Port assembly and article storage system comprising the same

Abstract

The port assembly of the present invention transports a container in an article storage system for a storage container, the container having a through hole and a plurality of arranged slots formed on its lower surface and storing articles. The port assembly includes: a frame module for supporting the container; and a restraining unit disposed on the frame module such that it rotates between a first position inserted into the through hole of the container and a second position offset from the through hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a port assembly and an item storage system comprising the port assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Semiconductor devices or liquid crystal display devices are manufactured by repeatedly performing unit processes such as vapor deposition and etching on substrates such as semiconductor substrates or glass substrates. These processes are performed sequentially, and the substrate is transferred to the process apparatus for each process in order to perform each process.

[0003] At this point, even tiny dust particles or small particles can easily cause defects in the substrate, so the substrates moving between the various processes need to be kept clean. Furthermore, transferring substrates one by one reduces efficiency. Therefore, the substrates are transported in containers such as housings or front-opening unified photodiodes (FOUPs).

[0004] The substrate processing capacity and processing time of the process equipment vary. To solve the problems that arise from this, a storage system using temporary storage containers, similar to a storage device, is used. In the storage device that serves as the storage system, multiple shelves for accommodating containers containing substrates and a transfer robot assembly (a robot that loads or unloads containers from the shelves) can be configured.

[0005] On the other hand, a goods storage system needs to provide storage space for containers unloaded from transport vehicles or similar devices before they are loaded onto shelves, and ports are provided to accommodate this storage space. Continuous efforts are being made to improve the operational efficiency of such goods storage systems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a port component that can stably transport containers and improve the efficiency of transport operations, as well as an item storage system including the port component.

[0008] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Based on the following description, those skilled in the art should be able to clearly understand other problems not mentioned.

[0009] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0010] According to one aspect of the port assembly of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems, a port assembly for transporting a container in an article storage system for storing an article, the container having a through hole and a plurality of arranged slots formed on its lower surface and storing articles, wherein the port assembly includes: a support module for supporting the container; and a restraining unit disposed on the support module such that it can rotate between a first position inserted into the through hole of the container and a second position offset from the through hole and restraining the container.

[0011] According to one aspect of the article storage system of the present invention for solving another problem, it comprises: a main module having a shelf configured with a storage container; a loading port configured on the main module for loading and unloading the container by any one or more of an operator, an autonomous driving robot, or a transport vehicle; and a port assembly of the present invention configured on the main module for loading, unloading, and transporting the container by the transport vehicle.

[0012] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to the port assembly and the item storage system including the port assembly of the present invention, when a container is transported in the item storage system, the container can be stably restrained not only in the front-to-back direction without swaying, but also in the up-down direction without swaying. Therefore, there is no limitation on the transport speed, and the transport efficiency can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a top view illustrating several embodiments of the article storage system of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a front view illustrating several embodiments of the article storage system of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 3 It's a diagram. Figure 2 The graph of region A.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a front view illustrating how a container being unloaded from a transport vehicle is loaded into a port assembly of an article storage system according to several embodiments of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a front view illustrating how containers are moved using port components of an article storage system according to several embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 6This is a front view illustrating the preparation for transport by a transport robot component completed in the port component of an item storage system according to several embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating port components involved in several embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a perspective view illustrating the port components in several embodiments of the present invention with the basic framework omitted.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating the bracket module and restraint unit of the port assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a bottom view illustrating the state in which the restraint unit of the port assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention does not interfere with the container.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a bottom view illustrating the state of a container caused by the restraint unit of a port assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a bottom view illustrating the state in which the restraint unit of the port assembly according to the second embodiment of the present invention does not interfere with the container.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a bottom view illustrating the state of a container caused by the restraint unit of a port assembly according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a bottom view illustrating the state in which the restraint unit of the port assembly according to the third embodiment of the present invention does not interfere with the container.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a bottom view illustrating the state of a container caused by the restraint unit of a port assembly according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the current flow of a port assembly according to several embodiments of the present invention in a state where the restraint unit does not interfere with the container.

[0031] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the current flow in a state where the restraint unit of the port assembly involved in several embodiments of the present invention interferes with the container. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. (Refer to the following and accompanying drawings...) Figure 1The advantages and features of the invention, and the methods for achieving these advantages and features, will become clear from the detailed embodiments described below. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in many different ways. These embodiments are provided only to make the disclosure of the invention complete and to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the scope of the invention, which is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same constituent elements.

[0033] The terminology used in this specification is for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, singular statements are always accompanied by plural statements unless otherwise specified. The terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" as used in this specification do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other constituent elements, steps, operations, and / or components.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a top view illustrating several embodiments of the article storage system according to the present invention. Figure 2 This is a front view illustrating several embodiments of the article storage system of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 3 It's a diagram. Figure 2 The map of region A, Figure 4 This is a front view illustrating how a container being unloaded from a transport vehicle is loaded into a port assembly of an article storage system according to several embodiments of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a front view illustrating how containers are moved using port components of an article storage system according to several embodiments of the present invention. Figure 6 This is a front view illustrating the preparation for transport by a transport robot component completed in the port component of an item storage system according to several embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] and then, Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating port components related to several embodiments of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a perspective view illustrating the port components in several embodiments of the present invention with the basic framework omitted.

[0037] also, Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating the bracket module and restraint unit of the port assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] in addition, Figure 10 This is a bottom view illustrating the state in which the restraint unit of the port assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention does not interfere with the container. Figure 11This is a bottom view illustrating the state of a container caused by the restraint unit of a port assembly according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] also, Figure 16 This diagram illustrates the current flow of a port assembly according to several embodiments of the present invention in a state where the restraint unit does not interfere with the container. Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the current flow in a state where the restraint unit of the port assembly involved in several embodiments of the present invention interferes with the container.

[0040] Reference Figures 1 to 11 And then refer to Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 The article storage system 10 according to embodiments of the present invention can be configured in a manufacturing plant that manufactures semiconductors (or displays). The manufacturing plant may be configured with multiple fabrication facilities (fabs).

[0041] Multiple manufacturing facilities can be configured as cleanrooms and can be equipped with multiple substrate processing units for performing semiconductor manufacturing processes. The multiple substrate processing units process substrates (e.g., wafers) through multiple manufacturing processes such as deposition, lithography, and etching.

[0042] Regarding the series of processes in a manufacturing plant, after a manufacturing step is performed in a semiconductor substrate processing apparatus, items such as substrates and / or photomasks are transferred to other semiconductor substrate processing apparatuses for the next manufacturing step. Here, the substrates can be transferred in a container C10 capable of holding multiple substrates.

[0043] Furthermore, the substrate processing capabilities and processing times of semiconductor substrate processing devices may vary. To address the resulting problems, container C10 can be moved to a temporary storage system 10 for storing container C10.

[0044] The container C10 transported in the manufacturing plant can be a front-open unifies POD (FOUP), front-opening shipping box (FOSB), multi-application carrier (MAC), and / or box (POD) that holds items such as photomasks, substrates, and / or semiconductor chips.

[0045] In this embodiment, the container C10 may have a through hole C15 and a plurality of arrangement grooves CH11 formed on its lower surface. As an example, the through hole C15 will be described as being elliptical or rectangular. Furthermore, the arrangement grooves CH11 will be described as being formed in the form of a protrusion C11 that bulges downward on the lower surface of the container.

[0046] Here, we will take the following configuration as an example, in which the protrusion C11 of the container C10 has a structure with a long axis, such as a rectangle, an ellipse or a combination thereof, and an arrangement groove CH11 with elongated holes is formed along the long axis, so that load sensing sensors such as the first sensor 101S1, the second sensor 101S2 and the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 abut against the protrusion C11 and are inserted into the arrangement pin 121P.

[0047] Regarding the transport of container C10 mentioned in this embodiment, it can be transported not only by transport vehicle B10, but also by port assembly 100 of the article storage system 10 involved in several embodiments. That is, regarding the transport of container C10, in order to transport articles between multiple substrate processing devices and / or to the article storage system 10, or to multiple manufacturing facilities, a movement path can be formed by track R10. Transport vehicle B10 can move along the movement path formed by track R10. Furthermore, it can be transported by port assembly 100 of article storage system 10.

[0048] That is, a moving path can be formed as a transport path for moving items between multiple substrate processing devices or to the item storage system 10, and the moving path can constitute the setting path of the track R10. Examplely, the track R10 can be configured on the ceiling. Furthermore, in the item storage system 10, a port assembly 100 can be configured in the item storage system 10 for transport purposes.

[0049] The transport vehicle B10 can be an overhead hoist transport, an automated guided vehicle, and / or a railguided vehicle. The transport vehicle B10 can be implemented not only as a structure for movement but also as a structure for holding and lifting the container C10. That is, the transport vehicle B10 can include a robotic arm unit BH11 with BB13 and be configured with a structure for performing typical loading and unloading operations, similar to a sliding unit.

[0050] Several embodiments of the article storage system 10 may be, for example, a storage device (Stocker) that may include a main module 11P, a loading port 13RP, and a port component 100.

[0051] The following description uses a storage device as an example to illustrate the item storage system 10, but it is not limited to this. It can also be a device / system that can temporarily / long-term store the container C10 or the container C10 may pass through.

[0052] As an example, the main module 11P can be configured as a cabinet-type warehouse capable of injecting inert gas in order to maintain a clean environment inside the container C10, but this is only an example and is not limited to this.

[0053] As an example, the main body module 11P can be configured to have a structure with multiple shelves 11PS forming the frame structure that constitutes the appearance and / or skeleton. The shelves 11PS can be set in multiple levels. Furthermore, in the main body module 11P, a transport robot assembly 14C can be arranged between the shelves 11PS.

[0054] Here, the transport robot component 14C is configured to move in the up-down direction 3 and the forward-backward direction 2, and can also be configured to rotate. This can be replaced by known technology, so a specific description is omitted.

[0055] The loading port 13RP can be configured on one side of the main module 11P, allowing for the loading and unloading of container C10 by operators, autonomous robots, and / or transport vehicles B10, thus creating a space for loading and unloading container C10. In other words, the loading port 13RP serves as a port for operator work and can be configured as a manual port.

[0056] If container C10 is placed at loading port 13RP, the operator and / or the transfer robot assembly 14C can move container C10 from loading port 13RP to shelf 11PS and / or from shelf 11PS to other shelves 11PS.

[0057] Port component 100 can be configured in main module 11P, and can load and unload container C10 via transport vehicle B10, and can also transport container C10. That is, port component 100 can also be configured with transport vehicle port 110 for loading and unloading containers via transport vehicle B10.

[0058] For example, the port component 100 can be configured to be opposite to the track R10 constituting the movement path in the vertical direction 3, so that loading and unloading operations of the container C10 loaded and unloaded in the transport vehicle B10 can be easily performed.

[0059] That is, the port assembly 100 can be configured at a position where it can be placed directly on the container C10 that is lowered downwards from the transport vehicle B10.

[0060] Port assembly 100 in several embodiments may include transport port 110, seat module 120, restraint unit 125, movement unit 131, and lifting unit 133.

[0061] First, the operation of port component 100 is briefly described below.

[0062] First, refer to Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The transport vehicle B10 can move to the track R10 position that carries the container C10 to the transport vehicle port 110.

[0063] Then, as Figure 4 As shown, the transport vehicle B10 can unload the container C10 and place it on the placement plate 111P1 and / or the mounting module 120 of the port assembly 100. For example, if it is placed on the placement plate 111P1 first, the mounting module 120 can rise from a first height position to a second height that is the same as or higher than the placement plate 111P1, thereby lifting the container C10 from the placement plate 111P1 by the mounting module 120.

[0064] Alternatively, instead of placing the container C10 on the placement plate 111P1, the container C10 can be placed directly on the bracket module 120 in the second height state, thus obtaining various variations.

[0065] Reference Figure 5 The frame module 120, in a second-height state with the container C10 placed on it (i.e., the frame module 120 is at its second height), can move toward the support 111P2 of the transport vehicle port 110, thereby transporting the container C10 to the support 111P2. Here, the height of the frame module 120 can be maintained at the second height state and moved using the moving unit 131 and the lifting unit 133 (see reference). Figures 7 to 9 ).

[0066] This is to drive the device to receive signals from two types of sensors, such as the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 and the upper sensor 101S6, so that actions caused by sensor errors will not occur, such as when the drive unit 125S receives an ON signal from the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 and the drive unit 125S receives an ON signal from the upper sensor 101S6.

[0067] In addition, such as Figure 6As shown, when the mounting module 120 moves in a state where the container C10 is not loaded, it can move after its position is restored to the first height state, but this is only an assumption and is not limited to this.

[0068] The structure of port component 100 will be described in detail below.

[0069] The transport vehicle port 110 in several embodiments may include a base frame 111P, a placement plate 111P1, and a support body 111P2.

[0070] Reference Figure 7 The base frame 111P can be formed along the movement direction 1 of the frame module 120 that moves via the moving unit 131. The base frame 111P can be configured as a polyhedral frame, which can have a bottom surface and be provided with the moving unit 131.

[0071] Sensors for sensing loads can be configured in the base frame 111P. For example, a first sensor 101S1 can be configured adjacent to the placement plate 111P1 in the base frame 111P, and a second sensor 101S2 can be configured adjacent to the support body 111P2.

[0072] The first sensor 101S1 and the second sensor 101S2 are load sensing sensors for sensing the presence of container C10, and can be configured as the same / similar sensor types as the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 configured in the mounting module 120.

[0073] For example, the first sensor 101S1, the second sensor 101S2, and the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 can be configured as load sensing sensors, i.e., positioned at the location where the container C10 is placed, and sensing the container C10 when it comes into contact with the protrusion C11 located on the bottom surface of the container C10 during loading or unloading. As an example, when the container C10 is loaded, the load sensing sensor's reception of laser light is cut off, thereby enabling it to sense the loading of the container C10. Alternatively, the load sensing sensor can also sense pressure changes or load to detect whether the container C10 is placed; thus, the type of sensor is not limited.

[0074] The placement plate 111P1 is located in the lower part of the track R10 / transport vehicle B10 in the transport vehicle port 110, so that it can be placed on the container C10 for loading and unloading of the transport vehicle B10. For example, the placement plate 111P1 can be constructed by forming a step on the upper side of one side of the base frame 111P.

[0075] Furthermore, the placement plate 111P1 can be configured as a plate that is cut open to correspond to the shape of the seat module 120, so that the seat module 120 is not disturbed when it rises to a second height that is higher than the placement plate 111P1. For example, if the seat module 120 is configured in a T-shape, the placement plate 111P1 can be configured as a plate with an opening on one side.

[0076] According to a variation of the embodiment, the container C10 placed on the placement plate 111P1 can be lifted by the frame module 120 and transported to the support 111P2. At this time, if the first sensor 101S1 senses that the container C10 is loaded on the placement plate 111P1, the frame module 120 in the first height state is raised to the second height by the signal of the first sensor 101S1, so that the frame module 120 can lift the container C10 placed on the placement plate 111P1 and perform the transport operation.

[0077] In contrast, the container C10 can be placed directly on the support module 120 instead of on the placement plate 111P1, and then the support module 120 can move the container C10 to the support body 111P2. In this way, a variety of variations can be obtained.

[0078] Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, pins for binding containers C10 can also be configured on the placement plate 111P1 (e.g., protruding structures similar to or the same as those for arrangement pins 121P), thus enabling various variations.

[0079] In order to move container C10 from port assembly 100 to shelf 11PS, or from shelf 11PS to port assembly 100 and / or external, support 111P2 may be configured with a placement space for temporarily loading container C10.

[0080] For example, the support 111P2 can be configured on the other side of the base frame 111P, thus being located on the opposite side of the placement plate 111P1 within the base frame 111P. Similarly to the placement plate 111P1, the support 111P2 can also be constructed by forming steps in the base frame 111P, such that the heights of the support 111P2 and the placement plate 111P1 are the same or similar; however, this is merely an example and not a limitation.

[0081] Furthermore, the support 111P2 can be configured as a pair of blocks and / or a pair of bent plates, etc. (see reference) Figure 7 Alternatively, it can be configured in the same / similar way as the placement plate 111P1 as a cut plate so that the seat module 120 is not disturbed when it is raised or lowered. In this way, various variations can be obtained.

[0082] The support module 120 can support the container C10 and can transport the container C10 from one side of the base frame 111P to the other side, or from the other side to one side. That is, the support module 120 can move the position of the container C10 so that the container C10 can be transported between the placement plate 111P1 and the support body 111P2, thereby transporting the container C10 from the transport vehicle port 110 to the shelf 11PS and / or the transport vehicle B10.

[0083] As an example, the bracket module 120 can be configured as a T-shaped plate to support the container C10 at three fulcrums, and can be provided with the first sensor modules 101S3, 101S4 and the arrangement pins 121P.

[0084] The first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 are capable of sensing the container C10 being loaded and unloaded in the mounting module 120, and can be configured on the upper surface of the mounting module 120. To prevent errors, the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 can be configured as a pair of sensors.

[0085] The first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 can be configured as load sensing sensors such that if the protrusion C11 disposed on the bottom surface of the container C10 abuts against the upper surface of the frame module 120, the container C10 is sensed. Similar to the first sensor 101S1 and the second sensor 101S2, the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 can be sensors that receive laser light or sense pressure and / or load, but this is merely an example.

[0086] The arranging pin 121P can be clamped in the arranging slot CH11 to arrange and guide the container C10. However, even though the arranging pin 121P can restrain the left and right and / or front and back directions, it is difficult to restrain the up and down direction of the container C10.

[0087] The restraint unit 125 is a structure for restraining the container C10 in the vertical direction. It can be configured in the bracket module 120 such that at the first position inserted into the through hole C15 of the container C10 (refer to...). Figure 3 as well as Figure 10 ) and the second position offset from the through hole C15 (refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 11 The container C10 is restrained by rotating between the two sides, preventing it from shaking.

[0088] For example, refer to Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 The restraint unit 125 may include a drive body 125S and a rotating body 125P.

[0089] The drive unit 125S is capable of rotating the rotating body 125P. For example, the drive unit 125S may include a rotary solenoid. The rotation angle of the rotary solenoid may be in the range of 10° to 170°, for example, it may be configured such that the rotation angle changes from 0° or returns to 45° (or 90°) depending on the start / stop (ON / OFF) action.

[0090] The drive unit 125S can rotate depending on whether the height of the container C10 and the frame module 120 is sensed in the first sensor module 101S3, 101S4 and / or the upper sensor 101S6.

[0091] As an example, in the state where the container C10 is loaded on the frame module 120, if the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4 sense the load, and the upper sensor 101S6 senses the sensing bar 133SP (DOG BAR), thus indicating that the frame module 120 has risen to a second height, then the rotating body 125P can be moved to the second position (refer to the second position) by the drive body 125S. Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 11 The container C10 is rotated and bound.

[0092] Conversely, it can also be configured such that if the container C10 is unloaded from the mounting module 120, and the mounting module 120 is lowered so that the upper sensor 101S6 cannot sense the first height of the sensing bar 133SP, that is, if the lower sensor 101S5 senses the sensing bar 133SP, then the rotating body 125P moves to the first position (refer to...). Figure 3 as well as Figure 10 It rotates to a state where the container C10 can be loaded into the frame module 120.

[0093] In other words, such as Figure 16 As shown, it can be configured such that if a stop (OFF) signal is received from the first sensor module 101S3, 101S4 and the upper sensor 101S6, the rotating body 125P becomes the first position (see reference). Figure 3 as well as Figure 10 ).like Figure 17 As shown, it can also be configured such that if a start signal is received from the first sensor module 101S3, 101S4 and the upper sensor 101S6, the rotating body 125P becomes the second position (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 11 ).

[0094] In this embodiment, in addition to the first sensor modules 101S3 and 101S4, a start signal is also received from the upper sensor 101S6 to activate the drive unit 125S, thereby reducing / preventing erroneous activation of the drive unit 125S caused by sensor errors.

[0095] In several embodiments, when the frame module 120 is transporting the container C10, that is, when it is moving in the state of loading the container C10, it moves to the state of the second height, causing the upper sensor 101S6 to send a start signal to the drive body 125S, thereby reducing / preventing erroneous operation of the drive body 125S caused by sensor errors. However, it is not limited to this and various modifications can be obtained.

[0096] The rotating body 125P can be rotated between the first position and the second position by the drive body 125S. For example, the rotating body 125P can be 0° (reference point) as the first position and 45° (or 90°) as the second position.

[0097] Furthermore, such as Figure 9 As shown, the rotating body 125P can be formed into a shape where the width decreases from the bottom to the top, so that the inner side of the bottom surface of the container C10 is stably designated as the second position (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 11 The lower end of the rotating body 125P is locked and bound to the container C10, and the container C10 is in the first position (see reference). Figure 3 as well as Figure 10 When the upper part of the rotating body 125P enters downwards, the through hole C15 of the container C10 will not be blocked by the upper edge of the rotating body 125P, and the container C10 can be easily placed into the frame module 120.

[0098] As an example, if the through hole C15 is formed as an ellipse or a rectangle, then the lower end of the rotating body 125P can be formed as an ellipse or a rectangle corresponding to the minor and major axes of the through hole C15. That is, it can be configured as the first position (refer to...). Figure 3 as well as Figure 10 The rotating body 125P penetrates through hole C15, and the second position (refer to) Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 11 The rotating body 125P in the state is disturbed by the periphery of the through hole C15.

[0099] The moving unit 131 enables the frame module 120 to move. As an example, the moving unit 131 may include a moving plate 131UP1, a first moving block 131MB1, a first timing belt 131B1, and a first motor 131M1.

[0100] The movable plate 131UP1 can support the seat module 120. For example, the movable plate 131UP1 can be equipped with a lifting unit 133, so that when it is moved by the first motor 131M1, the lifting unit 133 and the seat module 120 supported by the lifting unit 133 can move together.

[0101] The movable plate 131UP1 can be connected to the first movable block 131MB1 and move together in the horizontal direction 1. A guide rail 131L1 can be arranged at the lower part of the movable plate 131UP1 so that the movable plate 131UP1 can move along the guide rail 131L1.

[0102] As an example, the movable plate 131UP1 can be configured as a plate that is bent or folded into an L-shape. Furthermore, on the side of the movable plate 131UP1, second sensor modules 101S5 and 101S6, which are spaced apart in the vertical direction and sense the height of the frame module 120, can be configured.

[0103] The second sensor module can be formed into a horseshoe shape like a U, and can serve as two sensors, including a lower sensor 101S5 and an upper sensor 101S6.

[0104] The lower sensor 101S5 can sense the first height state of the seat module 120. For example, when the seat module 120 is at the first height, the sensing bar 133SP is located at that position, so that the lower sensor 101S5 can sense that the seat module 120 is at the first height state.

[0105] The upper sensor 101S6 can sense the second height state of the seat module 120 and is located above the lower sensor 101S5. For example, when the seat module 120 is at the second height, the sensing bar 133SP is located at that position, so that the upper sensor 101S6 can sense that the seat module 120 is at the second height state.

[0106] Here, the first height can mean that the container C10 is not loaded in the mounting module 120, and the second height is a position higher than the first height, which can mean that the container C10 is loaded in the mounting module 120.

[0107] The sensing strip 133SP, as a sensing object sensed by the upper sensor 101S6 and the lower sensor 101S5, can be configured such that if the sensing strip 133SP is located in the recessed space between the upper sensor 101S6 and the lower sensor 101S5, the laser of the second sensor module (upper sensor 101S6, lower sensor 101S5) is blocked, that is, the sensing strip 133SP is sensed, thereby enabling the determination of the height of the seat module 120. Such a sensing strip 133SP can be configured in the second lifting block 133MB2 (or the first lifting block 133MB1) that moves up and down in conjunction with the seat module 120.

[0108] The first moving block 131MB1 can be restrained by the first timing belt 131B1, thereby enabling it to move in position in conjunction with the rotation of the first timing belt 131B1, and can be connected to the moving plate 131UP1, so that the moving plate 131UP1 can move via the first timing belt 131B1.

[0109] The first timing belt 131B1 may be equipped with a pair of first drive pulleys 131MP1 and 131MP2, or it may be connected to the first moving block 131MB1 as a structure that is rotated by the first motor 131M1 and rotated to move the first moving block 131MB1.

[0110] The first motor 131M1 can be connected to either of a pair of first drive pulleys 131MP1 and 131MP2 to rotate the first timing belt 131B1.

[0111] The lifting unit 133 can raise and lower the seat module 120 between the first height and the second height.

[0112] For example, the lifting unit 133 may include a second motor 133M1, a first lifting block 133MB1, a linear guide 133LG1, and a second lifting block 133MB2.

[0113] The second motor 133M1 can transmit rotational force to the second timing belt 133B1, causing the ball screw (not shown) through which the rotational force is transmitted via the second drive pulley 133MP1 to rotate. Furthermore, a support bracket 133BC can be arranged at the lower part of the second motor 133M1 to prevent the shaft of the second motor 133M1 from being interfered with by the moving plate 131UP1. Inside the support bracket 133BC, a drive pulley paired with the second drive pulley 133MP1 can be arranged to transmit rotational force to the second timing belt 133B1.

[0114] The first lifting block 133MB1 is linked to the rotation of the ball screw and moves up and down along the length of the ball screw. The upper end is supported / connected to the seat module 120, so that the seat module 120 can move up and down between the first height and the second height.

[0115] The linear guide 133LG1 has the following structure: it guides the lifting of the first lifting block 133MB1 so that the first lifting block 133MB1 lifts without rotating in the ball screw. The linear guide 133LG1 can be configured parallel to the ball screw.

[0116] The second lifting block 133MB2 can be connected to the first lifting block 133MB1 and move along the linear guide, thereby moving in linkage with the lifting of the first lifting block 133MB1.

[0117] In this embodiment, the rotating body 125P of the restraint unit 125 is illustrated as an ellipse, but it is not limited thereto. Other variations will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0118] The following is for reference Figures 12 to 15 The modified examples of this embodiment will be described, and repeated descriptions of the same structures that perform the same function will be omitted.

[0119] Figure 12 This is a bottom view illustrating the state in which the restraint unit of the port assembly according to the second embodiment of the present invention does not interfere with the container. Figure 13 This is a bottom view illustrating the state of a container caused by the restraint unit of a port assembly according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] also, Figure 14 This is a bottom view illustrating the state in which the restraint unit of the port assembly according to the third embodiment of the present invention does not interfere with the container. Figure 15 This is a bottom view illustrating the state of a container caused by the restraint unit of a port assembly according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Reference Figures 12 to 15 In order to utilize Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 The explanation will focus on the differences in the descriptions provided. Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 The restraint unit 125 of the second embodiment shown and Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 The restraint unit 125 of the third embodiment shown is different in shape, but its function and action relationship are the same / similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0122] That is, the restraint units 125 in the first to third embodiments are the same or similar to each other, and may include a driving body 125S and a rotating body 125P, only the shape of the rotating body 125P is different.

[0123] First, refer to Figure 12 as well as Figure 13The rotating body 125P of the binding unit 125 can be formed into a quadrilateral. At this time, the through hole C15 on the lower surface of the container C10 can also be formed into a quadrilateral shape corresponding to the quadrilateral shape of the rotating body 125P.

[0124] Reference Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 The rotating body 125P of the binding unit 125 can be formed into a cross shape. At this time, the through hole C15 on the lower surface of the container C10 can also be formed into a cross shape corresponding to the cross shape of the rotating body 125P.

[0125] In other words, the rotating body 125P of the restraint unit 125 and the through hole C15 on the lower surface of the container C10 can be configured in various shapes corresponding to each other, so that the rotating body 125P is either disturbed or not disturbed by the through hole C15 depending on its rotation state.

[0126] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention can be implemented in other specific ways without changing its technical concept and essential features. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A port assembly for conveying a container in a container storage system, the container having a through hole and a plurality of arranged slots formed on its lower surface for storing items, wherein, The port component includes: The frame module supports the container; as well as A restraint unit is configured in the frame module such that it can rotate between a first position inserted into the through hole of the container and a second position offset from the through hole and restraining the container.

2. The port component according to claim 1, wherein, The restraint unit comprises: The rotating body rotates between the first position and the second position; and A driving body that causes the rotating body to rotate.

3. The port component according to claim 2, wherein, The frame module also includes: The first sensor module senses the container being loaded and unloaded from the mounting module.

4. The port component according to claim 3, wherein, The drive body rotates depending on whether the container is sensed in the first sensor module. If the container is loaded in the frame module, the drive body rotates to the second position. If the container is unloaded from the frame module, the drive body rotates to the first position.

5. The port component according to claim 4, wherein, Also includes: The second sensor module, configured adjacent to the frame module, senses the first height state of the frame module and the second height state of the frame module, which is higher than the first height. If the container is sensed in the first sensor module and the second height state of the frame module is sensed in the second sensor module, the drive body causes the rotating body to rotate toward the second position to restrain the container.

6. The port component according to claim 2, wherein, The driving body includes a rotating solenoid.

7. The port component according to claim 2, wherein, The rotation angle of the rotating body between the first position and the second position is in the range of 10° to 170°.

8. The port component according to claim 2, wherein, The width of the rotating body decreases from the bottom to the top.

9. The port component according to claim 2, wherein, The through hole is formed in the shape of an ellipse or a rectangle. The lower end of the rotating body is formed into an ellipse or a rectangle corresponding to the minor axis and major axis of the through hole.

10. The port component of claim 1, wherein, The mounting module includes: Arrangement pins, clamped in the arrangement slots, arrange the containers.

11. The port component according to claim 5, wherein, Also includes: The moving unit causes the frame module to move; and The transport vehicle port has a basic frame that extends along the direction of movement of the moving unit, and loads and unloads containers using the transport vehicle.

12. The port component of claim 11, wherein, The mobile unit includes: The movable plate supports the frame module; The first movable block is connected to the movable plate; The first timing belt is connected to the first moving block; and The first motor causes the first timing belt to rotate.

13. The port component of claim 12, wherein, Also includes: The lifting unit raises and lowers the seat module between the first height and the second height.

14. The port component of claim 13, wherein, The lifting unit includes: The second motor rotates the ball screw; and The first lifting block moves up and down along the length of the ball screw in conjunction with the rotation of the ball screw, and supports the seat module.

15. The port component of claim 14, wherein, The frame module is configured to support the container and form a T-shaped plate. The transport vehicle port also includes: A placement plate, with an opening on one side to prevent interference with the seat module that is raised and lowered by the lifting unit, is positioned on one side of the base frame to hold the container.

16. The port component of claim 14, wherein, The lifting unit also includes: A linear guide, configured parallel to the ball screw; and The second lifting block is connected to the first lifting block and moves along the straight guide.

17. The port component of claim 16, wherein, The movable plate is configured to have an L-shape, having the lifting unit and being bent or folded upwards. The second sensor module is disposed on one side of the movable plate. The second lifting block or the first lifting block is equipped with a sensing strip that is sensed by the second sensor module.

18. The port component of claim 16, wherein, The second sensor module further includes: The lower sensor senses the first height state of the frame module; and The upper sensor senses the second height state of the frame module and is located above the lower sensor.

19. An item storage system, comprising: The main module is equipped with shelves for storing containers; A loading port, configured in the main module, allows for loading and unloading of the container by one or more of the following: operators, autonomous robots, or transport vehicles; and The port component of claim 1 is configured in the main module and loads, unloads, and transports the container using the transport vehicle.

Images