Lifting device and annular unmanned aerial vehicle storage and transport system

Abstract

The application provides a lifting device and a ring-shaped unmanned aerial vehicle storage and transportation system, and belongs to the field of elevators. The lifting device comprises a rotating base, at least two columns arranged on the rotating base, and a lifting platform capable of ascending and descending along the columns. Each column is arranged on the same circumference around the rotating axis of the rotating base, and the center of the lifting platform is located on the rotating axis of the rotating base. The interval space of each column in the circumferential direction constitutes a channel for horizontally transferring goods between the lifting platform and the ring-shaped warehouse. The upper end of each column is connected with a rotating support frame extending in the circumferential direction and arranged in a whole ring or segmented in the circumferential direction. The outer side of the rotating support frame is provided with a rotating matching structure for realizing rotating matching with the ring-shaped warehouse. The inner side of the rotating support frame is provided with a channel for vertically entering and exiting goods. The unmanned aerial vehicle storage and transportation system comprises the lifting device. The lifting device in the application not only has a compact structure, but also has the ability to vertically transport goods.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of elevators, and in particular relates to an elevator device and a ring-shaped unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) storage and transportation system. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of warehousing and logistics, traditional storage and transportation solutions use rectangular warehouses, which suffer from a series of problems such as insufficient compactness, low efficiency, and high cost. In contrast, the storage and transportation solution using circular warehouses has advantages such as large volume ratio, high efficiency, low cost, and customizability, and can meet the diversified development needs of intelligent logistics systems.

[0003] A circular warehouse requires a self-rotating lifting device at its center to access and retrieve goods within the warehouse. The specific structure of this lifting device can be found in the rotating lifting device disclosed in Chinese Utility Model Patent No. CN222293495U. This rotating lifting device includes a base, a vertically extending column located at the center of the base, and a loading platform located on one side of the column that can move up and down along the column. The base has a rotating unit that allows the column to rotate relative to the base, and the column has a lifting unit for driving the loading platform up and down. The upper end of the column also has a straightening part, which rotatably engages with a straightening frame fixed at the top center of the shelving unit to provide support during use.

[0004] In existing circular warehouses, the lifting system positions the loading platform beside the axis of rotation, requiring a large central space for platform rotation, which hinders a compact layout. Furthermore, existing circular warehouses only allow horizontal movement of goods. In locations requiring vertical cargo transfer, such as transferring goods from a circular warehouse on the lower deck to the upper deck, the goods must first be horizontally removed from the warehouse and then transferred to the upper deck using a separate lifting system – a cumbersome and space-consuming process. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a lifting device that solves the technical problems of existing lifting devices occupying a large space and being unable to access goods from the top when applied to a circular warehouse.

[0006] Another objective of this invention is to provide a ring-shaped unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) storage and transportation system to solve the aforementioned technical problems.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the lifting device provided by the present invention is as follows: A lifting device includes a rotating base, at least two columns mounted on the rotating base, and a lifting platform capable of moving up and down along the columns. The columns are arranged on the same circumference around the rotation axis of the rotating base, and the center of the lifting platform is located on the rotation axis of the rotating base. The circumferential spacing between the columns forms a channel for horizontal transfer of goods between the lifting platform and a circular warehouse. The upper end of the columns is connected to a rotating support frame that extends circumferentially and is arranged in a complete ring or in segments circumferentially. The outer side of the rotating support frame is provided with a rotating engagement structure for rotational engagement with the circular warehouse, and the inner side of the rotating support frame is provided with a channel for vertical entry and exit of goods.

[0008] As a further improvement, each slewing support frame is arranged in a corresponding segment in the circumferential space of each column, and the two ends of each slewing support frame are fixedly connected to the adjacent columns.

[0009] As a further improvement, the circumferential end of the slewing support frame is connected to the circumferential side of the corresponding column, and the column is located within the arc surface of the outer circumferential surface of the slewing support frame.

[0010] As a further improvement, the slewing fit structure consists of multiple rolling components mounted on the slewing support frame and protruding from the outer side of the slewing support frame. The rolling components are arranged circumferentially on the slewing support frame at intervals, and during use, the rolling components roll into fit with the corresponding positions of the annular warehouse.

[0011] As a further improvement, the rolling component includes a mounting base assembly and a rolling element. The mounting base assembly includes a module mounting base and a roller mounting base that is guided on the module mounting base. The rolling element is mounted on the roller mounting base. An elastic component is provided between the module mounting base and the roller mounting base. During use, the rolling component can float and adjust according to the radial clearance between the rotary support frame and the annular warehouse.

[0012] As a further improvement, the module mounting base includes a base body, an adjusting screw, and a pressing component. The roller mounting base and the pressing component are both located inside the base body. The adjusting screw is threaded onto the base body. One end of the adjusting screw inside the base body is press-fitted with the pressing component, and the other end of the adjusting screw outside the base body is a turning end for adjustment. An elastic component is located between the pressing component and the roller mounting base.

[0013] As a further improvement, the base is a box-shaped structure with one side open. The top pressure component and the roller mounting seat are respectively installed into the base from the open side. The adjusting screw is installed on the side wall of the base opposite to the open side. The roller mounting seat has two mating walls corresponding to the two opposite side walls of the base. A linear module for guiding mating is provided between the mating wall and the corresponding side wall of the base.

[0014] As a further improvement, the top pressing component is disposed between the two mating walls of the roller mounting base. The mating walls of the roller mounting base are provided with guide grooves, and the top pressing component is provided with guide protrusions that extend into the guide grooves and cooperate with the guide grooves.

[0015] As a further improvement, the elastic component includes a first elastic component with a larger elastic modulus and a second elastic component with a smaller elastic modulus. Both the second elastic component and the first elastic component are fixedly connected to the top pressure component. The length of the second elastic component is greater than the length of the first elastic component. During installation and adjustment, the second elastic component is pressed against the roller mounting seat while the first elastic component is left with a gap from the roller mounting seat.

[0016] As a further improvement, there are two columns, which are symmetrically arranged on the rotating base. The lifting platform is located between the two columns and is guided and engaged with both columns. The end of the lifting platform that engages with each column is equipped with an inner guide wheel that rolls with the guide rail on the radial inner side of the column, and two sets of side guide wheels that roll with the guide rails on both sides of the column's circumference.

[0017] As a further improvement, the lifting device has a synchronous lifting module for driving the lifting platform to rise and fall. The synchronous lifting module includes a winch with at least two drums that can rotate synchronously. Each drum is wound with a wire rope, and each wire rope is attached to a column through a reversing wheel. The end of each wire rope is fixedly connected to the lifting platform.

[0018] The beneficial effects are as follows: The lifting device provided by this invention is a pioneering invention. This lifting device allows the rotation center of the rotating base to pass through the center of the lifting platform, reducing the space required for the platform's rotation and making the overall layout of the lifting device more compact. This helps to reduce the overall size of a circular warehouse when applied to it. The lifting device also employs rotating support frames arranged in a complete ring or in segments along the circumference to cooperate with the rotation of the circular warehouse. While supporting the upper end of the lifting device, it also leaves a passage for goods to enter and exit the circular warehouse, enabling direct vertical transfer of goods in special locations. This is convenient to operate and occupies less space.

[0019] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the ring-shaped unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) storage and transportation system provided by this invention is as follows: A ring-shaped unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) storage and transportation system includes a ring-shaped warehouse. The top center of the ring-shaped warehouse has an entrance / exit for UAVs. A lifting device is located at the center of the ring-shaped warehouse. The lifting device includes a rotating base, at least two columns mounted on the rotating base, and a lifting platform capable of moving up and down along the columns. The columns are arranged on the same circumference around the rotation axis of the rotating base. The center of the lifting platform is located on the rotation axis of the rotating base. The circumferential spacing between the columns forms a channel for the horizontal transfer of UAVs between the lifting platform and storage compartments in the ring-shaped warehouse. The upper ends of the columns are connected to rotating support frames that extend circumferentially and are arranged in a complete ring or in segments. A rotating engagement structure is provided on the outer side of the rotating support frame, allowing it to rotate and engage with the inner wall of the entrance / exit. The inner side of the rotating support frame provides a channel for the vertical entry and exit of UAVs from the ring-shaped warehouse.

[0020] As a further improvement, each slewing support frame is arranged in a corresponding segment in the circumferential space of each column, and the two ends of each slewing support frame are fixedly connected to the adjacent columns.

[0021] As a further improvement, the circumferential end of the slewing support frame is connected to the circumferential side of the corresponding column, and the column is located within the arc surface of the outer circumferential surface of the slewing support frame.

[0022] As a further improvement, the slewing fit structure consists of multiple rolling components mounted on the slewing support frame and protruding from the outer side of the slewing support frame. The rolling components are arranged circumferentially on the slewing support frame at intervals, and during use, the rolling components roll into fit with the corresponding positions of the annular warehouse.

[0023] As a further improvement, the rolling component includes a mounting base assembly and a rolling element. The mounting base assembly includes a module mounting base and a roller mounting base that is guided on the module mounting base. The rolling element is mounted on the roller mounting base. An elastic component is provided between the module mounting base and the roller mounting base. During use, the rolling component can float and adjust according to the radial clearance between the rotary support frame and the annular warehouse.

[0024] As a further improvement, the module mounting base includes a base body, an adjusting screw, and a pressing component. The roller mounting base and the pressing component are both located inside the base body. The adjusting screw is threaded onto the base body. One end of the adjusting screw inside the base body is press-fitted with the pressing component, and the other end of the adjusting screw outside the base body is a turning end for adjustment. An elastic component is located between the pressing component and the roller mounting base.

[0025] As a further improvement, the base is a box-shaped structure with one side open. The top pressure component and the roller mounting seat are respectively installed into the base from the open side. The adjusting screw is installed on the side wall of the base opposite to the open side. The roller mounting seat has two mating walls corresponding to the two opposite side walls of the base. A linear module for guiding mating is provided between the mating wall and the corresponding side wall of the base.

[0026] As a further improvement, the top pressing component is disposed between the two mating walls of the roller mounting base. The mating walls of the roller mounting base are provided with guide grooves, and the top pressing component is provided with guide protrusions that extend into the guide grooves and cooperate with the guide grooves.

[0027] As a further improvement, the elastic component includes a first elastic component with a larger elastic modulus and a second elastic component with a smaller elastic modulus. Both the second elastic component and the first elastic component are fixedly connected to the top pressure component. The length of the second elastic component is greater than the length of the first elastic component. During installation and adjustment, the second elastic component is pressed against the roller mounting seat while the first elastic component is left with a gap from the roller mounting seat.

[0028] As a further improvement, there are two columns, which are symmetrically arranged on the rotating base. The lifting platform is located between the two columns and is guided and engaged with both columns. The end of the lifting platform that engages with each column is equipped with an inner guide wheel that rolls with the guide rail on the radial inner side of the column, and two sets of side guide wheels that roll with the guide rails on both sides of the column's circumference.

[0029] As a further improvement, the lifting device has a synchronous lifting module for driving the lifting platform to rise and fall. The synchronous lifting module includes a winch with at least two drums that can rotate synchronously. Each drum is wound with a wire rope, and each wire rope is attached to a column through a reversing wheel. The end of each wire rope is fixedly connected to the lifting platform.

[0030] The beneficial effects are as follows: The circular UAV storage and transportation system provided by this invention is an improvement upon existing technologies. This circular UAV storage and transportation system utilizes a new lifting device. This lifting device allows the rotation center of the rotating base to pass through the center of the lifting platform, reducing the space required for the lifting platform's rotation and making the overall layout of the lifting device more compact. This helps to reduce the overall size of the circular warehouse when applied to it. The lifting device also employs rotating support frames arranged in a complete ring or segmented along the circumference to cooperate with the rotation of the circular warehouse. While supporting the upper end of the lifting device, it also leaves a passage for goods to enter and exit the circular warehouse, enabling direct vertical transfer of goods in special locations. This is convenient to operate and occupies less space. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system in this invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ring-shaped warehouse in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the lifting device in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the rotary drive module in Embodiment 1 of the circular UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 5 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the lifting platform in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the synchronous lifting module in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the top limiting module in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the buffer structure in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the switch trigger module in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning switch module in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the anti-fall module in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between the rotary support frame and the ring warehouse in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the rolling component in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the rolling component in Embodiment 1 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rolling component without its base in Embodiment 1 of the circular UAV storage and transportation system of the present invention.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Circular warehouse; 101. Storage location; 102. Entrance / exit; 2. Rotary base; 3. Column; 31. Guide rail; 4. Lifting platform; 41. Inner guide wheel; 42. Side guide wheel; 43. Anti-fall connecting support; 5. Rotary support frame; 6. Rolling component; 61. Rolling element; 62. Module mounting base; 621. Base body; 622. Adjusting screw; 623. Top pressure component; 6231. Guide protrusion; 624. Bearing bushing; 625. Locking nut; 63. Roller mounting base; 631. Mounting wall; 632. Mating wall; 633. Guide groove; 64. Linear module; 65. Second elastic component; 66. First elastic component Components; 7. Rotary drive module; 71. Servo motor; 72. Reducer; 73. Drive gear; 74. Rotary support; 8. Synchronous lifting module; 81. Winch; 82. Wire rope; 83. Wedge joint; 84. Screw tensioning device; 85. Reversing wheel; 9. Top limit module; 91. Limit pin; 92. Nylon sleeve; 10. Buffer; 11. Limit switch assembly; 12. Switch trigger module; 121. Mounting bracket; 122. Contact block; 13. Position switch module; 131. Switch support; 132. Position switch component; 14. Fall protection module; 141. Fall protection fixing seat; 142. Fall protector. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments.

[0034] Specific Embodiment 1 of the Ring-Shaped Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Storage and Transportation System provided by the present invention: See appendix Figure 1 The ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system includes a ring-shaped warehouse 1 and a lifting device located at the center of the ring-shaped warehouse 1.

[0035] See appendix Figure 2 The circular warehouse 1 has multiple storage compartments 101 for storing drones. The compartments 101 are arranged in layers on the circular warehouse 1, and each compartment 101 has an opening facing the center of the circular warehouse 1, through which drones can enter and exit the compartment 101. The top of the center of the circular warehouse 1 is provided with an entrance and exit 102 for drones to enter and exit. Drones in the compartments 101 can be transferred to the entrance and exit 102 by means of a lifting device, or drones at the entrance and exit 102 can be transferred to the compartments 101 by means of a lifting device.

[0036] See appendix Figure 3 The lifting device includes a rotating base 2, a column 3, and a lifting platform 4.

[0037] The rotating base 2 is rotatably mounted on a mounting platform on the central base plate of the circular warehouse 1. The rotating base 2 is equipped with a rotating drive module 7 for driving its rotation, combined with the attached... Figure 4The slewing drive module 7 includes a servo motor 71, a reducer 72 connected to the servo motor 71, a drive gear 73 connected to the output end of the reducer 72, and a slewing support 74. The inner ring of the slewing support 74 is fixed to the lower middle position of the slewing base 2 by bolt assembly, and the outer gear ring of the slewing support 74 is fixed to the mounting platform by bolt assembly. The slewing support 74 mainly bears the axial force, radial force, and overturning moment loads caused by the lifting device in the complex swaying environment of high sea state.

[0038] The reducer 72 is fixedly connected to the servo motor 71 and vertically installed in the groove on the upper part of the rotary base 2. The drive gear 73 meshes with the outer gear ring of the rotary support 74. The drive gear 73 is driven by the servo motor 71 and the reducer 72 to rotate, thereby driving the rotary base 2 to rotate around the outer gear ring. When the rotary base 2 rotates to the appropriate position, the servo motor 71 is de-energized and the brake is self-locked to complete the precise positioning.

[0039] The rotating base 2 is a long strip structure, with the rotating support 74 located at its center, ensuring that the center of the rotating base 2 coincides with its rotation axis. Two columns 3 are provided, fixedly mounted at both ends of the rotating base 2. The two columns 3 are symmetrically arranged on the rotating base 2, and the distances from the two columns 3 to the rotation axis of the rotating base 2 are equal. The two columns 3 form a door frame structure. In use, the drone enters the lifting platform 4 located between the two columns 3 along a direction perpendicular to their arrangement. The direction in which the drone enters and exits the door frame structure is considered the forward / backward direction, and the arrangement direction of the columns 3 is considered the left / right direction.

[0040] In this embodiment, the drone can be horizontally moved between the compartment 101 and the lifting platform 4 by means of a transfer device set in the compartment 101 or by means of a transfer device set on the lifting platform 4. The horizontal transfer channel is the space between the two columns 3, and the horizontal transfer direction is the aforementioned front-back direction.

[0041] The lifting platform 4 is located between the two columns 3 and is guided and fitted to both columns 3. Specifically, each column 3 is equipped with four guide rails 31, see Appendix. Figure 5 The column 3 has two radially inner sides and one on each side circumferentially. See appendix. Figure 6The lifting platform 4 is equipped with guide wheels at the ends corresponding to the columns 3, with two guide wheels for each guide rail 31. The guide wheel that mates with the radially inner guide rail 31 on the column 3 is the inner guide wheel 41, located near the center and primarily used for lateral limiting. The guide wheels that mate with the circumferentially outer guide rails 31 on the column 3 are the side guide wheels 42, located near the edges. In use, these two sets of side guide wheels 42 are positioned on the front and rear sides of the column 3, respectively, primarily for lateral limiting. The two columns 3 provide stopping and limiting on the left and right sides of the lifting platform 4, improving the reliability of lateral upper limit control and simplifying the guiding fit structure between the lifting platform 4 and the columns 3. The rotation axis of each guide wheel is eccentric relative to its mounting axis, allowing for precise adjustment of the gap between the guide wheel and the guide rail 31, improving on-site engineering adaptability.

[0042] The lifting device is equipped with a synchronous lifting module 8 for driving the lifting platform 4 to rise and fall, see appendix. Figure 7 The synchronous lifting module 8 includes a winch 81, two wire ropes 82, two wedge joints 83, two sets of screw tensioning devices 84, and several reversing pulleys 85. The winch 81 is fixedly installed on the lower outer side of one of the columns 3. The winch 81 has two coaxial drums that can rotate synchronously. The first ends of the two wire ropes 82 are wound around the two drums respectively. The two wire ropes 82 are attached to the two columns 3 through the reversing pulleys 85, and their ends are connected to the lifting platform 4. The synchronous lifting module 8 drives the synchronous winding and unwinding of the two wire ropes 82 by the forward and reverse rotation of the winch 81, thereby driving the left and right ends of the lifting platform 4 to rise and fall vertically synchronously.

[0043] Specifically, one of the wire ropes 82 first runs upward along the outside of the column 3 where the winch 81 is located, and after reaching the upper end of the column 3, it goes downward through the reversing wheel 85 to the inside of the column 3. Then, it goes around the reversing wheel 85 on the lower side of the corresponding end of the lifting platform 4 and reaches the bottom of the lifting platform 4. The end of the wire rope 82 is fixedly connected to the wedge joint 83 through the wire rope 82 clamp. The wedge joint 83 is then fixed to the screw tensioning device 84 by a pin hinge. Finally, the screw tensioning device 84 is fixed to the lower part of the support of the lifting platform 4 by a bolt assembly. In use, the tension of the wire rope 82 can be adjusted by rotating the nut of the screw tensioning device 84. Another wire rope 82 first runs downward along the outside of the column 3 where the winch 81 is located. After reaching the lower end of the column 3, it passes through the reversing wheel 85 and goes around to the other column 3. After reaching the outside of the other column 3, it goes around upward through the reversing wheel 85. After reaching the upper end of the other column 3, it goes down through the reversing wheel 85 to the inside. After passing around the reversing wheel 85 on the lower side of the corresponding end of the lifting platform 4, it reaches the bottom of the lifting platform 4 and connects to the lifting platform 4 in the same way.

[0044] Both columns 3 are equipped with top limiting modules 9 at their tops, see attached document. Figure 8 and in conjunction with the appendix Figure 3 The top limiting module 9 includes a limiting pin 91 and a nylon sleeve 92 installed at one end of the limiting pin 91. The other end of the limiting pin 91 is provided with a flange structure. The flange structure of the limiting pin 91 is installed on the outer side of the upper end of the column 3 by bolts. The limiting pin 91 passes through the column 3 and the nylon sleeve 92 is located inside the column 3. When in use, the nylon sleeve 92 on the limiting pin 91 can mechanically limit the upper limit position of the lifting platform 4 to prevent the lifting platform 4 from flying off the column 3.

[0045] The upper surface of the rotating base 2 is fixed diagonally as follows Figure 9 The two buffers 10 shown are mainly used for safety buffering when the lifting module descends to the limit position.

[0046] The lifting device is also equipped with limit switch assemblies 11 and switch triggering modules 12 for detecting the upper and lower limit positions of the lifting platform 4. Four limit switch assemblies 11 and four switch triggering modules 12 are provided, with one limit switch assembly 11 and one switch triggering module 12 used as a set. Specifically, the switch triggering modules 12 are fixedly installed at the upper and lower ends of one side of each of the two columns 3, and the limit switch assemblies 11 are respectively located at the upper and lower parts of one side of each end of the lifting platform 4. When the lifting platform 4 reaches the upper limit position, the switch triggering module 12 at the upper end of the column 3 triggers the limit switch assembly 11 at the upper part of the lifting platform 4 to complete the upper limit position detection. When the lifting platform 4 reaches the lower limit position, the switch triggering module 12 at the lower end of the column 3 triggers the limit switch assembly 11 at the lower part of the lifting platform 4 to complete the lower limit position detection. See Appendix. Figure 10 The switch trigger module 12 includes a mounting bracket 121 and a contact block 122 disposed on the mounting bracket 121. The mounting bracket 121 is fixedly mounted on the column 3 by bolts. When in use, the contact block 122 triggers the limit switch assembly 11 to complete the detection of the limit position or zero position.

[0047] The lifting device is also equipped with a position switch module 13, see Appendix. Figure 11 The position switch module 13 includes a switch support 131 and a position switch component 132 mounted on the switch support 131. The switch support 131 is fixedly mounted on the bottom of the rotary base 2 by bolts and is used for detecting the state of the zero or starting position of the rotation.

[0048] The lifting device is also equipped with a fall protection module 14, see Appendix Figure 12The fall arrestor module 14 includes a fall arrestor base 141 and a fall arrestor 142 hinged to the fall arrestor base 141 via a pin. There are two fall arrestor modules 14, which are respectively installed on the inner top of the two columns 3. The steel cable of the fall arrestor 142 is connected to the specially set fall arrestor connecting support 43 on the lifting platform 4 via a shackle or hook. When the steel wire rope 82 in the synchronous lifting module 8 breaks, causing the lifting platform 4 to descend rapidly and reach the locking speed, the fall arrestor 142 can double lock the steel cable on it to prevent the lifting platform 4 from falling.

[0049] The upper end of the lifting device rotates with the inner wall of the inlet / outlet 102 of the annular warehouse 1, so that the inlet / outlet 102 of the annular warehouse 1 can provide support for the upper end of the lifting device, ensuring that the lifting device has sufficient rigidity to have sufficient stability under complex swaying load conditions in high sea state.

[0050] Specifically, the upper end of the lifting device is equipped with two rotating support frames 5, both of which are arc-shaped structures. The two rotating support frames 5 are respectively positioned in two spaced intervals around the two columns 3. The flanges at both ends of the rotating support frame 5 are bolted to the circumferential side flanges on the adjacent columns 3. The columns 3 are located within the arc surface of the outer circumference of the rotating support frame 5 to avoid collision and interference between the columns 3 and the inner wall of the entrance / exit 102 of the annular warehouse 1 during the rotation of the lifting device. In other embodiments, the outer surface of the column 3 can be set as an arc surface with the same curvature as the outer surface of the rotating support frame 5, in which case the outer surface of the column 3 and the outer surface of the rotating support frame 5 are on the same arc surface.

[0051] The outer side of the rotary support frame 5 is provided with a rotary engagement structure for rotating with the circular warehouse 1, and the inner side of the rotary support frame 5 is provided with a channel for vertical entry and exit of goods. During use, the lifting platform 4, or other components on the lifting platform 4, or the drone carried on the lifting platform 4 can be raised from inside the circular warehouse 1 to outside the circular warehouse 1, or lowered from outside the circular warehouse 1 to inside the circular warehouse 1 through the above-mentioned channel.

[0052] The slewing fit structure consists of multiple rolling components 6 mounted on the slewing support frame 5 and protruding from the outer side of the slewing support frame 5. The slewing support frame 5 has mounting holes for the rolling components 6 to be inserted from the outside. The rolling components 6 are arranged circumferentially on the slewing support frame 5 at intervals. (See attached diagram) Figure 13 During use, the rolling component 6 rolls into contact with the corresponding position of the annular warehouse 1. The aforementioned rolling component 6 is mainly used to reduce the rotational resistance between the rotary support frame 5 and the annular warehouse 1. These rolling components 6 are directly mounted on the rotary support frame 5, which is easier to manufacture and more convenient for disassembly and maintenance compared to using bearings to achieve the rotational fit. In other embodiments, the rotational fit structure can also be a bearing installed on the outside of the rotary support frame 5 between the inlet / outlet 102 of the annular warehouse 1 and the bearing itself.

[0053] See appendix Figure 14 and in conjunction with the appendix Figure 15 and attached Figure 16 The rolling component 6 includes a mounting base assembly and a rolling element 61. The mounting base assembly includes a module mounting base 62 and a roller mounting base 63 that is guided on the module mounting base 62. The rolling element 61 is mounted on the roller mounting base. An elastic component is provided between the module mounting base 62 and the roller mounting base 63. When in use, the rolling component 6 can float and adjust according to the radial gap between the rotary support frame 5 and the annular warehouse 1.

[0054] When the diameter of the inlet / outlet 102 of the annular warehouse 1 is large, even small relative machining errors of the inlet / outlet 102 and the rotary support frame 5 have a significant impact on their roundness, thus the radial clearance between them may not be uniform. When the lifting stroke of the lifting device is high, even a slight misalignment of the column 3 can cause a large horizontal displacement of the upper rotary support frame 5. Therefore, the actual rotational concentricity error between the rotary support frame 5 and the inlet / outlet 102 is also large, easily leading to changes in their radial clearance. Considering the influence of the roundness and rotational concentricity errors of the inlet / outlet 102 and the rotary support frame 5 of the annular warehouse 1, a floating adjustable rolling component 6 can adaptively adapt to the changing radial clearance between the rotary support frame 5 and the annular warehouse 1, thereby ensuring support for the upper end of the lifting device while preventing rotational jamming.

[0055] The module mounting base 62 includes a base body 621, an adjusting screw 622, and a pressing member 623. The base body 621 is a box-shaped structure with one open side. The pressing member 623 and the roller mounting base 63 are respectively inserted into the base body 621 from the open side. The adjusting screw 622 is threaded onto the side wall of the base body 621 opposite to the open side. One end of the adjusting screw 622 inside the base body 621 is press-fitted with the pressing member 623, and the other end of the adjusting screw 622 outside the base body 621 is a turning end for adjustment. An elastic component is disposed between the pressing member 623 and the roller mounting base 63. Specifically, a bearing bushing 624 is mounted on the base body 621 via a locking nut 625. The adjusting screw 622 is located inside the bearing bushing 624 and is connected to the bearing bushing 624 via a self-locking thread.

[0056] During assembly, the operator can adjust the height of the rolling element 61 protruding from the outer circumference of the rotary support frame 5 by turning the adjusting screw 622. On the one hand, if there is a difference in the gap between the rotary support frame 5 and the inlet / outlet 102 of the annular warehouse 1 due to machining errors, different adjustment amounts can be used to adapt to the different gaps between the rotary support frame 5 and the inlet / outlet 102 of the annular warehouse 1. On the other hand, a certain preload can be applied between the rolling element 6 and the inlet / outlet 102, and this preload can be adjusted by the adjusting screw 622.

[0057] The roller mounting base 63 has a C-shaped structure, including a mounting wall 631 for mounting the rolling element 61, and two mating walls 632 integrally formed at both ends of the mounting wall 631 and perpendicular to the mounting wall 631. The two mating walls 632 extend into the base body 621. A linear module 64 for guiding engagement is provided between the mating walls 632 and the corresponding side walls of the base body 621. A pressing member 623 is disposed between the two mating walls 632 of the roller mounting base 63. A guide groove 633 is provided on the mating wall 632 of the roller mounting base 63, and a guide protrusion 6231 is provided on the pressing member 623, extending into the guide groove 633 and guiding engagement with the guide groove 633. The position of the guide groove 633 is offset from the position of the linear module 64 to avoid interference.

[0058] The elastic components include a first elastic component 66 with a larger elastic modulus and a second elastic component 65 with a smaller elastic modulus. Both the second elastic component 65 and the first elastic component 66 are fixedly connected to the top pressure member 623. The length of the second elastic component 65 is greater than the length of the first elastic component 66. During installation and adjustment, the second elastic component 65 is pressed against the roller mounting seat 63, while the first elastic component 66 is left with a gap from the roller mounting seat 63. Two of each of the first elastic component 66 and the second elastic component 65 are provided and are diagonally distributed on the top pressure member 623 to obtain a relatively uniform elastic force during use.

[0059] The first elastic component 66 and the second elastic component 65 enable the rolling component 6 to have variable stiffness during use. This ensures that when the upper end of the lifting device rotates, it can tolerate certain roundness and concentricity errors through the floating elastic components, while also preventing excessive floating and thus avoiding axial misalignment of the lifting device. When rotating within the roundness and concentricity error range of the large-diameter rotary support frame 5, the required preload of the floating support is small, and at this time, only the second elastic component 65 contacts and is compressed by the roller mounting seat 63. When rotating outside the roundness and concentricity error range of the large-diameter rotary support frame 5, the required preload of the floating support is extremely large, and at this time, both the second elastic component 65 and the first elastic component 66 contact and are compressed by the roller mounting seat 63.

[0060] In this embodiment, the second elastic component 65 and the first elastic component 66 are gas springs of different specifications. In other embodiments, they may be helical springs of different specifications or other types of springs.

[0061] In this embodiment, the rolling element 61 is specifically a self-aligning roller bearing. In other embodiments, the rolling element 61 may also be a tapered roller bearing or a roller with a bearing.

[0062] Specific Embodiment 2 of the Ring-Shaped Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Storage and Transportation System provided by the present invention: This embodiment is based on Embodiment 1, but differs in that it uses three columns evenly distributed around the rotation axis of the rotating base. The rotating support frame is divided into three sections, each positioned within a circumferential space between the three columns. The two circumferential ends of the rotating support frame are fixedly connected to adjacent columns. In this embodiment, the three circumferential spaces between the three columns form channels for the horizontal movement of the drone between the lifting platform and the storage compartments of the circular warehouse.

[0063] Specific embodiment 3 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system provided by the present invention: This embodiment is based on embodiment 1. The difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that the rotary support frame is divided into two sections, and the two ends of each section of the rotary support frame are fixedly connected to the outside of two columns.

[0064] Specific embodiment 4 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system provided by the present invention: This embodiment is based on embodiment 1. The difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that the rotary support frame is a complete ring, and the upper end of the column is fixedly connected to the inner side of the rotary support frame.

[0065] In other embodiments of this implementation, the slewing support frame is a complete ring formed by splicing multiple segments.

[0066] Specific embodiment 5 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system provided by the present invention: This embodiment is based on embodiment 1. The difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that the rotary fit structure in this embodiment is a bearing set on the outside of the rotary support frame. The inner ring of the bearing is fixed to the rotary support frame, and the outer ring of the bearing is fixed to the annular warehouse.

[0067] Specific embodiment 6 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system provided by the present invention: This embodiment is based on embodiment 1. The difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that the rolling component in this embodiment is a rolling wheel installed in the mounting hole of the rotary support frame. The edge of the rolling wheel protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary support frame and rolls in cooperation with the inner wall surface of the entrance and exit of the annular warehouse.

[0068] Specific embodiment 7 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system provided by the present invention: This embodiment is based on embodiment 1. The difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that the specifications of the elastic components between the top pressing component and the roller mounting base are the same. After installation, all elastic components are pressed against the roller mounting base.

[0069] Specific embodiment 8 of the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system provided by the present invention: This embodiment is based on embodiment 1. The difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that the lifting device in this embodiment uses a screw and nut mechanism to drive the lifting platform to rise and fall. Specifically, the screw and nut mechanism includes a screw that is rotatably installed between the upper and lower ends of the inner side of the column, and a threaded cylinder that is installed on the lifting platform and is threaded with the screw. The screws on the two columns are each equipped with a separate drive motor.

[0070] Specific embodiments of the lifting device provided by the present invention: The lifting device is the lifting device in the specific implementation of the above-mentioned ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system. In addition to being used in the ring-shaped UAV storage and transportation system, the lifting device can also be used in ring-shaped warehouses that store other goods to achieve the purpose of goods entering and exiting from the top of the ring-shaped warehouse.

[0071] Finally, it should be noted that the above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still make modifications to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments without creative effort, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A lifting device, characterized in that, The system includes a rotating base, at least two columns mounted on the rotating base, and a lifting platform capable of moving up and down along the columns. The columns are arranged on the same circumference around the rotation axis of the rotating base. The center of the lifting platform is located on the rotation axis of the rotating base. The circumferential spacing between the columns forms a channel for horizontal transfer of goods between the lifting platform and the circular warehouse. The upper end of the columns is connected to a rotating support frame that extends circumferentially and is arranged in a complete ring or in segments circumferentially. The outer side of the rotating support frame is provided with a rotating engagement structure for rotational engagement with the circular warehouse, and the inner side of the rotating support frame is provided with a channel for vertical entry and exit of goods.

2. The lifting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each slewing support frame is arranged in a corresponding segment in the circumferential space of each column, and the two ends of each slewing support frame are fixedly connected to the adjacent column.

3. The lifting device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The circumferential end of the slewing support frame is connected to the circumferential side of the corresponding column, and the column is located within the arc surface of the outer circumferential surface of the slewing support frame.

4. The lifting device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The slewing engagement structure consists of multiple rolling components mounted on the slewing support frame and protruding from the outer side of the slewing support frame. The rolling components are arranged circumferentially on the slewing support frame at intervals, and during use, the rolling components engage with the corresponding positions of the circular warehouse.

5. The lifting device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The rolling component includes a mounting base assembly and rolling elements. The mounting base assembly includes a module mounting base and a roller mounting base that is guided on the module mounting base. The rolling elements are mounted on the roller mounting base. An elastic component is provided between the module mounting base and the roller mounting base. During use, the rolling component can float and adjust according to the radial clearance between the rotary support frame and the annular warehouse.

6. The lifting device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The module mounting base includes a base body, an adjusting screw, and a pressing component. Both the roller mounting base and the pressing component are located inside the base body. The adjusting screw is threaded onto the base body. One end of the adjusting screw inside the base body engages with the pressing component, and the other end of the adjusting screw outside the base body is a turning end for adjustment. An elastic component is located between the pressing component and the roller mounting base.

7. The lifting device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The base is a box-shaped structure with one open side. The top pressure component and the roller mounting seat are respectively installed into the base from the open side. The adjusting screw is installed on the side wall of the base opposite to the open side. The roller mounting seat has two mating walls corresponding to the two opposite side walls of the base. A linear module for guiding mating is provided between the mating wall and the corresponding side wall of the base.

8. The lifting device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The top pressing component is located between the two mating walls of the roller mounting base. The mating walls of the roller mounting base are provided with guide grooves, and the top pressing component is provided with guide protrusions that extend into the guide grooves and cooperate with the guide grooves.

9. The lifting device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The elastic component includes a first elastic component with a larger elastic modulus and a second elastic component with a smaller elastic modulus. Both the second elastic component and the first elastic component are fixedly connected to the top pressure component. The length of the second elastic component is greater than that of the first elastic component. During installation and adjustment, the second elastic component is pressed against the roller mounting seat while the first elastic component is left with a gap from the roller mounting seat.

10. The lifting device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, There are two columns, which are symmetrically arranged on the rotating base. The lifting platform is located between the two columns and is guided and engaged with both columns. The end of the lifting platform that engages with each column is equipped with an inner guide wheel that rolls with the guide rail on the radial inner side of the column, and two sets of side guide wheels that roll with the guide rails on both sides of the column's circumference.

11. The lifting device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The lifting device has a synchronous lifting module for driving the lifting platform to rise and fall. The synchronous lifting module includes a winch, which has at least two drums that can rotate synchronously. Each drum is wound with a wire rope, and each wire rope is attached to a column through a reversing wheel. The end of each wire rope is fixedly connected to the lifting platform.

12. A ring-shaped unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) storage and transportation system, comprising a ring-shaped warehouse, characterized in that, The top center of the circular warehouse is provided with an entrance and exit for drones to enter and exit. The center of the circular warehouse is provided with a lifting device as described in any one of claims 1-11. The slewing support frame on the lifting device is slewing-fitted with the inner wall of the entrance and exit through a slewing-fitting structure. The lifting device provides a channel for drones to move horizontally between the storage space of the circular warehouse and the lifting device. The lifting device also provides a channel for drones to enter and exit the circular warehouse vertically.

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