Delivery device and delivery method

Abstract

This application provides a conveying device relating to the fields of conveying, baggage handling, radiation inspection, security inspection, or other technical fields. The conveying device includes: a first conveyor line configured to convey empty trays; a tossing mechanism configured to toss empty trays from the first conveyor line to a carrying platform of a lifting mechanism; a lifting mechanism including at least one carrying platform and a first lifting component and a second lifting component diagonally mounted on opposite sides of each carrying platform, configured to lift the corresponding carrying platform from the conveying height of the first conveyor line to the conveying height of a second conveyor line using only the first and second lifting components, the carrying platform being configured to convey trays containing items to the second conveyor line; and a second conveyor line configured to convey trays containing items, the conveying height of the second conveyor line being greater than the conveying height of the first conveyor line. This application also provides a conveying method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the fields of conveying, baggage handling, radiation inspection, security inspection, or other technical fields, and more specifically, to conveying devices and conveying methods. Background Technology

[0002] At airports, train stations, and other similar locations, security checks are typically conducted on goods or passengers' luggage to ensure safe passage and travel.

[0003] In the security check area, a conveyor device can be placed to transport items to be inspected. The conveyor device transports empty trays to a predetermined position, and then the trays are pushed to a placement position by a pusher. Passengers or security personnel take the empty trays from the placement position, place the items to be inspected into the trays, and the trays with the items to be inspected are further transported to the inspection area for inspection. After the inspection is completed, the empty trays are transported back to the predetermined position.

[0004] In the process of realizing the inventive concept of this application, the inventors discovered that the sorting and return of trays is usually a manual operation, with on-site staff or passengers placing empty trays on the conveyor belt and then placing luggage in the empty trays. This manual operation method does not provide a good user experience, and is especially unsuitable for luggage and trays that are heavy or large in size. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above problems, this application provides a conveying device and a conveying method.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this application, a conveying device is provided, comprising: a first conveyor configured to convey an empty tray; a tossing mechanism configured to toss the empty tray from the first conveyor to a carrying platform of a lifting mechanism; a lifting mechanism including at least one carrying platform and a first lifting component and a second lifting component diagonally mounted on opposite sides of each carrying platform, configured to lift the corresponding carrying platform from the conveying height of the first conveyor to the conveying height of a second conveyor using only the first lifting component and the second lifting component, the carrying platform being configured to convey a tray containing items to the second conveyor; and a second conveyor configured to convey the tray containing items, the conveying height of the second conveyor being greater than the conveying height of the first conveyor.

[0007] According to an embodiment of this application, when the lifting mechanism includes multiple support platforms, a shared base is provided between adjacent support platforms. The shared base is used to install a first lifting component of one of the adjacent support platforms and a second lifting component of the other.

[0008] According to an embodiment of this application, each carrying platform includes: a carrying base on which a first lifting component and a second lifting component are diagonally mounted on opposite sides; and a conveying mechanism, independent of and movably connected to the carrying base, the conveying mechanism being configured to convey a tray containing items to a second conveyor.

[0009] According to embodiments of this application, the movable connection includes any of the following connection methods: one of the support base and the conveying mechanism has a mounting hole, and the other has a pin, the pin being movably placed in the mounting hole; the support base and the conveying mechanism are connected by at least one spring; the support base and the conveying mechanism are connected by an elastic material layer.

[0010] According to an embodiment of this application, the conveying device further includes: a position detection component configured to detect the height of each carrier platform; wherein the position detection component is further configured to send a conveying signal to the conveying mechanism of the carrier platform in response to detecting that each carrier platform has reached the conveying height of the second line, so that the conveying mechanism conveys the pallet containing the items to the second line.

[0011] According to an embodiment of this application, the actuating mechanism includes: a transmission member; an actuating member attached to the transmission member; wherein the transmission member is configured to circumferentially rotate along a ring path in a predetermined direction to drive the actuating member to move an empty tray from a first conveyor to a carrying platform, the predetermined direction being perpendicular to the conveying direction of the first conveyor.

[0012] According to an embodiment of this application, the actuating mechanism further includes: a driving mechanism configured to drive the transmission member to circumferentially rotate along a ring path in a predetermined direction; and a first detection mechanism configured to send a stop signal to the driving mechanism in response to detecting that the actuating member has moved an empty tray from the first line to the carrying platform, so as to stop the driving mechanism from driving the transmission member.

[0013] According to an embodiment of this application, the first detection mechanism is further configured to send a lifting signal to the lifting mechanism in response to detecting that the toggle member has toggled an empty tray from the first line to the carrying platform, so that the first lifting component and the second lifting component drive the corresponding carrying platform to the conveying height of the second line.

[0014] According to an embodiment of this application, the actuating element includes a first actuating element and a second actuating element that are spaced apart and attached to the outside of the transmission element; wherein, the first detection mechanism is configured to send a stop signal in response to detecting the first actuating element, confirming that the second actuating element has moved the empty tray from the first line to the carrying platform.

[0015] According to an embodiment of this application, the first actuating member and the second actuating member are configured such that one is at the starting position of the actuation and the other is at the ending position of the actuation; wherein, the detection area of ​​the first detection mechanism includes at least one of the starting position of the actuation and the ending position of the actuation.

[0016] According to an embodiment of this application, the conveying device further includes: a second detection mechanism configured to send a start signal to the drive mechanism in response to detecting that an empty pallet has reached a predetermined position, so as to control the drive mechanism to start the drive transmission.

[0017] According to an embodiment of this application, the first line includes: N rollers, wherein each roller is configured to transport an empty pallet by rotation, and N is an integer greater than or equal to 2; wherein the orthographic projection of the transmission member is located in the gap region between the orthographic projections of the target adjacent rollers among the N rollers, and the actuating member is configured to move the empty pallet from the first line to the carrying platform of the lifting mechanism along the gap region.

[0018] According to an embodiment of this application, the transmission component includes a first synchronous belt, and the first detection mechanism includes a first photoelectric sensor; the actuating mechanism further includes: a first pulley; and a second pulley, which is disposed opposite to the first pulley in a predetermined direction; wherein, the first synchronous belt is sleeved on the outside of the first pulley and the second pulley to form an annular path for the actuating component to move, the first photoelectric sensor is close to the first pulley, and the first pulley is close to the starting point of the push.

[0019] According to an embodiment of this application, the transmission component further includes a second synchronous belt, and the first detection mechanism further includes a second photoelectric sensor; the actuating mechanism further includes: a third pulley, which is disposed opposite to the first pulley in a direction perpendicular to a predetermined direction; and a fourth pulley, which is disposed opposite to the third pulley in a predetermined direction and opposite to the first pulley in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction; wherein, the second synchronous belt is sleeved on the outside of the third pulley and the fourth pulley to form an annular path for the actuating component to move, the second photoelectric sensor is close to the third pulley, and the third pulley is close to the starting point of the actuation.

[0020] According to an embodiment of this application, the actuating mechanism further includes: a tensioning rod, the first end of which abuts against the inner side of the first synchronous belt for tensioning, and the second end of which abuts against the inner side of the second synchronous belt for tensioning; wherein the driving mechanism is configured to operate in at least one of the following ways: driving the tensioning rod; driving at least one of the first pulley and the second pulley; driving at least one of the third pulley and the fourth pulley.

[0021] A second aspect of this application provides a conveying method for the conveying apparatus of any of the above claims, the method comprising: causing a first conveyor to convey an empty pallet; causing a toggle mechanism to toggle the empty pallet from the first conveyor to a carrying platform of a lifting mechanism; lifting a corresponding carrying platform from the conveying height of the first conveyor to the conveying height of a second conveyor using only a first lifting component and a second lifting component of the lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism including at least one carrying platform and a first lifting component and a second lifting component diagonally mounted on opposite sides of each carrying platform; causing the carrying platform to convey a pallet containing an item to the second conveyor; causing the second conveyor to convey the pallet containing the item, the conveying height of the second conveyor being greater than the conveying height of the first conveyor.

[0022] The above one or more embodiments can achieve at least one of the following technical effects:

[0023] An empty pallet is conveyed to a toggle mechanism via a first conveyor line. The toggle mechanism then moves the empty pallet to the lifting platform. The lifting mechanism, using only diagonally installed first and second lifting components, raises the corresponding platform from the conveying height of the first conveyor line to the conveying height of the second conveyor line. The platform then conveys the pallet containing the item to the second conveyor line, which then transports the pallet to the target location. The diagonal arrangement of the first and second lifting components, compared to two lifting components on each side of the platform and four symmetrically arranged components on both sides, effectively saves costs, reduces structural complexity, and achieves fully automated toggle and lifting. This allows personnel to automatically position and lift the pallet without physical contact, effectively solving the inconvenience caused by the size and weight of the pallets on site. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The above-mentioned contents, other objects, features and advantages of this application will become clearer from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 A perspective view of a conveying device according to an embodiment of this application is schematically shown;

[0026] Figure 2 A top view schematically illustrating the carrier platform and lifting assembly according to an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 A perspective view of a conveying device according to another embodiment of this application is schematically shown;

[0028] Figure 4 This schematic diagram illustrates a lifting mechanism comprising multiple support platforms according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0029] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating the separation of the support base and the conveying mechanism according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0030] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the toggle mechanism according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0031] Figure 7 This schematic diagram illustrates the cooperation between the actuating mechanism and the detection mechanism after the support frame has been disassembled according to an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 8 This schematic diagram illustrates the coordination between the actuating mechanism, the lifting mechanism, and the detection mechanism according to an embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of this application is shown schematically.

[0034] The reference numerals used in the above figures are as follows:

[0035] 100. Conveying device; 110. First production line; 120. Actuating mechanism; 121. Transmission component; 122. Actuating component; 1221. First actuating component; 1222. Second actuating component; 123. First pulley; 124. Second pulley; 125. Third pulley; 126. Fourth pulley; 127. Tensioning rod; 130. Lifting mechanism; 131. Supporting platform; 1311. Supporting base; 1312. Conveying mechanism; 132. First lifting assembly; 133. Second lifting assembly; 140. Second production line; 310. Shared base; 710. First detection mechanism; 720. Second detection mechanism.

[0036] It should be noted that, for clarity, the dimensions of the overall / partial structure or the overall / partial region in the drawings used to describe the embodiments of this disclosure may be enlarged or reduced, i.e., these drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that these descriptions are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this application for ease of explanation. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments may be implemented without these specific details. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concepts of this application.

[0038] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. The terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., as used herein indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0039] All terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein are to be interpreted in a manner consistent with the context of this specification, and not in an idealized or overly rigid way.

[0040] When using expressions such as "at least one of A, B and C", they should generally be interpreted in accordance with the meaning that is commonly understood by those skilled in the art (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B and C" should include, but is not limited to, a system having A alone, a system having B alone, a system having C alone, a system having A and B, a system having A and C, a system having B and C, and / or a system having A, B and C, etc.).

[0041] For example, to improve space utilization, a three-dimensional conveyor system can be installed, such as upper and lower conveyor lines. One line transports empty pallets, while the other transports pallets with items to be placed on them. Since there is a height difference between the upper and lower lines, making manual pallet placement unsuitable, a lifting mechanism can be installed to transfer pallets between the upper and lower lines.

[0042] This application provides a conveying device and a conveying method. An empty pallet is conveyed to a toggle mechanism via a first conveyor line. The toggle mechanism then moves the empty pallet to the carrying platform of a lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism, by installing a first lifting component and a second lifting component diagonally, raises the corresponding carrying platform from the conveying height of the first conveyor line to the conveying height of the second conveyor line. The carrying platform then conveys a pallet containing items to the second conveyor line. The second conveyor then conveys the pallet to the target location. The diagonal arrangement of the first and second lifting components achieves a staggered installation. Compared to a method where two lifting components are installed on each side of the carrying platform, four lifting components are symmetrically arranged on both sides. This effectively saves costs, reduces structural complexity, and achieves fully automatic toggle and lifting. It allows personnel to automatically position and lift the pallet without physical contact, effectively solving the inconvenience caused by the size and weight of the pallet on-site.

[0043] Furthermore, the pushing component typically operates on a one-way path. For example, after pushing a pallet to its destination, the component responds to a reversal signal and retraces along the original path until it returns to its starting point. Then, it transports the next pallet to the designated pushing position, awaiting the component's next push. This operating method results in at least half of the pushing component's travel being wasted, leading to lower-than-expected conveying efficiency.

[0044] This application provides a conveying device and a conveying method, and also includes a transmission component capable of circumferentially rotating along a ring path in a predetermined direction. A toggle component is attached to the outside of the transmission component. During the 360-degree circumferential rotation, the toggle component drives the empty pallet to be moved from the first line to the carrying platform, thereby effectively utilizing the entire circumferential stroke and improving conveying efficiency.

[0045] Taking a security checkpoint system as an example, it may include a baggage conveyor, a security inspection optical device, an information collection and processing module, and a central control unit.

[0046] The baggage conveyor includes a transport device that provides empty trays for passengers to place their luggage on. The trays are then transported to the security screening X-ray machine. The X-ray machine consists of an X-ray machine and an image processing module. The X-ray machine scans the luggage to identify prohibited items, while the image processing module records the images from the X-ray machine and marks the luggage, interacting with the information processing unit.

[0047] The information collection and processing module has an information collection unit and an information processing unit. The information collection unit is used to collect passenger personal information and tray information in accordance with laws and regulations and upload them to the information processing unit. The information processing unit is used to store passenger identity information, tray number, and the marking results of the security inspection image processing module on luggage and tray.

[0048] The central control unit receives instructions from the information collection and processing module and controls the baggage conveyor to move the trays to the appropriate locations based on these instructions. For example, when the central control unit receives a message indicating that the security tray contains no prohibited items, it controls the conveyor to transport the tray to the baggage claim area for the passenger to retrieve their luggage. The conveyor then returns the empty tray. When the central control unit receives a message indicating that the security tray contains prohibited items, it controls the conveyor to transfer the tray to the re-inspection baggage return device, which then sends the tray containing the luggage to the baggage opening area. When the central control unit receives an instruction that baggage opening has been completed, it controls the re-inspection baggage return device to return the security tray to the conveyor for X-ray inspection.

[0049] The following is combined with Figures 1-8 The conveying device provided in the embodiments of this application is further described.

[0050] Figure 1 A perspective view of a conveying device 100 according to an embodiment of this application is shown schematically. Figure 2 A top view schematically illustrating the carrier platform 131 and lifting assembly according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0051] The conveying device 100 provided in this application embodiment includes a first conveyor 110, a tossing mechanism 120, a lifting mechanism 130, and a second conveyor 140. The first conveyor 110 is configured to convey empty trays (not shown in the figure); the tossing mechanism 120 is configured to toss empty trays from the first conveyor 110 to the carrying platform 131 of the lifting mechanism 130; the lifting mechanism 130 includes at least one carrying platform 131, and a first lifting component 132 and a second lifting component 133 diagonally mounted on opposite sides of each carrying platform 131, configured to lift the corresponding carrying platform 131 from the conveying height of the first conveyor 110 to the conveying height of the second conveyor 140 only through the first lifting component 132 and the second lifting component 133, the carrying platform 131 is configured to convey trays containing items to the second conveyor 140; the second conveyor 140 is configured to convey trays containing items, and the conveying height of the second conveyor 140 is greater than the conveying height of the first conveyor 110.

[0052] Exemplarily, the first conveyor line 110 or the second conveyor line 140 can be a linear conveyor line or a circular conveyor line, and the bearing surface of the conveyor line is used to carry the pallet. The first conveyor line 110 or the second conveyor line 140 can be a belt drive structure or a roller drive structure. For example, the roller drive structure can include multiple roller groups, each roller group can include multiple rollers, wherein the roller located in the middle is a powered roller, and the remaining rollers are unpowered rollers. The rollers in the roller group are connected in pairs by belts, and the roller group rotates synchronously under the drive of the powered roller, thereby conveying the pallet on the roller. The powered roller may include a coaxially connected drive motor, and whether the motor operates is controlled by a central control unit. The outer surface of the roller may be smooth.

[0053] For example, the actuation mechanism 120 may include a translation push rod, which may be driven by a stepper motor located on the lower layer of the roller. Whether the stepper motor of the translation push rod is running can be controlled by the central control unit. The height of the translation push rod may be less than the height of the side wall of the tray. When the translation push rod is running, it contacts the side wall of the tray and pushes the tray with luggage into the re-inspection channel. The actuation mechanism 120 may include a pneumatic cylinder or hydraulic cylinder, a piston rod, a base, a rotary motor, and an ejector rod. The actuation mechanism 120 may include a screw drive structure, with a screw and screw nut as the driving part and a push plate as the pushing part. The push plate is connected to the screw nut, and the linear reciprocating motion of the screw nut drives the push plate to reciprocate in a second direction. The actuation mechanism 120 may include a belt drive structure, with a synchronous belt as the driving part and a connecting block fixedly connected to the synchronous belt. The push plate is connected to the connecting block, and the reciprocating rotation of the synchronous belt drives the push plate to reciprocate in a second direction.

[0054] like Figure 1 As shown, the first conveyor belt 110 is located directly below the second conveyor belt 140, and the lifting mechanism 130 is located to the side of the first conveyor belt 110 and the second conveyor belt 140 (perpendicular to the conveying direction of the conveyor belt). The conveying height includes the vertical distance of the conveyor belt's transport plane from the ground or reference plane. The support platform 131 is the component in the lifting mechanism 130 that holds the pallet and moves up and down with the lifting assembly. For example, it includes a metal frame platform or a roller platform with conveying function. Diagonal installation means that the first lifting assembly 132 and the second lifting assembly 133 are respectively installed at two opposite corners of the support platform 131. For example, Figure 2 As shown, the first lifting component 132 and the second lifting component 133 are installed at the upper left and lower right corners of the rectangular platform, respectively.

[0055] For example, the carrying platform 131 includes multiple rollers, with the rollers axially parallel to the support frame of the roller conveyor. When the rollers rotate, they can transport the pallet perpendicular to the support frame of the roller conveyor. When the carrying platform 131 is at the conveying height of the first conveyor 110, it receives an empty pallet moved from the first conveyor 110 by the actuating mechanism 120. The carrying platform 131 may then be equipped with a weight sensor. When a passenger places luggage, the weight sensor detects a weight change. In response to the weight change signal, the central control unit controls the corresponding carrying platform 131 to be raised from the conveying height of the first conveyor 110 to the conveying height of the second conveyor 140 using only the first lifting assembly 132 and the second lifting assembly 133. The multiple rollers of the carrying platform 131 operate, pushing the pallet onto the side of the second conveyor 140. Alternatively, the carrying platform 131 may be equipped with a separate switch, eliminating the need for a weight sensor. This switch can activate the lifting operation of the lifting mechanism 130.

[0056] For example, the first lifting assembly 132 or the second lifting assembly 133 may include a motor and chain mechanism (not shown) for driving, or it may include a vertically arranged guide rail and a slider coupled to the guide rail. The slider is connected to the support platform 131 and drives the support platform 131 to move up and down by moving along the guide rail.

[0057] For example, the conveying device can serve as a large pallet sorting structure to achieve fully automatic pallet sorting and lifting, thereby enabling fully automatic sorting and positioning of large-sized, heavy-duty pallets and automatic lifting.

[0058] In some embodiments, the lifting speed and acceleration can be automatically adjusted according to the weight of the items on the pallet to avoid instability caused by excessively rapid lifting under heavy loads. For example, a weight sensor is installed on the load-bearing platform 131 to detect the load weight in real time, and the central control unit dynamically adjusts the output power and speed curve of the lifting motor based on the detection results.

[0059] According to the embodiments of this application, the diagonally installed first lifting component 132 and second lifting component 133 structural design ensures the stability of the bearing platform 131 while reducing the number of lifting components, thereby lowering the manufacturing cost and maintenance difficulty of the equipment. Furthermore, by setting only two diagonally installed lifting components, the difficulty of synchronous control of the lifting action is simplified, and the reliability of system operation is improved. In addition, the entire conveying device 100, through the combination of the line and the lifting mechanism 130, realizes efficient and stable transmission of pallets between different height positions, enabling relevant personnel to complete the automatic positioning and automatic lifting of pallets without contacting them, and effectively solving the inconvenience caused by the size and weight of pallets on site.

[0060] Figure 3 A perspective view of a conveying device 100 according to another embodiment of this application is schematically shown. In this view, Figure 3 The image shows that the lifting components of the adjacent support platform 131 are installed on the shared base 310. Figure 4 The schematic diagram illustrates a structural diagram of a lifting mechanism 130 including multiple support platforms 131 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0061] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the case where the lifting mechanism 130 includes multiple support platforms 131, a shared base 310 is provided between adjacent support platforms 131. The shared base 310 is equipped with a first lifting component 132 of one of the adjacent support platforms 131 and a second lifting component 133 of the other.

[0062] The shared base 310 is a support structure shared among multiple support platforms 131, used to simultaneously install lifting assemblies of two adjacent support platforms 131. For example, the shared base 310 can be made of a frame structure of a high-strength metal material (such as steel or aluminum alloy). The lifting assemblies of adjacent support platforms 131 are fixed to the shared base 310 by bolts, welding, or special connectors.

[0063] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the two lifting mechanisms 130 provide two support platforms 131, with a shared base 310 in the middle for mounting the lifting components of the adjacent support platforms 131.

[0064] According to embodiments of this application, the shared base 310 reduces redundant support structures between adjacent support platforms 131, significantly reduces the overall space occupied by multiple lifting mechanisms 130, reduces the number of parts, and simplifies the overall structural design. The shared base 310 also reduces the spacing between adjacent support platforms 131, allowing more support platforms 131 to be arranged within the same space, thus improving the space utilization of the lifting mechanism 130.

[0065] It is understood that the first lifting assembly 132 and the second lifting assembly 133, which are installed diagonally, may be asynchronous in their lifting. For example, when asynchronous lifting is detected, the braking device in the lifting assembly will automatically activate to prevent the support platform 131 from tilting. Alternatively, the problem of asynchronous lifting can be overcome by providing a support base 1311 and a conveying mechanism 1312, as further explained below.

[0066] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating the separation of the support base 1311 and the conveying mechanism 1312 according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0067] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 5 Each carrying platform 131 includes a carrying base 1311 and a conveying mechanism 1312. The carrying base 1311 has a first lifting assembly 132 and a second lifting assembly 133 installed diagonally on opposite sides; the conveying mechanism 1312 is independent of the carrying base 1311 and is movably connected to the carrying base 1311, and the conveying mechanism 1312 is configured to convey a tray containing items to a second conveyor 140.

[0068] For example, the support base 1311 serves as the basic support structure of the support platform 131 and is used to connect with the first lifting assembly 132 and the second lifting assembly 133. It can be a rectangular frame structure formed by high-strength steel. The conveying mechanism 1312 may include a roller platform with conveying function, including multiple rollers. The rollers are axially parallel to the support frame of the roller conveyor. When the rollers rotate, they can transport the pallet perpendicular to the support frame of the roller conveyor.

[0069] According to the embodiments of this application, the conveying mechanism 1312 can be movably connected along the direction of the conveying height, so that even if there is asynchronous lifting, there is a certain relative movement between the conveying mechanism 1312 and the support base 1311, which can achieve compensation.

[0070] In some embodiments, the movable connection includes any of the following connection methods:

[0071] One of the support base 1311 and the conveying mechanism 1312 is provided with a mounting hole, and the other is provided with a plug pin, which can be movably placed in the mounting hole.

[0072] The support base 1311 and the conveying mechanism 1312 are connected by at least one spring.

[0073] The support base 1311 and the conveying mechanism 1312 are connected by an elastic material layer.

[0074] For example, multiple (e.g., 4-6) circular or oblong through holes, slightly larger in diameter than the columnar pins attached to the bottom of the conveying mechanism 1312, can be formed on the support base 1311. Alternatively, four compression springs can be evenly arranged between the support base 1311 and the conveying mechanism 1312, and fixed between them with bolts to provide elastic support. When the conveying mechanism 1312 is subjected to external force, the springs will deform (compress or stretch), allowing the conveying mechanism 1312 to move relative to the support base 1311. Alternatively, an elastic pad with a thickness of 10-20 mm (only an example) made of nitrile rubber or polyurethane material can be fixed between the support base 1311 and the conveying mechanism 1312 by vulcanization or adhesive. When subjected to external force, the elastic material layer will deform elastically, allowing the conveying mechanism 1312 to move and adjust its angle relative to the support base 1311.

[0075] In some embodiments, the conveying device 100 further includes a position detection component configured to detect the height of each carrier platform 131; wherein the position detection component is further configured to send a conveying signal to the conveying mechanism 1312 of the carrier platform 131 in response to detecting that each carrier platform 131 has reached the conveying height of the second line 140, so that the conveying mechanism 1312 conveys the tray containing the items to the second line 140.

[0076] The position detection component is a device used to detect the height position of the carrying platform 131 in space. Position detection can be achieved through devices such as photoelectric sensors, laser rangefinders, ultrasonic sensors, and encoders. The transmission signal includes control commands sent directly or indirectly by the position detection component to the conveying mechanism 1312, triggering the conveying mechanism 1312 to perform pallet conveying actions.

[0077] According to the embodiments of this application, automatic docking and conveying of pallets between lines at different heights is realized through real-time height detection and signal triggering, eliminating the need for manual intervention, improving the automation level and accuracy of the conveying process, avoiding delays caused by manual observation and judgment, significantly shortening the conveying preparation time, and improving operating efficiency.

[0078] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the toggle mechanism 120 according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the interaction between the actuating mechanism 120 and the detection mechanism after the support frame has been disassembled according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 8 The diagram schematically illustrates the interaction between the actuating mechanism 120, the lifting mechanism 130, and the detection mechanism according to an embodiment of this application.

[0079] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The actuating mechanism 120 includes: a transmission member 121; and an actuating member 122 attached to the transmission member 121. The transmission member 121 is configured to circumferentially rotate along a ring path in a predetermined direction to drive the actuating member 122 to move an empty tray from the first conveyor 110 to the carrying platform 131. The predetermined direction is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the first conveyor 110.

[0080] In some embodiments, the first line 110 includes: N rollers, wherein each roller is configured to transport an empty pallet by rotation, and N is an integer greater than or equal to 2; wherein the orthographic projection of the transmission member 121 is located in the gap region between the orthographic projections of the target adjacent rollers among the N rollers, and the actuating member 122 is configured to move the empty pallet from the first line 110 to the carrying platform 131 of the lifting mechanism 130 along the gap region.

[0081] For example, the transmission component 121 can perform cyclic motion under the drive of a drive mechanism (not shown), and the direction of motion of the transmission component 121 is parallel to the axial direction of the roller, such as a transmission chain, synchronous belt, conveyor belt, gear, etc.; the actuating component 122 can move together with the transmission component 121, and the actuating component 122 can extend from the gap between the two rollers to above the rollers, such as a pawl, lever, push plate, fork, etc. The circular path is a closed cyclic motion trajectory. Circumferential cyclic transmission is a continuous cyclic motion along the circular path.

[0082] The empty tray is conveyed to the actuating mechanism along the first conveyor belt. The actuating mechanism moves the empty tray onto the lifting mechanism. Customers or staff place their luggage on the empty tray, and the lifting mechanism raises the tray with luggage to a set position. Then, the luggage is conveyed to the higher second conveyor belt, completing the entire process. The actuating mechanism operates in a cyclical manner, effectively saving time for the actuating components to be positioned. The lifting mechanism can automatically lift heavy and large luggage.

[0083] According to an embodiment of this application, a transmission member 121 is provided that can circumferentially drive along a ring path in a predetermined direction. A toggle member 122 is attached to the outside of the transmission member 121. During the 360-degree circumferential transmission process, the toggle member 122 drives the empty pallet to be moved from the first line body 110 to the carrying platform 131, thereby effectively utilizing the entire circumferential stroke and improving the conveying efficiency.

[0084] In some embodiments, the actuating mechanism 120 further includes:

[0085] The drive mechanism (not shown) is configured to drive the transmission member 121 to circumferentially rotate along a ring path in a predetermined direction.

[0086] First testing agency 710, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The device is configured to send a stop signal to the drive mechanism in response to detecting that the toggle 122 has toggled an empty tray from the first line 110 to the carrier platform 131, so that the drive mechanism stops driving the transmission 121.

[0087] For example, the drive mechanism may include a servo motor drive system (such as a servo motor, reducer, encoder, etc.), a stepper motor, or a pneumatic motor (such as a cylinder, valve, controller, etc.). The stop signal refers to a control signal used to instruct the drive mechanism to stop operating, and can be an electrical signal. The first detection mechanism 710 includes a sensing device for detecting whether the tray has been successfully moved to the carrying platform 131. Examples include photoelectric sensors, proximity switches, and vision inspection systems. For instance, the first detection mechanism 710 includes through-beam photoelectric sensors mounted on both sides of the carrying platform 131, which block the light beam when the tray arrives. The first detection mechanism 710 also includes a vision inspection system that analyzes the tray's position by capturing images with a camera.

[0088] For example, when an empty pallet to be transferred on the first conveyor 110 reaches a predetermined position, the central control unit sends a start signal to the drive mechanism, which then starts the drive mechanism, causing the transmission component 121 to circumferentially rotate along a circular path. The transmission component 121 drives the actuating component 122 to begin cyclical motion. The actuating component 122 moves with the transmission component 121 to the pallet position, contacts the pallet, and begins to push the pallet towards the carrying platform 131. Under the push of the actuating component 122, the pallet gradually moves from the first conveyor 110 towards the carrying platform 131. When the pallet completely reaches the predetermined position on the carrying platform 131, the first detection mechanism 710 is triggered, sending a stop signal to the drive mechanism. Upon receiving the stop signal, the drive mechanism immediately stops driving the transmission component 121. The transmission component 121 stops moving, and the actuating component 122 stops at its current position, completing the pallet transfer operation.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first detection mechanism 710 is mounted on a movable slide table and automatically adjusts the detection position according to the size and weight of the pallet to achieve dynamic adaptation to pallets of different specifications. For example, a slide rail is set on the support platform 131, and photoelectric sensors are mounted on the slider. The slider is driven to move by a servo motor, and the detection position is automatically adjusted according to the pallet information (pre-input or real-time detection by the vision inspection system) to improve detection accuracy.

[0090] According to the embodiments of this application, the first detection mechanism 710 monitors the position of the pallet in real time and sends a stop signal in a timely manner, enabling the drive mechanism to precisely control the movement of the transmission component 121 and the actuating component 122, so that the pallet is transferred to the predetermined position of the carrying platform 131. The combination of the cyclic transmission design of the drive mechanism and precise detection and control can efficiently complete the continuous transfer operation of the pallet, reducing manual intervention and waiting time.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first detection mechanism 710 is further configured to send a lifting signal to the lifting mechanism 130 in response to detecting that the toggle member 122 has toggled an empty tray from the first conveyor 110 to the carrier platform 131, so that the first lifting component 132 and the second lifting component 133 drive the corresponding carrier platform 131 to the conveying height of the second conveyor 140.

[0092] According to the embodiments of this application, by reusing the first detection mechanism 710, the pallet position is monitored in real time and a lifting signal is sent in a timely manner, thereby realizing the coordination of pallet delivery and lifting, reducing control complexity, and improving the conveying efficiency and automation level of pallets.

[0093] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 7The actuating element 122 includes a first actuating element 1221 and a second actuating element 1222 that are spaced apart and attached to the outside of the transmission element 121; wherein, the first detection mechanism 710 is configured to send a stop signal in response to detecting the first actuating element 1221 and confirming that the second actuating element 1222 has moved the empty tray from the first line 110 to the carrying platform 131.

[0094] For example, further, the transmission member 121 is provided with two actuating members 122, which are spaced apart circumferentially along the transmission member 121. The first actuating member 1221 and the second actuating member 1222 are configured such that one is at the starting position and the other is at the ending position; wherein, the detection area of ​​the first detection mechanism 710 includes at least one of the starting position and the ending position.

[0095] For example, the starting position of the push includes the initial position where the actuating element 122 begins to contact and push the tray, such as the position where the pawl just begins to contact the edge of the tray. The ending position of the push includes the final position where the actuating element 122 completes the tray pushing action. The detection area is the spatial range within which the first detection mechanism 710 can effectively detect the actuating element 122.

[0096] According to embodiments of this application, by arranging a first actuating member 1221 and a second actuating member 1222 at intervals on the transmission member 121, and configuring one to be at the starting position while the other is at the ending position, the transmission member 121 only needs to complete half a cycle to be ready for the next pushing operation, making full use of the overall circumferential stroke. An indirect detection mechanism (detecting the first actuating member 1221 to confirm the working status of the second actuating member 1222) is employed to achieve precise control of the tray pushing process.

[0097] In some embodiments, refer to Figures 6-8 The actuating mechanism 120 is symmetrically designed, with a transmission element 121, an actuating element 122, and a detection mechanism on each side. Therefore, the conveying device 100 also includes a second detection mechanism 720, configured to send a start signal to the drive mechanism in response to detecting that an empty tray has reached a predetermined position, thereby controlling the drive mechanism to activate the drive transmission element 121. The embodiment and technical effects of the second detection mechanism 720 can be referred to the relevant description of the first detection mechanism 710 described above.

[0098] In some embodiments, refer to Figures 6-8The transmission component 121 includes a first synchronous belt, and the first detection mechanism 710 includes a first photoelectric sensor; the actuating mechanism 120 also includes a first pulley 123 and a second pulley 124, with the second pulley 124 arranged opposite to the first pulley 123 in a predetermined direction; wherein, the first synchronous belt is sleeved on the outside of the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124 to form an annular path for the actuating component 122 to move, the first photoelectric sensor is close to the first pulley 123, and the first pulley 123 is close to the starting point of the push.

[0099] In an optional embodiment, the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124 are arranged opposite to each other; a first synchronous belt is sleeved on the outside of the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124; one of the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124 is close to the first side of the lifting mechanism 130, and the other is away from the lifting mechanism 130 and close to the first detection mechanism 710, and the first synchronous belt is sleeved on the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124. One of the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124 is the driving pulley, and the other is the driven pulley; or both the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124 are driven pulleys, and the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124 are driven to rotate by a driving mechanism. The first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124 can rotate synchronously forward or synchronously in reverse. When the first actuating member 1221 or the second actuating member 1222 blocks the light transmission of the first photoelectric sensor, it can be confirmed that the tray has been actuated (pushed) to the bearing platform 131, and a corresponding signal is emitted.

[0100] The position of the first synchronous belt corresponds to the gap between the first and second rollers. A connecting block is connected to the top of the first synchronous belt, and the pushing part is connected to the connecting block. The reciprocating rotation of the first synchronous belt drives the pushing part to move from the starting position to the ending position, or from the ending position to the starting position. Belt drive helps to ensure the smooth movement of the pushing part and effectively avoids the phenomenon of pallet deviation during the pushing process.

[0101] In some embodiments, refer to Figures 6-8 The transmission component 121 also includes a second synchronous belt, and the first detection mechanism 710 also includes a second photoelectric sensor; the actuating mechanism 120 also includes a third pulley 125 and a fourth pulley 126. The third pulley 125 is arranged opposite to the first pulley 123 in a direction perpendicular to a predetermined direction; the fourth pulley 126 is arranged opposite to the third pulley 125 in a predetermined direction and opposite to the first pulley 123 in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction; wherein, the second synchronous belt is sleeved on the outside of the third pulley 125 and the fourth pulley 126 to form an annular path for the actuating component 122 to move, the second photoelectric sensor is close to the third pulley 125, and the third pulley 125 is close to the starting point of the push.

[0102] The embodiments and effects of the third pulley 125, the fourth pulley 126, the second synchronous belt, and the second photoelectric sensor can be referred to the relevant descriptions of the first pulley 123, the second pulley 124, the first synchronous belt, and the first photoelectric sensor.

[0103] Reference Figures 6-7 Each synchronous belt is equipped with two actuating elements 122. The two actuating elements 122 on the two synchronous belts correspond one to one. When the tray is actuated, one actuating element 122 on one synchronous belt and the corresponding actuating element 122 on the other synchronous belt work together to apply force to the tray, so that the tray can be actuated more smoothly, especially for trays with heavy luggage.

[0104] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the actuating mechanism 120 may consist of only one synchronous belt, two corresponding actuating elements 122, and two pulleys, for pushing the middle position on one side of the tray. In some embodiments, the actuating mechanism 120 may consist of only three or more synchronous belts, two corresponding actuating elements 122, and two pulleys. This application does not impose specific limitations.

[0105] In some embodiments, refer to Figures 6-8 The actuating mechanism 120 further includes a tensioning rod 127, the first end of which abuts against the inner side of the first synchronous belt for tensioning, and the second end of which abuts against the inner side of the second synchronous belt for tensioning; wherein the driving mechanism is configured to operate in at least one of the following ways:

[0106] Drive tension rod 127.

[0107] Drive at least one of the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124.

[0108] Drive at least one of the third pulley 125 and the fourth pulley 126.

[0109] For example, the drive mechanism includes a tension rod 127 and a motor (not shown), which can be integrated into one unit. A first pulley 123 and a second pulley 124 are spaced apart horizontally, as are a third pulley 125 and a fourth pulley 126. One end of the tension rod 127 is located below the first pulley 123 and the second pulley 124, in the area between them; the other end of the tension rod 127 is located below the third pulley 125 and the fourth pulley 126, in the area between them. One end of the tension rod 127, the first pulley 123, and the second pulley 124 form a triangular structure, as do the other end of the tension rod 127, the third pulley 125, and the fourth pulley 126.

[0110] Figure 9A flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of this application is shown schematically.

[0111] like Figure 9 As shown, the conveying method of this embodiment may include operations S910 to S950, referring to... Figures 1-8 :

[0112] In operation S910, the first line 110 is used to transport an empty tray.

[0113] In operation S920, the actuating mechanism 120 moves the empty tray from the first line 110 to the carrying platform 131 of the lifting mechanism 130.

[0114] In operation S930, the corresponding carrier platform 131 is lifted from the conveying height of the first line 110 to the conveying height of the second line 140 by only the first lifting component 132 and the second lifting component 133 of the lifting mechanism 130. The lifting mechanism 130 includes at least one carrier platform 131, and the first lifting component 132 and the second lifting component 133 are diagonally installed on opposite sides of each carrier platform 131.

[0115] In operation S940, the carrier platform 131 transports the tray containing the items to the second line 140.

[0116] In operation S950, the second conveyor 140 is made to convey a tray containing items, and the conveying height of the second conveyor 140 is greater than the conveying height of the first conveyor 110.

[0117] For any parts not mentioned in the method section, the execution steps of the various embodiments of the above-described apparatus can be used for understanding. That is, the method section includes the steps performed by the various components of any of the apparatus embodiments described above. Furthermore, the implementation methods, technical problems solved, functions achieved, and technical effects of the corresponding steps in the method section embodiments are the same as or similar to the implementation methods, technical problems solved, functions achieved, and technical effects achieved by the modules / units / subunits in the apparatus section embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0118] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of this application. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than those indicated in the drawings. For example, two consecutively indicated blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in a block diagram or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram or flowchart, may be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0119] Those skilled in the art will understand that the features described in the various embodiments of this application can be combined and / or combined in various ways, even if such combinations or combinations are not explicitly described in this application. In particular, the features described in the various embodiments of this application can be combined and / or combined in various ways without departing from the spirit and teachings of this application. All such combinations and / or combinations fall within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A conveying device, comprising: The first line is configured to transport empty pallets; A toggle mechanism is configured to move the empty tray from the first line to the carrying platform of the lifting mechanism; The lifting mechanism includes at least one of the carrying platforms, and a first lifting component and a second lifting component diagonally mounted on opposite sides of each of the carrying platforms. It is configured to lift the corresponding carrying platform from the conveying height of the first line to the conveying height of the second line using only the first lifting component and the second lifting component. The carrying platform is configured to convey the tray containing the item to the second line. The second line is configured to convey the tray on which the items are placed, and the conveying height of the second line is greater than the conveying height of the first line.

2. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the case where the lifting mechanism includes multiple carrying platforms, a shared base is provided between adjacent carrying platforms. The shared base is used to install a first lifting component of one of the adjacent carrying platforms and a second lifting component of the other.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the aforementioned carrier platforms includes: A support base on which the first lifting component and the second lifting component are installed diagonally on opposite sides; A conveying mechanism, independent of and movably connected to the support base, is configured to convey the tray containing the items to the second line.

4. The conveying device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The movable connection includes any of the following connection methods: One of the supporting base and the conveying mechanism is provided with a mounting hole, and the other is provided with a plug pin, which can be movably placed in the mounting hole; The support base and the conveying mechanism are connected by at least one spring; The support base and the conveying mechanism are connected by an elastic material layer.

5. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying device further includes: A position detection component is configured to detect the height of each of the said carrier platforms; The position detection component is further configured to send a conveying signal to the conveying mechanism of the carrier platform in response to detecting that each of the carrier platforms has reached the conveying height of the second line, so that the conveying mechanism conveys the tray containing the items to the second line.

6. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The toggle mechanism includes: Transmission components; A toggle element attached to the transmission component; The transmission component is configured to circumferentially rotate along a ring path in a predetermined direction to drive the actuating component to move the empty tray from the first conveyor to the carrying platform. The predetermined direction is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the first conveyor.

7. The conveying device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The toggle mechanism also includes: The drive mechanism is configured to drive the transmission component to circumferentially rotate along a ring path in a predetermined direction. The first detection mechanism is configured to send a stop signal to the drive mechanism in response to detecting that the actuating member has moved the empty tray from the first line to the carrying platform, so that the drive mechanism stops driving the transmission member.

8. The conveying device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first detection mechanism is further configured to send a lifting signal to the lifting mechanism in response to detecting that the actuating member has moved the empty tray from the first line to the carrying platform, so that the first lifting component and the second lifting component drive the corresponding carrying platform to the conveying height of the second line.

9. The conveying device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The actuating element includes a first actuating element and a second actuating element that are spaced apart and attached to the outside of the transmission element; The first detection mechanism is configured to send the stop signal in response to detecting the first actuating element and confirming that the second actuating element has moved the empty tray from the first production line to the carrying platform.

10. The conveying device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first and second toggle members are configured such that one is at the starting position and the other is at the ending position. The detection area of ​​the first detection agency includes at least one of the starting point position and the key point position of the push.

11. The conveying device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that, The conveying device further includes: The second detection mechanism is configured to send a start signal to the drive mechanism in response to detecting that an empty tray has reached a predetermined position, so as to control the drive mechanism to start driving the transmission component.

12. The conveying device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that, The first line body includes: N rollers, wherein each roller is configured to transport an empty tray by rotation, and N is an integer greater than or equal to 2; The orthographic projection of the transmission component is located in the gap region between the orthographic projections of adjacent target rollers among the N rollers, and the actuating component is configured to move the empty tray from the first line body to the carrying platform of the lifting mechanism along the gap region.

13. The conveying device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that, The transmission component includes a first synchronous belt, and the first detection mechanism includes a first photoelectric sensor; the actuation mechanism further includes: First pulley; The second pulley is disposed opposite to the first pulley along the predetermined direction; The first synchronous belt is sleeved on the outside of the first pulley and the second pulley to form an annular path for the moving member to move. The first photoelectric sensor is close to the first pulley, and the first pulley is close to the starting point of the push.

14. The conveying device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The transmission component further includes a second synchronous belt, and the first detection mechanism further includes a second photoelectric sensor; the actuation mechanism further includes: The third pulley is disposed opposite to the first pulley in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction; The fourth pulley is disposed opposite to the third pulley along the predetermined direction and opposite to the first pulley in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction; The second synchronous belt is sleeved on the outside of the third and fourth pulleys to form an annular path for the actuating element to move. The second photoelectric sensor is close to the third pulley, and the third pulley is close to the starting point of the push.

15. The conveying device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The toggle mechanism also includes: The tensioning rod has a first end that abuts against the inside of the first synchronous belt for tensioning, and a second end that abuts against the inside of the second synchronous belt for tensioning. The drive mechanism is configured to operate in at least one of the following ways: Drive the tension rod; Drive at least one of the first pulley and the second pulley; Drive at least one of the third pulley and the fourth pulley.

16. A conveying method for use with the conveying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the method comprising: The first production line transports empty trays; The actuating mechanism moves the empty tray from the first line to the lifting mechanism's carrying platform; The corresponding carrier platform is lifted from the conveying height of the first line to the conveying height of the second line using only the first and second lifting components of the lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism includes at least one of the carrier platforms, and a first and second lifting components diagonally installed on opposite sides of each carrier platform. The carrying platform transports the tray containing the items to the second line. The second conveyor belt transports the tray containing the items, and the conveying height of the second conveyor belt is greater than that of the first conveyor belt.

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