Transport system and transport method for containers

Abstract

The present application relates to a kind of transport system for container, comprising: container mark, container mark includes the loading information of container;Multiple automatic transport car, each automatic transport car includes: chassis, chassis is provided with wheel and roller, wheel is used to drive automatic transport car, roller is protruded from the upper surface of chassis, for carrying and driving container;And inductive device, inductive device is used to induct the container mark of container loaded on chassis;And control device, control device controls the transport order of container based on the loading information of container mark obtained from inductive device.Such, the position of container in aircraft cargo compartment can be determined in advance according to loading scheme and numbered, and be associated to automatic transport car via inductive device synchronously, so as to be able to arrange the container to be loaded in loading order to aircraft to be loaded and unloaded area, make early preparation for active adjustment aircraft center of gravity.In addition, the present application also relates to a kind of transport method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aircraft loading and balancing technique, which is an important component of aircraft weight center of gravity design and control technology in overall design, and specifically, to a transport system for containers. Furthermore, this invention also relates to a transport method. Background Technology

[0002] In current aircraft operations, cargo hold containers (such as containers or pallets) are loaded using manual calculations of loading schemes. The containers are then transported into the cargo hold via conveyor belts and manual labor from the cargo system.

[0003] This transportation method does not fully consider the impact of cargo on the aircraft's center of gravity, and cannot fully utilize the cargo container's ability to actively adjust the aircraft's center of gravity to improve flight performance. The container is manually transported to the aircraft's loading area by car, and after the loading sequence is determined in the loading area, the container is then manually pushed onto the lifting device.

[0004] For example, in existing technologies, cargo systems are used to place containers in the front and rear cargo holds of an aircraft, so that the aircraft's center of gravity is located in the middle of its center of gravity envelope. Since loading, transporting, and unloading containers usually require manual operation, the loading and unloading of containers is time-consuming and inefficient, increasing operating costs.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need to improve existing transport systems for containers in order to provide an improved transport system that can overcome one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a transportation system for containers that can reduce loading time, improve efficiency, and reduce operating costs.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, a transport system for a container is provided, the transport system comprising: a container marker, the container marker including loading information of the container; a plurality of automated guided vehicles (AGVs), each AAV comprising: a chassis, the chassis being provided with wheels and rollers, the wheels for driving the AAV, the rollers protruding from the upper surface of the chassis for carrying and driving the container; a sensing device for sensing the container marker of the container loaded onto the chassis; and a control device for controlling the transport sequence of the container based on the loading information of the container marker obtained from the sensing device.

[0008] In this way, the positions of the containers in the aircraft cargo hold can be determined and numbered in advance according to the loading plan, and synchronously linked to the automated guided vehicles (AGVs) via sensors. This allows the containers to be arranged in the order of loading into the aircraft's loading and unloading area, preparing for proactive adjustments to the aircraft's center of gravity. Loading information may include, for example, weight information, flight information, and cargo hold loading area information. The container's QR code includes information such as container weight, flight information, and cargo hold loading area.

[0009] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the automated guided vehicle may further include a display device disposed at the front of the automated guided vehicle for displaying the loading number of the container.

[0010] The display device can show the loading number of its transport container, thereby enabling quick identification of the container and rapid manual intervention when necessary.

[0011] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the automated transport vehicle may further include a plurality of locking devices, which may include guide rails arranged on the upper surface of the chassis and stop blocks movable along the guide rails.

[0012] With this locking device, the automated guided vehicle can adaptively adjust its position according to the size of the container, lock and secure the container, and prevent the container from tipping over or slipping during transportation.

[0013] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the automated transport vehicle further includes a plurality of drive devices, which may include: a first drive mechanism fixed to the chassis; an intermediate connector engaged with a guide rail and driven by the first drive mechanism to reciprocate relative to the chassis; and a second drive mechanism fixed to the intermediate connector and driving a stop block to reciprocate along the vertical direction.

[0014] In this way, the desired movement path of the stop block can be achieved through this drive device, and it can adapt to different locking widths, thereby firmly holding containers of various sizes to the chassis.

[0015] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the first drive mechanism and the second drive mechanism can be helical drive devices, and linear movement is achieved through the cooperation of a screw and a nut.

[0016] This allows for more precise and reliable adjustment of the stop block's position, while simultaneously achieving a more reliable position holding function.

[0017] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the first drive mechanism may include: a first motor fixed to a chassis; a first drive screw fixed to the output shaft of the first motor; a first outer sleeve fixed to the chassis around the first drive screw; a first middle sleeve received radially inside the first outer sleeve, wherein the first middle sleeve cooperates with the first drive screw to be driven linearly by the first drive screw; a first inner sleeve received radially inside the first middle sleeve and attached to an intermediate connector; and a first nut fixed to the first inner sleeve and cooperating with the first drive screw to be driven linearly by the first drive screw.

[0018] This arrangement allows for sufficient locking stiffness while enabling self-locking through appropriate threaded connections, preventing accidental movement and advantageously converting the rotational motion of the motor into the linear motion of the intermediate connecting parts.

[0019] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the second drive mechanism may include: a second motor fixed to an intermediate connector; a second drive screw fixed to the output shaft of a first motor; a second outer sleeve fixed to the intermediate connector around the second drive screw; and a second inner sleeve received radially inside the second outer sleeve and attached to a stop block.

[0020] In this way, the drive unit can achieve the desired vertical movement of the stop block, allowing sufficient locking stiffness to hold the container more reliably, and similarly, can achieve self-locking through a suitable threaded connection to prevent accidental movement.

[0021] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the transportation system may be provided with a traffic flow starting point and a traffic flow sorting criterion point, and the control device may determine the operation of the automated transport vehicle based on whether the sensed automated transport vehicle is at the traffic flow starting point or the traffic flow sorting criterion point.

[0022] Based on this setting and according to the predetermined sorting logic, the transportation system can achieve autonomous sorting of transport vehicles.

[0023] According to the above aspects of the invention, preferably, the transport system may further include a lifting device located near the cargo door of the aircraft, wherein the container carried by the automated guided vehicle can be moved to the lifting device via rollers.

[0024] This lifting device allows the transport system to load containers directly onto the aircraft, further increasing automation and operational efficiency.

[0025] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the container may include at least one of the following: PAG pallet, PMC pallet, LD-3 container or LD-6 container.

[0026] In this way, the transportation system can be used to transport and load containers and pallets commonly found on aircraft, improving the system's adaptability.

[0027] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method for transporting a container is provided, which may include: providing a transport system according to the first aspect; and automatically transporting the container from a cargo area or a passenger area to an aircraft loading area.

[0028] This transportation method enables automated transport vehicles to travel along planned routes, thereby automating and efficiently transporting containers to the aircraft loading area.

[0029] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the transportation method may include the following control logic: when the current automated transport vehicle senses that the preceding automated transport vehicle has passed the "traffic flow starting point", it starts to drive towards the "traffic flow starting point"; when the preceding automated transport vehicle has not entered the "traffic flow sorting criterion point", the current automated transport vehicle waits at the "traffic flow starting point".

[0030] This setup allows automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to autonomously prioritize themselves based on the loading information of the containers they are carrying, thereby improving transportation and loading efficiency.

[0031] According to the above aspects of the present invention, in order to further control the automatic operation capability of the automated transport vehicle and ensure that the container can be loaded onto the aircraft according to a predetermined plan, the transport method may preferably include the following control logic: when the preceding automated transport vehicle passes through the "traffic flow sorting criteria point", the current automated transport vehicle passes through the "traffic flow starting point" and drives towards the "traffic flow sorting criteria point".

[0032] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the position of the container in the aircraft cargo hold has been predetermined and numbered according to the loading plan, and the number of the automated transport vehicle is determined based on the loading number.

[0033] In this way, the containers can be arranged in the front and rear cargo holds of the aircraft in a predetermined order, so that the center of gravity of the aircraft is located in the ideal position of the center of gravity envelope, thereby improving the flight performance of the aircraft.

[0034] Therefore, the transport system for containers of the present invention can meet the usage requirements, overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, and achieve the intended purpose. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To further illustrate the transportation system for containers according to the present invention, the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an automated transport vehicle loading a container using a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of an automated transport vehicle loading a container using a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of an automated transport vehicle of a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is another schematic perspective view of an automated transport vehicle of a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is another schematic perspective view of an automated transport vehicle of a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, wherein the locking device has been removed; Figure 6 This is another schematic top view of an automated transport vehicle of a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view of the drive unit of an automated transport vehicle in a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the drive unit of an automated transport vehicle in a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the docking of an automated transport vehicle with a lifting device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a transportation method according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] The above figures are for illustrative purposes only and are not drawn to scale.

[0037] The reference numerals in the figures are listed in the figures and embodiments: 100 – Transportation system, including: 10 - Container marking; 20 - Automated transport vehicles, including: 21 - Chassis, including: 21A - Bracket; 210 - Wheel; 220 - Roller; 22 - Sensing Device 23 - Display device; 24 - Locking device, including: 241 - Guide rail; 242 - Stop block; 30 – Drive unit, including: 31 – First drive mechanism, including: 311 – First Motor; 312 – First drive screw; 313 – First outer sleeve; 314 - First intermediate sleeve; 315 - First inner sleeve; 316 - First nut; 32 – Intermediate connector; 33 – Second drive mechanism, including: 331 – Second motor; 332 – Second drive screw; 333 – Second outer sleeve; 334 – Second inner sleeve; 25 - Departure command button; 40 – Control device; 50 - Lifting device; 200 - Container, including: 201 - Container pallet; 202 - Container; F - First direction of travel; A - Second direction of travel. Detailed Implementation

[0038] It should be understood that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the invention may employ various alternative orientations and sequences of steps. It should also be understood that the specific apparatus shown in the drawings and described in the specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept disclosed and defined herein. Therefore, unless expressly stated otherwise, the specific orientations, directions, or other features involved in the various disclosed embodiments should not be considered limiting.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an automated guided vehicle 20 (AGV20) loading a container pallet 201 using a transport system 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of an automated transport vehicle 20 loading a container 202 using a transport system 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] As shown in the figure and as a non-limiting example, the transportation system 100 can be used to transport the container 200, which can be as follows: Figure 1 The container plate 201 shown or Figure 2 The container 202 shown.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, pallet 201 typically includes a plate-shaped load-bearing base and cargo securing nets / covers to form a modular container unit, mainly used for carrying large, heavy, or irregularly shaped cargo. For example, pallet 201 can be a PAG pallet, PMC pallet, or other types commonly used in air freight.

[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, air freight containers typically include enclosed containers and standardized interfaces to form integrated units. They possess dustproof, waterproof, and anti-theft characteristics and are mainly used for loading bulk cargo, small items, or goods requiring special protection (such as cold chain goods and precision instruments). For example, container 202 could be an LD-3 or LD-6 container commonly used in air freight.

[0043] A container marker 10 can be affixed to the container 200. The container marker 10 can include loading information of the container 200. For example, the container marker 10 can be in the form of a container QR code and can include information such as container weight, flight information, and cargo hold loading area. The position of the container 200 in the aircraft cargo hold has been predetermined and numbered according to the loading plan, and can be synchronously linked to the number of the automated transport vehicle 20, which will be further described below, using the container marker 10.

[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of an automated transport vehicle 20 of a transport system 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 4 This is another schematic perspective view of the automated transport vehicle 20 of the transport system 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] As shown in the figure, this automated guided vehicle 20 can be a multi-functional automated guided vehicle, such as an AGV. In the example shown in the figure, the automated guided vehicle 20 may mainly consist of a chassis 21 and a sensing device 22, etc.

[0046] The chassis 21 may have a generally plate-like profile and may be equipped with wheels 210 and rollers 220. The wheels 210 may be connected to a drive unit (not shown) (e.g., including a motor / engine, battery, transmission, etc.) to drive the automated transport vehicle 20. As an example and as shown, four wheels 210 may be provided and arranged symmetrically about the chassis 21. A bracket 21A extending upward from the chassis 21 may be provided at one end of the chassis 21.

[0047] Rollers 220 protrude from the upper surface of the chassis 21 to support and drive the container 200. For example... Figure 3 and 4As shown, the rollers 220 may include multiple rollers and may be arranged in two rows to drive the container 200 carried thereon to move along the travel direction of the automated transport vehicle 20. Similarly, one or more of the multiple rollers 220 may be coupled to a drive device (e.g., including a motor / engine, battery, transmission, etc.) not shown.

[0048] The sensing device 22 can be used to sense the container marking 10 of the container 200 mounted on the chassis 21. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the sensing device 22 can be mounted on the bracket 21A.

[0049] As an example, the sensing device 22 may include a scanner or RFID sensor to read the container tag 10, thereby obtaining information such as the weight, flight information, and cargo hold loading area of ​​the container 200. The sensing device 22 can also sense signals such as "traffic flow starting point" and "traffic flow sorting criteria point," as described in detail below.

[0050] In addition, such as Figure 3 and 4 As shown, the automated guided vehicle 20 also includes a display device 23, which is disposed at the front of the automated guided vehicle 20. For example, the display device 23 may be mounted on a bracket 21A for displaying the loading number of the container 200. The automated guided vehicle 20 can then perform subsequent operations based on the loading number of the container 200.

[0051] Similarly, Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the automated transport vehicle 20 may also include a plurality of locking devices 24, such as four locking devices. One or more of the plurality of locking devices 24 may include guide rails 241 arranged on the upper surface of the chassis 21 and stop blocks 242 movable along the guide rails 241.

[0052] Figure 5 This is another schematic perspective view of an automated guided vehicle 20 of a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, wherein the locking device 24 has been removed; and Figure 6 This is a schematic top view of an automated transport vehicle 20 of a transport system according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. Figures 3 to 6 The different states of the various parts of the locking device 24 are shown in the diagram. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The image shows that stop block 242 is closed, i.e., returned to its initial position; Figure 5 Stop block 242 was removed, and in Figure 6 Stop block 242 opens.

[0053] Preferably, the stop block 242 can be driven to move back and forth or left and right along the guide rail 241, thereby adaptively adjusting its position according to the size of the container 200, locking the container 200 in place, and preventing the container 200 from tipping over or slipping during transportation. For example, when loading or unloading the container 200, the stop block 242 can move to the outermost side of the chassis 21 and displace downwards.

[0054] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the automated transport vehicle 20 also includes multiple drive units 30, preferably four drive units 30. For example, when the container 200 is not placed on the automated transport vehicle 20, the drive units 30 can keep the locking device 24 in a closed state. When the container 200 is loaded into the appropriate position on the automated transport vehicle 20, the drive units 30 can extend and open the locking device 24 according to the size of the container 200 until the container 200 is secured.

[0055] Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view of the drive unit 30 of the automated transport vehicle 20 of the transport system 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the drive unit 30 of the automated transport vehicle 20 of the transport system 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] As shown in the figure, the drive device 30 may mainly include: a first drive mechanism 31, an intermediate connecting member 32, and a second drive mechanism 33. For example, the first drive mechanism 31 and the second drive mechanism 33 may be helical drive devices, and the linear movement of the stop block 242 is achieved through the cooperation of a screw and a nut.

[0057] like Figure 8 As shown and in a preferred embodiment, the first drive mechanism 31 can be fixed to the chassis 21. As an example, the first drive mechanism 31 may include: a first motor 311, a first drive screw 312, a first outer sleeve 313, a first middle sleeve 314, a first inner sleeve 315, and a first nut 316, etc.

[0058] As an example, the housing of the first motor 311 can be fixed to the chassis 21. The motor can be any type of motor, such as a DC motor, and can have a motor output shaft.

[0059] The first drive screw 312 can be fixed to the output shaft of the first motor 311. In this embodiment, the first drive screw 312 can extend approximately perpendicular to the edge of the chassis 21.

[0060] A first outer sleeve 313 can be fixed to the chassis 21 around a first drive screw 312. A first middle sleeve 314 is received radially inside the first outer sleeve 313, wherein the first middle sleeve 314 cooperates with the first drive screw 312 to be driven linearly by the first drive screw 312. A first inner sleeve 315 can be received radially inside the first middle sleeve 314 and attached to an intermediate connector 32. A first nut 316 can be fixed to the first inner sleeve 315 and the first nut 316 cooperates with the first drive screw 312 to be driven linearly by the first drive screw 312.

[0061] Preferably, the first outer sleeve 313, the first middle sleeve 314, and the first inner sleeve 315 can each be a generally cylindrical structure. In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the left sides of the first outer sleeve 313 and the first middle sleeve 314 may be open. The right side of the first middle sleeve 314 may be provided with a bottom, which has a threaded portion to engage with the external thread of the first drive screw 312, so as to convert the rotational motion of the first drive screw 312 into the linear motion of the first middle sleeve 314.

[0062] The inner surfaces of the first outer sleeve 313 and the first middle sleeve 314 may each be provided with a guide structure so that the first middle sleeve 314 moves linearly relative to the first outer sleeve 313 without relative rotation. Similarly, the first inner sleeve 315 moves linearly relative to the first middle sleeve 314 without relative rotation.

[0063] The intermediate connector 32 can be fitted to the guide rail 241 and is driven by the first drive mechanism 31 to reciprocate relative to the chassis 21. For example, as described above, the intermediate connector 32 can be fixed to the first inner sleeve 315 to follow the reciprocating linear movement of the first inner sleeve 315.

[0064] Continue to refer to Figure 8 The second drive mechanism 33 can be fixed to the intermediate connector 32, and the drive stop block 242 reciprocates relative to the intermediate connector 32 in the vertical direction. Preferably, the second drive mechanism 33 may include: a second motor 331, a second drive screw 332, a second outer sleeve 333, and a second inner sleeve 334.

[0065] The second motor 331 can be fixed to the intermediate connector 32. This motor can be any type of motor, such as a DC motor, and can have a motor output shaft.

[0066] The second drive screw 332 can be fixed to the output shaft of the second motor 331. The second outer sleeve 333 can be fixed to the intermediate connector 32 around the second drive screw 332. The second inner sleeve 334 can be received radially inside the second outer sleeve 333 and attached to the stop block 242.

[0067] The arrangement of the second outer sleeve 333 and the second inner sleeve 334 can be similar to that of the first outer sleeve 313 and the first middle sleeve 314, so that the second inner sleeve 334 can move linearly relative to the second outer sleeve 333 without relative rotation.

[0068] In this way, the locking device 24 can return to its initial position when the multiple sleeves of the drive device 30 are retracted by the motor. When the locking device 24 is activated, the motor of the drive device 30 will drive the multiple sleeves to move accordingly.

[0069] As an example, the automated transport vehicle 20 is equipped with guide rails 241 for the movement of intermediate connectors 32, and each stop block 242 is driven by its corresponding motor. In the embodiment shown in the figures, four drive units 30 and corresponding locking devices 24 are provided, and all four motors can be built into the automated transport vehicle 20.

[0070] Once the container is loaded into the appropriate position on the automated guided vehicle (AGV), a loading completion signal is transmitted to the motor start signal receiver in the middle of the AAV. At this time, the four motors will start working, driving the locking device to approach and lock the container. After the container is locked, the motors stop working.

[0071] As a non-limiting embodiment, the first drive screw 312 is connected to the first motor 311 and rotates with the motor in different directions. When viewed along the first inner sleeve 315 towards the first motor 311, the output shaft of the first motor 311 rotates clockwise, and the first drive screw 312 rotates clockwise accordingly. The first middle sleeve 314 contacts the first drive screw 312 and moves axially inward (closer to the first motor 311). The first nut 316 is provided with an internal thread, which contacts the first drive screw 312 and rotates with the first drive screw 312 and moves axially inward. The first inner sleeve 315 moves axially inward. The first inner sleeve 315 is fixed together with the intermediate connecting member 32, driving the intermediate connecting member 32 and the stop block 242 to move axially inward together until the stop block 242 contacts the container 200 loaded on the automated transport vehicle 20.

[0072] Conversely, when the motor rotates counterclockwise, the first drive screw 312 rotates counterclockwise, and the first middle sleeve 314 and the first inner sleeve 315 move outward (away from the first motor 311) axially together with the first nut 316. The first inner sleeve 315 is fixed together with the intermediate connecting piece 32, driving the stop block 242 to move outward together until it reaches the preset position and stops.

[0073] The vertical extension and retraction of the second drive mechanism 33 driving the stop block 242 is similar to that of the horizontal axial extension and retraction mechanism. The second motor 331 is built into the intermediate connector 32, and the second outer sleeve 333 is fixed to the intermediate connector 32. The second drive screw 332 is connected to the second motor 331 and rotates with the second motor 331 in different directions. The second inner sleeve 334 contacts the second drive screw 332 and moves axially with the rotation of the second drive screw 332. Looking from the second inner sleeve 334 toward the second motor 331, when the drive shaft of the second motor 331 rotates clockwise, the second drive screw 312 rotates clockwise, and the second inner sleeve 334 moves axially downward until the stop block 242 is shortened to a preset position. Conversely, when the drive shaft of the second motor 331 rotates counterclockwise, the second drive screw 312 rotates counterclockwise, and the second inner sleeve 334 moves axially upward until the stop block 242 extends to a preset position.

[0074] As a preferred embodiment, the automated transport vehicle 20 may also include a departure command button 25 to manually control the start, stop and / or movement of the automated transport vehicle 20.

[0075] like Figure 1 and 2 As schematically shown, the control device 40 can be connected to the automated transport vehicle 20, for example, it can be carried by the automated transport vehicle 20. The control device 40 can control the transport sequence of the container 200 based on the loading information of the container marker 10 obtained from the sensor 22.

[0076] The control device 40 may be embodied as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chip and / or some other type of highly integrated circuit chip. Alternatively, the control device 40 may take the form of a microprocessor or discrete electrical and electronic components. As will be described more fully below, the control device 40 can control the movement of the automated transport vehicle 20 based on the loading information of the container 200 received from the sensing device 22, specifically controlling the speed and direction of movement of the wheels 210 and rollers 220.

[0077] As an example, the control device 40 may include a departure command control unit, a locking device control unit, a roller motion control unit, a loading number sensing system, etc.

[0078] The control device 40 may include a memory, which may include a non-transitory storage medium that electronically stores information. The memory may include one or more of optically readable storage media, charge-based storage media (e.g., EEPROM, RAM, etc.), solid-state storage media (e.g., flash memory drives, etc.), and / or other electronically readable storage media. The electronic memory may store motion control algorithms, information determined by a processor, loading information received from the sensing device 22, or other information that implements the motion control functions as described herein.

[0079] As an example, the transportation system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided with a traffic flow starting point and a traffic flow sorting criterion point, and the control device 40 may determine the operation of the automated transport vehicle 20 based on whether the sensed automated transport vehicle 20 is at the traffic flow starting point or the traffic flow sorting criterion point.

[0080] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the automated transport vehicle 20 docking with the lifting device 50 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] As an example, the lifting device 50 can be located near the aircraft's cargo door. In this way, the automated guided vehicle 20 can move to a position where it can dock with the lifting device 50, and the container 200 carried by the automated guided vehicle 20 can be moved to the lifting device 50 via rollers 220, such as... Figure 5 As shown.

[0082] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a transportation method according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, which can be a transportation method for a container 200. Specifically, this transportation method is capable of automatically transporting the container 200 from a cargo area or passenger area to an aircraft loading area.

[0083] As shown in the figure and as an example, this transportation method can mainly include the following core control logic: When the current automated transport vehicle 20 senses that the preceding automated transport vehicle 20 has passed the "traffic flow starting point", it starts to drive towards the "traffic flow starting point". If the preceding automated transport vehicle 20 has not entered the "traffic flow sorting criteria point", the current automated transport vehicle 20 waits at the "traffic flow starting point".

[0084] Preferably, the position of the container 200 in the aircraft cargo hold has been predetermined and numbered according to the loading plan, and the number of the automated transport vehicle 20 can be determined based on the loading number, so that the transportation method can determine the travel sequence of each automated transport vehicle 20 loaded by the container 200.

[0085] When the preceding automated transport vehicle 20 passes the "traffic flow sorting point", the current automated transport vehicle 20 passes the "traffic flow starting point" and drives towards the "traffic flow sorting point".

[0086] As a more detailed embodiment and as Figure 10 As shown, the cargo area may include the freight area ( Figure 10 (left side) and passenger area ( Figure 10 (Right side). The freight area may mainly consist of multiple pallets 201, while the passenger area may mainly consist of multiple containers 202.

[0087] After the container 200, such as pallet 201 and container 202, is weighed, a container tag 10, such as a QR code, can be affixed to the container 200. For example, the weight information of the container 200 can be obtained through a weighing device. As described above, the container tag 10 includes information such as the container weight, flight information, and cargo hold loading area.

[0088] The position of container 200 in the aircraft cargo hold has been determined in advance according to the loading plan. As an example, the loading numbers of the forward cargo hold container can be F1, F2, ..., Fx, while the loading numbers of the aft cargo hold container can be A1, A2, ..., Ax.

[0089] After the container 200 is placed on the automated transport vehicle 20, the information of the container marker 10 can be sensed by the sensor 22, for example, simply by scanning a QR code. At this time, the loading number can be displayed on the display device 23 of the automated transport vehicle 20.

[0090] After the automated guided vehicle 20 is loaded with the container 200, the operator can press the departure command button 25, or the automated guided vehicle 20 can start automatically according to a predetermined logic. At this time, the multi-functional automated guided vehicle 20 with loading number F1 or A1 can start moving from the freight area or passenger area to the loading area, and other automated guided vehicles 20 can depart when they sense that the preceding automated guided vehicle 20 has arrived at the "traffic flow starting point".

[0091] like Figure 10 As illustrated, when the sensor 22 on the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F2 senses that the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F1 has entered the "traffic flow starting point", the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F2 can start to depart and head towards the "traffic flow starting point".

[0092] When the sensor 22 on the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A2 senses that the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A1 has entered the "traffic flow starting point", the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A2 can start to depart and head towards the "traffic flow starting point".

[0093] As an example, when the sensor 22 on the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F2 senses that the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F1 has entered the "traffic flow sorting criteria point", the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F2 can pass through the "traffic flow starting point" and head towards the "traffic flow sorting criteria point". Subsequently, when the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F3 senses that the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F2 has passed the "traffic flow starting point", it can start to depart and head towards the "traffic flow starting point".

[0094] However, if the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F1 has not entered the "vehicle flow sorting criterion point", and the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number F2 arrives at the "vehicle flow starting point" first, it will stop at the "vehicle flow starting point" and wait. Subsequent vehicles will enter the vehicle flow and sort themselves according to this rule.

[0095] When the sensor 22 on the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A2 detects that the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A1 has entered the "traffic flow sequencing point", the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A2 can pass through the "traffic flow starting point" and head towards the "traffic flow sequencing point". Subsequently, when the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A3 detects that the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A2 has passed the "traffic flow starting point", it can start to depart and head towards the "traffic flow starting point".

[0096] If the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A1 has not entered the "vehicle flow sorting criterion point", and the automated transport vehicle 20 with loading number A2 arrives at the "vehicle flow starting point" first, it will stop at the "vehicle flow starting point" and wait. Subsequent vehicles will enter the vehicle flow and sort themselves according to this rule.

[0097] In this way, the automated transport vehicle 20 with serial number Fn and the automated transport vehicle 20 with serial number An can enter the traffic flow in the order of first-in, first-out according to the rule of traffic flow, and can respectively travel along the first direction of travel F and the second direction of travel A to the loading area corresponding to the front cargo hold and the rear cargo hold.

[0098] Next, the automated transport vehicle 20 can approach and dock with the lifting device 50, such as... Figure 9 As shown. When unloading the container 200, the adaptive locking device 24 can move to the outermost side of the chassis 21 of the automated transport vehicle 20 and deflect downwards, allowing the rollers 220 to rotate and move the container 200. Once the container 200 has at least partially moved onto the lifting device 50, it can be moved together by the rolling devices on the lifting device 50 until the entire container 200 is fully moved onto the lifting device 50. The container 200 can then be lifted by the lifting device 50 to a conveyor in front of the aircraft cargo door to transfer it into the cargo hold.

[0099] At this point, each of the 20 automated guided vehicles can autonomously sort and complete the loading of the aircraft cargo hold, thereby improving loading efficiency and accuracy.

[0100] It should be understood that the methods shown above are merely illustrative and do not emphasize a strict order of steps. For example, the steps may be adjusted, or some steps may be omitted or added depending on the actual situation, or multiple steps may be performed simultaneously without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0101] As a preferred embodiment, the multi-functional automated transport vehicle 20 according to the present invention can deactivate the automated operation mode when a malfunction occurs, and the container 200 can be transferred and unloaded by manual operation.

[0102] The terms “left side” and “right side” used herein to indicate orientation or direction, and the terms “first” and “second” used to indicate sequence, are merely to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the concept of the invention as illustrated in preferred embodiments, and are not intended to limit the invention. Unless otherwise stated, all sequences, orientations, or directions are used only to distinguish one element / component / structure from another, and do not indicate any particular order, sequence of operations, direction, or orientation unless otherwise stated. For example, in alternative embodiments, “first motor” may be “second motor”, and “right side” may be “left side”, etc.

[0103] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the terms “approximately” and “about” are interpreted as indicating a value or range of values ​​plus or minus five percent, or a deviation of the shape and / or position from the value by plus or minus five percent.

[0104] In summary, the transport system 100 for containers according to embodiments of the present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art and achieves the intended purpose of the invention.

[0105] While the transport system for containers of the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should recognize that the above examples are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention. Therefore, various modifications and variations can be made to the invention within the spirit and scope of the claims, and all such modifications and variations will fall within the scope claimed by the claims.

Claims

1. A transport system (100) for a container, the transport system (100) comprising: Container marking (10), the container marking includes loading information of the container (200), the loading information including: container weight, flight information, cargo hold loading area; Multiple automated transport vehicles (20), each automated transport vehicle comprising: A chassis (21) provided with wheels (210) and rollers (220), the wheels for driving the automated transport vehicle (20), and the rollers (220) protruding from the upper surface of the chassis (21) for carrying and driving the container (200); and Sensing device (22), the sensing device being used to sense the container marking (10) of the container (200) mounted on the chassis (21); and A control device (40) controls the transport sequence of the container (200) based on loading information of the container marker (10) obtained from the sensing device (22). The transportation system (100) is provided with a traffic flow starting point and a traffic flow sorting criterion point. The control device (40) determines the operation of the automatic transport vehicle (20) based on whether the sensed automatic transport vehicle (20) is at the traffic flow starting point or the traffic flow sorting criterion point.

2. The transportation system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automated transport vehicle (20) also includes a display device (23), which is located at the front of the automated transport vehicle (20) and is used to display the loading number of the container (200).

3. The transportation system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automated transport vehicle (20) also includes a plurality of locking devices (24), each including a guide rail (241) arranged on the upper surface of the chassis (21) and a stop block (242) capable of moving along the guide rail (241).

4. The transportation system (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The automated transport vehicle (20) also includes multiple drive units (30), the drive units comprising: First drive mechanism (31), the first drive mechanism is fixed to the chassis (21). An intermediate connector (32) is fitted to the guide rail (241) and is driven by the first drive mechanism (31) to reciprocate relative to the chassis (21); and The second drive mechanism (33) is fixed to the intermediate connector (32) and drives the stop block (242) to reciprocate in the vertical direction.

5. The transportation system (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first drive mechanism (31) and the second drive mechanism (33) are helical drive devices, and linear movement is achieved through the cooperation of screw and nut.

6. The transportation system (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first drive mechanism (31) includes: First motor (311), the first motor is fixed to the chassis (21). The first drive screw (312) is fixed to the output shaft of the first motor (311); The first outer sleeve (313) is fixed to the chassis (21) around the first drive screw (312); A first middle sleeve (314) is received radially inside the first outer sleeve (313), wherein the first middle sleeve (314) cooperates with the first drive screw (312) to be driven linearly by the first drive screw (312); A first inner sleeve (315) is received radially inside the first middle sleeve (314) and attached to the intermediate connector (32); and A first nut (316) is fixed to the first inner sleeve (315) and engages with the first drive screw (312) to be driven linearly by the first drive screw (312).

7. The transportation system (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second drive mechanism (33) includes: The second motor (331) is fixed to the intermediate connector (32); The second drive screw (332) is fixed to the output shaft of the second motor (331); The second outer sleeve (333) is fixed to the intermediate connector (32) around the second drive screw (332); and The second inner sleeve (334) is received radially inside the second outer sleeve (333) and attached to the stop block (242).

8. The transportation system (100) according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, It also includes a lifting device (50) located near the cargo door of the aircraft, wherein the container (200) carried by the automated transport vehicle (20) can be moved to the lifting device (50) via the rollers (220).

9. A method for transporting a container, the method comprising: Provide a transportation system (100) according to any one of claims 1-8; as well as The container (200) is automatically transported from the cargo area or passenger area to the aircraft loading area.

10. The transportation method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The transportation method includes the following control logic: When the current automated transport vehicle (20) senses that the preceding automated transport vehicle (20) has passed the "traffic flow starting point", it starts to drive towards the "traffic flow starting point". When the preceding automated transport vehicle (20) has not entered the "traffic flow sorting criteria point", the current automated transport vehicle (20) waits at the "traffic flow starting point".

11. The transportation method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The transportation method also includes the following control logic: When the preceding automated transport vehicle (20) passes the "traffic flow sorting criteria point", the current automated transport vehicle (20) passes the "traffic flow starting point" and drives towards the "traffic flow sorting criteria point".

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