Transfer device

Abstract

The invention provides a transfer device. The transfer device (10) is provided with a regulating member (24) which is provided between the carrying-in path (16) and the table (202) and which is capable of preventing the object (12) to be conveyed from moving from the carrying-in path (16) to the table (202). In a state in which the object (12) to be conveyed is disposed and held on the table (202), the movement of the object (12) to be conveyed from the carry-in path (16) to the table (202) is prevented by the restricting member (24). The release unit (26) moves the restricting member (24) to the release position in conjunction with the movement of the conveyed object (12) from the table (202) to the delivery path (18). Therefore, the object to be conveyed can be effectively prevented from moving from the carrying-in channel to the workbench by utilizing the limiting component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a transfer device for transferring objects. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 3144909 discloses a transfer device having an inlet channel, an outlet channel, and a transfer body. In this transfer device, a transferable item placed in the inlet channel moves toward the transfer body to a first position, and the transfer body tilts from the first position toward the outlet channel to a second position due to the weight of the transferable item, thereby moving the transferable item from the transfer body toward the outlet channel. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the case of transferring objects using the transfer device described in Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 3144909, the objects need to be transferred one by one. When multiple objects are placed on the transfer device and transferred sequentially, a stopper is needed to prevent the next object from moving toward the transfer body while the object is moving toward the transfer body. However, providing a stopper in the transfer device complicates its structure.

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] The present invention provides a transfer device comprising an inlet channel, an outlet channel, a worktable, a limiting member, and a release unit. The inlet channel is used to receive an object to be transferred. The outlet channel is configured to be lower than the inlet channel in the height direction. The worktable is disposed between the inlet channel and the outlet channel along the transfer path of the object, holding the object received from the inlet channel and transferring it towards the outlet channel. The limiting member is disposed between the inlet channel and the worktable. It can prevent the transported item from moving from the loading channel to the worktable; the release unit works in conjunction with the movement of the transported item to release the restriction of the restricting member. When the transported item is positioned and held on the worktable, the restricting member, which is in the blocking position, prevents the transported item from moving from the loading channel to the worktable. As the transported item moves from the worktable to the unloading channel, the release unit moves the restricting member to the release position, thereby allowing the transported item to move to the worktable.

[0006] According to the present invention, by moving the limiting member in conjunction with the movement of the conveyed object, the limiting member can be used to effectively prevent the conveyed object from moving from the loading channel to the worktable through a simple structure.

[0007] The above-described objectives, features, and advantages should be readily understood from the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the transfer device involved in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a top view showing the first transfer section of the transfer device.

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An enlarged side view of the first transfer section of the transfer device shown.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the first operation of the transfer device.

[0012] Figure 5A This is an explanatory diagram showing the location where the workbench is moved in. Figure 5B This is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the workbench during its holding position and its movement to the moving position. Figure 5C This is an explanatory diagram showing the location where the workbench is moved out.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the second operation of the transfer device.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the third operation of the transfer device.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the fourth operation of the transfer device.

[0016] Figure 9A This is the first explanatory diagram of the mechanism. Figure 9B This is the second explanatory diagram of the mechanism.

[0017] Figure 10 yes Figure 6 The diagram shows a top view of the transfer device. Detailed Implementation

[0018] like Figure 1 As shown, the transfer device 10 according to this embodiment is used to transfer the object 12. The object 12 being transferred is, for example, a bucket. A bucket is a box that can hold items (not shown) inside and has an opening at the top.

[0019] The transfer device 10 has a frame 11, a first transfer section 141, and a second transfer section 142. The second transfer section 142 is disposed below the first transfer section 141.

[0020] The first transfer unit 141 and the second transfer unit 142 each have an inlet channel 16, an outlet channel 18, a table mechanism 20, a force application mechanism 22, a limiting member 24, and a release unit 26. The first transfer unit 141 and the second transfer unit 142 can each transfer different items 12. The transfer device 10 has a double-layer structure with the first transfer unit 141 and the second transfer unit 142 arranged along the height direction. However, the transfer device 10 is not limited to a double-layer structure with the first transfer unit 141 and the second transfer unit 142. For example, it can be a single-layer structure with one transfer unit, or a multi-layer structure with three or more transfer units.

[0021] Below, let the direction orthogonal to the height direction of the transfer device 10 be the front-back direction (arrows A1 and A2), and let the direction orthogonal to both the height direction and the front-back direction be the width direction. Figure 2 The explanation will be based on the direction of the arrow (B).

[0022] The support frame 11 has multiple support columns 28 and multiple support sections 30. The multiple support columns 28 are respectively disposed on the sides of the transfer device 10 in the width direction orthogonal to the height and front-back directions (see reference). Figure 2 Multiple support sections 28 are respectively connected to a base support 15 placed on the ground or the like. The multiple support sections 28 extend vertically upward from the base support 15.

[0023] The plurality of support sections 28 include a front support 281, a rear support 282, and a middle support 32. The front support 281 is disposed at the front of the transfer device 10. The front support 281 has a first front support 28A and a second front support 28B. The first front support 28A and the second front support 28B are arranged separately from each other in the front-rear direction (arrows A1 and A2) of the transfer device 10. The second front support 28B is positioned further forward than the first front support 28A (arrow A1 direction).

[0024] The first front support column 28A supports the front of the first transfer section 141. (Example) Figure 2 As shown, a pair of first front support columns 28A are separately provided in the width direction (arrow B direction) orthogonal to the front-rear direction. The pair of first front support columns 28A extend in the vertical direction respectively.

[0025] The second front support column 28B supports the front of the second transfer unit 142. A pair of second front support columns 28B are separately arranged in a width direction orthogonal to the front-rear direction. Each pair of second front support columns 28B extends vertically. The pair of second front support columns 28B are connected to each other by a bracket (not shown). The second front support column 28B is shorter than the first front support column 28A.

[0026] The rear support column 282 is located at the rear of the transfer device 10. The rear support column 282 is positioned further rearward than the front support column 281. A pair of rear support columns 282 are separately arranged in the width direction. The pair of rear support columns 282 extend vertically. The pair of rear support columns 282 are connected to each other by a bracket (not shown). The rear support columns 282 respectively support the rear portions of the first transfer unit 141 and the second transfer unit 142.

[0027] The intermediate support column 32 is disposed between the front support column 281 and the rear support column 282 in the front-rear direction of the transfer device 10. The intermediate support column 32 has a first intermediate support column portion 321 and a second intermediate support column portion 322.

[0028] The first intermediate support portion 321 is disposed between the first front support portion 28A and the rear support portion 282. The first intermediate support portion 321 has a first front rod 321F, a first rear rod 321R, and a first middle rod 321M. Figure 2 As shown, a pair of first front rods 321F are separately arranged in the width direction (arrow B direction) of the transfer device 10. The pair of first front rods 321F extend vertically (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0029] like Figure 2 As shown, a pair of first rear rods 321R are separately arranged in the width direction (arrow B direction) of the transfer device 10. Figure 3 As shown, a pair of first rear rods 321R are respectively positioned rearward than a pair of first front rods 321F. The pair of first rear rods 321R and the pair of first front rods 321F are separated from each other in the front-rear direction (arrows A1 and A2) of the transfer device 10. The pair of first rear rods 321R extend vertically.

[0030] The first intermediate rod 321M is positioned between the first front rod 321F and the first rear rod 321R. The first intermediate rod 321M is approximately parallel to both the first front rod 321F and the first rear rod 321R. For example... Figure 2 As shown, a pair of first intermediate rods 321M are provided, separated in the width direction (arrow B direction). The pair of first intermediate rods 321M are arranged in the front-to-back direction between the loading channel 16 and the worktable mechanism 20 (see reference). Figure 1 A loading inlet 34 is provided between a pair of first intermediate rods 321M. The loading inlet 34 is an opening through which the transported item 12 can pass from the loading channel 16 to the worktable mechanism 20.

[0031] like Figure 1As shown, the second intermediate support section 322 is disposed between the second front support section 28B and the rear support section 282. The second intermediate support section 322 has a second front rod 322F, a second rear rod 322R, and a second intermediate rod 322M. A pair of second front rods 322F are respectively disposed at the lower part of the first front support section 28A. A pair of second rear rods 322R and a pair of second front rods 322F are separated from each other in the front-rear direction of the transfer device 10. A pair of second rear rods 322R are respectively disposed at the lower part of the first front rods 321F of the first intermediate support section 321.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, the support portion 30 includes a first front support 301F, a first rear support 301R, a pair of intermediate supports 302, a pair of support supports 303, and a front support support 304. The first front support 301F extends in the width direction and connects the pair of first front rods 321F to each other. The first rear support 301R extends in the width direction and connects the pair of first rear rods 321R to each other. The pair of intermediate supports 302 extend in the front-rear direction of the transfer device 10, respectively. Each intermediate support 302 connects the first front rods 321F and the first rear rods 321R arranged in the front-rear direction to each other.

[0033] like Figure 3 As shown, a pair of support brackets 303 extend along the front-rear direction (arrows A1 and A2) of the transfer device 10. The pair of support brackets 303 are positioned lower than the intermediate bracket 302 in the height direction of the transfer device 10. The pair of support brackets 303 are separated from each other in the width direction (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0034] The front support bracket 304 is configured to support the front end 20F of the worktable 202 of the worktable mechanism 20. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the front support bracket 304 extends along the width direction and is connected to a pair of front pillars 281. Figure 3 As shown, the front support bracket 304 is positioned rearward (in the direction of arrow A2) from the front support column 281. The front support bracket 304 is positioned lower than the support bracket 303. The front support bracket 304 is positioned below the front end portion 20F of the worktable 202, which will be described later.

[0035] like Figure 2 As shown, the support portion 30 also has a front support 305. The front support 305 extends in the width direction and connects a pair of support supports 303 to each other. The front support 305 restricts the forward movement (in the direction of arrow A1) of the conveyed object 12 moving toward the worktable mechanism 20 (see reference). Figure 4 ).

[0036] like Figure 3As shown, the transfer channel 16 of the first transfer unit 141 is used to transfer the object 12. Figure 2 As shown, the loading channel 16 has a pair of loading tracks 161. The pair of loading tracks 161 are separated from each other in the width direction (arrow B direction) of the transfer device 10. Figure 3 As shown, the pair of loading tracks 161 are respectively configured such that the front end is lower than the rear end. That is, the loading channel 16 is inclined downward in the forward direction of the transfer device 10. The pair of loading tracks 161 are supported by the rear support column 282 and the first intermediate support column 321, respectively. The inclination angle of the loading channel 16 relative to the forward and backward direction of the transfer device 10 is, for example, 10° to 30°.

[0037] A pair of loading tracks 161 each have a plurality of rollers 16R. The plurality of rollers 16R are arranged side by side along each loading track 161. The plurality of rollers 16R protrude from the upper surface of each loading track 161. Each roller 16R is rotatably mounted on each loading track 161.

[0038] The transport channel 18 transports the transported item 12. In the height direction of the transfer device 10, the transport channel 18 is positioned lower than the transport channel 16. For example, the transport channel 18 is positioned below the transport channel 16. The transport channel 18 has a pair of transport tracks 181. The pair of transport tracks 181 are separated from each other in the width direction of the transfer device 10. The pair of transport tracks 181 are each formed such that their rear ends are lower than their front ends. That is, the transport channel 18 is inclined downwards in the rear direction of the transfer device 10. The inclination angle of the transport channel 18 relative to the front-rear direction of the transfer device 10 is, for example, 1° to 30°. The pair of transport tracks 181 are supported by the rear support column 282 and the first intermediate support column 321 of the transfer device 10, respectively. Furthermore, the transport channel 18 is not limited to being inclined downwards in the rear direction. For example, the transport channel 18 may also be configured to be approximately horizontal.

[0039] A pair of transfer tracks 181 each have a plurality of rollers 18R. The plurality of rollers 18R are arranged side by side along each transfer track 181. The plurality of rollers 18R protrude from the upper surface of each transfer track 181. Each roller 18R is rotatably disposed on each transfer track 181.

[0040] like Figure 1As shown, the workbench mechanism 20 is positioned between the inlet channel 16 and the outlet channel 18 in the transport path of the transported item 12. The workbench mechanism 20 holds the transported item 12 that has been brought in from the inlet channel 16. The workbench mechanism 20 moves the transported item 12 out towards the outlet channel 18. The workbench mechanism 20 is positioned at the front of the transfer device 10. The workbench mechanism 20 is positioned forward of both the inlet channel 16 and the outlet channel 18 (in the direction of arrow A1). When the user is working on the transfer device 10, the user is facing the front of the transfer device 10.

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, the worktable mechanism 20 has a base component 201, a worktable 202, and a support portion 203.

[0042] The base component 201 is arranged approximately parallel and horizontally to the transfer device 10 in the front-to-back direction (arrows A1 and A2). The two ends of the base component 201 in the width direction are supported by the force-applying mechanism 22 (see reference). Figure 2 The base component 201 is supported on the first intermediate support column 321 in a height-movable manner by the force-applying mechanism 22. The base component 201 has a pair of base sides 211. Each base side 211 extends along the front-rear direction (arrows A1, A2) of the transfer device 10. The pair of base sides 211 are respectively provided on both sides of the base component 201 in the width direction.

[0043] The worktable 202 is positioned above the base component 201. The worktable 202 has a rear end 20R and a front end 20F. The rear end 20R is located on the rear side of the transfer device 10. The rear end 20R is opposite to the transfer channel 16 in the loading position of the worktable 202. The front end 20F is the end on the side opposite to the rear end 20R.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, the worktable 202 has a rectangular support body 212 and a pair of support rails 213. However, the support body 212 is not limited to a rectangular shape. The pair of support rails 213 are arranged separately from each other in the width direction (arrow B direction). The pair of support rails 213 connect the front end 20F and the rear end 20R of the worktable 202. Each support rail 213 has multiple rollers 213R, which are arranged side-by-side along each support rail 213. The multiple rollers 213R protrude from the upper surface of each support rail 213 (see reference). Figure 3 Each roller 213R is rotatably mounted on each support track 213.

[0045] like Figure 3As shown, the support portion 203 supports the worktable 202 on the base member 201 in a tiltable manner. That is, the worktable 202 is tiltable via the support portion 203, allowing the relative positions of the rear end portion 20R and the front end portion 20F in the height direction to change. The support portion 203 is disposed between the base member 201 and the worktable 202. The support portion 203 is positioned rearward of the middle portion of the worktable 202 in the front-rear direction (arrows A1 and A2) (see reference). Figure 5A ).

[0046] Workbench 202 can be installed at the loading position (see reference) Figure 5A ), Keep the location and move out location (refer to) Figure 5C The device moves between these positions. In the height direction of the transfer device 10, the loading position, holding position, and loading out position are different positions. For example... Figure 5A As shown, the receiving position is the location where the transported item 12 is received from the receiving channel 16 (see reference). Figure 4 In the loading position, the rear end 20R of the worktable 202 is positioned higher than the front end 20F.

[0047] like Figure 5B As shown, the holding position is the position between the loading position and the unloading position. In the holding position, the transported item 12 is held by the worktable mechanism 20 held by the holding mechanism 44 (see reference). Figure 6 ).like Figure 5C As shown, the moveout position is the location where the item 12 is moved out through the moveout channel 18 (refer to...). Figure 7 In the unloading position, the rear end 20R of the worktable 202 is located lower than the front end 20F. That is, when the rear end 20R of the worktable 202 tilts to a position lower than the front end 20F with the support 203 as the fulcrum, the rear end 20R reaches the unloading position.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the force-applying mechanisms 22 are respectively arranged on both sides of the transfer device 10 in the width direction. Figure 3 As shown, the force-applying mechanism 22 has a linkage part 22A and a force-applying component 22B. The linkage part 22A has a pair of first sliders 221, a pair of second sliders 222, and a pair of connecting components 223. Each first slider 221 is movably disposed on each first front rod 321F of the first intermediate support part 321. Each first slider 221 is capable of moving in the height direction along each first front rod 321F.

[0049] Furthermore, the first slider 221 is not limited to a pair. For example, one first slider 221 may be provided on either of the pair of first front rods 321F. Each first slider 221 is connected to the base component 201 and the support portion 203 of the worktable mechanism 20. By moving the first slider 221 along the first front rod 321F, the worktable mechanism 20 can move in the height direction integrally with the first slider 221.

[0050] A pair of second sliders 222 are movably disposed on each of the first rear rods 321R of the first intermediate support portion 321. Each second slider 222 is movable in the height direction along each of the first rear rods 321R. Furthermore, the second sliders 222 are not limited to a pair. For example, one second slider 222 may be disposed on either of the pair of first rear rods 321R.

[0051] Each connecting member 223 connects each first slider 221 and each second slider 222 to each other. The connecting member 223 is formed, for example, from a wire or other wire body. One end of each connecting member 223 is connected to the upper end of each first slider 221. The other end of each connecting member 223 is connected to the upper end of each second slider 222. The middle portion of each connecting member 223 is supported by a plurality of relay members 38 disposed on the side of the intermediate support 302. Each relay member 38 is, for example, a rotating body used to mount the connecting member 223 and rotatably supported on the intermediate support 302. The plurality of relay members 38 are positioned above the first slider 221 and the second slider 222. The middle portion of the connecting member 223 is held in the front-rear direction by the plurality of relay members 38. The connecting member 223 is formed in a downwardly opening U-shape by the plurality of relay members 38. Furthermore, the number of relay members 38 is not limited to one. For example, there may be only one relay member 38.

[0052] When either the first slider 221 or the second slider 222 moves along the height direction, the other slider 221 or the second slider 222 is pulled along the height direction by the connecting member 223. At this time, the connecting member 223 moves along the relay member 38 by rotating the relay member 38. That is, the first slider 221 and the second slider 222 are linked by the connecting member 223. At this time, the moving direction of the first slider 221 and the moving direction of the second slider 222 are opposite to each other.

[0053] The force-applying component 22B applies force to the release component 26 via the linkage 22A, thereby actuating the release component 26. The force-applying component 22B has a counterweight component 421 disposed on the second slider 222. The counterweight component 421 is disposed on both sides of the transfer device 10 in the width direction (see reference). Figure 2The counterweight components 421 are respectively disposed in the front and rear directions of the second slider 222. The counterweight components 421 are configured to move together with the second slider 222 along the first rear rod 321R in the vertical direction. The counterweight components 421 exert a downward force on the second slider 222 using their own weight. The weight of the counterweight components 421 is lighter than the combined weight of the worktable mechanism 20 and the conveyed object 12. The weight of the counterweight components 421 is heavier than the weight of the worktable mechanism 20.

[0054] Furthermore, the transfer device 10 is not limited to having a force-applying member 22B. For example, the release part 26 can also be forceped by the user applying force to the first slider 221. The force-applying member 22B is not limited to being composed of a counterweight member 421. For example, the force-applying member 22B can also be driven by a drive source.

[0055] When the worktable 202 is in the loading position, and no workpiece 12 is loaded onto the worktable 202, since no weight is applied to the worktable 202 (worktable mechanism 20), the second slider 222 is in the lowest position due to the action of the force-applying component 22B, and the first slider 221 is in the highest position due to the action of the connecting component 223.

[0056] Maintain the position of workbench 202 (refer to) Figure 4 ) and move-out location (refer to Figure 7 When the object 12 is moved into and held in the worktable mechanism 20, the weight of the object 12 is applied to the worktable mechanism 20. Therefore, the combined weight of the worktable mechanism 20 and the object 12 causes the downward moving force of the first slider 221 to exceed the downward moving force of the force-applying member 22B, thereby causing the first slider 221 to move downward, and consequently, the force-applying member 22B and the second slider 222 to move upward.

[0057] Furthermore, the force-applying component 22B is not limited to being respectively disposed on both sides of the transfer device 10 in the width direction. For example, the force-applying component 22B may be disposed on at least one side of the transfer device 10 in the width direction. The force-applying component 22B is not limited to being disposed on the side of the transfer device 10 in the width direction. For example, the force-applying component 22B may also be disposed on the front or rear of the transfer device 10.

[0058] like Figure 1As shown, a limiting member 24 is disposed between the loading channel 16 and the worktable mechanism 20. The limiting member 24 is configured to prevent the transported item 12 from moving from the loading channel 16 to the worktable mechanism 20. The limiting member 24 is configured to extend in the width direction and be movable vertically along the first intermediate rod 321M. The limiting member 24 is capable of moving downwards along the first intermediate rod 321M using its own weight.

[0059] The limiting member 24 is restricted from moving downward along the first intermediate rod 321M by engaging with the locking part 40 provided on the first intermediate rod 321M. When the worktable 202 is in the holding position (see reference...) Figure 4 ) and move-out location (refer to Figure 7 When the limiting member 24 moves downward, it engages with the locking part 40 of the first intermediate rod 321M, thereby reaching the blocking position.

[0060] In the blocking position, in the height direction, the lower end of the limiting member 24 is positioned below the upper part of the inlet 34. For example... Figure 4 As shown, in the blocking position, a portion of the loading inlet 34 is covered by the restricting member 24. In the blocking position, the restricting member 24 prevents the transported item 12 from moving from the loading channel 16 to the worktable mechanism 20 (worktable 202). The restricting member 24 is movable upward from the state of being locked with the locking part 40 (blocking position).

[0061] like Figure 3 As shown, the release part 26 operates in conjunction with the movement of the conveyed object 12 to release the restriction of the restricting member 24. The release part 26 is connected to the first slider 221 and extends along the height direction. The release part 26 is positioned below the restricting member 24. Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, when there is no object 12 being transported on the worktable mechanism 20 (worktable 202), the first slider 221 and the release part 26 move upward. The release part 26 moves upward, pressing the restricting member 24 and causing it to move upward. The release part 26 then moves the restricting member 24, which is locked at the locking part 40, upward, thereby bringing the restricting member 24 to a released position that is higher than the transport inlet 34. In other words, the release part 26 moves upward, causing the restricting member 24 to move to the released position.

[0062] Specifically, such as Figure 3As shown, when the worktable 202 reaches the loading position, the limiting member 24 is in the released position. In the released position, the movement restriction state of the limiting member 24 preventing the transported item 12 from moving towards the worktable 202 is released. In the released position, in the height direction, the limiting member 24 is positioned above the loading inlet 34. In the released position, the loading inlet 34 is not blocked by the limiting member 24, and the loading inlet 34 is open. In the released position, the transported item 12 is allowed to move from the loading channel 16 to the worktable mechanism 20. Figure 6 As shown, from the released position of the limiting member 24, the first slider 221 and the releasing part 26 move downward, and the limiting member 24 descends, thereby changing the limiting member 24 to the blocking position.

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the transfer device 10 also has a holding mechanism 44 and an operating section 46.

[0064] The retaining mechanism 44 is configured to be able to retain the position (see reference). Figure 4 The table holding mechanism 20 prevents the table holding mechanism 20 from moving downwards. Holding mechanisms 44 are respectively provided on both sides of the transfer device 10 in the width direction (see reference). Figure 2 The retaining mechanism 44 is respectively disposed on a pair of support brackets 303. For example... Figure 2 As shown, each holding mechanism 44 includes a support rod 441, a block-shaped member 442, a pair of holding members 443, and a spring member 444. Furthermore, the transfer device 10 is not limited to having a holding mechanism 44. For example, it may be possible to omit the holding mechanism 44 and instead allow the table mechanism 20 to move continuously downwards from its loading and holding positions to its unloading position.

[0065] The support rod 441 extends along the width direction (arrow B direction) of the transfer device 10 and is fixed to the support bracket 303. The outer end of the support rod 441 in the width direction has a support end 451. The support rod 441 protrudes inward in the width direction from the support bracket 303.

[0066] The block-shaped component 442 is movably supported on the support rod 441. The block-shaped component 442 has a supported portion 453. The supported portion 453 is disposed at the center of the block-shaped component 442 in its extending direction. The inner end of the support rod 441 in the width direction is inserted into the supported portion 453. By inserting the support rod 441 into the supported portion 453, the block-shaped component 442 is supported on the support rod 441 in a manner that allows it to move in the width direction.

[0067] like Figure 4As shown, a pair of retaining members 443 are configured to hold the worktable mechanism 20. A pair of retaining parts 482 are respectively held by the block-shaped member 442. The pair of retaining members 443 are arranged separately from each other in the front-rear direction (arrows A1, A2 direction) of the transfer device 10. Figure 2 As shown, each retaining member 443 protrudes inward from the block member 442 in the width direction. Furthermore, the retaining members 443 are not limited to a pair. For example, the block member 442 may have one retaining member 443, or it may have three or more retaining members 443.

[0068] like Figure 9A As shown, each retaining member 443 is rotatably supported on the block member 442. The retaining member 443 is supported by a rotation axis 481 held on the block member 442. The rotation axis 481 extends in the front-rear direction. The retaining member 443 is capable of rotating about the rotation axis 481 in a direction intersecting the front-rear direction.

[0069] Each retaining component 443 has a retaining portion 482 and a pressing portion 483. The retaining portion 482 has a retaining surface 484 extending in the width direction. In the loading position of the worktable 202 (refer to...) Figure 3 ) and maintain position (refer to) Figure 4 The retaining surface 484 is arranged substantially horizontally and is positioned below the base side 211 of the base member 201 in the worktable mechanism 20. The base side 211 of the base member 201 in the worktable mechanism 20 abuts against the retaining surface 484. The worktable mechanism 20, including the base member 201, is held by the retaining part 482. In the loading position and the holding position of the worktable 202, downward movement of the worktable mechanism 20 is prevented.

[0070] The pressing part 483 is positioned further outward and downward in the width direction than the holding part 482. The pressing part 483 is approximately orthogonal to the holding surface 484. With the holding surface 484 of the holding part 482 generally horizontal, the pressing part 483 abuts against the side of the block member 442. By the contact between the pressing part 483 and the block member 442, the holding surface 484 is kept in a generally horizontal position, thus restricting the rotation of the holding member 443. The holding member 443 allows the holding surface 484 to rotate in an upward direction (see reference). Figure 9A (The double-dotted line shape in the text).

[0071] like Figure 2 As shown, spring component 444 is disposed on the outer periphery of support rod 441. Spring component 444 is positioned between the support end 451 of support rod 441 and the supported portion 453 of block component 442. The elastic force of spring component 444 exerts a force on the supported portion 453 of block component 442 inward in the width direction. The direction of the elastic force of spring component 444 is inward in the width direction.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, the operating part 46 is configured to release the holding mechanism 44 from the holding state of the worktable mechanism 20. The operating part 46 is located at the front of the transfer device 10. The operating part 46 has an operating lever 461 and a transmission member 462. The operating lever 461 is rotatably supported by a support shaft 306 located at the front of the support bracket 303. The operating lever 461 has a gripping part 463. The gripping part 463 extends in the width direction and is configured to be gripped by the user (see reference). Figure 2 The grip 463 is positioned forward of the front support 281. Both ends of the grip 463 extend rearward in the width direction (see reference). Figure 2 When the user does not operate the operating unit 46, the operating lever 461 is positioned with the support shaft 306 as the fulcrum and the gripping part 463 is positioned downwards.

[0073] The two ends of the grip 463 are rotatably supported on a pair of support shafts 306 that are separated from each other in the width direction. When the user grips the grip 463, the operating lever 461 can rotate upwards about the pair of support shafts 306 (see reference). Figure 6 ).

[0074] like Figure 2 As shown, the transmission component 462 connects the operating lever 461 and the block-shaped component 442 of the holding mechanism 44. The transmission component 462 is formed, for example, from a wire. One end of the transmission component 462 is connected to the lower part of the gripping portion 463 of the operating lever 461. The other end of the transmission component 462 is connected to the supported portion 453 of the block-shaped component 442. The middle portion of the transmission component 462 is mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating body 465, which is rotatably disposed on the support shaft portion 306.

[0075] like Figure 6 As shown, by operating the lever 461 with its gripping portion 463 upward, as... Figure 10 As shown, one end of the transmission component 462 is pulled forward. One end of the transmission component 462 will be subjected to a forward pulling force. By pulling the transmission component 462 forward, the pulling direction of the transmission component 462 is changed to the outward direction in the width direction by the rotating body 465, and the pulling force is transmitted to the block component 442.

[0076] As the transmission member 462 applies tension, the block member 442 moves outward in the width direction while compressing the spring member 444, and a pair of retaining members 443 also move outward in the width direction. Through the operation of the operating part 46, such as... Figure 9BAs shown, the holding mechanism 44 releases the holding state of the worktable mechanism 20. When the holding mechanism 44 releases the holding state of the worktable mechanism 20, as... Figure 7 As shown, under the weight of the conveyed object 12, the worktable 202 tilts, causing the rear end 20R of the worktable 202 to become lower than the front end 20F. The rear end 20R of the worktable 202 reaches the removal position. Furthermore, the transfer device 10 is not limited to having an operating section 46. For example, the operating section 46 may be omitted, and a release mechanism may be provided that holds the worktable mechanism 20 by a holding mechanism 44 and releases the holding state after a predetermined time.

[0077] When the user stops operating the operating unit 46, the operating lever 461 rotates downward with the support shaft 306 as the fulcrum and the grip 463 facing downward. The pulling force on the block-shaped member 442 that was generated in the width direction during the operation of the operating unit 46 disappears.

[0078] The second transfer unit 142 is disposed below the first transfer unit 141. The front portion of the second transfer unit 142 is disposed forward of the front portion of the first transfer unit 141. The loading channel 16 of the second transfer unit 142 is longer than the loading channel 16 of the first transfer unit 141 in the longitudinal direction. The unloading channel 18 of the second transfer unit 142 is longer than the unloading channel 18 of the first transfer unit 141 in the longitudinal direction. The structure of the second transfer unit 142 is the same as that of the first transfer unit 141 except as described above; therefore, detailed description is omitted.

[0079] The transfer device 10 is used as follows. Furthermore, since the first transfer section 141 and the second transfer section 142 of the transfer device 10 operate identically, the case of using the first transfer section 141 to transfer the object 12 will be described here. Additionally, the case where items not shown are stored inside the object 12 will be described.

[0080] Figure 3This indicates the initial state in which the transfer device 10 has no object 12 to be transferred. In the initial state, the second slider 222 is in the lowest position and the first slider 221 is in the highest position due to the action of the force-applying member 22B. As the first slider 221 moves upward, the worktable mechanism 20 moves upward, causing the base member 201 to reach a loading position where it is separated from the front support bracket 304 and the holding member 443 of the holding mechanism 44. As the worktable mechanism 20 and the first slider 221 move upward, the release part 26 moves upward and presses the restricting member 24 upward. The restricting member 24 moves upward and separates from the locking part 40, reaching a release position that opens the loading inlet 34. That is, in the initial state of the transfer device 10, the restricting member 24 is released by moving the release part 26 upward by the force-applying member 22B.

[0081] In the initial state described above, the object to be transported 12 is placed on the transfer device 10. The user places the object to be transported 12 into the loading channel 16 of the first transfer section 141. The object to be transported 12 moves forward along the loading track 161 of the loading channel 16. Specifically, the object to be transported 12 begins to move diagonally downward toward the worktable mechanism 20 via the multiple rollers 16R of each loading track 161. At this time, the first slider 221 and the second slider 222 do not move until the object to be transported 12 has completely moved onto the worktable mechanism 20 through the loading inlet 34. Therefore, the restraining member 24 is held in the released position by the release part 26.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, the transported item 12 moves from the transport passage 16 through the transport inlet 34 to the workbench mechanism 20 (workbench 202) in the transport position. On the workbench 202, the transported item 12 moves forward along the support rail 213 of the workbench 202, and its forward movement is stopped by contact with the front support 305. When the transported item 12 has moved to the workbench 202, the weight of the transported item 12 applies a downward force to the workbench mechanism 20.

[0083] At this time, since the weight of the object being transported 12 is greater than the weight of the force-applying component 22B, the force exerted by the weight of the object being transported 12 on the first slider 221 to move downwards exceeds the force exerted by the weight of the force-applying component 22B on the second slider 222 to move downwards. Therefore, the first slider 221 moves downwards, and simultaneously, the connecting component 223 pulls the second slider 222 upwards.

[0084] Accordingly, the workbench mechanism 20 is moved downward by the conveyed object 12, and the base side 211 of the base component 201 abuts against the retaining surface 484 of the retaining component 443 of the retaining mechanism 44 (see reference). Figure 9AThe front end 20F of the worktable 202 abuts against the front support bracket 304. The downward movement of the conveyed object 12 is prevented, and the worktable 202 holding the conveyed object 12 remains in the holding position. In this holding position, the front end 20F of the worktable 202 is maintained at an angle lower than the rear end 20R.

[0085] With the workbench 202 in its holding position, the conveyed item 12 is tilted downwards and forwards due to the tilt of the workbench 202. With the user standing in front of the transfer device 10, the user can take out items from the top of the conveyed item 12, which is tilted forwards.

[0086] Next, after the desired item is removed from the transported item 12 at the holding position of the worktable 202, the transported item 12 is moved out to the transport channel 18. The holding mechanism 44 releases the holding state of the worktable mechanism 20 by operating the operation unit 46.

[0087] Specifically, the user holds the control lever 461, such as Figure 6 As shown, the operating lever 461 is rotated upwards with the support shaft 306 as the fulcrum. Rotation of the operating lever 461, as... Figure 10 As shown, one end of the transmission member 462 is pulled forward, and simultaneously, the other end of the transmission member 462 applies force to the block member 442 of the holding mechanism 44 outward in the width direction. Then, the block member 442 moves outward in the width direction while compressing the spring member 444, thereby separating the pair of holding members 443 from the lower part of the base member 201 outward in the width direction. The pair of holding members 443 separate from the lower part of the base side 211. Accordingly, in the holding position of the worktable 202, the holding state of the holding mechanism 44 holding the worktable mechanism 20 is released.

[0088] After the holding mechanism 44 is in the released state, the user stops operating the operation unit 46. Accordingly, the operating lever 461 rotates back to its original position with the support shaft 306 as the fulcrum and the handle 463 positioned below. By stopping the operation of the operation unit 46, the pulling force applied by the holding mechanism 44 to pull the block member 442 outward in the width direction ceases. Under the elastic force of the spring member 444, the block member 442 and the holding member 443 move inward in the width direction. Therefore, the holding mechanism 44 is in a state where the worktable mechanism 20 can be held again.

[0089] Furthermore, the holding state of the worktable mechanism 20 by the holding mechanism 44 is released. In the holding position, under the weight of the conveyed object 12, the worktable mechanism 20 moves downward while simultaneously causing the second slider 222 of the force application mechanism 22 and the counterweight component 421 to move upward. At this time, since the front end 20F of the worktable 202 abuts against the front support bracket 304, therefore, as Figure 6 As shown, the front end 20F of the worktable 202 does not descend, while the worktable 202 tilts downward with the rear end 20R of the worktable 202 as the fulcrum of the support 203.

[0090] With the downward movement of the front end 20F of the worktable 202 restricted, the worktable 202 tilts about the support 203. Accordingly, after the worktable 202 and the base component 201 become approximately horizontal, as... Figure 7 As shown, the worktable 202 is further tilted, thereby reaching the rear end 20R of the worktable 202, which is tilted to a lower position than the front end 20F, in the transport position. In the transport position, the rear end 20R of the worktable 202 is opposite to the transport channel 18.

[0091] At this time, as the support 203 and base component 201 of the worktable mechanism 20 move downward, the first slider 221 moves downward. As the first slider 221 moves downward, the second slider 222 moves upward in conjunction with the connecting component 223.

[0092] When the worktable 202 reaches the delivery position, the transported item 12 moves from the worktable 202 to the delivery channel 18 along the inclined worktable 202. Specifically, the transported item 12 moves along the support rail 213 of the worktable 202 to the delivery channel 18. The transported item 12 uses its own weight to move by the rollers 18R of the delivery rail 181 and is placed behind the delivery channel 18. In addition, the delivery channel 18 has a length in the front-back direction (arrows A1, A2 direction) of the transfer device 10 that can accommodate more than one transported item 12.

[0093] In the holding position and the take-out position of the worktable 202, the first slider 221 moves downward in conjunction with the position of the worktable 202, thereby moving the release part 26 away from the restricting member 24. Therefore, the restricting member 24 reaches the blocking position that prevents it from moving downward from the release position, thus preventing the new transported item 12a from being transported from the transport channel 16 to the worktable 202 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 ).

[0094] like Figure 7As shown, as the transported item 12 moves from the worktable 202 at the transport position to the transport channel 18, the worktable mechanism 20 no longer bears the weight of the transported item 12. That is, the downward moving force of the worktable mechanism 20 comes only from the weight of the worktable mechanism 20. Therefore, at the transport position where the transported item 12 moves towards the transport channel 18, the weight of the force-applying component 22B is greater than the weight of the worktable mechanism 20. Therefore, the downward moving force of the second slider 222 caused by the force of the force-applying component 22B exceeds the downward moving force of the first slider 221.

[0095] Accordingly, Figure 8 As shown, the second slider 222 moves downward, and in conjunction with this, the first slider 221 moves upward. As the first slider 221 moves upward, the worktable mechanism 20 moves upward together with the first slider 221. Along with the upward movement of the worktable mechanism 20, the worktable 202 tilts around the support 203, tilting so that the front end 20F is lower than the rear end 20R, thus reaching the loading position.

[0096] like Figure 9A As shown, when the worktable mechanism 20 moves upward, the base side 211 contacts the retaining member 443, thereby causing the retaining member 443 to rotate about the rotation axis 481 in a direction away from the worktable mechanism 20. By rotating in contact with the worktable mechanism 20, each retaining member 443 retracts to a position further outward in the width direction than the movement trajectory of the worktable mechanism 20. By retracting the retaining members 443 to a position further outward in the width direction than the worktable mechanism 20, the worktable mechanism 20 can move upward past the retaining members 443.

[0097] After the worktable mechanism 20 moves to a position above the holding member 443, the holding member 443 rotates in the opposite direction by its own weight, the pressing part 483 abuts against the block member 442, and the holding surface 484 returns to a roughly horizontal state (see reference). Figure 9A Additionally, when the worktable mechanism 20 moves upward from below the holding mechanism 44, for example, the holding member 443 can be moved outward in the width direction by the user operating the operation unit 46 to prevent the worktable mechanism 20 and the holding mechanism 44 from contacting each other.

[0098] like Figure 8 As shown, by moving the first slider 221 upward, the release part 26 moves upward, and the release part 26 presses the restricting member 24, which is in the blocking position, upward, causing it to move to the release position. By making the restricting member 24 in the release position, the new transported item 12a is allowed to move from the transport channel 16 to the worktable mechanism 20 (worktable 202) via the transport inlet 34.

[0099] Accordingly, the inlet 34 is open, and a new item 12a placed in the inlet channel 16 is moved through the inlet 34 to the workbench 202 located at the inlet position. In addition, the inlet channel 16 has a length in the front-back direction of the transfer device 10 that can accommodate more than one item 12.

[0100] This implementation method can achieve the following effects.

[0101] like Figure 1 As shown, the transfer device 10 has a limiting member 24 disposed between the transfer channel 16 and the worktable 202, which prevents the transferred item 12 from moving from the transfer channel 16 to the worktable 202. When the transferred item 12 is positioned and held on the worktable 202, the limiting member 24 prevents it from moving from the transfer channel 16 to the worktable 202. In conjunction with the movement of the transferred item 12, the releasing unit 26 actuates to release the limiting member 24. By moving the limiting member 24 to the released position, the transferred item 12 is allowed to move towards the worktable 202.

[0102] According to the transfer device 10, by moving the limiting member 24 in conjunction with the movement of the transferred item 12, the transferred item 12 can be effectively prevented from moving from the transfer channel 16 to the worktable 202 using a simple structure.

[0103] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, in the holding position and the moving position of the worktable 202, the limiting component 24 is in the blocking position, as... Figure 3 As shown, when the worktable 202 is in the loading position, the limiting component 24 is in the released position.

[0104] According to this structure, by moving the worktable 202 along the height direction, the transfer state of the transported object 12 can be effectively switched.

[0105] like Figure 1 As shown, a force-applying mechanism 22 is provided, which actuates the release part 26 by applying force to it. According to this structure, the force of the force-applying mechanism 22 can be used to effectively actuate the release part 26.

[0106] The force-applying mechanism 22 has a counterweight component 421 connected to the release part 26. With this structure, force can be applied to the release part 26 without the need for electricity or the like.

[0107] like Figure 2 As shown, the counterweights 421 are disposed on both sides of the transfer device 10 in the width direction, which is orthogonal to the height and front-back directions. According to this structure, the counterweights 421 will not obstruct the user when the user is facing the worktable 202 holding the object 12 being transferred.

[0108] like Figure 1 As shown, the limiting member 24 is arranged in a manner that allows it to move along the height direction. According to this structure, the movement of the conveyed object 12 can be effectively prevented by the limiting member 24, which is movable along the height direction.

[0109] like Figure 4 As shown, the limiting member 24 can move downwards using its own weight, moving from the released position to the stopped position. According to this structure, when the limiting member 24 is in the stopped position, there is no need to apply force to the limiting member 24 using other force-applying structures.

[0110] like Figure 1 As shown, the release part 26 is provided in a manner that allows it to move along the height direction. According to this structure, the release part 26 can be effectively moved along the height direction by the weight (force) of the counterweight member 421.

[0111] like Figure 8 As shown, as the conveyed item 12 moves from the worktable 202 to the conveying channel 18, the worktable 202 moves upward from the conveying position toward the conveying position due to the force applied by the force-applying member 22B. The upward movement of the release part 26 causes the restricting member 24 to move to the release position, and the restricting member 24 moves downward from the release position to the blocking position. According to this structure, by moving the worktable 202 from the conveying position to the conveying position, the blocking state of the restricting member 24 is effectively released.

[0112] like Figure 1 As shown, the transfer device 10 has a holding mechanism 44 that can hold the worktable 202 to prevent the worktable 202 (worktable mechanism 20) from moving downwards. Figure 6 As shown, when the holding mechanism 44 releases its holding state on the worktable 202 in the holding position, as... Figure 7 As shown, the worktable 202 tilts under the weight of the conveyed object 12, with its rear end 20R positioned lower than its front end 20F. According to this structure, by releasing the holding mechanism 44 from holding the worktable 202, the weight of the conveyed object 12 can be used to effectively tilt the worktable 202.

[0113] When the workbench 202 reaches the delivery position, the transported item 12 moves from the workbench 202 to the delivery channel 18 along the inclined workbench 202. According to this structure, by tilting the workbench 202, the transported item 12 held by the workbench 202 can be automatically delivered to the delivery channel 18.

[0114] like Figure 1As shown, the device includes an operation unit 46, which can release the holding mechanism 44 from holding the worktable 202. According to this configuration, by operating the operation unit 46, the object 12 held by the worktable 202 can be effectively moved to the transport channel 18 at a desired time.

[0115] Furthermore, the worktable 202 is not limited to being able to tilt via the support 203. For example, the worktable 202 may also be configured to be approximately horizontal without tilting.

[0116] Furthermore, the limiting member 24 is not limited to being movable in the height direction. For example, the limiting member 24 may also be provided in a way that allows it to move in the width direction, covering a portion of the loading inlet 34 in the blocking position. The limiting member 24 is not limited to being configured to reach the blocking position by moving downward from the release position. For example, the limiting member 24 may also be configured to reach the blocking position by moving upward from the release position.

[0117] The release part 26 is not limited to being movable in the height direction. For example, if the limiting member 24 is configured to be movable in the width direction, the release part 26 may also be configured to be movable in the width direction.

[0118] Regarding the aforementioned publicly disclosed information, the following notes are also disclosed.

[0119] (Note 1) The transfer device (10) has an inlet channel (16), an outlet channel (18), a worktable (202), a restraining member (24), and a release part (26), wherein the inlet channel (16) is used to inlet the transferred object (12); the outlet channel (18) is configured to be lower than the inlet channel in the height direction; the worktable (202) is disposed between the inlet channel and the outlet channel on the transfer path of the transferred object, holding the transferred object inlet from the inlet channel and moving the transferred object out to the outlet channel; the restraining member (24) is provided on the inlet channel. Between the inlet channel and the worktable, the object being transported can be prevented from moving from the inlet channel to the worktable; the release unit (26) works in conjunction with the movement of the object being transported to release the restriction of the restriction member. When the object being transported is positioned and held on the worktable, the restriction member in the blocking position prevents the object being transported from moving from the inlet channel to the worktable. As the object being transported moves from the worktable to the outlet channel, the release unit moves the restriction member to the release position, thereby allowing the object being transported to move to the worktable.

[0120] Based on this structure, by moving the limiting component in conjunction with the movement of the conveyed object, it is possible to effectively prevent the conveyed object from moving from the loading channel to the worktable using a simple structure.

[0121] (Note 2) According to the transfer device described in Appendix 1, the worktable may also be movable between a loading position, a loading position, and a holding position, wherein the loading position is for receiving the transferred item from the loading channel; the loading position is for being positioned below the loading position and for moving the transferred item out of the loading channel; the holding position is for being positioned between the loading position and the loading position to hold the transferred item, wherein the limiting member is located in the blocking position in the holding position and the loading position, and the limiting member is located in the releasing position in the loading position.

[0122] Based on this structure, the transfer state of the transported items can be effectively switched by moving the worktable along the height direction.

[0123] (Note 3) According to Appendix 1 or 2, the transfer device may also have a force-applying mechanism (22) that applies force to the release part to make the release part actuate.

[0124] Based on this structure, the force applied by the force-applying mechanism can be used to make the release part operate effectively.

[0125] (Note 4) According to the transfer device described in Appendix 3, the force application mechanism may also have a counterweight component (421) connected to the release part.

[0126] According to this structure, force can be effectively applied to the release part without the need for electricity.

[0127] (Note 5) According to Appendix 4, the transfer device may also be configured such that the worktable is disposed on one side of the transfer device in the front-rear direction, i.e., the front part, and the counterweight is disposed on at least one side of the transfer device in the width direction orthogonal to the height direction and the front-rear direction.

[0128] With this structure, the counterweight will not obstruct the user when the user is facing the object being moved on the workbench.

[0129] (Note 6) According to Appendix 2, the transfer device may also be configured such that the limiting component is movable along the height direction.

[0130] According to this structure, the movement of the conveyed object can be effectively prevented by a limiting component that can move along the height direction.

[0131] (Note 7) According to the transfer device described in Appendix 6, the limiting member can also be moved downward by its own weight, and the limiting member reaches the blocking position by moving downward from the release position.

[0132] With this structure, when the limiting component is in the blocking position, there is no need to use other force-applying mechanisms to apply force to the limiting component.

[0133] (Postscript 8) According to the transfer device described in Appendix 4, the release part may also be provided in a manner that allows it to move along the height direction.

[0134] Based on this structure, the release part can be effectively moved along the height direction by the weight (force) of the counterweight component.

[0135] (Note 9) According to the transfer device described in Appendix 2, the limiting member may also be configured to be movable along the height direction and capable of moving downwards by its own weight. The worktable has a rear end (20R) opposite to the loading channel at the loading position and a front end (20F) located on the opposite side of the rear end, and is configured to be tiltable to change the relative position of the rear end and the front end in the height direction. At the loading position, the rear end is located at a higher position than the front end, and at the unloading position, the rear end is located at a lower position than the front end. It has a force-applying mechanism that applies force to the release part to actuate the release part. As the transported object moves from the worktable to the unloading channel, the worktable moves upwards from the unloading position toward the loading position by the force of the force-applying mechanism, and the upward movement of the release part causes the limiting member to move toward the release position. The limiting member moves downwards from the release position to the blocking position.

[0136] According to this structure, the restrictive state of the limiting component is effectively released when the worktable moves from the out position to the in position.

[0137] (Postscript 10) According to Appendix 2, the transfer device may also have a worktable having a rear end opposite to the loading channel at the loading position and a front end on the opposite side of the rear end, and is configured to tilt so that the relative positions of the rear end and the front end change in the height direction. At the loading position, the rear end is located at a higher position than the front end, and at the unloading position, the rear end is located at a lower position than the front end. The transfer device has a holding mechanism (44) that can hold the worktable to prevent the worktable from moving downward. When the holding state of the holding mechanism on the worktable is released at the holding position, the worktable tilts under the weight of the transported object with the rear end located at a lower position than the front end, and reaches the unloading position.

[0138] According to this structure, by releasing the holding mechanism from the worktable, the weight of the object being transported can be used to effectively tilt the worktable.

[0139] (Postscript 11) According to the transfer device described in Appendix 10, when the workbench reaches the transfer position, the object to be transferred moves from the workbench to the transfer channel along the inclined workbench.

[0140] Based on this structure, by tilting the worktable, the items being transported held by the worktable can be automatically moved out of the transport channel.

[0141] (Postscript 12) According to Appendix 10, the transfer device may also have an operation unit (46) that can release the holding mechanism from the holding state of the worktable.

[0142] With this structure, the user can operate the control unit to efficiently move the items held on the workbench to the outgoing channel at the desired time.

[0143] The present invention has been described in detail above, but it is not limited to the various embodiments described. Various additions, substitutions, modifications, and partial deletions can be made to these embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention or the spirit of the invention derived from the content described in the technical solutions and their equivalents. Furthermore, these embodiments can also be implemented in combination. For example, in the embodiments described above, the order of each action and the order of each process are shown as an example, but are not limited thereto. The same applies to the use of numerical values ​​or mathematical formulas in the description of the embodiments described above.

Claims

1. A transfer device, characterized in that, It has an inlet channel, an outlet channel, a worktable, limiting components, and a release mechanism, wherein, The loading channel is used to load in the items to be moved. The outgoing channel is configured to be lower than the incoming channel in the height direction; The workbench is arranged between the inlet channel and the outlet channel on the transport path of the transported item, for holding the transported item brought in from the inlet channel and moving the transported item out to the outlet channel; The limiting component is disposed between the loading channel and the worktable, and is capable of preventing the transported item from moving from the loading channel to the worktable; The release unit operates in conjunction with the movement of the conveyed object to release the restriction imposed by the restricting component. With the transported item positioned and held on the worktable, the limiting member, in a blocking position, prevents the transported item from moving from the loading channel towards the worktable. As the transported item moves from the worktable to the transport channel, the release unit moves the restricting member to the release position, thereby allowing the transported item to move back to the worktable.

2. The transfer device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The worktable is movable between an infeed position, an outfeed position, and a holding position. The infeed position is for receiving the item being transported from the infeed channel. The outfeed position is located below the infeed position and is for transporting the item outfeed through the outfeed channel. The holding position is located between the infeed and outfeed positions and is for holding the item being transported. In the holding position and the moving position, the limiting member is in the blocking position, and in the moving position, the limiting member is in the releasing position.

3. The transfer device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It has a force-applying mechanism that applies force to the release part to make the release part actuate.

4. The transfer device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The force-applying mechanism has a counterweight component connected to the release part.

5. The transfer device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The worktable is positioned on one side of the transfer device in the front-rear direction, i.e., the front. The counterweight component is disposed on at least one side of the width direction, which is orthogonal to the height direction and the front-back direction, in the transfer device.

6. The transfer device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The limiting component is configured to be movable along the height direction.

7. The transfer device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The limiting component can move downwards using its own weight. The limiting component reaches the blocking position by moving downward from the release position.

8. The transfer device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The release section is configured to be movable along the height direction.

9. The transfer device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The limiting component is configured to move along the height direction and can also move downwards using its own weight. The worktable has a rear end opposite the loading channel at the loading position and a front end located on the opposite side of the rear end, and is configured to tilt to change the relative position of the rear end and the front end in the height direction. At the loading position, the rear end is positioned higher than the front end. At the specified removal position, the rear end is positioned lower than the front end. It has a force-applying mechanism that applies force to the release part to cause it to actuate. As the transported object moves from the workbench to the transport channel, the workbench moves upward from the transport position toward the transport position through the force of the force application mechanism, and the release part moves upward to cause the limiting member to move toward the release position. The limiting member moves downward from the release position to reach the blocking position.

10. The transfer device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The worktable has a rear end opposite the loading channel at the loading position and a front end located on the opposite side of the rear end, and is configured to tilt to change the relative position of the rear end and the front end in the height direction. At the loading position, the rear end is positioned higher than the front end. At the specified removal position, the rear end is positioned lower than the front end. The transfer device has a holding mechanism that can hold the worktable to prevent it from moving downwards. When the holding mechanism releases the worktable from its holding position, the worktable tilts under the weight of the object being moved, causing the rear end to be positioned lower than the front end, and reaches the removal position.

11. The transfer device according to claim 10, characterized in that, When the workbench reaches the transport position, the transported item moves from the workbench to the transport channel along the inclined workbench.

12. The transfer device according to claim 10, characterized in that, It has an operating unit that can release the holding state in which the holding mechanism holds the worktable.

Images