer surface of each fork is symmetrically provided with a sliding groove, and a rack is slidably connected inside each sliding groove. The rack meshes with the mating gear. A compartment is provided on the top side inside each L-shaped bracket, and a torsion spring is installed between the compartment and the load block. The load block is slidably connected inside the slot.

[0014] Preferably, the sidewalls of the L-shaped bracket are symmetrically provided with passages, the outer surface of the carrier block is fixedly connected with a mating plate, the mating plate is slidably connected inside the passage, and the outer surface of the rack is provided with protrusions arranged linearly and equidistantly. The protrusions are used to abut against the mating plate, thereby causing the mating plate to drive the carrier block to move.

[0015] Preferably, the protrusion is configured as a right-angled sector shape, and the outer surface of the mating plate is rounded.

[0016] Preferably, each of the forks has a centering groove on the side near the handle, and each centering groove has a fan plate inside. Each of the rotating grooves has a fixing strip installed at the top of its inner cavity, and each fixing strip has a rotatably connected transverse gear at its bottom. Each transverse gear and the fixing strip are fixedly connected with a torsion spring.

[0017] Preferably, each of the fan plates has a rack fixedly connected to its outer surface, the racks meshing with a transverse gear, the fan plates slidably connected to the outer surface of the fixing strip, and the fan plates located outside the centering groove gradually expand outward on the side closest to the support wheel.

[0018] Preferably, a hydraulic component is installed at the handle and the support frame, the output end of the hydraulic component is connected to the top of the electric assist unit, and the drive component is connected to the electric assist unit via an external wiring connection.

[0019] Preferably, a magnetic assist component is provided below the support frame. The magnetic assist component includes a square sleeve fixedly connected to the outer surface of the drive component. The square sleeve is square. Magnetic blocks three are symmetrically installed at the diagonal points of the square sleeve. Magnetic plates are symmetrically installed at the bottom of the support frame. The magnetic plates and magnetic blocks three on each side have opposite magnetic properties.

[0020] Preferably, the magnetic plate is disposed on both sides of the square sleeve, the side of the magnetic plate closer to the square sleeve is set to be arc-shaped, and the shape of the bottom of the magnetic plate is adapted to the shape of the top of the driving component.

[0021] Preferably, the driving component includes a driving wheel and a straight rod, the straight rod being mounted to the handle, and the driving wheel being mounted at the bottom of the straight rod.

[0022] Preferably, the electric power assist unit and hydraulic components can be electrically controlled to start and stop by an external controller.

[0023] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: 1. When the forks are inserted into the cargo, the cargo comes into contact with the L-shaped bracket and moves relative to it. This process will cause the L-shaped bracket to move downwards and touch the ground. Since it is difficult for the cargo to be precisely centered on the forks in actual operation, some L-shaped brackets will reset under the action of torsion spring after losing the resistance of the cargo. Through the contact of the auxiliary wheels with the ground at different positions, they together with the drive wheel form two key points to bear the weight of the cargo. These two key points can be automatically adjusted until the cargo is in a relatively centered position, thereby ensuring that the cargo is balanced on the forks.

[0024] Furthermore, the aforementioned structure effectively solves the problem of accurately positioning goods in the middle of the forks in existing technologies, avoiding problems such as increased local wear on the forks and failure of the electric power assist system caused by the shift of the center of gravity of the goods. This greatly extends the service life of the forks, reduces equipment maintenance costs, and also ensures that the electric power assist system can function normally, improving the operational stability and work efficiency of the forklift when fully loaded.

[0025] Among them, the automatic adjustment support wheels ensure stability: When the goods do not press against the corresponding L-shaped support, the corresponding auxiliary wheel will not touch the ground. This design effectively prevents the center of gravity from becoming unstable due to improper involvement of other auxiliary wheels. During the operation of the forklift, only those auxiliary wheels that need to support the goods to maintain balance will play a role, avoiding interference caused by too many support points, ensuring that the forklift can maintain good stability under various working conditions, and reducing the risk of safety accidents such as goods tipping over due to an unstable center of gravity.

[0026] Among them, the magnetic stabilization design reduces movement resistance: With the installation of magnetic blocks one and two, the magnetic force between the two blocks stabilizes the auxiliary wheel when it is not in contact with the ground. This design effectively prevents the auxiliary wheel from shaking when it is not in operation, avoids the movement resistance caused by shaking, ensures the smoothness of the forklift during operation, and also reduces the wear of the auxiliary wheel itself, extending its service life.

[0027] Among them, the transmission structure enables precise centering of the forks: Through the transmission of the forks, rack and pinion, and transverse gear, this transmission structure increases resistance when the forks and the pallet are not symmetrically positioned. The operator can clearly feel this resistance and make fine adjustments. This design allows the forks to be precisely positioned at the center of both sides of the bottom of the cargo, effectively preventing cargo tipping accidents caused by misalignment between the forks and the bottom of the pallet, and greatly improving the safety of forklift operations.

[0028] Among them, the local adjustment reduces friction: Placing the fork plate on the side closest to the handle not only enables centering but also reduces friction during adjustment because the fork plate contacts the pallet halfway through the loading process. This significantly reduces the force required for adjustment compared to placing it on the other side, allowing operators to more easily center the forks with the pallet, improving work efficiency and reducing energy consumption.

[0029] Among them, the optimized exterior design improves centering effect: The design of the fan plate gradually expanding outwards from the side near the support wheel can more effectively guide the forks to accurately align with the center of the pallet when the forks are close to the pallet, further improving the accuracy and reliability of the centering operation and reducing the risk of cargo shifting and tipping due to inaccurate centering.

[0030] Among them, the linkage design ensures the stability of forklift lifting: With the transmission of the gear and rack, when the support wheel is in the rising stage, the rack abuts against the mating plate, causing the auxiliary wheel to descend synchronously and touch the ground. This linkage design can maintain the stability of the forklift during the lifting and lowering of goods, avoiding forklift swaying or imbalance caused by changes in the support point, and ensuring the safety of goods during the lifting and lowering process.

[0031] Multiple support systems ensure the stability of cargo transport: Because the L-shaped support is held in place by the cargo, part of the support force of the auxiliary wheels also comes from the cargo itself. This unique support method makes the cargo more stable on the forks. During forklift operation, such as driving, turning, accelerating, and decelerating, it can effectively resist various external forces, reduce the risk of cargo falling or tipping over, and ensure the safety and efficiency of forklift operation.

[0032] 2. When the operator turns the handle, the drive unit moves synchronously. During this process, the magnetic block three on the square sleeve fixed to the outer surface of the drive unit will move closer to the nearest magnetic plate as the drive unit rotates. Since the magnetic plates and magnetic block three have opposite magnetic properties, they will generate a magnetic attraction when they come close. This attraction can provide assistance for steering. Compared with traditional electric power-assisted forklifts, where the operator has to rely on their own strength to turn the handle when fully loaded, this magnetic assistance design greatly reduces the burden on the operator, making steering easier and smoother, significantly improving work efficiency, effectively avoiding operational errors caused by steering difficulty, and allowing the forklift to steer flexibly even when fully loaded.

[0033] Among these features, optimized design ensures flexible steering: Magnetic block three is located at the diagonal point of the square sleeve. Since the forklift usually rotates less than 90 degrees during turning, this means that when the forklift turns to one side, the distance between magnetic block three on the other side and the corresponding magnetic plate changes little and will not interfere with the current turning operation. For example, when the forklift turns to the left, magnetic block three on the right side will not move closer to its corresponding magnetic plate due to the turning, thus not affecting the normal operation of the left magnetic assist. This ensures the flexibility and stability of the turning and avoids problems such as loss of steering control caused by mutual interference of magnetic forces on both sides.

[0034] The curved design helps prevent accidental operation. The inner side of the magnetic plate is arc-shaped. During the movement of the magnetic block three driven by the square sleeve, the magnetic block three gradually approaches the magnetic plate. When the handle is slightly turned, the distance between the magnetic block three and the magnetic plate is relatively large, and the magnetic force it experiences is small. This feature effectively avoids the situation where the forklift suddenly turns due to slight misoperation by the operator. For example, when the operator accidentally shakes the handle slightly, the sudden action of the magnetic force will not cause the forklift to turn unnecessarily, ensuring the safety and accuracy of forklift operation and allowing the operator to control the steering action of the forklift more precisely.

[0035] Among them, the self-cleaning function extends the equipment's lifespan: The bottom shape of the magnetic plate is adapted to the shape of the drive wheel. In the complex working environment of a factory, the magnetic plate can attract debris adhering to the drive wheel using its own magnetism. During operation, the drive wheel easily accumulates debris such as iron filings. This debris not only affects the normal operation of the drive wheel but may also accelerate its wear. This self-cleaning function of the magnetic plate can promptly remove debris from the drive wheel, reducing wear, extending its service life, lowering equipment maintenance costs, and ensuring the stable operation of the forklift drive system, avoiding problems such as abnormal steering caused by debris. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a frontal perspective three-dimensional schematic diagram of the main structure of the present invention; Figure 2 For the present invention Figure 1 Enlarged 3D schematic diagram of the structure at point A in the middle; Figure 3 This is a bottom-view schematic diagram of the main structure of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the forks of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional disassembly diagram of the L-shaped bracket of the present invention; Figure 6 For the present invention Figure 5 Enlarged 3D schematic diagram of the structure at point B; Figure 7 For the present invention Figure 5 Enlarged 3D schematic diagram of the structure at point C; Figure 8 This is a planar schematic diagram demonstrating the force exerted on the forklift during use according to the present invention; Figure 9 This is a partial three-dimensional schematic diagram of the magnetic assist component of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the magnetic assist component of the present invention.

[0037] In the picture: 11. Electric power assist unit; 12. Forks; 13. Handles; 14. Carrier frame; 15. Drive unit.

[0038] 2. Alignment and centering assembly; 21. Rotary groove; 22. L-shaped bracket; 23. Torsion spring one; 24. Compartment; 25. Carrier block; 26. Auxiliary wheel; 27. Torsion spring two; 28. Abutment shaft; 29. ​​Ring compartment; 210. Magnetic block one; 211. Magnetic block two; 212. Fixing strip; 213. Horizontal gear; 214. Torsion spring three; 215. Rack one; 216. Sector plate; 217. Mating gear; 218. Rack two; 219. Mating plate.

[0039] 3. Magnetic assist component; 31. Square sleeve; 32. Magnetic block three; 33. Magnetic plate. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0041] It should be noted that the electric assist unit 11 only provides forward and backward assist for the equipment, while the hydraulic components only provide lifting and lowering functions for the equipment. The working principle and specific structure of the above structures are existing technologies. Therefore, given the universality of the above structures, their specific principles will not be described in detail below.

[0042] Example 1, please refer to as follows Figures 1 to 7 As shown, an internal electric power steering device for a forklift includes an electric power steering unit 11. Forks 12 are symmetrically mounted on the outer surface of the electric power steering unit 11. Support wheels are mounted on the bottom of the side of the forks 12 away from the electric power steering unit 11. A carrier frame 14 is mounted on the side of the electric power steering unit 11 away from the forks 12. A handle 13 is mounted on the top of the carrier frame 14. A drive component 15 is mounted on the bottom of the handle 13. An alignment and centering component 2 is provided inside the forks 12. The alignment and centering component 2 includes rotating grooves 21 arranged linearly and symmetrically inside the forks 12. An L-shaped bracket 22 is provided in the middle of every two rotating grooves 21. Rotating shafts are fixedly connected to both sides of the L-shaped brackets 22. The rotating shafts are rotatably connected to the inside of the rotating grooves 21. A slot is opened at the bottom of each L-shaped bracket 22. A carrier block 25 is installed in the slot. An auxiliary wheel 26 is installed at the bottom of each carrier block 25.

[0043] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 As shown, a torsion spring 23 is fixedly connected between each L-shaped bracket 22 and the rotating groove 21. The top of each fork 12 is linearly and equidistantly arranged and fixedly connected with an abutment shaft 28. The abutment shaft 28 is used to prevent the L-shaped bracket 22 from reversing. A ring compartment 29 is opened on the side of the rotating groove 21 away from the L-shaped bracket 22. The ring compartments 29 are all semi-circular. A magnetic block 210 is installed inside the ring compartment 29. A magnetic block 211 is installed on the outer surface of each rotating shaft. The magnetic surfaces of the magnetic blocks 210 and 211 have opposite magnetic properties.

[0044] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the outer surface of the support wheel is rotatably connected to a pin, and the side of the pin away from the support wheel is rotatably connected to the bottom of the fork 12. The connection between the pin and the fork 12 is fixedly connected to a mating gear 217. The outer surface of the fork 12 is symmetrically provided with a sliding groove, and a rack 218 is slidably connected inside the sliding groove. The rack 218 meshes with the mating gear 217. The top side of the L-shaped bracket 22 is provided with a compartment 24. A torsion spring 27 is installed between the compartment 24 and the carrier block 25. The carrier block 25 is slidably connected inside the slot.

[0045] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the side walls of the L-shaped bracket 22 are symmetrically provided with passages, and the outer surface of the carrier block 25 is fixedly connected with a mating plate 219. The mating plate 219 is slidably connected inside the passage. The outer surface of the rack 218 is provided with protrusions arranged linearly and equidistantly. The protrusions are used to abut against the mating plate 219, so that the mating plate 219 drives the carrier block 25 to move.

[0046] It should be noted that the protrusion is set as a right-angled fan shape, and the outer surface of the mating plate 219 is rounded.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown, the forks 12 are all provided with centering grooves on the side near the handle 13. Each centering groove is provided with a fan plate 216. The top of the inner cavity of the rotating groove 21 is provided with a fixing strip 212. The bottom of the fixing strip 212 is rotatably connected with a transverse gear 213. A torsion spring 214 is fixedly connected between the transverse gear 213 and the fixing strip 212.

[0048] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, each fan plate 216 has a rack 215 fixedly connected to its outer surface. The rack 215 meshes with the transverse gear 213. The fan plates 216 are slidably connected to the outer surface of the fixing strip 212. The fan plates 216 located outside the centering groove gradually expand outward on the side closest to the support wheel.

[0049] Hydraulic components are installed at the handle 13 and the support frame 14. The output end of the hydraulic components is connected to the top of the electric assist unit 11. The drive component 15 is connected to the electric assist unit 11 through an external line.

[0050] like Figure 1 , Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, a magnetic assist component 3 is provided below the support frame 14. The magnetic assist component 3 includes a square sleeve 31 fixedly connected to the outer surface of the drive component 15. The square sleeve 31 is square. Magnetic blocks 32 are symmetrically installed at the diagonal points of the square sleeve 31. Magnetic plates 33 are symmetrically installed at the bottom of the support frame 14. The magnetic plates 33 and magnetic blocks 32 on each side have opposite magnetic properties.

[0051] The magnetic plate 33 is disposed on both sides of the square sleeve 31. The side of the magnetic plate 33 closest to the square sleeve 31 is set as arc-shaped. The shape of the bottom of the magnetic plate 33 is adapted to the shape of the top of the drive component 15.

[0052] The drive unit 15 includes a drive wheel and a straight rod, the straight rod and the handle 13 are mounted to each other, and the drive wheel is mounted on the bottom of the straight rod.

[0053] The electric power assist unit 11 and the hydraulic components can be electrically controlled to start and stop by an external controller.

[0054] Specifically, when the operator operates the forklift to pick up goods, he will first align the forks 12 roughly with the pallet under the goods based on experience and on-site observation. This initial positioning does not need to be very precise. Then, the operator pushes the forklift forward. As the forks 12 gradually approach the goods, the goods will come into contact with the L-shaped bracket 22 and generate a resistance force.

[0055] Since the contact shaft 28 restricts the rotation direction of the L-shaped bracket 22, the L-shaped bracket 22 can only rotate downwards. During this rotation, the torsion spring 23 is gradually tightened and stores elastic potential energy. At the same time, the magnetic blocks 210 and 211, which were originally attracted to each other, are removed from the magnetic attraction range as the L-shaped bracket 22 rotates.

[0056] The rotation of the L-shaped bracket 22 further drives the rotation of the carrier block 25 and the auxiliary wheel 26, allowing the auxiliary wheel 26 to smoothly contact the ground. During this process, the auxiliary wheel 26 can share part of the weight of the goods, reducing the pressure on the forks 12 and the drive wheels. However, in actual operation, the position of the goods on the forks 12 is often difficult to be precisely centered. When the goods are no longer in contact with the L-shaped bracket 22 near the support wheel, the torsion spring 23 begins to contract based on its previously stored elastic potential energy, causing the L-shaped bracket 22 and the auxiliary wheel 26 to return to their original positions. At this time, the magnetic blocks 210 and 211 attract each other again. The magnetic force between them can effectively prevent the auxiliary wheel 26 from wobbling randomly in the non-working state, avoiding unnecessary movement resistance during forklift movement and ensuring the stability and smoothness of forklift operation.

[0057] As the goods move continuously on the forks 12, the fan plate 216 in the center slot on the side of the forks 12 near the handle 13 will come into contact with the pallet. If the forks 12 are not located in the middle of the pallet on both sides at this time, the fan plate 216 will retract into the forks 12 under the transmission action of the rack 215 and the transverse gear 213. However, even so, part of the fan plate 216 will still come into contact with the pallet, thus generating friction.

[0058] This friction is an important basis for operators to judge whether the position of the forks 12 is accurate. At the same time, the torsion spring 214 will also be elastically tightened due to the movement of the vane 216, storing energy. Based on the feedback of this friction, the operator can make fine adjustments to the position of the forklift. By continuously adjusting, until there is no more friction between the vane 216 and the pallet, the forks 12 are precisely located in the middle of both sides of the pallet. This effectively avoids the shift of the center of gravity of the goods caused by the deviation of the position of the forks 12 and the pallet, greatly reducing the risk of the goods tipping over during the handling process and improving the safety of the handling operation.

[0059] After the forklift and centering operations are completed, the goods transfer phase begins.

[0060] The operator first activates the hydraulic components installed on the handle 13 and the support frame 14. At this time, the hydraulic components will push the electric power assist unit 11 and the fork 12 to rise. Since the support wheel is located at the rear end of the forklift and is rotatably connected to the fork 12, when the fork 12 rises, the support wheel will passively rotate toward the side closer to the auxiliary wheel 26. During this rotation, the support wheel will lift the pin.

[0061] The rotation of the pin shaft will drive the mating gear 217, which is fixedly connected to it, to rotate. The mating gear 217 meshes with the rack 218 in the groove on the outer surface of the fork 12. The rotation of the mating gear 217 will cause the rack 218 to slide towards the side closer to the support wheel. The outer surface of the rack 218 has right-angled fan-shaped protrusions arranged linearly and equidistantly. During the sliding of the rack 218, these protrusions will abut against the mating plate 219 connected to the auxiliary wheel 26 that is in contact with the ground. Since the outer surface of the mating plate 219 is rounded, it can ensure smooth contact with the protrusions and reduce wear. Under the abutment of the protrusions, the mating plate 219 is passively lowered, which will pull the load block 25 and the auxiliary wheel 26 to lower synchronously. The advantage of this design is that the auxiliary wheel 26 can lower synchronously during the upward movement of the fork 12, which further enhances the stability of the forklift when handling goods and ensures that the goods will not sway or tilt due to changes in the center of gravity during the handling process.

[0062] Subsequently, the operator activates the electric power assist unit 11, at which point the forklift receives electric power assistance, making it easier to move goods. During the journey, the forklift relies on the drive wheels and the auxiliary wheels 26 that are in contact with the ground to support the goods. When the forklift reaches the target area, the operator controls the electric power assist unit 11 and the hydraulic components to lower the forks 12, placing the goods in the designated position and completing the entire handling operation.

[0063] It should be noted that during the entire operation, multiple auxiliary wheels 26 will be continuously triggered and reset according to the position of the cargo until the auxiliary wheel 26 closest to the cargo touches the ground. The auxiliary wheel 26 touching the ground and the drive wheel constitute two key points supporting the cargo. These two key points can automatically adjust to the bottom of the cargo's center of gravity to bear the weight of the cargo.

[0064] Secondly, in actual material handling scenarios, the shape, size, and placement of goods vary greatly. If fixed-position auxiliary wheels 26 are used, it is difficult to adapt to various different goods positions. When the position of the goods changes, the fixed auxiliary wheels 26 cannot adjust automatically, making it difficult to ensure that the center of gravity of the goods is always on the center line of the two support points. This can easily cause the forklift to tip over or become unbalanced during handling due to an unstable center of gravity, seriously affecting the safety and efficiency of handling operations. However, by using retractable and collapsible auxiliary wheels 26, the forklift can automatically adjust according to the real-time position of the goods.

[0065] When the position of the goods changes, the corresponding auxiliary wheel 26 will be triggered or reset, always finding the most suitable position to support the goods, ensuring that the forklift can stably transport goods in various complex situations. Secondly, the collapsible and retractable auxiliary wheel 26 can also improve the versatility of the forklift. Whether transporting small or large goods, whether regular or irregular shaped goods, stable support can be achieved through the automatic adjustment of the auxiliary wheel 26. This greatly reduces the need to change forklifts or adjust forklift structures due to different types of goods, improving the efficiency and economy of forklift use.

[0066] Example 2, based on Example 1, please refer to the following... Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a magnetic assist component 3 is provided below the support frame 14. The magnetic assist component 3 includes a square sleeve 31 fixedly connected to the outer surface of the drive component 15. The square sleeve 31 is square. Magnetic blocks 32 are symmetrically installed at the diagonal points of the square sleeve 31. Magnetic plates 33 are symmetrically installed at the bottom of the support frame 14. The magnetic plates 33 and magnetic blocks 32 on each side have opposite magnetic properties.

[0067] It should be noted that the magnetic plate 33 is disposed on both sides of the square sleeve 31. The side of the magnetic plate 33 closest to the square sleeve 31 is set as arc-shaped. The shape of the bottom of the magnetic plate 33 is adapted to the shape of the top of the drive component 15. The drive component 15 includes a drive wheel and a straight rod. The straight rod and the handle 13 are installed together. The drive wheel is installed at the bottom of the straight rod. The square sleeve 31 is disposed on the outer surface of the straight rod and located above the drive wheel.

[0068] Specifically, when the operator needs to steer the forklift, the operator turns the handle 13, and the rotation of the handle 13 will cause the drive component 15 to move synchronously. The square sleeve 31 fixedly connected to the outer surface of the drive component 15 and the magnetic block 32 installed at its diagonal point will also rotate with the rotation of the drive component 15.

[0069] During this rotation, the magnetic block 32 gradually approaches the magnetic plate 33 symmetrically installed at the bottom of the support frame 14. Since the magnetic plates 33 and the magnetic block 32 have opposite magnetic properties, according to the principle of magnetism, opposite magnetic poles attract each other. This attraction will provide assistance for the steering operation. As the distance between the magnetic block 32 and the magnetic plate 33 continues to decrease, the magnetic force gradually increases, and the steering assistance effect becomes more and more obvious. For example, when the forklift is fully loaded and needs to turn, it will be very difficult for the operator to turn the handle 13 by his own strength. At this time, the magnetic assistance generated by the magnetic assist component 3 can greatly reduce the burden on the operator, making the steering operation easier and smoother, and effectively improving the work efficiency.

[0070] It should be noted that in actual forklift operation, the steering angle is usually less than 90 degrees. Each magnetic block 32 is located at the diagonal of the square sleeve 31. Therefore, when the forklift turns to one side, assuming it turns to the left, the distance between the magnetic block 32 on the right and the corresponding magnetic plate 33 changes very little. This is because to make the magnetic block 32 on the right and the magnetic plate 33 produce a significant change in magnetic force, thereby affecting the rotation, the steering angle needs to be greater than or equal to 90 degrees. However, such a large angle of steering rarely occurs during normal operation. Therefore, within the normal steering angle range, the magnetic block 32 and magnetic plate 33 on the other side will not interfere with the current steering operation, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the steering.

[0071] In addition, the side of the magnetic plate 33 closest to the square sleeve 31 is set to be arc-shaped. In the initial state, the distance between the magnetic block 32 and the magnetic plate 33 is relatively large. Due to the arc-shaped structure of the magnetic plate 33, the magnetic lines of force between the two are sparse and the magnetic force is weak. Only when the magnetic block 32 rotates with the square sleeve 31 and gradually approaches the magnetic plate 33 will the magnetic lines of force gradually become dense and the magnetic force slowly increase. This characteristic effectively prevents abnormal turning caused by operator error.

[0072] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0073] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An internal electric power steering device for a forklift, comprising an electric power steering unit (11), wherein forks (12) are symmetrically mounted on the outer surface of the electric power steering unit (11), and support wheels are mounted on the bottom of the side of the forks (12) away from the electric power steering unit (11), and a support frame (14) is mounted on the side of the electric power steering unit (11) away from the forks (12), a handle (13) is mounted on the top of the support frame (14), and a drive member (15) is mounted on the bottom of the handle (13), characterized in that: The fork (12) is provided with an alignment and centering component (2). The alignment and centering component (2) includes rotating slots (21) arranged linearly and symmetrically inside the fork (12). An L-shaped bracket (22) is provided in the middle of every two rotating slots (21). A rotating shaft is fixedly connected to both sides of the L-shaped bracket (22). The rotating shaft is rotatably connected to the inside of the rotating slot (21). A slot is provided at the bottom of the L-shaped bracket (22). A carrier block (25) is installed inside the slot. An auxiliary wheel (26) is installed at the bottom of the carrier block (25).

2. The forklift internal electric power steering device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A torsion spring (23) is fixedly connected between each L-shaped bracket (22) and the rotating groove (21). Each fork (12) is linearly and equidistantly arranged at the top and fixedly connected with an abutment shaft (28). The abutment shaft (28) is used to prevent the L-shaped bracket (22) from reversing. A ring compartment (29) is opened on the side of the rotating groove (21) away from the L-shaped bracket (22). The ring compartments (29) are all semi-circular. A magnetic block (210) is installed inside the ring compartment (29). A magnetic block (211) is installed on the outer surface of each rotating shaft. The magnetic blocks (210) and (211) have opposite magnetic properties on their opposite sides.

3. The forklift internal electric power steering device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The outer surface of each support wheel is rotatably connected with a pin. The side of the pin away from the support wheel is rotatably connected to the bottom of the fork (12). The connection between the pin and the fork (12) is fixedly connected with a mating gear (217). The outer surface of each fork (12) is symmetrically provided with a sliding groove. The sliding groove is slidably connected with a rack (218). The rack (218) meshes with the mating gear (217). The top side of each L-shaped bracket (22) is provided with a compartment (24). A torsion spring (27) is installed between the compartment (24) and the carrier block (25). The carrier block (25) is slidably connected to the inside of the slot.

4. The forklift internal electric power steering device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The L-shaped bracket (22) has symmetrical passages on its sidewalls. The outer surface of the carrier block (25) is fixedly connected to a mating plate (219). The mating plate (219) is slidably connected inside the passage. The outer surface of the rack (218) has protrusions arranged linearly and equidistantly. The protrusions are used to abut against the mating plate (219), thereby causing the mating plate (219) to move the carrier block (25).

5. The forklift internal electric power steering device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The protrusion is configured as a right-angled fan shape, and the outer surface of the mating plate (219) is rounded.

6. The forklift internal electric power steering device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each fork (12) has a centering groove on the side near the handle (13), and each centering groove has a fan plate (216) inside. Each rotating groove (21) has a fixing strip (212) installed at the top of its inner cavity. Each fixing strip (212) has a transverse gear (213) rotatably connected to its bottom. Each transverse gear (213) and the fixing strip (212) are fixedly connected with a torsion spring (214).

7. The forklift internal electric power steering device according to claim 6, characterized in that: Each of the fan plates (216) has a rack (215) fixedly connected to its outer surface. The rack (215) meshes with the transverse gear (213). The fan plates (216) are slidably connected to the outer surface of the fixing strip (212). The fan plates (216) located outside the centering groove gradually expand outward on the side closest to the support wheel.

8. The forklift internal electric power steering device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Hydraulic components are installed at the handle (13) and the support frame (14). The output end of the hydraulic components is connected to the top of the electric assist unit (11). The drive component (15) is connected to the electric assist unit (11) via an external line.

9. A forklift internal electric power steering device according to claims 1-8, characterized in that: A magnetic assist component (3) is provided below the support frame (14). The magnetic assist component (3) includes a square sleeve (31) fixedly connected to the outer surface of the drive component (15). The square sleeve (31) is set as a square. Magnetic blocks three (32) are symmetrically installed at the diagonal points of the square sleeve (31). Magnetic plates (33) are symmetrically installed at the bottom of the support frame (14). The magnetic plates (33) and magnetic blocks three (32) on each side have opposite magnetic properties.

10. The forklift internal electric power steering device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The magnetic plate (33) is disposed on both sides of the square sleeve (31). The side of the magnetic plate (33) closer to the square sleeve (31) is set as arc-shaped. The shape of the bottom of the magnetic plate (33) is adapted to the shape of the top of the drive member (15).

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