Combined pick-up trailer with locking device

Abstract

The application provides a combined selectable trailer with a locking device, which comprises a trailer body, the trailer body is provided with at least one accommodating space, the edge of the opening is provided with a locking space, the locking space is provided with a first operating port, a second operating port and an extension port which are communicated with the outside, and the trolley is provided with a matching hole corresponding to the extension port; the locking device comprises a first operating end, a second operating end and a buckle structure, the first operating end is moved along a first direction, the buckle structure is firstly moved to a pre-locking position in the matching hole and then moved to a locking position matched with the matching hole along a second direction, so that the trolley is locked; the second operating end is moved along a third direction opposite to the second direction, the buckle structure is firstly moved to a pre-unlocking position in the matching hole and then moved to an unlocking position separated from the matching hole along a fourth direction opposite to the first direction, so that the trolley is unlocked.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of trailer design technology, and more specifically, to a modular pickable trailer with a locking device. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, material handling in automotive engine parts processing and assembly workshops typically employs a two-stage transfer model: a towed trailer and internal trolleys. The trailer is constructed from welded steel profiles and has casters at the bottom for being towed by a tow vehicle (such as an AGV or forklift). Several independent trolleys are placed inside to load specialized material boxes. This model is very common in discrete manufacturing sectors such as automotive and home appliances. At the production line, when materials are depleted, operators must manually pull out empty trolleys and then push full trolleys into the trailer. Some factories use AGV scheduling systems for information flow management, but the physical locking and unlocking of the trolleys and trailers at the execution level still relies on complex manual hook-and-loop operations.

[0003] To prevent the internal handcart from slipping out during transport, existing trailers typically have simple limiting devices inside, such as mechanical pins and baffle structures. These involve installing a rotating baffle or movable pin at the rear or side of the trailer, which is manually operated to stop the handcart. Alternatively, a combination of positioning blocks and slots is used. This involves welding limiting angle steel or grooves to the trailer chassis, allowing the handcart to be roughly positioned by its wheels sinking into the grooves or its sides rubbing against the rubber blocks.

[0004] The unlocking and locking process of the above-mentioned locking and limiting method is cumbersome. From unlocking and pulling out the empty car to pushing in the full car and relocking, the whole process takes too long, becoming a bottleneck in production line logistics. This results in excessively long waiting time at the lineside, making the empty-full exchange cycle slow and unable to match the high-speed cycle of the production line.

[0005] There is currently no effective solution to the aforementioned technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The main objective of this invention is to provide a modular pickable trailer with a locking device to solve the problem of slow production line cycle time caused by the cumbersome operation of locking and unlocking the handcart in the prior art.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a modular pickable trailer with a locking device is provided, comprising: a trailer body having at least one receiving space, the receiving space having an opening for a trolley to be pushed in and pushed out, a locking space having a first operating port, a second operating port, and an extension port communicating with the outside, wherein the extension port is disposed facing the center of the opening, and the trolley is provided with a mating hole corresponding to the extension port; and a locking device located within the locking space, the locking device comprising a first operating end, a second operating end, and a latching structure. In this configuration, a first operating end extends to a first operating port, a second operating end extends to a second operating port, and a latching structure extends to an extension opening. When the first operating end moves along a first direction, the latching structure first moves to a pre-locked position within the mating hole, and then moves along a second direction to a locked position that mates with the mating hole, thereby locking the handcart. When the second operating end moves along a third direction opposite to the second direction, the latching structure first moves to a pre-unlocked position within the mating hole, and then moves along a fourth direction opposite to the first direction to an unlocked position that disengages from the mating hole, thereby unlocking the handcart.

[0008] Furthermore, the locking space includes a first space that extends through the first direction, with one end of the first space forming a first operating port and the other end of the first space forming an extension port. The locking space also includes a second space that extends along a second direction and is connected to the first space. The end of the second space that is away from the first space forms a second operating port. The first direction and the second direction are arranged at an angle.

[0009] Furthermore, the locking device includes at least a locking rod assembly, which includes a first rod extending in a first direction and a second rod extending in a second direction. The first rod passes through a first space, with a first operating end at a first end and a latching structure at a second end. The second rod passes through a second space, with its first end connected to the first rod. The first rod is movable relative to the second rod in the first and fourth directions, and its second end is provided with a second operating end.

[0010] Furthermore, a movable collar is fitted onto the first rod, and the first rod is movably positioned relative to the movable collar along the first and fourth directions, while the first end of the second rod is connected to the movable collar.

[0011] Furthermore, a first elastic element is sleeved on the first rod body. The first elastic element is located between the movable collar and the first operating end. The first end of the first elastic element is connected to the movable collar, and the second end of the first elastic element is connected to the first rod body. When the first operating end is moved along the first direction, it can drive the first rod body and the buckle structure to move toward the handcart, thereby causing the buckle structure to extend into the mating hole and compress the first elastic element. When the second operating end is moved along the third direction, the buckle structure first moves to the pre-unlock position, and then the buckle structure moves to the unlock position along the fourth direction under the elastic force of the first elastic element.

[0012] Furthermore, a second elastic element is sleeved on the second rod body. The second elastic element is located between the movable collar and the second operating end. The first end of the second elastic element is connected to the movable collar, and the second end of the second elastic element is connected to the second rod body. When the second operating end is operated to move along a third direction, the latching structure, the first rod body, and the second rod body move along the third direction to move the latching structure to the pre-unlocking position and compress the second elastic element. When the first operating end is operated to move along a first direction, the latching structure first moves to the pre-locking position, and then the latching structure moves to the locking position along the second direction under the elastic force of the second elastic element.

[0013] Furthermore, the first operating end includes a first ball head, and / or the second operating end includes a second ball head.

[0014] Furthermore, the mating hole includes a first hole extending along a first direction and a second hole extending along a second direction. One end of the first hole forms a mating opening for the buckle structure to extend into and out. The second hole is connected to the first hole. When the buckle structure is in the pre-locked position or the pre-unlocked position, the buckle structure is located in the first hole. When the buckle structure is in the locked position, at least part of the buckle structure extends into the second hole.

[0015] Furthermore, the trailer body has multiple storage spaces, and each storage space has a locking space along the edge of its opening.

[0016] Furthermore, locking spaces are provided on both sides of the opening, and a locking device is provided in each locking space. Matching holes are provided on both sides of the handcart.

[0017] By applying the technical solution of this invention, when it is necessary to lock the handcart to the trailer body, the first operating end is moved along the first direction to move the latching structure to the locking position, thereby locking the handcart. When it is necessary to detach the handcart from the trailer body, the second operating end is moved along the third direction to move the latching structure to the unlocking position, thereby releasing the handcart. Both the locking and unlocking processes require only one operation step, simplifying the locking and unlocking steps of the handcart, improving the efficiency of empty car replacement on the production line, saving production cycle time, and solving the problem of cumbersome operation of the handcart locking and unlocking process in the prior art, which leads to slow production line cycle time. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a modular pickable trailer with locking device according to the present invention is shown.

[0020] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the locking device for a combined pickable trailer with locking mechanism according to the present invention is shown;

[0021] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a modular pickable trailer with locking device according to the present invention is shown;

[0022] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of a modular pickable trailer with locking device according to the present invention is shown;

[0023] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a trolley with a locking device for picking up trailers according to the present invention is shown.

[0024] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0025] 1. Trailer body;

[0026] 10. Accommodation space; 11. Opening; 12. Locking space; 1201. First space; 1202. Second space;

[0027] 121. First operating port; 122. Second operating port; 123. Extension port;

[0028] 2. Handcart; 20. Fitting hole; 201. First hole; 202. Second hole; 203. Fitting opening;

[0029] 3. Locking device; 31. First rod; 32. Second rod; 33. Movable collar; 34. First elastic element; 35. Second elastic element;

[0030] 301. First operating end; 302. Second operating end; 303. Snap-fit ​​structure. Detailed Implementation

[0031] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0032] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0033] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such terms can be used interchangeably where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0034] Exemplary embodiments according to this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. It should be understood that these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application is thorough and complete, and that the concept of these exemplary embodiments is fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, for clarity, the thickness of layers and regions may be exaggerated, and the same reference numerals are used to denote the same devices, and therefore their description will be omitted.

[0035] Combination Figures 1 to 5 As shown, according to a specific embodiment of this application, a combined pickable trailer with a locking device is provided.

[0036] Specifically, the modular pickable trailer with locking device includes a trailer body 1 and a locking device 3. The trailer body 1 has at least one receiving space 10, which has an opening 11 for a trolley 2 to be pushed in and pushed out. A locking space 12 is formed along the edge of the opening 11. The locking space 12 has a first operating port 121, a second operating port 122, and an extension port 123 communicating with the outside. The extension port 123 is oriented towards the center of the opening 11. The trolley 2 has a mating hole 20 corresponding to the extension port 123. The locking device 3 is located within the locking space 12 and includes a first operating end 301, a second operating end 302, and a latching structure 303. 301 extends to the first operating port 121, the second operating end 302 extends to the second operating port 122, and the latching structure 303 extends to the protrusion 123; wherein, when the first operating end 301 is operated to move along the first direction, the latching structure 303 first moves to the pre-locked position located in the mating hole 20, and then moves along the second direction to the locking position that mates with the mating hole 20, thereby locking the handcart 2; when the second operating end 302 is operated to move along the third direction opposite to the second direction, the latching structure 303 first moves to the pre-unlocked position located in the mating hole 20, and then moves along the fourth direction opposite to the first direction to the unlocked position that disengages from the mating hole 20, thereby unlocking the handcart 2.

[0037] By applying the technical solution of this embodiment, when it is necessary to lock the handcart 2 to the trailer body 1, the first operating end 301 is moved along the first direction, which moves the latching structure 303 to the locking position to lock the handcart 2. When it is necessary to detach the handcart 2 from the trailer body 1, the second operating end 302 is moved along the third direction, which moves the latching structure 303 to the unlocking position to release the handcart 2. Both the locking and unlocking processes only require one operation step, which simplifies the locking and unlocking steps of the handcart 2, improves the efficiency of empty car replacement on the production line, saves production cycle time, and solves the problem of slow production line cycle time caused by the cumbersome operation of the handcart locking and unlocking process in the prior art.

[0038] Furthermore, the locking space 12 includes a first space 1201 that extends along a first direction, with one end of the first space 1201 forming a first operating port 121 and the other end of the first space 1201 forming an extension port 123. The locking space 12 also includes a second space 1202 that extends along a second direction and is connected to the first space 1201. The end of the second space 1202 that is away from the first space 1201 forms a second operating port 122. The first direction and the second direction are arranged at an angle.

[0039] In this embodiment, the first space 1201 provides guiding and limiting functions, ensuring that the first operating end 301 can only move along the extension direction of the first space 1201. The second space 1202 provides guiding and limiting functions, ensuring that the second operating end 302 can only move along the extension direction of the second space 1202, thereby improving the reliability of the locking device 3.

[0040] Furthermore, the locking device 3 includes at least a locking rod assembly, which includes a first rod 31 extending in a first direction and a second rod 32 extending in a second direction. The first rod 31 passes through the first space 1201, and a first operating end 301 is provided at the first end of the first rod 31. A latching structure 303 is provided at the second end of the first rod 31. The second rod 32 passes through the second space 1202, and the first end of the second rod 32 is connected to the first rod 31. The first rod 31 can move relative to the second rod 32 in the first direction and the fourth direction. A second operating end 302 is provided at the second end of the second rod 32.

[0041] In this embodiment, the first operating end 301 can move the first rod 31, thereby moving the latching structure 303. Furthermore, the first rod 31 can move relative to the second rod 32, so that when operating the first operating end 301, the first rod 31 can drive the latching structure 303 to extend into the mating hole 20 relative to the second rod 32, or disengage from the mating hole 20. The second rod 32 can move along its own length direction, thereby driving the first rod 31 and the latching structure 303 into the locking position or out of the unlocking position. The rod structure makes the state switching process of the locking device more reliable.

[0042] Furthermore, a movable collar 33 is fitted onto the first rod 31, and the first rod 31 is movably positioned relative to the movable collar 33 along the first and fourth directions. The first end of the second rod 32 is connected to the movable collar 33.

[0043] In this embodiment, the second rod 32 is movably connected to the first rod 31 via a movable collar 33, which facilitates the separate assembly of the first rod 31, the movable collar 33, and the second rod 32 during assembly. That is, the first rod 31 and the movable collar 33 are assembled first, and then the second rod 32 is assembled. This is convenient for situations where the locking space 12 is small and assembly is inconvenient. Furthermore, the second rod 32 and the movable collar 33 are detachable, which also facilitates subsequent maintenance and replacement.

[0044] Furthermore, a first elastic element 34 is sleeved on the first rod body 31. The first elastic element 34 is located between the movable collar 33 and the first operating end 301. The first end of the first elastic element 34 is connected to the movable collar 33, and the second end of the first elastic element 34 is connected to the first rod body 31. When the first operating end 301 is operated to move along the first direction, it can drive the first rod body 31 and the buckling structure 303 to move toward the handcart 2, thereby causing the buckling structure 303 to extend into the mating hole 20 and compress the first elastic element 34. When the second operating end 302 is operated to move along the third direction, the buckling structure 303 first moves to the pre-unlock position, and then the buckling structure 303 moves to the unlock position along the fourth direction under the elastic force of the first elastic element 34.

[0045] In this embodiment, when locked, the first elastic element 34 is compressed. When it needs to be released, the latch structure 303, which has been switched to the pre-unlock position, can be directly reset under the elastic force of the first elastic element 34, disengage from the mating hole 20, and release the handcart 2. In other words, the setting of the first elastic element 34 makes the unlocking process only require operating the second operating end 302 to move the latch structure 303 to the pre-unlock position, making the unlocking process simpler.

[0046] Furthermore, a second elastic element 35 is sleeved on the second rod 32. The second elastic element 35 is located between the movable collar 33 and the second operating end 302. The first end of the second elastic element 35 is connected to the movable collar 33, and the second end of the second elastic element 35 is connected to the second rod 32. When the second operating end 302 is operated to move along a third direction, the latching structure 303, the first rod 31, and the second rod 32 move along a third direction to move the latching structure 303 to the pre-unlocking position and compress the second elastic element 35. When the first operating end 301 is operated to move along a first direction, the latching structure 303 first moves to the pre-locking position, and then the latching structure 303 moves along a second direction to the locking position under the elastic force of the second elastic element 35.

[0047] In this embodiment, when unlocking, the second elastic element 35 is compressed. When locking is required, the latching structure 303, which has been switched to the pre-locking position, can move directly to the locking position under the elastic force of the second elastic element 35 to lock the handcart 2. In other words, the setting of the second elastic element 35 makes the locking process only require operating the first operating end 301 to move the latching structure 303 to the pre-locking position, making the locking process steps simpler.

[0048] Preferably, the first operating end 301 includes a first ball head. In this embodiment, the first operating end 301 is set as a ball head structure, which makes it easier for the operator to manually grasp and operate, and at the same time, the installation is simpler and more efficient.

[0049] Preferably, the second operating end 302 includes a second ball head. In this embodiment, the second operating end 302 is configured as a ball head structure, which facilitates manual gripping and operation by the operator, and also makes installation simpler and more efficient.

[0050] Furthermore, the mating hole 20 includes a first hole 201 extending along a first direction and a second hole 202 extending along a second direction. One end of the first hole 201 forms a mating opening 203 for the buckle structure 303 to extend into and out. The second hole 202 is connected to the first hole 201. When the buckle structure 303 is in the pre-locked position or the pre-unlocked position, the buckle structure 303 is located in the first hole 201. When the buckle structure 303 is in the locked position, at least a portion of the buckle structure 303 extends into the second hole 202.

[0051] In this embodiment, when the latching structure 303 is located inside the first hole 201, the latching structure 303 can move along the extension direction of the first hole 201. At this time, the latching structure 303 is in a pre-unlocked position or a pre-locked position, which can prepare for further locking or disengagement. When the latching structure 303 extends into the second hole 202, the side wall of the second hole 202 can form a limiting stop on the latching structure 303. At this time, the latching structure 303 can no longer move along the extension direction of the first hole 201. That is, at this time, the latching structure 303 locks the handcart.

[0052] Furthermore, the trailer body 1 has multiple accommodating spaces 10, and each accommodating space 10 has a locking space 12 along the edge of its opening 11.

[0053] In this embodiment, the trailer body 1 has multiple accommodating spaces 10, which can simultaneously connect multiple handcarts 2. Each accommodating space 10 has an opening 11 with a locking space 12, so that each opening 11 can be locked with the handcart 2 by the locking device 3, ensuring the connection stability between the handcart 2 and the trailer body 1 during material transportation.

[0054] Furthermore, locking spaces 12 are provided on both sides of the opening 11, and a locking device 3 is provided in each locking space 12. Matching holes 20 are provided on both sides of the handcart 2.

[0055] In this embodiment, locking spaces 12 are provided on both sides of the opening 11, so that each handcart 2 can be connected to the trailer body 1 through the locking devices 3 on both sides, ensuring that the handcart 2 is subjected to balanced force on both sides, thereby ensuring the stable connection between the handcart 2 and the trailer body 1 during logistics transportation.

[0056] This application also provides a preferred embodiment of a modular pickable trailer with locking device.

[0057] The existing turnover plan has the following problems in the production line logistics of high-value, multi-variety, and high-cycle products such as "gasoline engine camshafts":

[0058] (1) Problems with handcarts shaking, tilting, or even tipping over during transportation;

[0059] Existing trailers rely solely on wheel grooves, simple pins for positioning, or friction for limiting movement, resulting in gaps. When the tractor suddenly stops, turns, or traverses uneven surfaces such as bumpy roads, the trailer is dragged by the tractor, causing the internal handcart to easily move longitudinally, sway laterally, shift forward and backward, or even tilt. Some automotive parts are precision machined components; collisions can cause surface scratches or bending, rendering them unusable, especially damaging or bending the journals. Current technology lacks a rigid locking mechanism to restrain the handcart, leading to poor dynamic stability during transport.

[0060] (2) The locking mechanism is cumbersome to operate and does not conform to human-machine engineering, resulting in low locking and unlocking efficiency;

[0061] Existing locking devices (such as T-bolts or ordinary pins) typically require two-hand operation, necessitating bending over or leaning to reach inside the trailer to perform "insertion and removal" actions, repeatedly aligning holes or tightening threads multiple times. Operators must first unlock, pull out the pin, push open the baffle, and then pull out the handcart. This involves numerous and time-consuming actions, and with frequent "empty-full" switching, operator fatigue can easily lead to forgetting to lock the device, causing transportation accidents.

[0062] (3) The empty-full exchange efficiency is low, the empty-full exchange cycle is slow, and it cannot match the high-speed cycle of the production line.

[0063] In existing technologies, trailers and trolleys typically have a one-to-one "pull-out and push-in" relationship, lacking an efficient "replacement" logic design. Furthermore, due to the cumbersome unlocking process (such as requiring multiple turns to tighten the T-screw), the entire replacement process—from unlocking, pulling out the empty vehicle, pushing it into a full-loaded vehicle, and relocking—is excessively time-consuming, becoming a bottleneck in production line logistics and resulting in excessively long waiting times at the lineside. When production line pace increases, logistics personnel become a bottleneck, preventing the achievement of "stop, change, and go" exchanges within seconds.

[0064] (4) The locking mechanism is prone to jamming, has poor reliability, and obstructs the field of vision after long-term use;

[0065] Existing mechanical locking devices (such as hook locks or linkage mechanisms) are prone to jamming due to dust or deformation after long-term use in dusty workshop environments. The pins and holes are also prone to rust or jamming. In addition, the interior of the trailer is dimly lit, making it difficult for operators to see the position of the locking pin holes and align them. Frequent "hole alignment" operations are not only time-consuming, but forced operation can also damage the parts and increase maintenance costs.

[0066] In summary, given the technical problems of poor transportation stability (easy to tip over), cumbersome locking operation, and low line-side exchange efficiency of existing technologies (traditional pins, baffles, and simple hooks) in the logistics and transfer of high-precision gasoline engine parts, there is an urgent need for a combined trailer structure with quick unlocking / locking functions and the ability to fully restrain handcarts.

[0067] Specifically, the modular pickable trailer with locking device in this embodiment consists of three main parts: trailer body 1, locking structure (i.e., the aforementioned locking device 3), and handcart 2, forming a complete material transfer and line-side empty / full exchange system. The trailer body 1 has an internal storage space, and the handcart 2 is detachably installed inside the trailer body 1 with fork holes on its side. The locking structure is installed on the side of the trailer body 1 to lock the handcart inside the trailer body.

[0068] The structure of each part is as follows:

[0069] Trailer body 1: Trailer body 1 is a frame made of welded aluminum and steel. The sides of trailer body 1 are equipped with locking structures (i.e., the aforementioned locking device 3). Four casters are installed at the bottom of trailer body 1. The internal space of trailer body 1 can accommodate two handcarts 2.

[0070] Preferably, the trailer body 1 is formed by welding aluminum alloy square tubing with a cross-sectional dimension of 40mm × 40mm and a wall thickness of 3mm. The overall dimensions are designed as follows: length 1500mm, width 800mm, and height 1600mm. Each of the four corners of the trailer body 1 is equipped with a 100mm diameter caster wheel, with the front wheels equipped with brakes. A towing coupling device is located at the front end of the trailer body 1, which can be hooked up with an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) or a tractor.

[0071] Handcart 2: The bottom of the handcart 2 is equipped with 4 casters, and the side of the handcart 2 is provided with fork holes (i.e. the aforementioned second hole 202, used for the positioning of the locking structure). Up to 8 641 material boxes can be stacked on the handcart 2 for placing gasoline engine parts.

[0072] Preferably, the handcart 2 is made of welded stainless steel square tubing with a cross-section of 30mm × 30mm and a wall thickness of 2mm. Its external dimensions are: length 750mm, width 600mm, flat surface height 500mm, and handle height 800mm. Four 100mm diameter casters are installed at the four corners of the bottom of the handcart 2. Fork holes with a diameter of 25mm and a depth of 50mm are provided on the sides of the handcart 2, located 200mm above the bottom surface of the flat surface, with one hole on each side (two holes in total), corresponding to the latch positions of the locking mechanism.

[0073] Each trolley 2 can hold up to eight standard 641 plastic bins, each measuring 600mm × 400mm × 148mm. The bins contain gasoline engine parts, with the quantity per bin determined by the actual parts dimensions. Adjacent bins are positioned using built-in clips, with a maximum stacking height of eight layers, but the total height not exceeding the frame's main limit.

[0074] Locking structure (i.e., the aforementioned locking device 3): The locking structure is installed on the side of the trailer body 1 and adopts a T-shaped rod linkage mechanism to realize the quick locking and releasing of the handcart 2 and the trailer body 1.

[0075] Preferably, there are two locking structures, which are symmetrically installed on both sides of the trailer body 1.

[0076] The locking structure is the core component of the modular pickable trailer with locking device in this embodiment, enabling "quick locking and releasing" and "preventing tipping." Its specific structure and working principle are as follows:

[0077] (1) Structural composition:

[0078] The locking structure consists of the following components:

[0079] The large club (i.e., the first club body 31 mentioned above): is the main part of the T-shaped club. The head of the large club is connected to the large ball head (i.e., the first operating end 301 mentioned above). The end of the large club is a snap-fit ​​structure 303. The snap-fit ​​structure 303 can be inserted into or removed from the fork hole. When performing the locking action, the snap-fit ​​structure 303 at the end is pushed into the fork hole by pushing the large ball head.

[0080] The small cue (i.e., the aforementioned second cue body 32): is the support part of the T-shaped cue (that is, the small cue and the large cue are connected in a T-shape), and can move relative to the large cue. The head of the small cue is connected to the small ball head (i.e., the aforementioned second operating end 302), and the end of the small cue is a collar structure (i.e., the aforementioned movable collar 33), which can be fitted into the large cue as a control mechanism to restrict or release the lateral movement of the large cue;

[0081] Large club spring (i.e. the aforementioned first elastic element 34): disposed between the collar structure and the spring groove of the large club body, the first end of the large club spring is embedded in the spring groove of the large club body, and the end of the large club spring abuts against the collar structure of the small club. When locked, it is in a compressed state, providing locking and retaining force;

[0082] The small cue spring (i.e., the aforementioned second elastic element 35) is disposed between the cue's collar structure and the cue's body spring groove. The first end of the small cue spring is embedded in the cue's body spring groove, and the end of the small cue spring abuts against the cue's collar structure. When locked, the spring is in a normal state, and when unlocked, the spring is in a compressed state, providing a latching limit force.

[0083] Buckle structure 303: Located at the end of the cue stick, serving as the execution terminal, it is directly inserted into the fork hole of the trolley 2. Preferably, the head of the buckle structure 303 is provided with a guide chamfer of 15°~30°.

[0084] The collar structure is located at the end of the cue stick, fits onto the club stick, and moves in conjunction with the club stick, providing limitation and guidance.

[0085] In the locked state, the first elastic element 34 is in a compressed state and is locked between the collar structure and the spring groove of the club body, restricting the axial movement of the large club. In the unlocked state, the small club is pulled and compressed by the second elastic element 35, releasing the restriction on the large club. The large club rebounds under the action of the first elastic element 34, causing the buckle structure 303 to exit the fork hole. In the unlocked state, after the small club is released, the second elastic element 35 is in a compressed state, generating a forward thrust that causes the buckle to abut against the frame hole wall.

[0086] (2) The specific principles of the three working states of the locking structure:

[0087] 1) State 1: Locked State (Transportation State):

[0088] Action sequence: The large club is pushed to the bottom.

[0089] Status of each component:

[0090] The small cue spring is in its normal state (uncompressed), while the large cue spring is in its compressed state. The collar structure of the small cue and the large cue spring create a reaction force, restricting the large cue's lateral movement and continuously applying force to the collar. The latch firmly abuts against the fork hole wall of the trolley, forming a rigid lock.

[0091] Mechanical mechanism: The compression of the large club spring and the limiting effect of the collar structure at the end of the small club form a two-way constraint, making the handcart 2 and the trailer body 1 a rigid connection.

[0092] 2) State Two: Unlocked State (Release of the trolley):

[0093] Action process (three-step operation):

[0094] Pulling the small cue stick compresses the spring in the small cue stick, pulling the large cue stick to move in the opposite direction of the latch lock, thus unlocking the internal latch.

[0095] Main shaft rebound: The club rebounds to its normal state under the action of spring force.

[0096] Release the small ball: Due to the compression of the small ball spring, the buckle is pressed against the wall of the tractor frame hole.

[0097] Status of each component:

[0098] The small ball spring is in a compressed state, generating a forward thrust that causes the latch to press against the frame hole wall (disengaging from the trolley fork hole), allowing the trolley to be freely pulled out of the trailer.

[0099] 3) State Three: Locked State (Loading Handcart):

[0100] Action sequence: Push the large club all the way down directly.

[0101] Features: Locking can be completed with a single push, requiring no additional operation.

[0102] Automation mechanism: The spring force automatically resets each component to the locked state. When the large cue stick is pushed, the large cue stick spring is compressed. When the buckle is inserted into the trolley groove, the small cue stick spring returns from the compressed state to the normal state, and the trolley loading is completed.

[0103] The assembly process of the locking mechanism in this embodiment is as follows:

[0104] Step 1: Slide the spring onto the small cue stick and insert one end of the spring into the spring groove on the cue stick body;

[0105] Step 2: Slide the spring onto the cue stick and insert one end of the spring into the spring groove on the cue stick body;

[0106] Step 3: Fit the collar structure of the small cue onto the large cue and install the snap-fit ​​structure 303;

[0107] Step 4: Install the semi-assembled locking structure onto the side limiting groove seat of the trailer body 1;

[0108] Step 5: Screw in the small ball head, then screw in the large ball head;

[0109] Step 5: Adjust the spring preload to ensure sufficient spring extension in the locked state to provide adequate holding force.

[0110] The locking mechanism in this embodiment is tested and adjusted as follows:

[0111] Locking test: Push the large cue stick all the way into the trailer. You should hear a "click" sound when it is in place. At this point, you should not be able to pull the large cue stick out, confirming that the locking is reliable.

[0112] Unlocking test: Pull the small stick upwards; the large stick should automatically spring back, disengaging the latch from the fork hole. After releasing the small stick, it should automatically return to its limit position.

[0113] Taking a gasoline engine parts production line as an example, the complete operation process of the trailer for material transportation in this embodiment is as follows:

[0114] Scenario: An engine factory assembly line with a production cycle of 60 seconds per unit. The distance from the logistics warehouse to the line is 200 meters, and tractor-trailers transport goods in a loop.

[0115] 1) Warehouse loading process:

[0116] The operator stacks eight 641 material bins filled with camshafts on the handcart 2. After pushing the handcart 2 into the trailer body 1, the buckle automatically engages and locks when the large ball head is pushed to the bottom. The trailer can accommodate two handcarts 2 at the same time (one full and one empty or both full).

[0117] 2) Transportation:

[0118] The tractor unit, connected to the trailer body 1, travels at a speed of 0.8 m / s, traversing two 90° curves and a slightly bumpy road section approximately 15 meters long. The large ball spring of the locking structure continuously applies tension, while the small ball spring restricts the lateral movement of the large ball spring. There is no relative displacement between the handcart 2 and the trailer body 1, and there is no risk of collision with the camshaft inside the cargo box.

[0119] 3) Line-side empty / full exchange process:

[0120] 3.1) Arrival: The tractor unit will park the trailer at the designated location on the side of the line;

[0121] 3.2) Unlocking the full cart: The operator pulls the small ball bar corresponding to the locking structure of the handcart, the large ball bar automatically springs back, the buckle disengages from the fork hole, and the handcart can be pulled out of the trailer with one hand;

[0122] 3.3) Pushing the empty car: The operator pushes the empty car next to the line back into the trailer empty space. When the large ball head is pushed to the bottom, it will automatically lock (a "click" sound will be heard to confirm).

[0123] 3.4) Departure: The tractor unit immediately departs to the next destination or returns to the warehouse.

[0124] 4) Return to warehouse stage:

[0125] After the tractor returns to the warehouse with empty handcarts, it completes the unloading of empty handcarts and loading of full handcarts, and then enters the next cycle.

[0126] Based on the above description, the locking mechanism in this embodiment has the following characteristics:

[0127] 1) T-shaped lever linkage locking mechanism: The T-shaped linkage mechanism, consisting of a large ball lever (with an independent ball head), a small ball lever (with an independent ball head), two springs, a buckle, and a collar structure, enables quick one-handed operation of "pushing in to lock and pulling the pin to unlock." When locked, the large ball lever spring is in a compressed state, continuously providing holding force; when locked, the collar structure at the end of the small ball lever provides a reaction force against the compression of the large ball lever spring, limiting the lateral movement of the large ball lever; when unlocking, the small ball lever spring compresses and stores energy, and when released, it generates a forward thrust, fixing the buckle to the trailer frame hole wall and preventing it from shifting.

[0128] 2) The "two-step unlocking" logic of spring energy storage: The linkage mechanism of the unlocking action is as follows: pull the small cue stick → compress the small cue stick spring → release the internal buckle limit; the large cue stick automatically rebounds → the buckle exits the fork hole; release the small cue stick → compress the spring to generate forward thrust → the buckle abuts against the frame hole wall (keeping it in the detached state); this "pull-spring-release" three-step linkage enables unlocking to be completed without additional operation, and the buckle will not automatically return to its original position after unlocking to interfere with the trolley being pulled out.

[0129] 3) Combination of rigid interlocking and flexible compensation: Rigid interlocking: The buckle is inserted into the handcart fork hole to form a mechanical hard connection with no relative degree of freedom; Flexible compensation: The spring preload provides continuous compression to eliminate gaps; The self-aligning design allows for assembly deviations.

[0130] 4) System integration of trailer, handcart, and locking structure: The trailer can accommodate two handcarts, the locking structure is installed on the side, and the handcart has fork holes on the side - the three are matched in size, correspond in position, and coordinate in action to achieve a complete logistics closed loop of "empty and full exchange".

[0131] In summary, this invention, through its innovative T-shaped rod linkage locking structure design, organically integrates three technologies: "spring energy storage, mechanical limiting, and rigid interlocking." Under the premise of simple structure and controllable cost, it simultaneously achieves four beneficial effects: transportation safety, convenient operation, efficiency matching, and reliability and durability, thus solving the core pain points of existing technologies.

[0132] Compared with the prior art, the present embodiment has the following significant advantages:

[0133] (1) Transportation safety is significantly improved, effectively eliminating the risk of dumping:

[0134] When the locking structure is in operation, the trailer body and the handcart become a rigid connection during transportation. No matter how the tractor accelerates or decelerates, turns, or passes through undulating roads, the handcart will not have any relative displacement under any working condition due to the triple protection of spring preload, mechanical limit, and rigid interlock, which completely eliminates the hidden dangers of material tipping and collision and completely eliminates the risk of tipping.

[0135] That is, this embodiment uses a unique locking structure to achieve rigid constraints on the handcart and trailer structures, ensuring absolute stability throughout the transportation process.

[0136] (2) The locking and unlocking operations are ergonomically designed, greatly improving ease of operation:

[0137] Traditional latch locking involves bending over, visually aligning the hole, inserting the pin, rotating to prevent slippage, and inspection, taking approximately 8-10 seconds. In this embodiment, the locking device only requires pushing the trolley into the trailer's limiting frame and pushing the large lever until a click is heard, achieving "push-and-lock" without additional action. To unlock, simply pull the small lever; after the large lever springs back to its normal position, release the small lever, and the latch unlocks, allowing the trolley to be easily pulled out. The entire locking and unlocking process includes push-in to lock (1 second) / pull, spring, and release to unlock (2 seconds), increasing efficiency by more than 5 times. The entire operation can be completed with one hand, eliminating the need to bend over or visually align the hole, significantly reducing the operator's workload.

[0138] In other words, this embodiment achieves a quick one-handed operation of "pull in to lock, pull the pin to release" through a T-shaped rod and spring linkage mechanism, greatly simplifying the operation process. Furthermore, this embodiment employs a spring preload and inclined plane guide design, possessing self-centering and self-locking functions, ensuring smooth locking even with some positional deviation, and maintaining reliable operation even after long-term use.

[0139] (3) The efficiency of line-side logistics has been greatly improved, which makes the trailers in this embodiment suitable for high-cycle production:

[0140] The empty-full exchange process is extremely simple: After the tractor arrives at the line, it unlocks the empty handcart (2 seconds) and pulls out the empty material handcart. The full material handcart is then pushed into the trailer (the large ball-shaped lock is engaged after 1 second, automatically locking itself). The tractor immediately drives away. The entire process takes about 5 seconds and does not become a bottleneck for the production line. The trailer can accommodate two handcarts, realizing the "empty-full exchange" replacement logic without additional waiting time, effectively ensuring the continuous production cycle of the production line.

[0141] In other words, this embodiment achieves "stop, change, and go" in seconds by combining a trailer and a handcart in a combination design that allows for quick separation, along with an efficient locking structure, thus meeting the continuous material supply requirements of high-cycle production lines.

[0142] (4) Solve the problems of poor reliability and easy jamming, and improve durability:

[0143] The spring preload provides self-alignment, and the buckle and fork hole allow for a certain deviation, eliminating the need for precise alignment and offering good adaptability. It features no complex threads or precision mating surfaces, using standard parts such as ball joints and springs, resulting in minimal wear and preventing jamming. All components are mechanically rigidly connected, independent of electronic or pneumatic components, ensuring good environmental adaptability (resistant to dust and oil). Its simple structure allows for easy assembly and disassembly, requiring only conventional tools for maintenance, resulting in low maintenance costs and short downtime.

[0144] (5) Compact structure, controllable cost, and convenient maintenance:

[0145] The locking mechanism consists of conventional mechanical components, including a large ball rod (with a buckle at the end and a large ball head at the front, and a groove on one end of the rod for embedding the spring), a small ball rod (with a sliding ring at the end and a small ball head at the front, and a groove on one end of the rod for embedding the spring), and a spring (one side has a normal diameter for easy insertion into the rod body, and the other side has a slightly smaller diameter to be inserted into the groove on the rod body during installation). It contains no complex electronic or pneumatic components, resulting in low manufacturing costs and high reliability. The entire trailer body is welded from aluminum and steel, balancing lightweight design with structural strength. The bottom casters provide good maneuverability for both the trailer and the handcart. All components are easy to disassemble and replace, resulting in low maintenance costs over long-term use.

[0146] (6) Material quality is effectively guaranteed:

[0147] Because the trolley is rigidly locked during transportation, there is no shaking or collision. The precision gasoline engine parts stored in the 641 internal material box will not be scratched, bumped, or deformed due to impact, which reduces the product defect rate and saves manufacturing costs.

[0148] In summary, the trailer in this embodiment, through its innovative T-shaped lever linkage locking structure, achieves rapid locking and releasing of the trolley and trailer body while ensuring transportation safety. This greatly improves the efficiency of line-side empty / full exchange and effectively solves the three major pain points of existing technologies: "easy to tip over, slow operation, and low efficiency." It has significant economic benefits and practical value.

[0149] In some alternative embodiments, an eccentric cam handle structure can be used instead of the T-bar and spring combination. When the handle is rotated, the cam pushes the latch into the fork hole; when rotated in the opposite direction, the latch disengages. The dead point position of the cam provides self-locking. The handle can rotate 90°; when the handle is at 0°, the latch disengages; when the handle is at 90°, the cam pusher causes the latch to insert and self-lock. The eccentric cam handle allows for one-handed operation and provides good vibration resistance after self-locking. The eccentric cam handle can be unlocked by active rotation, and its locking position control requires pre-designing four points.

[0150] In some alternative embodiments, a wedge-shaped slider locking mechanism can be used instead of the combination of T-bar and spring. When the trolley is pushed in, the inclined guide causes the slider to automatically slide into the fork hole. When unlocking, pulling the pull ring overcomes the spring force to disengage the slider. The pushing action automatically compresses the spring to lock, while the cooperation between the pull ring and the spring allows for manual unlocking.

[0151] In some alternative embodiments, an electromagnetic locking mechanism can be used, employing an electromagnet instead of a mechanical lock. When energized, the electromagnet attracts the latch, causing it to insert into the fork hole; when de-energized, a return spring disengages the latch. The electromagnet and spring work together to control the latch's extension and retraction, and can be linked with the AGV control system.

[0152] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0153] In addition to the above, it should be noted that the terms "one embodiment," "another embodiment," and "embodiment" used in this specification refer to specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment, which are included in at least one embodiment described in the general description of this application. The appearance of the same expression in multiple places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with any embodiment, the intention is to suggest that implementing such a feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments also falls within the scope of this invention.

[0154] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0155] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular pickable trailer with a locking device, characterized in that, include: The trailer body (1) has at least one receiving space (10), the receiving space (10) has an opening (11) for pushing and pushing the handcart (2) in and out, the edge of the opening (11) has a locking space (12), the locking space (12) has a first operating port (121), a second operating port (122) and an extension port (123) communicating with the outside, wherein the extension port (123) is arranged facing the center of the opening (11), and the handcart (2) is provided with a mating hole (20) corresponding to the extension port (123). A locking device (3) is located within the locking space (12). The locking device (3) includes a first operating end (301), a second operating end (302), and a latching structure (303). The first operating end (301) extends to the first operating port (121), the second operating end (302) extends to the second operating port (122), and the latching structure (303) extends to the protrusion port (123). When the first operating end (301) is moved along the first direction, the buckle structure (303) first moves to the pre-locking position located in the mating hole (20), and then moves along the second direction to the locking position that mates with the mating hole (20), thereby locking the handcart (2). The second operating end (302) is moved along a third direction opposite to the second direction. The latching structure (303) first moves to the pre-unlocked position located in the mating hole (20), and then moves along a fourth direction opposite to the first direction to the unlocked position disengaged from the mating hole (20), thereby unlocking the handcart (2).

2. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking space (12) includes a first space (1201) that extends through the first direction, one end of the first space (1201) forming the first operating port (121), and the other end of the first space (1201) forming the extension port (123). The locking space (12) also includes a second space (1202) that extends along the second direction, the second space (1202) communicating with the first space (1201), and the end of the second space (1202) away from the first space (1201) forming the second operating port (122). The first direction and the second direction are arranged at an angle.

3. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking device (3) includes at least a locking rod assembly, which includes a first rod (31) extending along the first direction and a second rod (32) extending along the second direction. The first rod (31) passes through the first space (1201), and the first end of the first rod (31) is provided with the first operating end (301). The second end of the first rod (31) is provided with the buckle structure (303). The second rod (32) passes through the second space (1202), and the first end of the second rod (32) is connected to the first rod (31). The first rod (31) can move relative to the second rod (32) along the first direction and the fourth direction. The second end of the second rod (32) is provided with the second operating end (302).

4. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first rod (31) is fitted with a movable collar (33). Along the first direction and the fourth direction, the first rod (31) is movably set relative to the movable collar (33). The first end of the second rod (32) is connected to the movable collar (33).

5. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 4, characterized in that, A first elastic element (34) is sleeved on the first rod body (31). The first elastic element (34) is located between the movable collar (33) and the first operating end (301). The first end of the first elastic element (34) is connected to the movable collar (33), and the second end of the first elastic element (34) is connected to the first rod body (31). When the first operating end (301) is operated to move along the first direction, the first rod body (31) and the buckle structure (303) can be driven to move towards the handcart (2), thereby causing the buckle structure (303) to extend into the mating hole (20) and compress the first elastic element (34). When the second operating end (302) is operated to move along the third direction, the buckle structure (303) first moves to the pre-unlock position, and then the buckle structure (303) moves along the fourth direction to the unlock position under the elastic force of the first elastic element (34).

6. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, A second elastic element (35) is sleeved on the second rod (32). The second elastic element (35) is located between the movable collar (33) and the second operating end (302). The first end of the second elastic element (35) is connected to the movable collar (33), and the second end of the second elastic element (35) is connected to the second rod (32). When the second operating end (302) is operated to move along the third direction, the buckle structure (303), the first rod (31), and the second rod (32) move along the third direction to move the buckle structure (303) to the pre-unlock position and compress the second elastic element (35). When the first operating end (301) is operated to move along the first direction, the buckle structure (303) first moves to the pre-lock position, and then the buckle structure (303) moves along the second direction to the lock position under the elastic force of the second elastic element (35).

7. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first operating terminal (301) includes a first ball head, and / or the second operating terminal (302) includes a second ball head.

8. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mating hole (20) includes a first hole (201) extending along the first direction and a second hole (202) extending along the second direction. One end of the first hole (201) forms a mating opening (203) for the buckle structure (303) to extend into and out. The second hole (202) is connected to the first hole (201). When the buckle structure (303) is in the pre-locked position and the pre-unlocked position, the buckle structure (303) is located in the first hole (201). When the buckle structure (303) is in the locked position, at least a portion of the buckle structure (303) extends into the second hole (202).

9. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The trailer body (1) has multiple accommodating spaces (10), and each accommodating space (10) has a locking space (12) along the edge of its opening (11).

10. The modular pickable trailer with locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking space (12) is provided on both sides of the opening (11), and the locking device (3) is provided in each locking space (12). The mating hole (20) is provided on both sides of the handcart (2).

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