Conveyor system for integrating with a transport system

Abstract

The utility model relates to a conveyor system designed for integration with a transport system, in particular at an unloading position in which a rail is oriented vertically. The conveyor system includes an unloading station that is characterized by a plurality of parallel circulating conveyors that are spaced apart to define a gap that accommodates fingers from a carrier of the transport system. The support structure maintains alignment and stability of the conveyor, while the drive mechanism ensures synchronous operation. When the carrier vertically descends along the track at the unloading station, its fingers pass through the gap, allowing the conveyor to engage the product and transfer the product from the carrier to the transfer system. This configuration helps to effectively and stably unload the product, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the integrated system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a conveying system for transporting packaged food, particularly for fast food restaurants, buffet restaurants, etc. Background Technology

[0002] The applicant has developed and marketed an elevated conveyor system based on a continuous track forming a closed loop, comprising an endless "train" of small wheeled vehicles connected together. The track is typically suspended from the ceiling or walls and meanders from a loading point through the building to an unloading point and back again. Food to be transported is packaged or bagged, which is pushed into special product clamps carried by a number of wheeled trolleys. To release the bags from the clamps, a lever arm is activated at the unloading point, and the food is placed onto a tray.

[0003] The applicant's EP 3 533 733 B1 also relates to a transport system for transporting packaged food in locations such as restaurants, allowing for flexible layout design. This provides a track-based conveyor system with a support carrier on which the food to be transported can be placed at a loading station. The food is then transported to a customer delivery point located away from the loading station. The entire contents of EP 3 533 733 B1 are incorporated herein by reference as fully illustrated. Figure 1 An embodiment of the transport system shown in EP 3533 733 B1 is illustrated, which has an exemplary configuration of track 30 and manual unloading station 90.

[0004] The transport system comprises a curved, preferably closed-loop path defined by a shaped track and a plurality of wheeled trolleys having wheels movably contained within and guided by the shaped track. Each wheeled trolley has an attachment side facing an open side of the shaped track. Furthermore, the track is arranged such that its open side faces a generally horizontal direction, so that the attachment side of the wheeled trolley is generally vertically oriented during movement of the trolley along the path. The transport system also includes at least one carrier having a rack adapted to support food to be transported. The carrier is pivotally mounted to the attachment side of one of the wheeled trolleys to hold the rack in a horizontal position as the carrier travels along the path.

[0005] WO 2023 / 151955 A1 describes a similar transport vehicle with an enhanced system for loading, queuing, and delivering orders. This system includes a transport unit with tracks, trolleys with racks moving along the tracks, and an unloading station with powered fingers to facilitate product unloading. While WO 2023 / 151955A1 provides a robust solution for order delivery, the unloading mechanism using powered fingers can be complex and may require precise alignment to ensure smooth product transfer. This complexity can lead to potential inefficiencies and increased maintenance requirements during operation.

[0006] Despite advancements in conveying and transport systems, there remains a need for an unloading mechanism that can be seamlessly integrated with existing transport systems to provide improved alignment and stability during product transfer, particularly in vertically oriented track sections. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The following and other objectives are achieved by a transport system having the features of claim 1 for integration with a rail-based transport system. Further advantageous improvements are disclosed in the dependent claims. The invention also includes a rail-based transport system with a transport system according to claim 14.

[0008] Specifically, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the conveying system includes an unloading station, a support structure, and a drive mechanism. The unloading station includes a plurality of parallel reciprocating conveyors spaced apart to define gaps, the gaps being configured to receive fingers of the racks of the conveying system. The support structure is used to maintain the alignment and stability of the reciprocating conveyors. The drive mechanism is configured to synchronously drive the reciprocating conveyors, wherein, during operation, as the rack descends vertically along the track at the unloading station, its fingers pass through the gaps between the reciprocating conveyors, allowing the conveyors to engage the products and transfer the products from the racks to the conveying system. This embodiment provides the technical advantage of facilitating efficient and stable unloading of products from vertically oriented tracks, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the conveying system.

[0009] The reciprocating conveyor can be configured to transport products in a direction extending forward away from the rack, parallel to the fingers. Therefore, the product transport direction is generally perpendicular to the movement of the rack, with the fingers extending straight forward parallel to the rack. If desired, the transport direction may also include a slight inclination relative to the horizontal plane.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the conveying system further includes a first sensor configured to detect the presence of a product on the conveyor at the unloading station when the product descends from the rack, and to initiate movement of the conveyor. This embodiment provides technical advantages by enhancing the automation and responsiveness of the unloading process, thereby ensuring timely initiation of conveyor movement.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first sensor is further configured to signal the transport system to stop the movement of additional pallets if a blockage is detected at the unloading station, thereby ensuring safe operation. This embodiment provides technical advantages by improving safety and preventing potential damage or congestion in the system through proactive blockage detection.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the conveying system further includes a second sensor configured to detect when a product arrives at its destination position on the conveyor, thereby stopping the movement of the conveyor. This embodiment provides technical advantages by ensuring precise control over the final positioning of the product, improving the accuracy and efficiency of product handling.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system is configured to signal the transport system to resume movement when the first sensor detects that no more products are present at the unloading station. This embodiment provides technical advantages by facilitating seamless and automatic resumption of operations, minimizing downtime, and increasing throughput.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the conveying system further includes redundant first sensors, wherein if any of the first sensors detects the presence of product at the unloading station, the conveyor is configured to start and signal the transport system to stop. This embodiment provides technical advantages by offering an additional layer of safety and reliability, ensuring continuous operation even if one sensor fails.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the conveying system further includes a third sensor configured to operate in manual mode, detect the presence of a product on the conveyor, signal the conveying system to stop, and signal the conveying system to restart once the product has been removed. This embodiment provides a technical advantage by allowing manual intervention and control, thereby offering flexibility in system operation when needed.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the reciprocating conveyor is a conveyor belt. This embodiment offers technical advantages by enabling smooth and continuous movement of products, reducing wear, and maintaining efficient product transfer. Furthermore, the conveyor belt, made of food-grade materials, is easy to clean and hygienic. Alternatively, the reciprocating conveyor can be a chain conveyor, which provides similar functionality.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, each reciprocating conveyor includes a guide rod with a freely extending end, allowing the fingers of the rack to pass between the conveyors. This embodiment provides technical advantages by facilitating easy integration with racks and ensuring smooth product flow and transfer.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the conveying system further includes a return pulley at the free end of each guide rod, a guide pulley along the lower side, and a driven pulley, wherein the driven pulley of the conveyor is mounted on a common shaft driven by the drive mechanism. This embodiment provides technical advantages by ensuring synchronized and efficient drive of all conveyors, enhancing stability, and reducing mechanical complexity.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, each guide rod includes side plates on both sides forming a structural support, wherein pulleys are mounted to rotate between the side plates. This embodiment provides technical advantages by enhancing structural integrity and support, thereby ensuring reliable operation of the conveying system.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the conveying system further includes a tensioning mechanism having an adjustable roller located between two guide pulleys, the adjustable roller being configured to tighten the belt. This embodiment provides technical advantages by maintaining optimal belt tension, reducing slippage and wear, and ensuring consistent performance. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The invention can be better understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and description. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather the focus is on illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0022] Figure 1 It is a representative of existing technology transportation systems with manual unloading stations.

[0023] Figure 2 This illustrates the transmission system according to the present invention and Figure 1 An integrated perspective view of the transportation system shown.

[0024] Figure 3 During the phase when the rack approaches the conveyor from above. Figure 2 A detailed perspective view of the transmission system in the image.

[0025] Figure 4It is a detailed perspective view of the conveyor system, depicting the state when the rack and conveyor are at the same level, facilitating product transfer.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a detailed perspective view showing the rack below the conveyor system, with the products positioned on the conveyor.

[0027] Figure 6 It is a detailed perspective view showing the product moving to its destination location on the conveyor system, with the rack still below the conveyor.

[0028] Figure 7 It is a perspective view of the conveyor belt within the conveyor system, depicted without a casing to show the structure.

[0029] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the transport system's rack, showing the structure with fingers and gaps.

[0030] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 The carrier passes through Figure 7 A perspective view of the conveyor.

[0031] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the conveyor, in which a side panel has been removed to expose the internal structure. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Figure 1 A prior art transport system is illustrated, which lays the foundation for understanding the advancements introduced by this invention. The system includes a track 30 that guides a rack 50 for transporting products. The rack 50 is equipped with fingers designed to securely hold the products. A manual unloading station 90 is included, which has:

[0033] This results in a labor-intensive process where products must be removed manually, thus limiting efficiency and output.

[0034] refer to Figure 2 This illustrates system 10 for loading, queuing, and delivering orders. Orders are processed in... Figure 3-6 The image is schematically shown as a bag 12 on a conveyor, and includes the product in the bag 12.

[0035] System 10 includes controller 20, which is preferably a processor-based controller and has memory that can be programmed to operate system 10.

[0036] System 10 also includes a display panel 22 connected to controller 20, which provides users with information about order sequence and system status.

[0037] System 10 includes a transport device having a path 32 defined by track 30. Figure 2 An exemplary arrangement of track 30 is schematically shown, which uses a profile track made of lightweight aluminum track sections, for example, connected together to form a closed loop. While a closed loop is preferred, it is not a system requirement. Track 30 can be arranged to meander from loading station 70 through the building to unloading station 90 and back again. Track 30 can extend horizontally in a straight line, around corners, in a straight line in a vertical direction, and possibly in a straight line at an angle.

[0038] Although Figure 2 The track installation shown is an example, but the actual design and path of track 30 will be determined by the location and orientation of the loading and unloading points, as well as the layout of the building itself. Typically, track 30 will extend from loading station 70, located near the food preparation area, and unloading station 90, located at customer pick-up points (such as drive-thru windows or bar counters, where products are picked up by staff and handed to customers). Therefore, Figure 2 Any particular layout shown in the exemplary embodiments is considered non-limiting.

[0039] Multiple carriages 40 are guided on track 30. The carriages 40 may be wheeled or formed as connector bodies that can slide or otherwise move along the path defined by track 30. The carriages 40 are connected to a drive, which may be, for example, a belt, chain, toothed drive, or any other drive system, to enable the carriages 40 to move continuously along track 30.

[0040] In one embodiment, the carriages 40 are connected together by hinges to form a continuous line of carriages 40, and the carriages 40 are moved around a track system by a drive connected to a controller 20 to selectively actuate the drive, thereby propelling the carriages 40 along path 32. The drive preferably comprises an electric motor that can engage with a drive gear through an opening in the track, the drive gear interacting with teeth engaged in the carriages 40. This can be illustrated, for example, as shown in EP 3 533733 B1, which is incorporated herein by reference as fully illustrated. Alternatively, the motor 43 can drive a belt, cable, or chain connecting the carriages 40.

[0041] The carrier 44 is preferably connected to at least some of the carts 40. The carrier 44 may be a protruding pin or other type of connector attached to the cart 40. A rack 50 is pivotally mounted to the carrier 44 such that the rack 50 remains in a generally horizontal position as the carrier 44 travels along path 32. This can be, for example, as shown in EP 3 533 733 B1. The rack 50 is adapted to receive product 12 at loading station 70 for delivery to unloading station 90. Figure 8 As shown in more detail, the shelf 50 includes a plurality of generally horizontally extending shelf fingers 51, as well as sides 54 and a back 53. The shelf 50 can be made of any suitable material, but is preferably made of a molded polymer material. The connection between the shelf 50 and the carrier 44 can be in the form of a ball joint or other pivotal connection. A suspension clip 55 on the shelf allows the shelf to be hinged and detached from the carrier 44.

[0042] refer to Figure 2 The loading station includes a loading platform 72 at least at a first location 32A along path 32, the loading platform 72 being configured to receive one or more batches of products 12 for each order.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown on the right, system 10 is characterized by a path 32 defined by a track 30. This track 30 guides a series of trolleys 40, some of which are equipped with carriers 44. The carriers support racks 50 with fingers 51 designed to securely hold the product during transport. The track 30 allows the trolleys 40 to move along a predetermined path under the control of a first drive mechanism.

[0044] As can be seen, loading station 70 has a loading platform 72, which is equipped with fingers that interact with the rack 50 but are not visible in this figure. A load switch or sensor 83 is present to signal the controller 20 when a product is loaded onto the platform. The controller 20 regulates the movement of the trolley to ensure that the trolley moves along track 30 when the product is ready for transport.

[0045] exist Figure 2 On the left, the conveyor system 92 is integrated at the unloading station 90. The track 30 descends, guiding the rack 50 to the unloading station 90. Here, from... Figure 3-6 In more detail, one can see that the reciprocating conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c are arranged in an orderly manner to receive product 12 when the rack 50 descends.

[0046] Figure 3 A detailed view of unloading station 90 is provided, where the integration of conveyor system 92 with the transport system takes place.

[0047] As the rack 50 descends vertically toward the unloading station, the track 30 guides the rack 50. The rack 30 is equipped with fingers 51 that securely hold the product 12 during transport. As the rack 50 descends, the fingers align with the gaps between themselves and the parallel reciprocating conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c.

[0048] Conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c are spaced apart to accommodate the fingers 51 of the rack 50, allowing them to pass through unobstructed. These conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c form part of a horizontal conveying system 92, which facilitates the transfer of product 12 from the rack 50 to a designated unloading area.

[0049] Redundant sensors 94a and 94b are strategically positioned near conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c. When product 12 engages with conveyor system 92, these sensors 94a and 94b detect the presence of product 12, thereby triggering conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c to begin moving. This automatic detection ensures accurate timing of the transfer process.

[0050] The second sensor 95 is located at the end of the conveyor path and detects when product 12 reaches its final position. This sensor 95 signals the system to stop conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c, thereby ensuring that the product is correctly positioned for subsequent processing.

[0051] The conveyor system 92 is mounted on the stand 91. The drive mechanism synchronously operates the conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c. The drive mechanism and electronic components are housed within the housing 91.

[0052] The controller on one side of housing 91b includes a stop button 97 and a mode switch button 98, providing manual control options for the system. These components allow the operator to intervene when necessary, thus providing flexibility and safety during operation. The mode switch button 98 can be used to switch the conveyor system 92 to manual operation, for example, if one of the conveyors 93a, 93b, or 93c is defective. In this case, a third sensor 96 will detect the presence of product 12 on the conveyor and stop the transport system until the product has been manually removed, then send a signal to restart the transport system.

[0053] Figure 4 A detailed view of the unloading station 90 is provided when the rack 50 is aligned with the conveyor system 92 to facilitate the transfer of product 12.

[0054] Track 30 guides rack 50 to a precise level on the conveyor. The fingers 51 of rack 50 are now aligned with the gaps between reciprocating conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c, allowing products to be smoothly transferred onto the conveyors.

[0055] Conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c are part of a horizontal conveying system 92, which effectively moves products from rack 50 to their destination.

[0056] Now, sensors 94a and 94b detect the presence of the product. If either sensor 94a or 94b has a signal, it will trigger conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c to begin moving, thereby ensuring that product 12 is transferred seamlessly.

[0057] Figure 5 The diagram shows the unloading station 90 after product 12 has been successfully transferred onto conveyor system 92, where rack 50 is now positioned below the conveyor. As soon as sensors 94a and 94b detect the presence of the product, they signal the transport device to stop, preventing the next rack 50 from reaching and colliding with the obstructing product 12 in the unloading station 90.

[0058] Sensors 94a and 94b, which had previously detected the presence of the product, also caused conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c to begin moving. This situation occurs in... Figure 6 As shown, product 12 has reached its designated position on the conveyor system 92.

[0059] Sensors 94a and 94b now confirm that the area is idle for the next cycle and therefore signal the transport system to resume operation.

[0060] A second sensor 95, located at the end of the conveyor path, detects that a product has reached its final destination. This sensor 95 sends a signal to the system to stop conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c.

[0061] Figure 7 A complex view of the internal components of the conveyor system 92 is provided, highlighting the mechanical structure and layout that enable efficient handling of products.

[0062] The conveying system 92 is depicted without its external housing 91b, showing three parallel reciprocating conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c. These conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c are designed to align with the gaps between the fingers 51 of the rack 50, thereby facilitating seamless product transfer.

[0063] In this embodiment, the reciprocating conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c are constructed as narrow belt conveyors. Each of the conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c is in the form of a guide rod with a freely extending end. Each of the conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c has a driven pulley 106, all of which are mounted on a common drive shaft 105. The drive shaft 105 carries a belt pulley 104 at one end, which is driven by a motor 101 via a drive pulley 103. The drive pulley 103 is tensioned around a drive pulley 102 on the motor shaft and a belt pulley on the drive shaft 105.

[0064] On the left side, conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c are mounted on support plate 107, which provides structural support. The support structure 99 of the conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c, forming guide rods, consists of side plates on both sides, with guide pulleys installed to rotate between the side plates, around which the conveyor belt is tensioned. (See reference...) Figure 10 The tensioning element 109 can be better understood; the tensioning element 109 allows for adjustment of the optimal tension of the conveyor belt.

[0065] As already explained, Figure 8 A perspective view of the shelf 50 is shown, showing its fingers 51 and the gaps 52 between them.

[0066] Figure 9 The key interaction between the conveyor system 92 and the rack 50 is shown during the rack's passage through the unloading station 90 as the conveyor system 92 and the rack 50 are aligned.

[0067] The rack 50 has multiple fingers 51 designed to precisely fit between the gaps of the parallel reciprocating conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c. This alignment ensures that products are seamlessly transferred to the conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c as the rack moves.

[0068] Figure 10 A detailed view of one of the guide rods, which forms conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c from its free extension end, is provided. The outer side plate of conveyor 93c has been removed to show the internal structure and components of belt conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c. The conveyor belt 114 is tensioned on one side around a driven pulley 106, a return pulley 111 at its free extension end, and two guide pulleys 113 positioned along the underside of the guide rail. A tensioning roller 112 is located between the two guide pulleys and its height can be adjusted by a tensioning element 109 to properly tension the belt 114.

[0069] In summary, the operation of the integrated conveying and transport system begins with the rack 50 descending along the vertical track. As the rack 50 approaches the unloading station 90, its fingers 51 align with the gaps between them and the reciprocating conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c of the conveying system 92.

[0070] Upon detection of product 12, sensors 94a and 94b actuate conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c, thereby initiating the transfer process. Product 12 moves from the rack onto the conveyor, where it is securely positioned for transport. A synchronous drive mechanism with a common drive shaft 105 ensures synchronized operation of conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c.

[0071] Once product 12 reaches its destination on conveyor system 92, sensor 95 signals the system to stop conveyors 93a, 93b, and 93c. The absence of product at the unloading position allows the transport system to resume operation.

[0072] Alternative embodiments of the system may include variations in the number of conveyor belts or the addition of more advanced sensors to enhance automation. These modifications can further enhance the system's flexibility and adaptability, allowing it to meet the evolving needs of industrial applications.

Claims

1. A conveying system (92) for integration with a transport system (10), wherein the transport system (10) includes a track (30) that allows a carrier (50) having fingers (51) to move along the track (30), and wherein the conveying system (92) is designed for mounting at an unloading position, wherein the track (30) of the transport system (10) is vertically oriented; Its features are, The transmission system (92) includes: The unloading station (90) includes a plurality of parallel reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c) spaced apart to define gaps, the gaps being configured to receive fingers (51) of the racks (50) of the transport system. A support structure (99) is provided to maintain the alignment and stability of the reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c); A drive mechanism configured to synchronously drive the reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c); During operation, as the rack (50) descends vertically along the track (30) at the unloading station (90), the fingers (51) of the rack (50) pass through the gap between the reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c), allowing the conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c) to engage the product (12) and transfer the product (12) from the rack (50) to the conveying system (92).

2. The conveying system (92) according to claim 1 further includes a first sensor (94a, 94b) configured to detect the presence of the product (12) on the conveyor (93a, 93b, 93c) at the unloading station (90) when the product (12) descends from the rack (50), and to initiate movement of the conveyor (93a, 93b, 93c).

3. The transmission system (92) according to claim 2, wherein, The first sensors (94a, 94b) are also configured to signal the transport system to stop the movement of the additional rack (50) if a blockage is detected at the unloading station (90), thereby ensuring safe operation.

4. The conveying system (92) according to claim 2 or 3 further includes a second sensor (95) configured to detect when the product (12) arrives at its destination position on the conveyor (93a, 93b, 93c) to stop the movement of the conveyor (93a, 93b, 93c).

5. The transmission system (92) according to claim 4, wherein, The system is configured such that when the first sensor (94a, 94b) detects that there is no longer a product (12) at the unloading station (90), it sends a signal to the transport system to cause the transport system to resume movement.

6. The transmission system (92) according to any one of claims 2 to 5 further comprises redundant first sensors (94a, 94b), wherein, If any of the first sensors (94a, 94b) detects the presence of product (12) at the unloading station (90), the conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c) are configured to start and signal the transport system to stop.

7. The conveying system (92) according to any one of claims 2 to 6 further includes a third sensor (96) configured to operate in manual mode, detect the presence of the product (12) on the conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c), signal the transport system to stop the transport system, and signal the transport system to restart the transport system once the product (12) has been removed.

8. The transmission system (92) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c) are belt conveyors.

9. The transmission system (92) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, Each reciprocating conveyor (93a, 93b, 93c) includes a guide rod with a free-extending end, allowing the fingers (51) of the rack (50) to pass between the conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c).

10. The conveying system (92) according to claim 9, further comprising a return pulley (111) at the end of each guide rod, a guide pulley (113) along the lower side, and a driven pulley (106), wherein, The driven pulley (106) of the conveyor (93a, 93b, 93c) is mounted on a common shaft (105) driven by the drive mechanism.

11. The transmission system (92) according to claim 10, wherein, Each guide rod includes side plates on both sides, which form a structural support, wherein the pulleys (106, 113, 111) are mounted to rotate between the side plates.

12. The conveying system (92) according to claim 11 further includes a tensioning mechanism having an adjustable roller (112) positioned between two guide pulleys (113), the adjustable roller (112) being configured to tighten the belt (114).

13. The transmission system (92) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c) are configured to transport products (12) in a direction that extends forward parallel to the fingers (51) away from the rack (50).

14. A transportation system (10), comprising: Track (30), the track (30) allows a rack (50) with fingers (51) to move along the track (30); as well as A conveying system (92) is integrated at an unloading position, where the track (30) is vertically oriented; The transmission system (92) is characterized in that it comprises: The unloading station (90) includes a plurality of parallel reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c) spaced apart to define gaps, the gaps being configured to receive fingers (51) of the racks (50) of the transport system. A support structure (99) is provided to maintain the alignment and stability of the reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c); A drive mechanism configured to synchronously drive the reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c); During operation, as the rack (50) descends vertically along the track (30) at the unloading station (90), the fingers (51) of the rack (50) pass through the gap between the reciprocating conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c), allowing the conveyors (93a, 93b, 93c) to engage the product (12) and transfer the product (12) from the rack (50) to the conveying system (92).

15. The transport system (10) according to claim 14, comprising the conveyor system (92) according to any one of claims 2 to 13.

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