Method of latching hitch to draw bar

Abstract

A hitch is provided that is configured to be selectively latched to a draw bar. The hitch includes a housing, a frame defining a receiving cavity, a movable arm, an actuator configured to move the arm between an unlocked position and a latched position, and a contact sensor mounted within the housing on a slotted mounting plate. The arm is configured to engage the draw bar when in the latched position. The slotted mounting plate is configured to adjust the position of the contact sensor based on the geometry of the draw bar. The actuator is activated by a contact sensor that senses the presence of the drawbar in the receiving cavity.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on December 23, 2020, with application number 202011535814.7 and title "Hook-on Component for Material Handling Vehicle".

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application is based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 952,868, filed December 23, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0004] Traditional hitch systems typically require manual operation to engage the hitch or attach it to the tow bar of a load-bearing truck or trailer. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a hook-and-loop assembly configured to selectively latch to a drawbar. The hook-and-loop assembly includes a housing defining an intermediate cavity, a frame defining a receiving cavity, a first aperture, a second aperture, a movable arm retained within the first aperture, and an actuator. The actuator is configured to move the arm between an unlocked position and a latched position, wherein in the unlocked position, the movable arm is retained only within the first aperture, and in the latched position, the movable arm is retained within both the first and second apertures. The actuator is activated by a sensor configured to sense the presence of a drawbar within the receiving cavity, and the position of the sensor is adjustable to accommodate various drawbar geometries.

[0006] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a hook-up device including a housing, a frame defining a receiving cavity, a movable arm, an actuator configured to move the arm between an unlocked position and a latched position, and a contact sensor mounted within the housing on a slotted mounting plate. The arm is configured to engage a pull rod when in the latched position. The slotted mounting plate is configured to adjust the position of the contact sensor based on the geometry of the pull rod. The actuator is activated by the contact sensor sensing the presence of the pull rod in the receiving cavity.

[0007] The foregoing and other aspects and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent in the description below. In this specification, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this specification, in which preferred configurations of this disclosure are shown by way of illustration. These configurations do not necessarily embody the entire scope of this disclosure, but rather refer to the claims, which are therefore used to interpret the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0008] This disclosure will be better understood when taken into consideration the following detailed description thereof, and features, aspects, and advantages other than those set forth above will also become apparent. This detailed description is illustrated in the following figures.

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system for detecting and engaging connectors according to various aspects of this disclosure and confirming the engagement of the connectors; Figure 2 It is an isometric view of the connectors according to various aspects of this disclosure; Figure 3 It has a sensing mechanism Figure 2 Exploded isometric view of the hook-and-loop connector; Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Side isometric view of the mounting brackets and sensing mechanism in the unengaged state; Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Side-view isometric view of the connector and sensing mechanism in the engaged state; Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A side-view perspective of the mounting hardware and sensing mechanism in their unengaged state; Figure 7 yes Figure 2 The rear isometric view of the hook in the unlocked position; Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A partial bottom isometric view of the hook-and-loop connector in the latch position; Figure 9 It has an inlet plate Figure 2 Exploded isometric view of the hook-and-loop connector; Figure 10 It has a traction rod Figure 9 A top-down 3D view of the mounting hardware; Figure 11 This shows the method for adjustment. Figure 3 A flowchart of the steps in the method for using a sensing mechanism; Figure 12 This is to show the methods used for detection and verification. Figure 2 A flowchart of the steps for engaging the hook-and-go connector with the tow bar; Figure 13 According to another aspect of this disclosure, it has an inlet plate. Figure 2 Top view of the mounting hardware; Figure 14 It is based on another aspect of this disclosure and has an inlet plate. Figure 2 Top view of the mounting hardware; Figure 15 According to another aspect of this disclosure, there is an inlet plate. Figure 2Top view of the mounting hardware; Figure 16 According to another aspect of this disclosure, it has an inlet plate. Figure 2 Side view of the mounting bracket at an isometric distance; Figure 17 It is based on another aspect of this disclosure and has an inlet plate. Figure 2 Side view of the mounting bracket at an isometric distance; Figure 18 According to one aspect of this disclosure, a contact plate integrally formed with the introduction plate is provided. Figure 2 Top view of the mounting hardware; Figure 19 This is a top plan view of a connector according to another aspect of this disclosure; Figure 20 This is a top plan view of a connector according to another aspect of this disclosure; Figure 21 This is a top plan view of a connector according to another aspect of this disclosure; Figure 22 This is a top plan view of a connector according to another aspect of this disclosure; Figure 23 This is a top plan view of a connector according to another aspect of this disclosure; Figure 24 This is an isometric view of the hook according to another aspect of this disclosure; Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A top view of the connector; Figure 26 It is a section taken from line 26-26. Figure 25 Cross-sectional view of the connector; Figure 27 yes Figure 24 A side isometric view of the hook assembly, in which the components are hidden and the hook plate is transparent; Figure 28 yes Figure 24 A side view of the hook-up assembly, wherein the hook-up assembly partially receives the towing ring; and Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A side isometric view of the hook-up assembly, in which the hook-up assembly is fully latched onto the traction ring. Detailed Implementation

[0010] Before detailing any aspect of this disclosure, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. This disclosure can be presented in other configurations and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. The terms “comprising,” “including,” or “having,” and variations thereof, as used herein, mean to cover the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as any additional items. Unless explicitly stated or otherwise defined, the terms “mounting,” “connection,” “support,” and “linkage,” and variations thereof, are used broadly and cover direct and indirect mounting, connection, support, and linking. Furthermore, “connection” and “linkage” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or links.

[0011] The following discussion is provided to enable those skilled in the art to make and use aspects of this disclosure. Various modifications to the described constructions will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles herein can be applied to other constructions and applications without departing from aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, aspects of this disclosure are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but are to conform to the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description should be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same elements in different pictures have the same reference numerals. The drawings, not necessarily drawn to scale, illustrate selected constructions and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the non-limiting examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0012] It should be recognized that vehicles such as trucks are typically haul trucks or trailers used for many applications to transport loads. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this disclosure can be provided in various types of material handling vehicle configurations, including, for example, reach vehicles, SWING REACH® forklifts, pallet trucks, order pickers, narrow-aisle forklifts, and any other material handling vehicles.

[0013] Traditional hitch systems may require manual operation to engage the hitch or attach it to the load's drawbar. In some cases, traditional hitch systems may require a truck operator or user to visually inspect the hitch for the presence of a drawbar. After manual inspection of the drawbar, the hitch can engage manually or automatically using a spring mechanism. Therefore, traditional hitch systems are compatible with limited drawbar geometries. Furthermore, traditional hitch systems still require manual operation.

[0014] In many applications, automated hook-up systems are useful for simplifying and shortening the engagement process. Some conventional hook-up systems use proximity sensors to detect the presence of a tow bar with a specific geometry designed to fit the hook-up. However, these conventional systems still require manual operation to activate the hook-up and engage the tow bar. Furthermore, the geometry of the sensors and / or hook-up limits tow bar compatibility. Therefore, there is a need for automated hook-up systems that can detect the presence of a tow bar and are compatible with a wide variety of tow bar shapes and sizes.

[0015] refer to Figure 1 This disclosure generally provides an automated hook-up device according to method 50 that can automatically engage the hook-up device. In some aspects, method 50 may include detecting the presence of a drawbar in the receiving cavity of the hook-up device at step 52. Furthermore, method 50 may include automatically engaging the hook-up device at step 54. For example, method 50 may include actuating a movable arm to secure the drawbar of the delivery truck to the hook-up device, which will be described in more detail below. In this way, for example, the process of securing the drawbar to the hook-up device can be shortened and simplified. Once secured, method 50 may also include confirming engagement with an additional sensor at step 56. More specifically, if the sensor detects that the movable arm is not latched or the drawbar is not engaged, method 50 may include providing instructions to the truck operator or supervisor and / or preventing the truck from moving forward.

[0016] Figure 2 A non-limiting example of a hook 100 according to this disclosure is shown. The hook 100 may include a body 102, which includes a housing 104 and a frame 106. The frame 106 includes a first surface 108, a second surface 110, and a third surface 112, the second surface 110 being spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the first surface 108, and the third surface 112 extending between and substantially perpendicular to the first and second surfaces 108, thereby defining a receiving cavity 114. The first surface 108 and the second surface 110 define a first aperture 116 and a second aperture 118, respectively. In the illustrated example, the hook 100 is a pin and clevis-style hook. More specifically, the pin 120 may be removably held within the first aperture 116 and the second aperture 118. Furthermore, pin 120 can be configured to move between a latched position and an unlocked position via a linear actuator 122 disposed in an intermediate cavity 124 of housing 104 (see, for example, see...). Figure 7 The second aperture 118 is therefore configured to receive the pin 120 when in the latched position. Although Figure 2A pin and U-shaped clip hook using a linear actuator are illustrated, but this disclosure may also be particularly useful for other hook types. Specifically, this disclosure may use hooks including movable arms configured to be moved by a linear actuator, servo motor, or the like to engage a pull rod. According to a non-limiting example, the movable arm may be a hook portion rotatably received by a hole defined by the body of the hook portion. Alternatively, hooks according to this disclosure may include rings or rods configured to receive, engage, or engage movable pins, latches, or hook portions.

[0017] Go to Figure 3 Referring to the non-limiting example shown, the third surface 112 includes a plurality of receiving apertures 126. In this aspect, the third surface 112 is substantially rectangular in shape and includes four receiving apertures 126 positioned near each of its corners; however, alternative configurations may include more or fewer receiving apertures 126 in various arrangements. A flange bushing 128 is disposed in each of the receiving apertures 126 and configured to receive and retain components of a sensing mechanism 130, providing the sensing mechanism 130 with the ability to sense the presence of a pull rod. For example, the sensing mechanism 130 may include a compression spring 132, a nut post 134, a through bolt 136, a locking nut 138, and a contact plate 140, and may be configured to trigger a contact sensor 144. The contact plate 140 may include a plurality of retaining apertures 146 positioned corresponding to each of the receiving apertures 126 of the third surface 112. Similarly, the sensing mechanism 130 may use an equal number of compression springs 132, nut posts 134, through bolts 136 and locking nuts 138 to correspond to each receiving hole 126 and fixing hole 146.

[0018] Go to Figure 4 Each of the through bolts 136 can be received by one of the retaining holes 146 of the contact plate 140. Each of the compression springs 132 can be arranged on one of the nut posts 134 held by one of the through bolts 136. The through bolts 136 are further held by receiving holes 126 of the third surface 112 and secured by locking nuts 138 (see, for example, see...). Figure 6 The flange bushing 128 can be sized to have a diameter smaller than that of the compression spring 132 but larger than that of the nut post 134. Therefore, the nut post 134 can be slidably held within the receiving aperture 126 and the flange bushing 128, while one end of the compression spring 132 can abut against the flange bushing 128. Thus, when (or once) the nut post 134 slides through the receiving aperture 126, the compression spring 132 is compressed and extended.

[0019] Still referencing Figure 4Because the compression spring 132 is positioned between the contact plate 140 and the third surface 112, the contact plate 140 is biased away from the third surface 112. However, turning to Figure 5 The contact plate 140 can be forced toward the third surface 112 by the force indicated by arrow 148. More specifically, when force 148 is applied (e.g., by a pull rod), the nut post 134 can slide through the flange bushing 128, and the compression spring 132 can be compressed, thereby allowing the contact plate 140 to move toward the third surface 112. When (or once) the nut post 134 and the through bolt 136 slide through the third surface 112, they may trigger the contact sensor 144, which can activate the linear actuator 122. Although the hook 100 according to this aspect uses the compression spring 132 to position the contact plate 140 relative to the third surface 112, any type of spring / damper system, such as a hydraulic pressurization system, an air pressurization system, an alternative spring type, or an elastic material, such as rubber, can be used.

[0020] Go to Figure 6 The contact sensor 144 can be held within the intermediate cavity 124 of the housing 104 via the slotted mounting plate 150. The slotted mounting plate 150 is provided to allow adjustment of the hook-and-loop assembly 100 to accommodate various tow bar sizes and shapes. That is, the contact sensor 144 can be secured with fasteners at any point along the length of the slot 152 to be compatible with various tow bar sizes. For example, smaller tow bars would require the contact sensor 144 to be positioned closer to the third surface 112 than larger tow bars.

[0021] As mentioned above, refer to Figure 7 The movement of pin 120 is controlled by linear actuator 122. Although a linear actuator is used in this example, alternative, non-limiting examples may use other types of actuators, such as motors and pulleys, springs, or the like. Flag plate 154 may be positioned adjacent to linear actuator 122 such that it moves together with linear actuator 122. Furthermore, a pin rise sensor 156 may be provided within the intermediate cavity 124 of housing 104 to sense when pin 120 is in the unlocked position. More specifically, when the pin is fully raised, flag plate 154 may trigger pin rise sensor 156, indicating that pin 120 is in the unlocked position. Similarly, see reference... Figure 8 The pin-down sensor 158 may be positioned adjacent to the second aperture 118 to sense when the pin 120 is in the latched position. More specifically, when the pin is inserted into and passes through the second aperture 118, it may obstruct the pin-down sensor 158, which indicates the latched position. Each of the aforementioned sensors may be a proximity sensor, a laser scanner, a pressure sensor, a mechanical switch, or another type of sensor.

[0022] Go to Figure 9 The hook-and-mount 100 may also include optional guide plates 160 to guide and center the pull rod. In the non-limiting example shown, two guide plates 160 are positioned on opposite sides of the body 102 and positioned such that they are symmetrical about the pin 120. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that any number of guide plates can be used. Each of the guide plates 160 includes an attachment surface 162 having a plurality of holes 164, which is secured to the body 102 using screws 166, but other methods can be used, such as adhesives, nuts and bolts, clamps, or they may be integrally formed with the body 102. Furthermore, any number of holes 164 and accompanying screws 166 can be used, for example, two, three, four, six, etc. Figure 10 As best viewed, the guide surface 168 can extend from the attachment surface 162 at an angle α. In some cases, the angle α can be between 30 degrees and 60 degrees. Furthermore, the angle α can be between 40 degrees and 50 degrees.

[0023] Typically, the sensing mechanism 130 is configured to detect the presence of a tow bar. The tow bar can be the tow bar of a trailer, delivery truck, or the like. Figure 10 A drawbar or drawbar attachment 172 is shown, having a central opening 174 positioned within a receiving cavity 114. If applicable, an introduction plate 160 will urge and guide the drawbar 172 toward center alignment within the receiving cavity 114. When (or once) the drawbar 172 is positioned within the receiving cavity 114, it can contact and forcefully press the sensing mechanism 130. More specifically, the drawbar 172 can contact a contact plate 140, applying a force 148 to the contact plate 140, which may cause the nut post 134 and the through bolt 136 to slide through the receiving aperture 126 of the third surface 112, thereby triggering a contact sensor 144. Once the contact sensor 144 senses the presence of the drawbar 172, it can activate a linear actuator 122, which can move a pin from an unlocked position to a latched position. The pin 120 can remain latched until manually deactivated. In other words, to move pin 120 from the latched position, a button, switch, lever, or similar device can be manually triggered to initiate the movement of the pin from the latched position to the unlocked position. Alternatively or additionally, an automated system can be used, configured to release pin 120 at a specific time or at a designated location.

[0024] Figure 11A method 200 for mounting / adjusting a sensing mechanism according to various aspects of this disclosure to a hook 100 is shown. As described above, the hook can be mounted and adjusted to accommodate a pull rod having a specific shape and size. For example, at step 202, a pin can be moved to an unlocked position, and at step 204, the pull rod can be manually positioned in a receiving cavity such that the pull rod is aligned with and engaged by the pin. While in this position, at step 206, a contact sensor can be manually adjusted such that it (the contact sensor) is triggered by the sensing mechanism when the pull rod is positioned in the receiving cavity. More specifically, refer to... Figure 6 As described above, the contact sensor 144 can be adjusted and secured along the length of the slot 152 with fasteners to be compatible with various pull rod sizes.

[0025] Go to Figure 12 The hitch system according to this disclosure may also provide a check system 210 to ensure that the hitch engages the load. For example, if the pin raise sensor is activated (212), the load is not secured, and an indication (214) can be given to the truck operator or supervisor. However, if the pin raise sensor is not activated (216), and if both the pin lower sensor and the contact sensor are activated (218, 220), the drawbar engages (222), and the hitch can move the load. However, if the contact sensor is not activated (224), but the lower sensor is activated (226), the truck knows that the drawbar is not engaged (228). This situation can be indicated to the truck operator or supervisor, for example, by an audible and / or visual alarm. Similarly, if the contact sensor is activated (218), but the lower sensor is not activated (230), the pin is not fully engaged with the drawbar (232). This situation can also be indicated to the truck operator or supervisor.

[0026] Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 Hook-mounts 100 with alternative inlet plates 360, 460, and 560 are shown respectively. (Reference) Figure 13 Each guide plate 360 ​​may include an attachment surface 362 fixed to the body 102 and a guide surface 368 extending from the attachment surface 362 at an angle β. The angle β can be rotated to meet design requirements or customer preferences. For example, refer to... Figure 13 The angle β can be less than 45 degrees. Furthermore, the angle β can be between 20 and 40 degrees. (Reference) Figure 14 Each introduction plate 460 may include an attachment surface 462 fixed to the body and a guide surface 468 extending from the attachment surface 462 at an angle γ. The angle γ may be between 40 degrees and 50 degrees. A support rib 496 may be disposed between the attachment surface 462 and the guide surface 468. Similarly, now referring to... Figure 15The guide plate 560 may include an attachment surface 562 fixed to the body 102 and a guide surface 568 extending from the attachment surface 562 at an angle δ. The angle δ may be greater than 45 degrees. For example, the angle δ may be between 50 and 70 degrees. A support rib 596 may be provided between the attachment surface 562 and the guide surface 568.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally, any of the aforementioned guide plates may include a groove to slidably retain a portion of the contact plate. For example, see reference... Figure 16 The hook-on 100 may include an inlet plate 660 having a groove 676 configured to slidably hold and guide an extension 678 of the contact plate 640. Similarly, see reference... Figure 17 The hook-on 100 may include an inlet plate 760 having a groove 776 configured to slidably hold and guide fasteners 780 attached to the contact plate 740. More specifically, the contact plate 740 may include an extension 778 extending substantially vertically therefrom. Fasteners 780 may be secured to the extension 778, so that they extend through the groove 776 and slide along the groove as the contact plate 740 moves.

[0028] Go to Figure 18 The 100-pin connector may not be available. Figure 9 The guide plate is not a clearly defined guide plate like the guide plate 160 shown in the diagram. Alternatively, the hook 100 may include a guide plate 860 integrally formed with the contact plate 840. The guide plate 860 and the contact plate 840 are similar to... Figure 9 The guide plate 160 and contact plate 140 are included. However, the guide plate 860 includes an attachment surface 862 integrally formed with the contact plate 140. A guide surface 868 is integrally formed with the attachment surface 862 and extends therefrom at an angle ε. Similar to the angles β, γ, and δ above, the angle ε can be increased or decreased to meet design requirements or customer preferences.

[0029] Figure 19Another non-limiting example of a hook 900 according to this disclosure is shown. Hook 900 may be similar in design and function to hook 100, wherein similar elements are identified using similar reference numerals unless as described herein or apparent from the accompanying drawings. Hook 900 may include a contact plate 940 having an angular surface 982a and a flat surface 982b, the angular surfaces 982a being symmetrical about pin 120. The angular surfaces 982a of the contact plate 940 may be at different angles to meet specific design requirements or customer preferences. Furthermore, unlike contact plate 140, contact plate 940 may include two extensions 984 slidably held by two receiving holes 926 in a third surface 112 and configured to guide the contact plate 940 toward the third surface 112 during compression of a centrally positioned spring 986 disposed thereon. These extensions 984 are symmetrical about the centrally positioned spring 986 and can be integrally formed with the contact plate 940 or attached to the contact plate 940 by known methods such as adhesives, fasteners, press fits, etc. Alternatively, the contact plate 940 may include more or fewer extensions 984. For example, refer to Figure 20 The contact plate 940 may include only one extension 984.

[0030] Still referencing Figure 19 and Figure 20 The centrally positioned spring 986 may be a compression spring, positioned at its first end 988 as a cylindrical extension 990 surrounding the contact plate 940. The second end 992 of the centrally positioned spring 986 may abut or be fixed to the third surface 112 by means of an adhesive, fastener, or the like. The cylindrical extension 990 may be integrally formed with the contact plate 940 or connected to the contact plate 940 using known methods such as adhesives, fasteners, press fits, or the like.

[0031] Therefore, similar to Figures 1 to 10 The hook 100 and hook 900 are configured such that the contact plate 940 is biased away from the third surface 112 and can be forcibly pressed against the third surface 112. By pressing the contact plate 940 against the third surface 112, a centrally positioned spring 986 is compressed, and at least one extension 984 slides through at least one retaining hole 946 in the third surface 112 until it triggers the contact sensor 144 (e.g., see...). Figure 5 ).

[0032] Figure 21Another non-limiting example of a hook 1000 according to this disclosure is shown. Hook 1000 may be similar in design and function to hook 100, wherein similar elements are identified using similar reference numerals unless as described herein or obvious from the drawings. Hook 1000 may include a contact plate 1040 having a contact surface 1042 and two extensions 1084 extending through receiving apertures 1026 in a third surface 112. A centrally positioned spring 1086 may be disposed between the two extensions 1084 and the third surface 112 such that if the contact plate 1040 is pressed into the third surface 112, the spring 1086 will compress. The width w of the contact surface 1042 may be less than the width W of the frame 106. For example, in the non-limiting example shown, the width w is less than 50% of the width W of the frame. The two extensions 1084 extend from edges 1094 of the contact surface 1042 such that they are symmetrical about the centrally positioned spring 1086.

[0033] Still referencing Figure 21 The mounting bracket 1000 may include two guide plates 1060 connected to the frame 106, such that they are symmetrical about the pin 120. Each guide plate 1060 includes an attachment surface 1062 that can be attached to the frame 106 with screws and a guide surface 1068 integrally formed with the attachment surface 1062 at an angle ζ. Although this non-limiting example shows an angle ζ greater than or equal to 45 degrees, similar to the foregoing non-limiting example, the angle ζ can be rotated to meet certain design requirements or customer preferences.

[0034] Figure 22 Another non-limiting example of a hook 1100 according to this disclosure is shown. Hook 1100 may be similar in design and function to hook 100, wherein similar elements are identified using similar reference numerals unless as stated herein or obvious from the drawings. Hook 1100 may include a contact plate 1140 having a contact surface 1142 and two extensions 1184 extending through receiving apertures 1026 in a third surface 112. A centrally positioned spring 1186 may be disposed between the two extensions 1184 and the third surface 112 such that the spring 1186 can be compressed when (or once) the contact plate 1140 is pressed into the third surface 112. In the non-limiting example shown, the width w' of the contact surface 1142 is less than the width W of the frame 106, but greater than 50% of the width W. The two extensions 1184 extend from the contact surface 1142 such that they are symmetrical about and adjacent to the centrally positioned spring 1186.

[0035] Still referencing Figure 22The mounting bracket 1100 may include two guide plates 1160 connected to the frame 106, such that they are symmetrical about the pin 120. Each guide plate 1160 may include an attachment surface 1162 attached to the frame 106 by screws 1166. Furthermore, each guide plate 1160 may include a guide surface 1168 integrally formed with and extending from the attachment surface 1162 at an angle η. Although this non-limiting example shows an angle η less than or equal to 45 degrees, similar to the non-limiting example above, the angle η may be rotated to meet certain design requirements or customer preferences.

[0036] Figure 23 Another non-limiting example of a hook 1200 according to this disclosure is shown. Hook 1200 may be similar in design and function to hook 100, wherein similar elements are identified using similar reference numerals unless as described herein or apparent from the accompanying drawings. Hook 1200 may include a sensing mechanism 1230, which includes a contact plate 1240, nut posts 1234, through bolts 1236, and locking nuts 1238. The contact plate 1240 may include a plurality of retaining holes 1246 positioned to correspond to receiving holes 1226 on the third surface 112. Similarly, the sensing mechanism 1230 may use an equal number of nut posts 1234, through bolts 1236, and locking nuts 1238 to correspond to each receiving hole 1226 and retaining hole 1246. Each of the through bolts 1236 may be received by one of the retaining holes 1246 of the contact plate 1240. Each of the nut posts 1234 may be held by one of the through bolts 1236. The through bolt 1236 is further held by the hole 1226 in the third surface 112 and the flange bushing 1228, and is secured by the locking nut 1238. A centrally positioned spring 1286 is disposed between the two nut posts 1234 and between the third surface 112 and the contact plate 1240, such that the spring 1286 is compressed when the contact plate 1240 is pressed into the third surface 112.

[0037] Still referencing Figure 23 The mounting bracket 1200 may include two guide plates 1260 connected to the frame 106, such that they are symmetrical about the pin 120. Each guide plate 1260 may include an attachment surface 1266 attached to the frame 106 by screws 1262. Furthermore, each guide plate 1260 may include a guide surface 1168 integrally formed with and extending from the attachment surface 1162 at an angle θ. Although this non-limiting example shows an angle θ between 30 and 60 degrees, again, similar to the non-limiting example above, the angle θ may be rotated to meet certain design requirements or customer preferences. In the non-limiting example shown, the guide surface 1268 also includes a support rib 1296 disposed between the guide surface 1268 and the attachment surface 1262.

[0038] As described herein, hook-up systems can be designed to include different types of hook-up mechanisms and different hook-up operations. For example, a hook-up according to this disclosure may include a hook plate or latch configured to pivotally receive the towing ring when it is inserted into the hook-up. In some non-limiting examples, hook-ups with hook plates may operate passively rather than actively or automatically, and the towing ring may be mechanically latched when inserted into the hook-up. Hook-ups may include sensors to confirm the latching and unlocking of the towing ring, and to detect the presence of the towing ring within the hook-up. These sensors may be used, for example, to provide a positive indication to a display or controller on an automated material handling vehicle that the towing hook-up is latched or unlocked.

[0039] Figures 24 to 29 A non-limiting example of a hook-up 1300 is shown, configured to passively latch to a traction hook-up 1302 (see [link]). Figure 29 In the non-limiting example shown, the hook-up 1300 includes a mounting plate 1304, an actuator housing 1306, a pulley housing 1308, and a hook-up assembly 1310. The mounting plate 1304 may be attached or coupled to a material handling vehicle (not shown) to attach the hook-up 1300 to the material handling vehicle. Typically, the hook-up 1300 may be coupled to an end of the material handling vehicle.

[0040] Actuator housing 1306 can be connected to mounting plate 1304 and can enclose linear actuator 1312 (see...) Figure 26 and Figure 27 The actuator housing 1306 includes a plurality of side plates 1314 and a front plate 1316. The side plates 1314 are connectable to a mounting plate 1304, and the front plate 1316 is connected to the plurality of side plates 1314 at an end opposite to the mounting plate 1304. A pulley housing 1308 may be supported by the actuator housing 1306 and may at least partially enclose a pulley (not shown) around which an open cable 1317 is wound. The output shaft 1318 of the linear actuator 1312 may at least partially extend into the pulley housing 1308. The output shaft 1318 may be connected to one end of the open cable 1317 to enable the linear actuator 1312 to selectively open the hook 1300 and unlock the traction hook 1302.

[0041] The hook assembly 1310 may include a pair of guide plates 1320, a pair of hook plates 1322, and a hook plate 1324. The pair of guide plates 1320 may be coupled to the mounting plate 1304 and may be arranged on the laterally opposite sides of the actuator housing 1306 and the hook plates 1322. Each of the guide plates 1320 may include a guide surface 1326 arranged at an angle relative to the hook plate 1322. In the non-limiting example shown, an acute angle may be formed between the guide surface 1326 and the laterally outer surface of the hook plate 1322. In this way, for example, the guide surface 1326 may guide the traction hook 1302 in a direction toward the hook plate 1324 during latching.

[0042] The mounting plates 1322 can be coupled to and extend from the actuator housing 1306. Each of the mounting plates 1322 can define an open end 1328 from which a mounting slot 1330 extends at least partially through the corresponding mounting plate 1322. In the non-limiting example shown, the mounting slot 1330 includes a tapered portion 1332 angled in a direction perpendicular to the guide surface 1326 of the guide plate 1320. The mounting slot 1330 transitions from the tapered portion 1332 to a flat portion 1334 terminating at a semi-circular ending of the mounting slot 1330.

[0043] Hook plates 1324 are arranged laterally between hook plates 1322 and pivotally connected between hook plates 1322. In the non-limiting example shown, hook plates 1324 include a hook portion 1336 disposed at one end thereof and a pivot portion 1338 disposed at the opposite end thereof. The pivot portion 1338 is connected to the hook plate 1322 via a pivot pin 1340, which allows the hook plates 1324, particularly the hook portion 1336, to pivot relative to the hook plate 1322. A tab 1342 can be lowered from the pivot portion 1338 (e.g., from...). Figure 26 (Perspective) extension. The open cable 1317 can be connected to the hook plate 1324 at the upper region of the hook portion 1336. The coil spring 1343 can be biased between one end of the hook plate 1324 and the front plate 1316 of the actuator housing 1306.

[0044] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 27The hook-and-mount 1300 may include a first sensor 1344, a second sensor 1346, and a hook-and-mount sensor 1348. The first sensor 1344, the second sensor 1346, and the hook-and-mount sensor 1348 may be coupled to the inner surface of one of the hook-and-mount plates 1322 and may be arranged between the hook-and-mount plate 1322 and the hook plate 1324. The first sensor 1344 and the second sensor 1346 may be proximity sensors configured to detect whether the sensor is blocked by a component (e.g., the hook plate 1324). The hook-and-mount sensor 1348 may be an optical sensor configured to detect the presence of the traction hook-and-mount 1302. In the non-limiting example shown, the hook-and-mount sensor 1348 emits a field of view in a direction toward the hook portion 1336.

[0045] Go to Figures 27 to 29 In operation, the hook 1300 can be configured to latch onto and unlock from the traction hook 1302. When the traction hook 1302 is not being inserted into the hook 1300, the hook plate 1324 can be in the first position ( Figure 27 In this location, the first sensor 1344 is blocked by the hook plate 1324. When the traction hook 1302 is inserted into the hook slot 1330, the traction hook 1302 can engage the hook portion 1336 of the hook plate 1324, causing the hook plate 1324 to pivot to the second position. Figure 28 In the second position, the first sensor 1344 can disengage from the obstruction (i.e., the hook plate 1324 pivots a sufficient distance to not obstruct the first sensor 1344). The transition between the first and second positions can compress the coil spring 1343, which can provide a force acting on the hook plate 1324, biasing the hook plate 1324 back to the first position.

[0046] As the traction hook 1302 continues to be inserted through the hook slot 1330, the traction hook 1302 eventually reaches a position where the ring 1350 defined by the traction hook 1302 aligns with the hook portion 1336 of the hook plate 1324. When the ring 1350 aligns with the hook portion 1336, the hook plate 1324 pivots back to the first position via a force from the coil spring 1343, and the hook portion 1336 extends through the ring 1350, thereby latching the traction hook 1302 to the hook 1300. Figure 29The latching of the towing hook-up 1302 can be confirmed by hook-up sensor 1348 sensing the presence of the towing hook-up 1302. In some non-limiting examples, the combination of the first sensor 1344 being blocked and the hook-up sensor 1348 sensing the presence of the towing hook-up 1302 can be used to confirm the latching of the towing hook-up 1302. In some non-limiting examples, the first sensor 1344 transitions from a blocked state to an unblocked state, and subsequently, the hook-up sensor 1348 sensing the presence of the towing hook-up 1302 can be used to confirm the latching of the towing hook-up 1302. In any case, the sensors on the hook-up 1300 can be used to provide a positive indication of the latching of the towing hook-up 1302, which allows the automated material handling vehicle to confirm the presence of a towing lorry attached to it.

[0047] The towing hook 1302 can be selectively unlocked from the hook 1300 via actuation of the linear actuator 1312. For example, the linear actuator 1312 can communicate with a controller that actuates the control output shaft 1318 on the material handling vehicle. The output shaft 1318 can be selectively actuated from an extended position to a retracted position, which in turn pulls the open cable 1317 and the pulley, and pivots the hook plate 1324 from a first position to a second position. In the second position, the towing hook 1302 can be unlocked and detached from the hook 1300.

[0048] In this specification, embodiments are described in a manner that allows for clear and precise description, but it is intended and will be understood that these embodiments can be combined or separated in various ways without departing from this disclosure. For example, it will be understood that all preferred features described herein are applicable to all aspects of the invention described herein.

[0049] Therefore, although this disclosure has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, it is not necessarily so limited, and various other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and alterations to the embodiments, examples and uses are included in the appended claims. The full disclosure of the various patents and publications cited herein is incorporated herein by way of reference as if each patent or publication were individually incorporated herein by way of reference.

[0050] The features and advantages of this disclosure are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for passively latching a hook to a drawbar, the method comprising: The presence of the traction rod in the receiving cavity of the frame is detected by a sensor, and the frame defines a first small hole and a second small hole; as well as An actuator moves the arm between an unlocked position and a latched position; the arm is configured to be held within the first aperture in response to the detected presence of the pull rod. In the unlocked position, the arm is held only within the first small hole, while in the latched position, the arm is held within both the first and second small holes. The position of the sensor is adjustable to accommodate various traction rod geometries.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: In response to the detected presence of the traction rod within the receiving cavity, the arm is moved from the unlocked position to the latched position via the actuator.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The frame includes a first surface, a second surface spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the first surface, and a third surface extending between and substantially perpendicular to the first and second surfaces, thereby defining the receiving cavity.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises: When the traction rod is inside the receiving cavity, the sensor is triggered by the sensing mechanism. The through bolt is received through the fixing hole of the contact plate of the sensing mechanism; as well as Secure the through bolt to the locking nut of the sensing mechanism.

5. The method according to claim 4, further comprising: The nut post, which is located within the compression spring of the sensing mechanism, is received by the flanged bushing held by the fixing hole. The diameter of the flanged bushing is smaller than the diameter of the compression spring but larger than the diameter of the nut post.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises: The arm is detected in the unlocked position by an elevation sensor. The sensor detects when the arm is in the latch position by lowering its sensitivity. as well as In response to the detected presence of the arm in at least one of the unlocked and latched positions, an indication is provided to the operator via an indicator.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises: The arm, wherein the arm is a pin, is slidably received through the second small hole.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises: The arm, which is a hook, is rotatably received through the second small hole.

9. A method for selectively latching a hook to a drawbar, the method comprising: The presence of the traction rod within the receiving cavity of the frame is detected by an optical sensor attached to the inner surface of one or more mounting plates of the frame, the traction rod defining a small hole; Engage the arm with the traction rod; as well as In response to engagement of the traction rod with the arm, the arm is moved between an unlocked position and a latched position, the arm being configured to remain within the aperture in the latched position. The optical sensor emits a field of view toward the direction of the traction rod, and The frame includes at least two adjustable guide plates to accommodate various traction rod geometries.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the method further comprises: The arm is detected in the unlocked position by an elevation sensor. The sensor detects when the arm is in the latch position by lowering its sensitivity. as well as In response to the detected presence of the arm in at least one of the unlocked and latched positions, an indication is provided to the operator via an indicator.

11. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: When the traction rod is inside the receiving cavity, the optical sensor is triggered by the sensing mechanism; The through bolt is received through the fixing hole of the contact plate of the sensing mechanism; as well as Secure the through bolt to the locking nut of the sensing mechanism.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein the method further comprises: The optical sensor confirms the latch between the hook and the traction rod; The arm is moved from the latched position to the unlocked position by an actuator; as well as In response to the arm moving to the unlocked position, the traction rod is unlocked from the hook via the arm.

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The frame includes a first surface, a second surface spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the first surface, and a third surface extending between and substantially perpendicular to the first and second surfaces, thereby defining the receiving cavity.

14. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: The arm, wherein the arm is a pin, is slidably received via the frame.

15. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: The arm, which is a hook, is rotatably received via the frame.

16. A method for selectively latching a hook to a drawbar, the method comprising: The presence of the traction rod in the receiving cavity of the frame is detected by a sensor, and the traction rod defines a small hole; Engage the arm with the traction rod; as well as In response to engagement of the traction rod with the arm, the arm moves from the unlocked position to the latched position, the arm being configured to remain within the aperture in the latched position. The frame includes at least two guide plates disposed on opposite sides of the frame, and The at least two guide plates are adjustable to accommodate various traction rod geometries.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: The sensor confirms the latch between the hook and the pull rod; The arm is moved from the latched position to the unlocked position by an actuator; as well as In response to the arm moving to the unlocked position, the traction rod is unlocked from the hook via the arm.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The frame further includes a first surface, a second surface spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the first surface, and a third surface extending between and substantially perpendicular to the first and second surfaces, thereby defining the receiving cavity.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising: The arm, wherein the arm is a pin, is slidably received via the frame.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: The arm, which is a hook, is rotatably received via the frame.

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