Transportation device

Abstract

In a transport device, an auxiliary rail (80) has: a first auxiliary section (84) that guides an auxiliary portion (25) of a transport cart (20) from a second side (W2) of a swing direction in contact with the auxiliary rail (80) in a right-side departure state in which a right wheel of the transport cart (20) is passing through a right-side departure section (35); and a second auxiliary section (87) that guides the auxiliary portion (25) of the transport cart (20) from a first side (W1) of the swing direction in contact with the auxiliary rail (80) in a left-side departure state in which a left wheel of the transport cart (20) is passing through a left-side departure section (45), the right-side departure section (35) and the left-side departure section (45) being arranged so that the right-side departure state and the left-side departure state occur at different times.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to transportation equipment equipped with a transport vehicle and a running track. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-186428 (Patent Document 1) describes a transport device comprising a first track (10) fixed to a first structure (101), a second track (20) fixed to a second structure (102), and an intermediate track (30) disposed between them. In this transport device, when the first structure (101) and the second structure (102) experience different swaying, the pin (52) of the first connecting member (50) connecting the first track (10) to the intermediate track (30) or the pin (62) of the second connecting member (60) connecting the second track (20) to the intermediate track (30) is cut off, thereby causing the intermediate track (30) to fall from between the first track and the second track onto the platform (85). Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the transportation equipment described in Patent Document 1, for example, during an earthquake, a portion of the first connecting part or a portion of the second connecting part of the running track breaks, causing the intermediate track to fall, resulting in problems such as damage to the intermediate track and difficulty in repair.

[0004] Therefore, the goal is to create a transportation system whose tracks are unlikely to break even if the first and second structures experience different swaying.

[0005] The transport equipment disclosed herein is a transport equipment comprising: a transport vehicle having a right wheel and a left wheel, traveling along a travel path; and a travel track having a right track for the aforementioned right wheel to roll and a left track for the aforementioned left wheel to roll, the travel track being provided across a first structure and a second structure that may produce different swaying, with the direction along the aforementioned travel path as the path direction, the aforementioned right track comprising: a first right track portion supported on the aforementioned first structure; and a second right track portion supported on the aforementioned second structure, relative to... The first right track is positioned away from the aforementioned path direction. The left track includes: a first left track supported by the aforementioned first structure; and a second left track supported by the aforementioned second structure. The transport vehicle is positioned away from the aforementioned first left track along the aforementioned path direction. The transport vehicle includes an auxiliary section positioned at a different location than the aforementioned right and left wheels. The travel track includes an auxiliary track located within a section of the travel path and positioned corresponding to the auxiliary section, to surround the transport vehicle along the aforementioned travel path. The direction of the swing axis of the transport vehicle is the swing direction. The side in the aforementioned swing direction where the right wheel descends relative to the left wheel is the first swing direction side, and the side in the aforementioned swing direction where the left wheel descends relative to the right wheel is the second swing direction side. The section between the first right track section and the second right track section in the aforementioned path direction is the right departure section, and the section between the first left track section and the second left track section in the aforementioned path direction is the left departure section. The aforementioned auxiliary track includes: a first auxiliary section, in which, in the right departure state where the right wheel is passing through the aforementioned right departure section, the aforementioned auxiliary part is guided to contact the aforementioned auxiliary track from the aforementioned swing direction second side; and a second auxiliary section, in which, in the left departure state where the left wheel is passing through the aforementioned left departure section, the aforementioned auxiliary part is guided to contact the aforementioned auxiliary track from the aforementioned swing direction first side. The aforementioned right departure section and the aforementioned left departure section are configured such that the aforementioned right departure state and the aforementioned left departure state occur at different times.

[0006] According to this configuration, each of the right and left tracks has a separation zone between the portion supported by the first structure and the portion supported by the second structure. Therefore, even if the first and second structures experience different swaying, the running track is unlikely to break. The auxiliary track has a first auxiliary zone and a second auxiliary zone, allowing the transport vehicle to be supported by the auxiliary section when the right wheel is passing through the separation zone of the right track or the left wheel is passing through the separation zone of the left track. Furthermore, the separation zones of the right and left tracks are configured such that the right-side separation state and the left-side separation state occur at different times. Therefore, even if each of the right and left tracks has a separation zone, the transport vehicle can properly pass through the separation zone because the auxiliary section supports the transport vehicle in each separation zone.

[0007] Further features and advantages of the technology disclosed herein will become clearer from the following illustrative and non-limiting description of embodiments, which are illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the transportation equipment according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The front view of the transportation equipment.

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An enlarged side view of the first right track section and the third right track section of the transport equipment.

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A top view of the transportation equipment.

[0012] Figure 5 Yes Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the function of the first swing connection mechanism in the transport equipment.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a top view of the transportation equipment according to the second embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a bottom view of the transportation equipment according to the third embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a bottom view of the transportation equipment according to the fourth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0016] [First Implementation] Hereinafter, the transport equipment 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically showing an example of the transport equipment 10. Figure 2 This is a schematic front view illustrating an example of a transport device 10. The transport device 10 includes a travel track 15 and a transport vehicle 20. The transport vehicle 20 travels along the travel path R. The transport vehicle 20 has a right wheel 21 and a left wheel 22. The transport vehicle 20 may have two or more wheels.

[0018] In this embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the transport vehicle 20 has a first right wheel 21a, a first left wheel 22a, a second right wheel 21b, and a second left wheel 22b. The first right wheel 21a and the first left wheel 22a rotate about the same axis of rotation. The second right wheel 21b and the second left wheel 22b rotate about the same axis of rotation.

[0019] The travel track 15 includes a right track 30 for the right wheel 21 to roll and a left track 40 for the left wheel 22 to roll. In this embodiment, the travel surfaces for the right wheel 21 and the left wheel 22 to roll are the upward-facing surfaces of the right track 30 and the left track 40, facing Z1. The right wheel 21 and the left wheel 22 rotate about an axis orthogonal to the vertical direction Z. The travel track 15 is, for example, composed of a plurality of frames 17 (see reference 12) provided on the first structure 11 or the second structure 12. Figure 2 Support. In this embodiment, the travel track 15 is suspended from the ceiling, but it can also be installed on the floor.

[0020] The travel track 15 includes an auxiliary track 80 disposed in at least a portion of the travel path R. Although not shown, the auxiliary track 80 is supported by the travel track 15. In this embodiment, the section of the travel path R in which the auxiliary track 80 is disposed is for one-way traffic.

[0021] The direction along the travel path R is defined as the path direction X. One side of the path direction X is designated as the first path direction side X1, and the other side of the path direction X is designated as the second path direction side X2. The second right wheel 21b is positioned further along the second path direction side X2 than the first right wheel 21a. The second left wheel 22b is positioned further along the second path direction side X2 than the first left wheel 22a. In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 20 travels from the first path direction side X1 toward the second path direction side X2.

[0022] The vertical direction is defined as the up-down direction Z. The direction orthogonal to the path direction X when viewed from the vertical direction is defined as the left-right direction Y. One side of the left-right direction Y is defined as the first side Y1, and the other side of the left-right direction Y is defined as the second side Y2. The direction surrounding the swing axis of the transport vehicle 20 along the travel path R is defined as the swing direction W. The side of the right wheel 21 that is relatively lower than the left wheel 22 in the swing direction W is defined as the first side W1, and the side of the left wheel 22 that is relatively lower than the right wheel 21 in the swing direction W is defined as the second side W2.

[0023] The swing axis of the transport vehicle 20 is basically located in the middle of the axis of the right wheel 21 and the left wheel 22 when viewed in the path direction. However, in detail, in the right-side departure state described later, it becomes the contact point of the left wheel 22, and in the left-side departure state described later, it becomes the contact point of the right wheel 21.

[0024] In this embodiment, the transport device 10 has multiple transport vehicles 20. In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 20 is a canopy transport vehicle. In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 20 is an electric, unmanned transport vehicle that transports items 18. The transport vehicle 20, for example, transports FOUP (Front Opening Unified Pod) containing semiconductor substrates as items 18.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the transport vehicle 20 includes a first traveling section 23a. The first traveling section 23a includes a first driving unit 23c that rotates the first right wheel 21a and the first left wheel 22a. In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 20 includes a second traveling section 23b on a second side X2 in the path direction than the first traveling section 23a. The second traveling section 23b includes a second driving unit 23d that rotates the second right wheel 21b and the second left wheel 22b. Examples of the first driving unit 23c and the second driving unit 23d include electric motors such as servo motors and internal combustion engines.

[0026] The transport vehicle 20 includes a first auxiliary unit 25a. The first auxiliary unit 25a contacts the guide surface of the auxiliary track 80. The guide surface of the auxiliary track 80 is either the first side W1 or the second side W2 of the swing direction of the auxiliary track 80. In this embodiment, the guide surface of the auxiliary track 80 is the side facing the left-right direction Y, and the first auxiliary unit 25a rotates about an axis along the up-down direction Z. In this embodiment, the first auxiliary unit 25a is included in the first traveling unit 23a. Two first auxiliary units 25a are arranged side by side along the path direction X.

[0027] The transport vehicle 20 includes a guide drive unit 24, which drives a first auxiliary unit 25a to move the first auxiliary unit 25a to a first position P1 relative to the auxiliary track 80 on the first side Y1 in the left-right direction and a second position P2 relative to the auxiliary track 80 on the second side Y2 in the left-right direction. Examples of guide drive units 24 include solenoid actuators, electric motors, hydraulic devices, etc.

[0028] In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 20 includes a second auxiliary unit 25b disposed on the second side X2 of the path direction, which is further away from the first auxiliary unit 25a. The second auxiliary unit 25b contacts the guide surface of the auxiliary track 80. In this embodiment, the second auxiliary unit 25b is provided in the second traveling unit 23b. Two second auxiliary units 25b are arranged side by side along the path direction X. The guide drive unit 24 is configured to drive the first auxiliary unit 25a and the second auxiliary unit 25b independently in the left-right direction Y.

[0029] like Figure 2 As shown, the auxiliary part 25 is positioned on the transport vehicle 20 at a different location than the right wheel 21 and the left wheel 22. In this embodiment, the auxiliary part 25 is positioned higher Z1 than the rotation axis of the right wheel 21 and the left wheel 22 of the transport vehicle 20. Alternatively, the auxiliary part 25 may be positioned on the side or bottom of the transport vehicle 20.

[0030] The auxiliary track 80 is positioned corresponding to the auxiliary part 25. In this embodiment, the auxiliary track 80 is positioned at the point of contact with the auxiliary part 25. In this embodiment, the auxiliary part 25 is an auxiliary wheel that rotates around a rotation axis in the vertical direction Z. Alternatively, the auxiliary part 25 may be a non-rotating sliding member, and the auxiliary track 80 may be formed by arranging rollers side by side.

[0031] The transport vehicle 20 includes a main body 27 connected to a first traveling section 23a. The main body 27 is supported by the first traveling section 23a when it is positioned at a lower Z2 relative to the first traveling section 23a in the vertical direction Z. In this embodiment, the main body 27 is supported by the first traveling section 23a and the second traveling section 23b when it is positioned at a lower Z2 relative to both the first traveling section 23a and the second traveling section 23b. The main body 27 includes a lifting device (not shown) for lifting the article 18 vertically in the vertical direction Z. The transport vehicle 20 can lift the article 18, for example, as shown in the figure. Figure 1 Transport item 18 in the state of the predetermined driving position shown.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, the transport vehicle 20 has a right guide wheel 28 and a left guide wheel 29. The right guide wheel 28 rolls on the inner side of the right track 30. The left guide wheel 29 rolls on the inner side of the left track 40.

[0033] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the side view of the third right track section 33 and the first right track section 34. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the upper surface of the transport device 10.

[0034] like Figure 4 As shown, the travel track 15 is provided across the first structure 11 and the second structure 12, which may produce different degrees of swaying. In this embodiment, the first structure 11 and the second structure 12 are different buildings. Alternatively, the first structure 11 and the second structure 12 may be two independent support frames installed within a single building. The first structure 11 and the second structure 12 may or may not have roofs.

[0035] The right track 30 has a first right track section 34 supported by the first structure 11. The right track 30 has a second right track section 36 supported by the second structure 12. The second right track section 36 is disposed away from the ground relative to the first right track section 34 along the path direction X.

[0036] The left track 40 has a first left track portion 44 supported by the first structure 11. The left track 40 has a second left track portion 46 supported by the second structure 12. The second left track portion 46 is disposed away from the first left track portion 44 along the path direction X.

[0037] The right departure interval 35 is defined as the section between the first right track section 34 and the second right track section 36 along the path direction X. The left departure interval 45 is defined as the section between the first left track section 44 and the second left track section 46 along the path direction X. In this embodiment, the right departure interval 35 is located further along the first side X1 of the path direction than the left departure interval 45.

[0038] In this embodiment, the first right track portion 34 is positioned further along the path direction on the first side X1 than the second right track portion 36. In this embodiment, the first left track portion 44 is positioned further along the path direction on the first side X1 than the second left track portion 46.

[0039] The transport equipment 10 is equipped with a right-side linear motion guide mechanism 55. The right-side linear motion guide mechanism 55 allows relative movement of the first right track section 34 and the second right track section 36 in the path direction X. The right-side linear motion guide mechanism 55 restricts relative movement of the first right track section 34 and the second right track section 36 in a direction orthogonal to the path direction X.

[0040] In this embodiment, the right-side linear motion guide mechanism 55 restricts the relative vertical movement (Z) of the first right track portion 34 and the second right track portion 36. In this embodiment, the right-side linear motion guide mechanism 55 also restricts the relative horizontal movement (Y) of the first right track portion 34 and the second right track portion 36. Examples of the right-side linear motion guide mechanism 55 include ball splines and linear guides.

[0041] The transport device 10 is equipped with a left linear motion guide mechanism 65. The left linear motion guide mechanism 65 allows relative movement of the first left track section 44 and the second left track section 46 in the path direction X. The left linear motion guide mechanism 65 restricts relative movement of the first left track section 44 and the second left track section 46 in a direction orthogonal to the path direction X.

[0042] In this embodiment, the left linear motion guide mechanism 65 restricts the relative vertical movement (Z) of the first left track portion 44 and the second left track portion 46. In this embodiment, the left linear motion guide mechanism 65 also restricts the relative horizontal movement (Y) of the first left track portion 44 and the second left track portion 46. Examples of the left linear motion guide mechanism 65 include ball splines and linear guides.

[0043] The right track 30 has a third right track section 33. The third right track section 33 is supported by the first structure 11. The third right track section 33 is disposed on the first side X1 of the path direction relative to the first right track section 34.

[0044] The right track 30 has a fourth right track section 37. The fourth right track section 37 is supported by the second structure 12. The fourth right track section 37 is disposed on the second side X2 of the path direction relative to the second right track section 36.

[0045] The left track 40 has a third left track section 43. The third left track section 43 is supported by the first structure 11. The third left track section 43 is disposed on the first side X1 in the path direction relative to the first left track section 44.

[0046] The left track 40 has a fourth left track section 47. The fourth left track section 47 is supported by the second structure 12. The fourth left track section 47 is disposed on the second side X2 in the path direction relative to the second left track section 46.

[0047] The transport equipment 10 has a right-side first connecting mechanism 53. The first right track section 34 and the third right track section 33 are connected via the right-side first connecting mechanism 53, which allows relative swinging about an axis orthogonal to the path direction X. The first right track section 34 and the third right track section 33 are supported on the first structure 11 via the right-side first connecting mechanism 53.

[0048] The transport device 10 has a second right-side connecting mechanism 57. The second right track section 36 and the fourth right track section 37 are connected via the second right-side connecting mechanism 57, which allows relative oscillation about an axis orthogonal to the path direction X. The second right track section 36 and the fourth right track section 37 are supported on the second structure 12 via the second right-side connecting mechanism 57.

[0049] The transport device 10 has a left-side first connecting mechanism 63. The first left track section 44 and the third left track section 43 are connected via the left-side first connecting mechanism 63, which allows relative swinging about an axis orthogonal to the path direction X. The first left track section 44 and the third left track section 43 are supported on the first structure 11 via the left-side first connecting mechanism 63.

[0050] The transport device 10 has a second left-side connecting mechanism 67. The second left track section 46 and the fourth left track section 47 are connected via the second left-side connecting mechanism 67, which allows relative oscillation about an axis orthogonal to the path direction X. The second left track section 46 and the fourth left track section 47 are supported on the second structure 12 via the second left-side connecting mechanism 67.

[0051] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing an enlarged example of the side view of the right first connecting mechanism 53, representing the right first connecting mechanism 53, the right second connecting mechanism 57, the left first connecting mechanism 63, and the left second connecting mechanism 67. In this embodiment, the right second connecting mechanism 57, the left first connecting mechanism 63, and the left second connecting mechanism 67 each have the same structure as the right first connecting mechanism 53.

[0052] The right-side first connecting mechanism 53 includes: a first swing connecting mechanism 91, which allows relative swinging of the first right track portion 34 and the third right track portion 33 about an axis along a first direction; and a second swing connecting mechanism 92, which allows relative swinging of the first right track portion 34 and the third right track portion 33 about an axis along a second direction. The first direction and the second direction are specific directions orthogonal to the path direction X, and are mutually different directions. In this embodiment, the first direction and the second direction are orthogonal directions. In the illustrated example, the first direction is the up-down direction Z, and the second direction is the left-right direction Y.

[0053] In this embodiment, the first swing connection mechanism 91 of the right first connecting mechanism 53 and the first swing connection mechanism 63 of the left side allow the aforementioned relative swinging around the same axis along the first direction. In this embodiment, the first swing connection mechanism 91 of the right second connecting mechanism 57 and the first swing connection mechanism 91 of the left second connecting mechanism 67 allow the aforementioned relative swinging around the same axis along the first direction.

[0054] In this embodiment, the second swing connection mechanism 92 of the right first connection mechanism 53 and the second swing connection mechanism 92 of the left first connection mechanism 63 are allowed to swing relative to each other around the same axis along the second direction. In this embodiment, the second swing connection mechanism 92 of the right second connection mechanism 57 and the second swing connection mechanism 92 of the left second connection mechanism 67 are allowed to swing relative to each other around the same axis along the second direction.

[0055] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the transport device 10 includes a first right-side support mechanism 71 supported on a first structure 11. The first right-side support mechanism 71 supports the first right-side track section 34 in a manner allowing movement in the vertical direction Z relative to the first structure 11. The first right-side support mechanism 71 also supports the first right-side track section 34 in a manner allowing movement in the horizontal direction Y relative to the first structure 11. The first right-side support mechanism 71 includes, for example, a linear guide, a ball spline, etc., thereby allowing movement of the first right-side track section 34.

[0056] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the transport device 10 includes a first left-side support mechanism 72 supported on a first structure 11. The first left-side support mechanism 72 supports a first left-side track section 44 in a manner allowing movement in the vertical direction Z relative to the first structure 11. The first left-side support mechanism 72 also supports the first left-side track section 44 in a manner allowing movement in the horizontal direction Y relative to the first structure 11. The first left-side support mechanism 72 includes, for example, a linear guide, a ball spline, etc., thereby allowing movement of the first left-side track section 44.

[0057] like Figure 2As shown, the first right-side support mechanism 71 includes a first force-applying mechanism 73a that applies force to the first right track portion 34 at a reference position in the vertical direction Z. The first right-side support mechanism 71 also includes a first force-applying mechanism 73b that applies force to the first right track portion 34 at a reference position in the horizontal direction Y. The first force-applying mechanism 73b includes, for example, a coil spring, a leaf spring, or a spring using magnetic force or pneumatic pressure, thereby applying force to the first right track portion 34 at the reference position.

[0058] like Figure 2 As shown, the first left-side support mechanism 72 includes a second force-applying mechanism 74a that applies force to the first left-side track portion 44 at a reference position in the vertical direction Z. The first left-side support mechanism 72 also includes a second force-applying mechanism 74b that applies force to the first left-side track portion 44 at a reference position in the horizontal direction Y. The second force-applying mechanism 74b includes, for example, a coil spring, a leaf spring, or a spring using magnetic force or pneumatic pressure, thereby applying force to the first left-side track portion 44 at the reference position.

[0059] The first right-side support mechanism 71 includes a first joint 75 that swings about one or more axes. In this embodiment, the first joint 75 swings about three axes. The first left-side support mechanism 72 includes a second joint 76 that swings about one or more axes. In this embodiment, the second joint 76 swings about three axes. Examples of the first joint 75 and the second joint 76 include ball joints, elliptical joints, saddle joints, hinge joints, axle joints, etc.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown, the auxiliary track 80 includes a first auxiliary section 84. In the first auxiliary section 84, during the right-side departure state (where the right wheel 21 is passing through the right-side departure section 35), the auxiliary part 25 is guided by contact with the auxiliary track 80 from the second side W2 in the swing direction. In this embodiment, in the first auxiliary section 84, during the right-side departure state, the auxiliary part 25, acting as an auxiliary wheel, rolls by contacting the auxiliary track 80 from the second side W2 in the swing direction. In this embodiment, the section of the travel path R with the first auxiliary section 84 is for one-way traffic.

[0061] The transport vehicle 20 is supported at least by the auxiliary unit 25 and the left wheel 22 when it is in the right-side-off state. In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 20 is supported by the auxiliary unit 25, the left wheel 22, and the left guide wheel 29 when it is in the right-side-off state.

[0062] The transport vehicle 20 is supported at least by the auxiliary unit 25 and the right wheel 21 when it is in the left-side-away state. In this embodiment, the transport vehicle 20 is supported by the auxiliary unit 25, the right wheel 21, and the right guide wheel 28 when it is in the left-side-away state.

[0063] like Figure 4As shown, the auxiliary track 80 includes a second auxiliary section 87. In the second auxiliary section 87, during the left-side departure state (where the left wheel 22 is passing through the left-side departure section 45), the auxiliary part 25 is guided by contact with the auxiliary track 80 from the first side W1 in the swing direction. In this embodiment, in the second auxiliary section 87, during the left-side departure state, the auxiliary part 25, acting as an auxiliary wheel, rolls by contacting the auxiliary track 80 from the first side W1 in the swing direction. In this embodiment, the section of the travel path R with the second auxiliary section 87 is for one-way traffic.

[0064] In this embodiment, the right departure interval 35 and the left departure interval 45 are configured such that the right departure state and the left departure state occur at different times. In this embodiment, the interval between the right departure interval 35 and the left departure interval 45 is different from the interval between the first right wheel 21a and the second right wheel 21b. In this embodiment, the interval between the right departure interval 35 and the left departure interval 45 is different from the interval between the first left wheel 22a and the second left wheel 22b. Therefore, this configuration ensures that the right departure state and the left departure state do not occur simultaneously.

[0065] In this embodiment, the first auxiliary section 84 and the second auxiliary section 87 have overlapping portions when viewed along the path direction X. Between the first auxiliary section 84 and the second auxiliary section 87, there is an auxiliary track departure section 85 without an auxiliary track 80. The auxiliary track departure section 85 is configured to overlap with both the first structure 11 and the second structure 12 when viewed vertically.

[0066] The auxiliary track 80 includes a first tilting section 83. The first tilting section 83 is arranged continuously with the first auxiliary section 84. The first tilting section 83 tilts in a direction that tilts towards the second side W2 of the swing direction as it moves toward the first auxiliary section 84. In this embodiment, the section of the travel path R with the first tilting section 83 is for one-way traffic.

[0067] The auxiliary track 80 includes a second tilting section 86. The second tilting section 86 is arranged continuously with the second auxiliary section 87. The second tilting section 86 tilts in a direction that tilts towards the first side W1 of the swing direction as it moves toward the second auxiliary section 87. In this embodiment, the section of the travel path R with the second tilting section 86 is for one-way traffic.

[0068] The first tilting section 83 is continuously disposed on the side opposite to the auxiliary track departure section 85 in the path direction X, relative to the first auxiliary section 84. The first tilting section 83 tilts in the direction of the second side W2 of the swing direction as it moves toward the auxiliary track departure section 85.

[0069] The second tilting section 86 is continuously provided on the side of the auxiliary track leaving section 85 in the path direction X relative to the second auxiliary section 87. The second tilting section 86 tilts in the direction of the second side W2 of the swing direction as it moves toward the side of the auxiliary track leaving section 85.

[0070] In the first tilting section 83, the auxiliary part 25 is guided by contact with the auxiliary track 80 from the second side W2 in the swing direction. In this embodiment, in the first tilting section 83, the auxiliary part 25, which serves as an auxiliary wheel, rolls by contacting the auxiliary track 80 from the second side W2 in the swing direction.

[0071] In the second tilting section 86, the auxiliary part 25 is guided by contact with the auxiliary track 80 from the first side W1 in the swing direction. In this embodiment, in the second tilting section 86, the auxiliary part 25, which serves as an auxiliary wheel, rolls by contacting the auxiliary track 80 from the first side W1 in the swing direction.

[0072] In this embodiment, the first tilting interval 83 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 changes from the first position P1 to the second position P2. In this embodiment, the change in position of the auxiliary part 25 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 is not achieved by changing the position of the guide drive part 24, but is forcibly changed through the first tilting interval 83. In this embodiment, the first auxiliary interval 84 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 located at the second position P2 contacts the auxiliary track 80 from the first side W1 of the swing direction.

[0073] In this embodiment, the second tilting interval 86 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 changes from the second position P2 to the first position P1. In this embodiment, the change in position of the auxiliary part 25 from the second position P2 to the first position P1 is not achieved by changing the position of the guide drive part 24, but is forcibly changed through the second tilting interval 86. In this embodiment, the second auxiliary interval 87 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 located at the first position P1 contacts the auxiliary track 80 from the second side W2 of the swing direction.

[0074] Regarding the auxiliary track 80, it is supported by either the first structure 11 or the second structure 12, or the section supported by the first structure 11 and the section supported by the second structure 12 are separated. In this embodiment, the section of the auxiliary track 80 supported by the first structure 11 and the section supported by the second structure 12 are separated.

[0075] In this embodiment, the first inclined section 83 and the first auxiliary section 84 are supported on the first structure 11 via the first left track portion 44. In this embodiment, the second inclined section 86 and the second auxiliary section 87 are supported on the second structure 12 via the second right track portion 36.

[0076] The transport equipment 10 according to this embodiment has a first auxiliary section 84 and a second auxiliary section 87, so that the right departure section 35 and the left departure section 45 are relatively long, and even if the first structure 11 and the second structure 12 produce different swaying, the travel track 15 is less likely to be damaged.

[0077] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the function of the right-side first connecting mechanism 53, the right-side second connecting mechanism 57, the left-side first connecting mechanism 63, and the left-side second connecting mechanism 67. Figure 5 In the illustrated state, the fourth right track section 37 and the fourth left track section 47, supported on the second structure 12, are offset to the left and right by a first side Y1 relative to the third right track section 33 and the third left track section 43, supported on the first structure 11. This state can be considered, for example, in cases where the first structure 11 and the second structure 12 experience different swaying, or where the foundation of the first structure 11 and the foundation of the second structure 12 are offset.

[0078] In this embodiment, the transport device 10 includes a right-side first connecting mechanism 53, a right-side second connecting mechanism 57, a left-side first connecting mechanism 63, and a left-side second connecting mechanism 67. Therefore, even if the first right track section 34 and the second right track section 36 are connected by the right-side linear motion guide mechanism 55, and the first left track section 44 and the second left track section 46 are connected by the left-side linear motion guide mechanism 65, they are difficult to break. In this embodiment, the transport device 10 includes a first right-side support mechanism 71 and a first left-side support mechanism 72, thus making the first right track section 34 and the first left track section 44 relatively long and difficult to break at the same time.

[0079] [Second Implementation] Hereinafter, the transport device 10 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, the point where the right departure section 35 is located on the second side X2 of the path direction is different from that in the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the description will focus on the point that differs from the first embodiment. Furthermore, the same applies to points not specifically described as in the first embodiment. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the upper surface of the transport device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0080] In this embodiment, the first tilting section 83 is continuously disposed on the side of the auxiliary track leaving section 85 in the path direction X relative to the first auxiliary section 84. The first tilting section 83 tilts in the direction of the first side W1 of the swing direction as it moves toward the side of the auxiliary track leaving section 85.

[0081] In this embodiment, the second tilting section 86 is continuously disposed on the side opposite to the auxiliary track departure section 85 in the path direction X, relative to the second auxiliary section 87. The second tilting section 86 tilts in the direction of the first side W1 of the swing direction as it moves toward the auxiliary track departure section 85.

[0082] In this embodiment, the first auxiliary section 84 and the first inclined section 83 are supported on the second structure 12 via the second left track portion 46. In this embodiment, the second auxiliary section 87 and the second inclined section 86 are supported on the first structure 11 via the first right track portion 34.

[0083] [Third Implementation Method] Hereinafter, the transport device 10 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, it differs from the first embodiment in the following aspects: the right departure section 35 is located on the second side X2 in the path direction, which is further than the left departure section 45; and the auxiliary track 80 is positioned on the lower side Z2, which is further than the rotation axis of the right wheel 21 and the left wheel 22. The following description focuses on the differences from the first embodiment. Furthermore, points not specifically described are the same as in the first embodiment. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of the lower surface of the transport device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0084] In this embodiment, the auxiliary part 25 is positioned below the rotation axis Z2 of the right wheel 21 and left wheel 22 of the transport vehicle 20.

[0085] In this embodiment, the first tilting section 83 is continuously disposed on the side of the auxiliary track leaving section 85 in the path direction X relative to the first auxiliary section 84. The first tilting section 83 tilts in the direction of the first side W1 of the swing direction as it moves toward the side of the auxiliary track leaving section 85.

[0086] In this embodiment, the second tilting section 86 is continuously disposed on the side opposite to the auxiliary track departure section 85 in the path direction X, relative to the second auxiliary section 87. The second tilting section 86 tilts in the direction of the first side W1 of the swing direction as it moves toward the auxiliary track departure section 85.

[0087] In this embodiment, the first tilting section 83 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 changes from the second position P2 on the second side Y2 in the left-right direction to the first position P1 on the first side Y1 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the first auxiliary section 84 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 located at the first position P1 contacts the auxiliary track 80 from the first side W1 in the swing direction.

[0088] In this embodiment, the second tilting section 86 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 changes from a first position P1 on the first side Y1 in the left-right direction to a second position P2 on the second side Y2 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the second auxiliary section 87 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 located at the second position P2 contacts the auxiliary track 80 from the second side W2 in the swing direction.

[0089] In this embodiment, the first auxiliary section 84 and the first inclined section 83 are supported on the second structure 12 via the second left track portion 46. In this embodiment, the second auxiliary section 87 and the second inclined section 86 are supported on the first structure 11 via the first right track portion 34.

[0090] [Fourth Implementation Method] Hereinafter, the transport device 10 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, the left departure section 45 is located at a point that is further along the path direction on the second side X2 than the right departure section 35, which differs from the third embodiment. Hereinafter, the description will focus on the point that differs from the third embodiment. Furthermore, points not specifically described are the same as in the third embodiment. Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of the lower surface of the transport device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0091] In this embodiment, the first tilting section 83 is continuously disposed on the side opposite to the auxiliary track departure section 85 in the path direction X, relative to the first auxiliary section 84. The first tilting section 83 tilts in a direction that tilts towards the second side W2 of the swing direction as it moves toward the auxiliary track departure section 85.

[0092] In this embodiment, the second tilting section 86 is continuously disposed on the side of the auxiliary track leaving section 85 in the path direction X relative to the second auxiliary section 87. The second tilting section 86 tilts in the direction of the second side W2 of the swing direction as it moves toward the side of the auxiliary track leaving section 85.

[0093] In this embodiment, the first tilting section 83 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 changes from a first position P1 on the first side Y1 in the left-right direction to a second position P2 on the second side Y2 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the first auxiliary section 84 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 located at the second position P2 contacts the auxiliary track 80 from the first side W1 in the swing direction.

[0094] In this embodiment, the second tilting section 86 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 changes from a second position P2 on the second side Y2 in the left-right direction to a first position P1 on the first side Y1 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the second auxiliary section 87 is configured such that the auxiliary part 25 located at the first position P1 contacts the auxiliary track 80 from the second side W2 in the swing direction.

[0095] In this embodiment, the first auxiliary section 84 and the first inclined section 83 are supported on the first structure 11 via the first left track portion 44. In this embodiment, the second auxiliary section 87 and the second inclined section 86 are supported on the second structure 12 via the second right track portion 36.

[0096] Other implementation methods Next, other embodiments of the transport equipment 10 will be described.

[0097] (1) In the above embodiment, the following configuration was described as an example: the guide drive unit 24 drives the auxiliary unit 25 to move the auxiliary unit 25 to the first position P1 and the second position P2. However, the embodiment of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the transport vehicle 20 may not have the guide drive unit 24, and the auxiliary unit 25 may be fixed to the body of the transport vehicle 20.

[0098] (2) In the above embodiments, the following configuration is described as an example (see Figure 4 and Figure 8 The first inclined section 83 and the first auxiliary section 84 are supported on the first structure 11 via the first left track portion 44, and the second inclined section 86 and the second auxiliary section 87 are supported on the second structure 12 via the second right track portion 36. However, the embodiment of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the first inclined section 83 and the first auxiliary section 84 may be supported on the second structure 12 without being supported on the right track 30 and the left track 40. For example, the second inclined section 86 and the second auxiliary section 87 may be supported on the first structure 11 without being supported on the right track 30 and the left track 40. For example, the first auxiliary section 84, the first inclined section 83, the second inclined section 86, and the second auxiliary section 87 may all be supported on either the first structure 11 or the second structure 12. For example, the auxiliary track 80 may also be supported by a structure different from the first structure 11 and the second structure 12.

[0099] (3) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the transport device 10 includes a right first connecting mechanism 53, a right linear motion guide mechanism 55, a right second connecting mechanism 57, a left first connecting mechanism 63, a left linear motion guide mechanism 65, and a left second connecting mechanism 67. However, the implementation of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the transport device 10 may not include any one or more of the right first connecting mechanism 53, the right linear motion guide mechanism 55, the right second connecting mechanism 57, the left first connecting mechanism 63, the left linear motion guide mechanism 65, and the left second connecting mechanism 67.

[0100] (4) In the above embodiment, the following configuration was described as an example: the right track 30 has a third right track portion 33 and a fourth right track portion 37, and the left track 40 has a third left track portion 43 and a fourth left track portion 47. However, the embodiment of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the right track 30 may not have one or both of the third right track portion 33 and the fourth right track portion 37. For example, the left track 40 may not have one or both of the third left track portion 43 and the fourth left track portion 47.

[0101] (5) In the above embodiment, the following configuration was described as an example: an auxiliary track departure section 85 is provided between the first auxiliary section 84 and the second auxiliary section 87, and the auxiliary track 80 has a first inclined section 83 and a second inclined section 86. However, the embodiment of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the auxiliary track departure section 85 may not be provided between the first auxiliary section 84 and the second auxiliary section 87. For example, the auxiliary track 80 may not have a first inclined section 83 or a second inclined section 86.

[0102] (6) In the above embodiment, the following configuration was described as an example: the first right-side support mechanism 71 and the first left-side support mechanism 72 allow movement in the vertical direction Z, the horizontal direction Y, and the path direction X. However, the embodiment of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the first right-side support mechanism 71 and the first left-side support mechanism 72 may not allow any one or more of the vertical direction Z, the horizontal direction Y, and the path direction X. For example, the first right-side support mechanism 71 may not have either or both of the first force-applying mechanism 73a and the first force-applying mechanism 73b. For example, the first left-side support mechanism 72 may not have either or both of the second force-applying mechanism 74a and the second force-applying mechanism 74b.

[0103] (7) In the above embodiments, the following configuration was described as an example: the transport device 10 includes a first right-side support mechanism 71 and a first left-side support mechanism 72. However, the implementation of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the transport device 10 may not include the first right-side support mechanism 71 and the first left-side support mechanism 72, and the first right track portion 34 and the first left track portion 44 may be fixed to the first structure 11 in a manner that does not allow movement in the vertical direction Z, the horizontal direction Y, and the path direction X relative to the first structure 11. For example, a second right-side support mechanism (not shown) having the same configuration as the first right-side support mechanism 71 may support the second right track portion 36 and be supported by the second structure 12. For example, a second left-side support mechanism (not shown) having the same configuration as the first left-side support mechanism 72 may support the second left track portion 46 and be supported by the second structure 12.

[0104] (8) In the above embodiment, the following configuration was described as an example: the auxiliary part 25 is an auxiliary wheel, which is disposed above the rotation axis of the right wheel 21 and the left wheel 22 of the transport vehicle 20 by a height Z1 or a height Z2. However, the embodiment of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, a pair of auxiliary parts 25 may be disposed separately in the left-right direction Y, respectively disposed at a position overlapping the rotation axis of the right wheel 21 and the left wheel 22.

[0105] (9) In the above embodiment, the following configuration is described as an example: the first right track section 34 is positioned further along the path direction on the first side X1 than the second right track section 36, the first left track section 44 is positioned further along the path direction on the first side X1 than the second left track section 46, and the transport vehicle 20 travels from the first side X1 in the path direction toward the second side X2 in the path direction. However, the embodiment of the transport device 10 is not limited to this configuration. For example, it may also be configured such that the transport vehicle 20 travels from the second side X2 in the path direction toward the first side X1 in the path direction. For example, it may also be configured such that the section of the travel path R in which the auxiliary track 80 is provided is not one-way.

[0106] (10) Furthermore, the configurations disclosed in the above embodiments can be combined with the configurations disclosed in other embodiments as long as they do not create contradictions. Regarding other configurations, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are merely illustrative at all points. Therefore, various changes can be made appropriately without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0107] The following is a description of the transportation equipment involved in this disclosure.

[0108] As one embodiment, the transport equipment comprises: a transport vehicle having a right wheel and a left wheel, traveling along a travel path; and a travel track having a right track for the right wheel to roll and a left track for the left wheel to roll, the travel track being provided across a first structure and a second structure that may produce different swaying, with the direction along the travel path as the path direction, the right track comprising: a first right track portion supported on the first structure; and a second right track portion supported on the second structure, relative to... The first right track is positioned away from the aforementioned path direction. The left track includes: a first left track supported by the aforementioned first structure; and a second left track supported by the aforementioned second structure. The transport vehicle is positioned away from the aforementioned first left track along the aforementioned path direction. The transport vehicle includes an auxiliary section positioned at a different location than the aforementioned right and left wheels. The travel track includes an auxiliary track located within a section of the travel path and positioned corresponding to the auxiliary section, to surround the transport vehicle along the aforementioned travel path. The direction of the swing axis of the transport vehicle is the swing direction. The side in the aforementioned swing direction where the right wheel descends relative to the left wheel is the first swing direction side, and the side in the aforementioned swing direction where the left wheel descends relative to the right wheel is the second swing direction side. The section between the first right track section and the second right track section in the aforementioned path direction is the right departure section, and the section between the first left track section and the second left track section in the aforementioned path direction is the left departure section. The aforementioned auxiliary track includes: a first auxiliary section, in which, in the right departure state where the right wheel is passing through the aforementioned right departure section, the aforementioned auxiliary part is guided to contact the aforementioned auxiliary track from the aforementioned swing direction second side; and a second auxiliary section, in which, in the left departure state where the left wheel is passing through the aforementioned left departure section, the aforementioned auxiliary part is guided to contact the aforementioned auxiliary track from the aforementioned swing direction first side. The aforementioned right departure section and the aforementioned left departure section are configured such that the aforementioned right departure state and the aforementioned left departure state occur at different times.

[0109] According to this configuration, each of the right and left tracks has a separation zone between the portion supported by the first structure and the portion supported by the second structure. Therefore, even if the first and second structures experience different swaying, the running track is unlikely to break. The auxiliary track has a first auxiliary zone and a second auxiliary zone, allowing the transport vehicle to be supported by the auxiliary section when the right wheel is passing through the separation zone of the right track or the left wheel is passing through the separation zone of the left track. Furthermore, the separation zones of the right and left tracks are configured such that the right-side separation state and the left-side separation state occur at different times. Therefore, even if each of the right and left tracks has a separation zone, the transport vehicle can properly pass through the separation zone because the auxiliary section supports the transport vehicle in each separation zone.

[0110] As one option, the aforementioned auxiliary track is supported by either the aforementioned first structure or the aforementioned second structure, or the section supported by the aforementioned first structure and the section supported by the aforementioned second structure are separated.

[0111] According to this configuration, even if the first and second structures experience different swaying, the auxiliary track is unlikely to break.

[0112] As one embodiment, taking one side of the aforementioned path direction as the first path direction and the other side of the aforementioned path direction as the second path direction, it further includes: a right-side linear motion guide mechanism that allows relative movement of the aforementioned first right track portion and the aforementioned second right track portion in the aforementioned path direction, and restricts relative movement in a direction orthogonal to the aforementioned path direction; and a left-side linear motion guide mechanism that allows relative movement of the aforementioned first left track portion and the aforementioned second left track portion in the aforementioned path direction, and restricts relative movement in a direction orthogonal to the aforementioned path direction. The aforementioned right track has a first right track portion positioned further along the path direction than the aforementioned second right track portion. The right track includes: a third right track portion supported by the aforementioned first structure and positioned relative to the first right track portion on the path direction first side; and a fourth right track portion supported by the aforementioned second structure and positioned relative to the aforementioned second right track portion on the path direction second side. The aforementioned left track has a first left track portion positioned further along the path direction first side than the aforementioned second left track portion. Note: A third left track section, supported by the aforementioned first structure, is disposed on the first side of the aforementioned path direction relative to the aforementioned first left track section; and a fourth left track section, supported by the aforementioned second structure, is disposed on the second side of the aforementioned path direction relative to the aforementioned second left track section. The aforementioned first right track section and the aforementioned third right track section are connected via a right-side first connecting mechanism, which allows relative swinging about an axis orthogonal to the aforementioned path direction. The aforementioned second right track section and the aforementioned fourth right track section are connected via a right-side... The second connecting mechanism is connected, and the aforementioned right-side second connecting mechanism allows relative swinging about an axis orthogonal to the aforementioned path direction. The aforementioned first left track portion and the aforementioned third left track portion are connected via the left-side first connecting mechanism, and the aforementioned left-side first connecting mechanism allows relative swinging about an axis orthogonal to the aforementioned path direction. The aforementioned second left track portion and the aforementioned fourth left track portion are connected via the left-side second connecting mechanism, and the aforementioned left-side second connecting mechanism allows relative swinging about an axis orthogonal to the aforementioned path direction.

[0113] According to this configuration, the first right track section and the second right track section are connected via a right-side linear motion guide mechanism, and the first left track section and the second left track section are connected via a left-side linear motion guide mechanism. Therefore, even if the first and second structures experience different swaying, the approach and departure of the first right track section and the second right track section, as well as the approach and departure of the first left track section and the second left track section, are allowed, while simultaneously restricting the misalignment of the first right track section and the second right track section in the left-right or up-down direction, and the misalignment of the first left track section and the second left track section in the left-right or up-down direction. Thus, it is easy to maintain a state where the transport vehicle can pass. The first right track section and the third right track section are connected via a right-side first connecting mechanism, the second right track section and the fourth right track section are connected via a right-side second connecting mechanism, the first left track section and the third left track section are connected via a left-side first connecting mechanism, and the second left track section and the fourth left track section are connected via a left-side second connecting mechanism. Therefore, even if the first and second structures sway differently, the first right track section and the second right track section can be kept in a straight parallel position, as can the first left track section and the second left track section, and the track is unlikely to be damaged.

[0114] As one embodiment, an auxiliary track departure section without the aforementioned auxiliary track is provided between the aforementioned first auxiliary section and the aforementioned second auxiliary section. The aforementioned auxiliary track has at least one of the following: a first tilting section, which is continuously provided relative to the aforementioned first auxiliary section on the side of the aforementioned auxiliary track departure section in the aforementioned path direction, and tilts in a direction toward the aforementioned swing direction first side as it moves toward the side of the aforementioned auxiliary track departure section; and a second tilting section, which is continuously provided relative to the aforementioned second auxiliary section on the side of the aforementioned auxiliary track departure section in the aforementioned path direction, and tilts in a direction toward the aforementioned swing direction second side as it moves toward the side of the aforementioned auxiliary track departure section.

[0115] According to this configuration, when the auxiliary part changes on the side that contacts the auxiliary track, the change can be performed smoothly.

[0116] As one embodiment, taking the direction orthogonal to the aforementioned path direction when viewed from the vertical direction as the left and right direction, the structure further includes a first right-side support mechanism and a first left-side support mechanism supported by the aforementioned first structure. The first right-side support mechanism includes a first force-applying mechanism that supports the aforementioned first right track portion in a manner that allows movement in the vertical direction and the aforementioned left and right direction relative to the aforementioned first structure, and applies force to the aforementioned first right track portion toward the reference position in the vertical direction and the reference position in the aforementioned left and right direction. The first left-side support mechanism includes a second force-applying mechanism that supports the aforementioned first left track portion in a manner that allows movement in the vertical direction and the aforementioned left and right direction relative to the aforementioned first structure, and applies force to the aforementioned first left track portion toward the reference position in the vertical direction and the reference position in the aforementioned left and right direction.

[0117] According to this configuration, vibrations caused by the movement of a transport vehicle on the first right track section, which is positioned away from the second right track section, and the first left track section, which is positioned away from the second left track section, can be attenuated. Even if the first structure sways, vibrations transmitted to the first right track section and the first left track section can be attenuated, making it easier to avoid damage to the first right track section and the first left track section.

[0118] The transportation equipment involved in this disclosure only needs to be able to achieve at least one of the above-mentioned effects.

[0119] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures] 10: Transportation equipment 11: The First Structure 12: Second Structure 15: Travel Track 20: Transport vehicle 21: Right wheel 22: Left wheel 25: Auxiliary Department 30: Right track 33: Third right track section 34: First right track section 35: Right side leaving the interval 36: Second right track section 37: 4th right track section 40: Left track 43: Third left track section 44: First left track section 45: Left side leaving the interval 46: Second left track section 47: Fourth left track section 53: Right side first connecting mechanism 55: Right-side linear motion guide mechanism 57: Right side second connecting mechanism 63: Left side first connecting mechanism 65: Left-side linear motion guide mechanism 67: Second connecting mechanism on the left side 71: First right-side support mechanism 72: First left-side support mechanism 73a, 73b: First force-applying mechanism 74a, 74b: Second force-applying mechanism 80: Auxiliary track 83: First inclined interval 84: First auxiliary interval 85: Auxiliary track leaves the section 86: Second inclined interval 87: Second auxiliary interval R: Driving route W: Direction of swing W1: Swing direction, first side W2: Second side of the swing direction X: Path direction X1: Path direction, first side X2: Second side of the path direction Y: Left and right directions Z: Up and down direction.

Claims

1. A transport device comprising the following: A transport vehicle, equipped with right and left wheels, travels along a designated path; and The travel track includes a right track for the right wheel to roll and a left track for the left wheel to roll. The transport equipment has the following characteristics: The travel track is provided across the first and second structures, which may experience varying degrees of swaying. The path direction is defined as the direction along the described driving path. The right track comprises: a first right track portion supported on the first structure; and a second right track portion supported on the second structure, disposed away from the first right track portion along the path direction. The left track includes: a first left track portion supported on the first structure; and a second left track portion supported on the second structure, disposed away from the first left track portion along the path direction. The transport vehicle has an auxiliary unit configured at a position different from that of the right wheel and the left wheel. The travel track includes a section set within a portion of the travel path and an auxiliary track positioned corresponding to the auxiliary unit. The swing direction is defined as the direction surrounding the swing axis of the transport vehicle along the travel path; the first swing direction is defined as the side in the swing direction where the right wheel is relatively lower than the left wheel; and the second swing direction is defined as the side in the swing direction where the left wheel is relatively lower than the right wheel. The interval between the first right track section and the second right track section along the path direction is defined as the right-side departure interval, and the interval between the first left track section and the second left track section along the path direction is defined as the left-side departure interval. The auxiliary track has the following features: In the first auxiliary section, during the right-side departure state where the right wheel is passing through the right-side departure section, the auxiliary part is guided relative to the auxiliary track from the second side of the swing direction; and In the second auxiliary section, during the left departure state where the left wheel is passing through the left departure section, the auxiliary part is guided relative to the auxiliary track from the first side of the swing direction. The right departure interval and the left departure interval are configured such that the right departure state and the left departure state occur at different times.

2. The transportation equipment according to claim 1, wherein, Regarding the auxiliary track, it is supported by either the first structure or the second structure, or the section supported by the first structure and the section supported by the second structure are separate.

3. The transportation equipment according to claim 1, wherein, One side of the path direction is designated as the first side of the path direction, and the other side of the path direction is designated as the second side of the path direction. It also has: The right-side linear motion guide mechanism allows relative movement of the first right track section and the second right track section in the path direction, and restricts relative movement in a direction orthogonal to the path direction; as well as The left-side linear motion guide mechanism allows relative movement of the first left track section and the second left track section in the path direction, but restricts relative movement in a direction orthogonal to the path direction. The first right track portion of the right track is disposed further along the first side of the path direction than the second right track portion. The right track includes: a third right track portion supported by the first structure and disposed relative to the first right track portion on the first side of the path direction; and a fourth right track portion supported by the second structure and disposed relative to the second right track portion on the second side of the path direction. The first left track portion of the left track is disposed further along the path direction on the first side than the second left track portion. The left track includes: a third left track portion supported by the first structure and disposed relative to the first left track portion on the path direction on the first side; and a fourth left track portion supported by the second structure and disposed relative to the second left track portion on the second side of the path direction. The first right track section and the third right track section are connected via a first right-side connecting mechanism, which allows relative oscillation about an axis in a direction orthogonal to the path direction. The second right track section and the fourth right track section are connected via a second right-side connecting mechanism, which allows relative oscillation about an axis in a direction orthogonal to the path direction. The first left track section and the third left track section are connected via a left first connecting mechanism, which allows relative swinging about an axis in a direction orthogonal to the path direction. The second left track section and the fourth left track section are connected via a second left connecting mechanism, which allows relative oscillation about an axis in a direction orthogonal to the path direction.

4. The transport equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, An auxiliary track departure section without the aforementioned auxiliary track is provided between the first auxiliary section and the second auxiliary section. The auxiliary track has at least one of the following: The first tilting section, which is continuously disposed relative to the first auxiliary section on the side of the auxiliary track leaving the section in the path direction, tilts in a direction toward the first side of the swing direction as it moves toward the side of the auxiliary track leaving the section; and The second tilting section is continuously disposed on the side of the auxiliary track leaving the section in the path direction relative to the second auxiliary section, and tilts in the direction toward the second side of the swing direction as it moves toward the side of the auxiliary track leaving the section.

5. The transport equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The left and right directions are defined as those perpendicular to the path direction when viewed from above and below. It also includes a first right-side support mechanism and a first left-side support mechanism supported on the first structure. The first right-side support mechanism includes a first force-applying mechanism, which supports the first right-side track portion in a manner that allows movement in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction relative to the first structure, and applies force to the first right-side track portion toward a reference position in the vertical direction and a reference position in the horizontal direction. The first left-side support mechanism includes a second force-applying mechanism, which supports the first left-side track portion in a manner that allows movement in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction relative to the first structure, and applies force to the first left-side track portion toward the reference position in the vertical direction and the reference position in the horizontal direction.

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