Cage loading and unloading device and unmanned vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a cage loading and unloading device and an unmanned vehicle. The cage loading and unloading device comprises a translation mechanism and a lifting mechanism, the translation mechanism comprises a translation guide rail and a translation sliding table arranged on the translation guide rail, and the translation sliding table can slide back and forth along the translation guide rail; the lifting mechanism is arranged on the translation sliding table and comprises a lifting guide rail, a lifting sliding table, fork teeth and lateral baffles, the lifting guide rail is fixedly installed on the translation sliding table in the vertical direction, the lifting sliding table is installed on the lifting guide rail in a sliding mode, the fork teeth are fixedly connected with the lifting sliding table, and the lateral baffles are fixedly connected to the two sides of the lifting sliding table. According to the cage loading and unloading device and the unmanned vehicle, through lifting operation of the lifting table, vertical movement of the cage can be achieved, the cage can be matched with the translation mechanism to complete horizontal movement, the cage does not need to be overturned, and therefore potential safety hazards and package damage in the overturning process are avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of logistics and transportation technology, specifically relating to a cage loading and unloading device and an unmanned vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In the logistics and distribution sector, parcel transportation and delivery are crucial links in the entire logistics process. To achieve efficient parcel transportation, sorted parcels are typically placed in cages before being transported and delivered by automated vehicles or other transportation tools. Currently, the most widely used cage loading devices on the market employ a tilting structure, which allows for a certain degree of automation, thereby improving logistics efficiency. However, in practical applications, tilting loading devices have revealed some significant problems and shortcomings.

[0003] Firstly, the tilting loading device requires tilting the cage during operation. This operation inherently poses certain safety hazards, especially in the high-efficiency, high-intensity work environment of a logistics center, where the risk of operational errors is high. During the tilting process, the cage may become unstable or not securely fixed, easily causing the packages inside to tip over and scatter. This tipping and scattering not only creates chaos in the logistics process but may also damage the packages, impacting user experience and customer satisfaction.

[0004] Secondly, the tilting structure places high demands on the design and manufacturing of the cages. Due to the frequent tilting operations, the mechanical parts of the device are prone to wear and tear, requiring regular maintenance and replacement. Furthermore, tilting loading devices have limitations when handling special packages. For some large, heavy, or irregularly shaped packages, the safety and reliability of the tilting operation are difficult to guarantee. These packages are more likely to shift or be damaged during the tilting process.

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a new solution to the above-mentioned technical problems. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a cage loading and unloading device and an unmanned vehicle, which can realize cage loading and unloading through lifting and translation, and has a high degree of safety.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution provided by this utility model is as follows:

[0008] In a first aspect, this utility model provides a cage loading and unloading device, which includes a translation mechanism and a lifting mechanism; the translation mechanism includes a translation guide rail and a translation slide table disposed on the translation guide rail, the translation slide table being able to slide back and forth along the translation guide rail; the lifting mechanism is disposed on the translation slide table, the lifting mechanism including a lifting guide rail, a lifting slide table, forks and side baffles, the lifting guide rail being fixedly installed on the translation slide table in a vertical direction, the lifting slide table being slidably installed on the lifting guide rail, the forks being fixedly connected to the lifting slide table and extending rearward, and the side baffles being fixedly connected to both sides of the lifting slide table to limit the lateral displacement of the cages carried on the forks.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the front end of the translation guide rail is pivotally connected to a laterally extending first drive shaft, and the first drive shaft is provided with a first drive sprocket; the rear end of the translation guide rail is provided with a first driven wheel assembly, the first drive sprocket and the first driven wheel assembly are connected by a first drive chain, the first drive shaft is connected to a first drive member, and the first drive chain is connected to the translation slide.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the first driven wheel assembly includes a first driven wheel, a first tensioning column, a first tensioning bolt, and a first fastening nut; the translation guide rail is provided with a laterally through first oblong hole, the first end of the first tensioning column passes laterally through the first oblong hole, and the first fastening nut is screwed to the first end of the first tensioning column to fasten the first tensioning column to the translation guide rail; the first driven wheel is rotatably connected to the second end of the first tensioning column, and the first tensioning bolt is screwed to the first tensioning column in the front-back direction to adjust the position of the first tensioning column in the front-back direction.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the translation slide includes a base, translation rollers, a mounting bracket, and an adjusting bolt. The mounting bracket is fixed to the bottom of the base, the translation rollers are rotatably connected to the mounting bracket and slidably mounted on the translation guide rail, and the adjusting bolts are screwed onto the translation rollers and the mounting bracket to adjust the lateral position of the translation rollers.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the front and rear ends of the translation guide rail are provided with first limit sensors for detecting the position of the translation slide.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the upper end of the lifting guide rail is pivotally connected to a laterally extending second drive shaft, and the second drive shaft is provided with a second drive sprocket; the lower end of the lifting guide rail is provided with a second driven wheel assembly, the second drive sprocket and the second driven wheel assembly are connected by a second drive chain, the second drive shaft is connected to a second drive member through a chain drive assembly, and the second drive chain is connected to the lifting slide.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the second driving member includes a drive motor and a reducer, the output shaft of the driving member is connected to the reducer, and the reducer is connected to the second drive shaft via a chain drive assembly.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the upper and lower ends of the lifting guide rail are provided with second limit sensors for detecting the position of the lifting slide.

[0016] Secondly, this utility model provides an unmanned vehicle, which includes a carriage and a cage loading and unloading device as described above installed in the carriage.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, a support mechanism is installed at the rear of the carriage. The support mechanism includes a mounting base, a third drive shaft, a third drive component, and a worm gear lift. The mounting base is fixedly installed at the rear of the carriage. The third drive shaft, the third drive component, and the worm gear lift are mounted on the mounting base. The worm gear lift is connected to the third drive component via the third drive shaft to drive the lifting support rod of the worm gear lift to move up and down in the vertical direction.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the cage loading and unloading device and unmanned vehicle provided by this utility model can realize the vertical movement of cages through the lifting operation of the lifting platform, so that the cages can cooperate with the translation mechanism to complete the horizontal movement without flipping the cages, thereby avoiding the safety hazards and damage to the packages during the flipping process; the fork tooth and side baffle structure enable the device to stably carry and transport cages of various shapes and sizes, and prevent the cages from shifting laterally during the loading and unloading process. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the cage loading and unloading device in one embodiment of the present utility model;

[0021] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the cage loading and unloading device in another state;

[0022] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a three-dimensional structure of the cage loading and unloading device when loading cages.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the translation mechanism in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the translation slide table in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the lifting mechanism in one embodiment of the present utility model;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an unmanned vehicle in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the support mechanism in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0030] 100-Cage loading and unloading device, 1-Translation mechanism, 11-Translation guide rail, 111-First oblong hole, 12-Translation slide, 121-Base, 122-Translation roller, 123-Mounting bracket, 124-Adjusting bolt, 13-First drive shaft, 14-First drive sprocket, 15-First driven wheel assembly, 151-First driven wheel, 152-First tensioning column, 153-First tensioning bolt, 154-First fastening nut, 16-First drive chain, 17-First driving component, 18-First limit sensor, 2-Lifting mechanism, 21-Lifting guide rail 22-Rising slide, 23-Fork tooth, 24-Side baffle, 25-Second drive shaft, 26-Second drive sprocket, 271-Second driven wheel assembly, 272-Second drive chain, 28-Second drive component, 281-Drive motor, 282-Reducer, 283-Chain drive assembly, 29-Second limit sensor, 200-Cage, 300-Unmanned vehicle, 310-Carriage, 320-Support mechanism, 321-Mounting base, 322-Third drive shaft, 323-Third drive component, 324-Worm gear lift, 325-Rising support rod. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of this utility model, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0032] Unless otherwise expressly stated, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprising" or its variations such as "including" or "comprising" shall be understood to include the stated elements or components without excluding other elements or other components.

[0033] In modern logistics and distribution systems, automated loading and unloading devices have gradually become a key focus of logistics equipment research and development in order to improve the efficiency and safety of parcel transportation. However, existing cage loading and unloading devices mainly adopt a tilting structure, which, although capable of automated loading, presents many problems in practical applications. Tilting devices require tilting the cages during operation, which can easily cause parcels inside to tip over, scatter, or even be damaged. Furthermore, the tilting structure places high demands on the machinery, is prone to wear and tear, and increases the maintenance cost and complexity of the equipment.

[0034] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, this utility model proposes a novel cage loading and unloading device. Through in-depth analysis of the safety hazards, high cost, poor applicability and efficiency bottlenecks of existing tilting loading devices, the inventors realized that there is a need for a technical solution that can achieve automated loading and unloading without tilting the cage.

[0035] The core of this invention lies in its innovative mechanical structure design, which enables smooth loading and unloading of cages, avoiding tipping and thus improving efficiency and safety. Specifically, by combining translation and lifting mechanisms, the cages remain stable throughout the loading and unloading process, avoiding the risks of instability and package tipping caused by tipping, fundamentally improving safety. The design incorporates fork-like teeth and side baffles, enabling the device to stably support and transport cages of various shapes and sizes. Protective features, such as side baffles, are added to the loading and unloading mechanism to prevent lateral shifting of the cages and damage to the packages during loading and unloading.

[0036] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the cage loading and unloading device 100 in one embodiment of this utility model includes a translation mechanism 1 and a lifting mechanism 2. The translation mechanism 1 includes a translation guide rail 11 and a translation slide 12 disposed on the translation guide rail 11. The translation slide 12 can slide back and forth along the translation guide rail 11. The lifting mechanism 2 is disposed on the translation slide 12. The lifting mechanism 2 includes a lifting guide rail 21, a lifting slide 22, a fork 23 and a side baffle 24. The lifting guide rail 21 is fixedly installed on the translation slide 12 in the vertical direction. The lifting slide 22 is slidably installed on the lifting guide rail 21. The fork 23 is fixedly connected to the lifting slide 22 and extends backward. The side baffle 24 is fixedly connected to both sides of the lifting slide 22 to limit the lateral (left-right) displacement of the cage 200 carried on the fork 23.

[0037] The translation mechanism 1 includes a translation guide rail 11 and a translation slide 12 mounted on the translation guide rail 11. The translation guide rail 11 is fixedly installed horizontally to ensure it can support the weight of the cage 200 and related components. The translation slide 12 is mounted on the translation guide rail 11 and can slide back and forth along it. The translation guide rail 11 can be made of high-strength metal material, possessing good load-bearing capacity and wear resistance. The translation guide rail 11 provides a stable sliding track, ensuring smooth movement of the translation slide 12. Rollers or sliders can be installed on the slide to contact the translation guide rail 11, reducing friction and improving sliding efficiency. The sliding of the translation slide 12 can be electrically driven, equipped with a motor and control system to achieve precise control and smooth movement.

[0038] The lifting guide rail 21 can be made of high-strength steel or aluminum alloy to ensure its stability and durability in the vertical direction. The lifting guide rail 21 provides a vertical track for the lifting slide 22. Guide wheels or sliders can be installed on the lifting slide 22 to contact the lifting guide rail 21 and achieve smooth vertical sliding. The lifting slide 22 can be lifted and lowered by means of hydraulic cylinders, electric push rods, or electric hoists.

[0039] The fork 23, made of high-strength steel, is fixedly connected to the lifting slide 22 and extends rearward to form a robust support platform. The design of the fork 23 takes into account the size and weight of the cage 200 to ensure stable support. Side baffles 24, fixedly connected to both sides of the lifting slide 22, are made of durable materials. The side baffles 24 limit lateral displacement of the cage 200 during loading and unloading, preventing it from shifting or tilting during lifting and movement. Through the cooperation of the lifting guide rail 21, lifting slide 22, fork 23, and side baffles 24, the cage 200 remains stable during loading and unloading, achieving smooth lifting operations. The fork 23 provides robust support, and the side baffles 24 ensure that the cage 200 does not move laterally, thereby improving the safety and reliability of loading and unloading operations.

[0040] The translation mechanism 1 and the lifting mechanism 2 work together to enable the horizontal and vertical movement of the cage 200. During loading and unloading, the height of the cage 200 is first adjusted by the lifting mechanism 2 to ensure that it can accurately dock with the loading and unloading equipment or transport vehicle (such as the unmanned vehicle 300), and then the translation mechanism 1 moves the cage 200 to the designated position.

[0041] The entire loading and unloading device can be equipped with an intelligent control system for precise control of translation and lifting operations. Through the cooperation of sensors and controllers, the position and status of the cage 200 can be monitored in real time, ensuring operational accuracy and safety. To further enhance operational safety, the device can be equipped with safety protection devices such as limit switches, emergency stop buttons, and safety railings. In case of abnormalities, the system can respond quickly, stop operation, and issue an alarm to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment.

[0042] Specifically, the translation slide 12 slides on the translation guide rail 11. The translation guide rail 11 is installed horizontally to ensure that it can support the weight of the cage 200 and related components. The translation slide 12 can slide by a motor or other driving methods. The motor drives the translation slide 12 to move back and forth along the translation guide rail 11 through a transmission device (such as gears, chains, ball screws, etc.).

[0043] When the system receives an instruction to load the cage 200, the control system starts the motor, causing the translation slide 12 to begin sliding. Sensors equipped on the translation slide 12 monitor its position in real time, ensuring that the slide does not deviate from the track or collide during sliding. When the translation slide 12 slides to the rear end of the translation guide rail 11, the sensor sends a signal to the control system to stop the motor, allowing the translation slide 12 to stop stably at the designated position.

[0044] After the translation slide 12 reaches the rear end, the control system initiates the descent operation of the lifting slide 22. Upon receiving a signal that the translation slide 12 has reached its position, the control system activates the lifting drive device, causing the lifting slide 22 to begin its descent. The descent of the lifting slide 22 is ensured by the cooperation of the guide wheels or sliders with the lifting guide rail 21. Sensors monitor the position and speed of the lifting slide 22 in real time to ensure its smooth and safe descent onto the bearing surface of the cage 200.

[0045] As the lifting slide 22 descends, the fork 23, fixedly connected to the lifting slide 22, also descends. The fork 23 extends rearward, forming a stable support platform. During the descent of the lifting slide 22, the fork 23 gradually approaches the ground or other support surface of the cage 200. When the fork 23 descends to the support surface of the cage 200 (such as the ground), the sensor in the system detects the position of the fork 23 and sends a signal to the control system to stop the lifting drive device. At this time, the fork 23 has fully contacted the ground, forming a stable plane, which facilitates the transfer of the cage 200 onto the fork 23.

[0046] After the fork 23 descends into position, the operator or automated equipment can move the cage 200 onto the fork 23. The bottom of the cage 200 contacts the fork 23 and is restrained on the fork 23 by the side baffles 24, preventing the cage 200 from moving laterally or tilting during subsequent operations. The side baffles 24 are made of a robust and durable material and are fixedly connected to both sides of the lifting slide 22, forming a reliable lateral limiting device.

[0047] After the cage 200 is placed on the fork tines 23, an inspection can be performed to ensure that the position and condition of the cage 200 meet the loading requirements. Check whether the cage 200 is completely placed on the fork tines 23 and confirm that the side baffles 24 effectively secure the cage 200. Once the cage 200 is correctly placed and secured, the control system initiates the lifting operation of the lifting slide 22. The lifting drive device restarts, causing the lifting slide 22 to begin rising. The lifting slide 22 rises vertically along the lifting guide rail 21, lifting the fork tines 23 and the cage 200 together. After the lifting slide 22 reaches the predetermined height, the control system sends a signal to stop the lifting drive device, and the lifting slide 22, fork tines 23, and cage 200 remain stably stationary at the designated position.

[0048] After the lifting slide 22 is raised to the position, the control system starts the translation drive device, and the translation slide 12 begins to move forward along the translation guide rail 11, bringing the lifting slide 22 and the cage 200 together to the predetermined loading position.

[0049] In one exemplary embodiment, please refer to Figure 4 As shown, the front end of the translation guide rail 11 is pivotally connected to a laterally extending first drive shaft 13, and a first drive sprocket 14 is provided on the first drive shaft 13; the rear end of the translation guide rail 11 is provided with a first driven wheel 151 assembly 15, the first drive sprocket 14 and the first driven wheel 151 assembly 15 are connected by a first drive chain 16, the first drive shaft 13 is connected to a first drive member 17, and the first drive chain 16 is connected to the translation slide 12.

[0050] The front end of the translation guide 11 is pivotally connected to a laterally extending first drive shaft 13. The first drive shaft 13 may be made of high-strength steel or alloy material to ensure that it can maintain good rigidity and durability during long-term use. The first drive shaft 13 is mounted on the front end of the translation guide 11 by pivoting, and can rotate about its axis, and its extension direction is perpendicular to the extension direction of the translation guide 11.

[0051] The first drive sprocket 14 can be fixed to the first drive shaft 13 by keyway, spline or other connection method to ensure that the rotation of the first drive shaft 13 can be stably transmitted to the first drive sprocket 14. The first drive sprocket 14 can be made of high-strength alloy steel, and its tooth design can prevent chain slippage and wear.

[0052] The first drive sprocket 14 and the first driven wheel 151 assembly 15 are connected by a first transmission chain 16, which wraps around the first drive sprocket 14 and the driven wheel. The translation slide 12 is provided with a bracket or connecting device for fixing the chain, and a portion of the first transmission chain 16 is fixed to the translation slide 12. Through the movement of the first transmission chain 16, the translation slide 12 can slide back and forth along the translation guide rail 11.

[0053] The first driving component 17 can be an electric motor or a servo motor, and its output shaft can be connected to the first transmission shaft 13 via a coupling or gearbox. The rotation of the electric motor can be transmitted to the drive sprocket through the transmission shaft, thereby driving the movement of the transmission chain.

[0054] In one exemplary embodiment, please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first driven wheel 151 assembly 15 includes a first driven wheel 151, a first tensioning column 152, a first tensioning bolt 153, and a first fastening nut 154. The translation guide rail 11 has a laterally through first oblong hole 111. The first end of the first tensioning column 152 passes laterally through the first oblong hole 111, and the first fastening nut 154 is screwed onto the first end of the first tensioning column 152, securing the first tensioning column 152 to the translation guide rail 11. The first driven wheel 151 is rotatably connected to the second end of the first tensioning column 152, and the first tensioning bolt 153 is screwed onto the first tensioning column 152 in the front-back direction to adjust the position of the first tensioning column 152 in the front-back direction.

[0055] The first driven wheel 151 assembly 15 includes a first driven wheel 151, a first tensioning column 152, a first tensioning bolt 153, and a first fastening nut 154. These components cooperate to ensure the tension of the drive chain and smooth transmission. The translation guide rail 11 is provided with a laterally through first oblong hole 111. The oblong hole design allows the first tensioning column 152 to be finely adjusted in the front-back direction for easy installation and tensioning operations.

[0056] The first driven wheel 151 is rotatably connected to the second end of the first tensioning column 152. This rotatable connection is achieved via a bearing; a bearing housing is fixed to the second end of the tensioning column, and the first driven wheel 151 is connected to the first tensioning column 152 through the bearing. A first tensioning bolt 153 is screwed onto the first tensioning column 152 in the front-to-back direction to adjust the position of the first tensioning column 152 in that direction. By adjusting the first tensioning bolt 153, the position of the first tensioning column 152 can be changed, thereby adjusting the tension of the first transmission chain 16.

[0057] In one exemplary embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, the translation slide 12 includes a base 121, a translation roller 122, a mounting bracket 123, and an adjusting bolt 124. The mounting bracket 123 is fixed to the bottom of the base 121. The translation roller 122 is rotatably connected to the mounting bracket 123 and slidably mounted on the translation guide rail 11. The adjusting bolt 124 is screwed onto the translation roller 122 and the mounting bracket 123 to adjust the lateral position of the translation roller 122.

[0058] The base 121 is the main load-bearing structure of the translation slide 12 and can be made of high-strength metal materials (such as steel or aluminum alloy) to ensure sufficient load-bearing capacity and rigidity. The mounting bracket 123 is fixed to the bottom of the base 121 and can be fixed to the base 121 by welding or bolting. The structure of the mounting bracket 123 must match the installation dimensions of the base 121 and the translation roller 122 to ensure the accuracy and firmness of the installation.

[0059] The translation roller 122 is rotatably connected to the mounting bracket 123 and slidably mounted on the translation guide rail 11. The roller may be made of wear-resistant materials (such as nylon or polyurethane) to reduce friction and wear, and improve the smoothness and durability of sliding. The shaft of the translation roller 122 can be connected to the mounting bracket 123 via bearings or sliding bushings, ensuring that the roller can rotate freely and bear the load of the slide table. One end of the adjusting bolt 124 is fixed to the translation roller 122, and the other end is screwed to the mounting bracket 123. By rotating the bolt, the position of the translation roller 122 can be finely adjusted to improve the straightness of the sliding of the translation slide table 12 on the translation guide rail 11.

[0060] Specifically, the front and rear ends of the translation guide rail 11 are equipped with first limit sensors 18 for detecting the position of the translation slide 12. The first limit sensors 18 ensure that the translation slide 12 can accurately trigger the limit sensors when it slides to the predetermined position, providing position feedback signals and preventing the translation slide 12 from exceeding the set range. The first limit sensors 18 can be photoelectric sensors, proximity switches, or mechanical switches, etc., and their selection depends on the specific application environment and requirements. A triggering mechanism (such as a mechanical contact or magnetic trigger) is installed on the translation slide 12. When the slide moves to the predetermined position, the triggering mechanism contacts or aligns with the limit sensors, triggering the sensors to emit signals.

[0061] In one exemplary embodiment, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown, the upper end of the lifting guide rail 21 is pivotally connected to a second drive shaft 25 extending laterally, and a second drive sprocket 26 is provided on the second drive shaft 25; the lower end of the lifting guide rail 21 is provided with a second driven wheel assembly 271, the second drive sprocket 26 and the second driven wheel assembly 271 are connected by a second drive chain 272, the second drive shaft 25 is connected to the second drive member 28 through a chain drive assembly 283, and the second drive chain 272 is connected to the lifting slide 22.

[0062] The lifting guide rail 21 is installed vertically and can be made of high-strength steel or aluminum alloy to ensure its stability and durability in the vertical direction. The guide rail provides a track for the vertical movement of the lifting slide 22. The second drive shaft 25 is pivotally connected to the upper end of the lifting guide rail 21 and is fixed by a bearing seat to ensure stable rotation of the drive shaft. The rotation of the second drive shaft 25 drives the second drive sprocket 26 to rotate.

[0063] The second drive sprocket 26 is fixed on the second drive shaft 25 and connected to the second driven wheel assembly 271 via the second drive chain 272. The second drive chain 272 wraps around the second drive sprocket 26 and the second driven wheel assembly 271, and power is transmitted through the cyclical movement of the chain. The second drive member 28 is connected to the second drive shaft 25 via the chain drive assembly 283. The power of the second drive member 28 is transmitted to the second drive shaft 25 via the chain, and then the second drive shaft 25 drives the second drive sprocket 26 to rotate, realizing the transmission of power and the motion control of the lifting slide 22. The second drive chain 272 is fixedly connected to the lifting slide 22. When the second drive chain 272 moves, it drives the lifting slide 22 to move up and down along the lifting guide rail 21. The tension of the second drive chain 272 can be adjusted by a tensioning device to ensure the stable operation of the lifting slide 22. The structural design of the lifting slide 22 can be similar to that of the translation slide 12, and will not be described in detail here.

[0064] Specifically, the second drive unit 28 includes a drive motor 281 and a reducer 282. The output shaft of the drive unit is connected to the reducer 282, and the reducer 282 is connected to the second drive shaft 25 via a chain drive assembly 283. The reducer 282 is connected between the drive motor 281 and the second drive shaft 25, and its main function is to reduce the high speed of the motor and increase the output torque. The reducer 282 is usually made of high-strength materials and has a precise internal gear design, enabling stable operation under high loads. The use of the reducer 282 not only improves the mechanical efficiency of the system but also provides mechanical braking in the event of a power system failure, preventing the cage 200 from falling rapidly.

[0065] The chain drive assembly 283 transmits the output torque of the reducer 282 to the second drive shaft 25, ensuring stable power transmission. The second drive shaft 25 is connected to the reducer 282 via the chain drive assembly 283 and is responsible for transmitting driving force to other components in the lifting mechanism 2. The structural design of the second driven wheel assembly 271 can be the same as or similar to that of the first driven wheel assembly 151.

[0066] Furthermore, the upper and lower ends of the lifting guide rail 21 are equipped with second limit sensors 29 for detecting the position of the lifting slide 22. The second limit sensors 29 can be photoelectric sensors, proximity switches, or mechanical switches, etc., with the appropriate sensor selected based on the application environment and requirements. The second sensors are fixedly installed at the upper and lower ends of the lifting guide rail 21 to detect the movement state and position of the lifting slide 22. The lifting slide 22 slides vertically on the guide rail, and a triggering mechanism is provided on the slide to activate the limit sensors. When the slide reaches a predetermined position, the triggering mechanism contacts or aligns with the second limit sensor 29, triggering the sensor to emit a position feedback signal. The control system can receive the feedback signal and stop further movement of the lifting slide 22, or trigger other related operations.

[0067] Please refer to Figure 8 As shown, one embodiment of this utility model also provides an unmanned vehicle 300, which includes the aforementioned cage loading and unloading device 100. Specifically, the cage loading and unloading device 100 is installed inside the carriage 310 of the unmanned vehicle 300, and the cage 200 can be loaded into the carriage 310 through the cage loading and unloading device 100.

[0068] In one exemplary embodiment, please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, a support mechanism is installed at the rear of the carriage 310. The support mechanism includes a mounting base 321, a third drive shaft 322, a third drive component 323, and a worm gear jack 324. The mounting base 321 is fixedly installed at the rear of the carriage 310. The third drive shaft 322, the third drive component 323, and the worm gear jack 324 are mounted on the mounting base 321. The worm gear jack 324 is connected to the third drive component 323 through the third drive shaft 322 to drive the lifting support rod 325 of the worm gear jack 324 to rise and fall in the vertical direction.

[0069] Mounting base 321 is the base 121 of the support mechanism, fixedly installed at the rear of the carriage 310, providing a stable support point for the entire support mechanism. The design of mounting base 321 must ensure its structural compatibility with the rear of the carriage 310 and sufficient load-bearing capacity. The third drive shaft 322 is made of high-strength metal material, connecting the third drive component 323 and the worm gear jack 324, transmitting the power of the third drive component 323, and driving the lifting movement of the worm gear jack 324.

[0070] The worm gear lift 324 internally includes a worm and a worm wheel. The lifting support rod 325 achieves lifting and lowering through the rotation of the worm and worm wheel. The worm gear lift 324 is connected to the third drive component 323 via the third drive shaft 322 to transmit power, converting the rotational motion of the third drive component 323 into the linear lifting and lowering motion of the lifting support rod 325, providing support for the rear of the vehicle. When the lifting support rod 325 descends to the ground and provides support, it effectively prevents the front of the vehicle from tilting due to lifting the heavy cage 200.

[0071] In summary, the cage loading and unloading device and unmanned vehicle provided by this utility model can realize the vertical movement of cages through the lifting operation of the lifting platform, enabling the cages to cooperate with the translation mechanism to complete horizontal movement without flipping the cages, thereby avoiding safety hazards and damage to the packages during the flipping process; the fork tooth and side baffle structure enable the device to stably carry and transport cages of various shapes and sizes, preventing lateral displacement of the cages during loading and unloading.

[0072] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this invention is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that it can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of this invention. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered illustrative and non-limiting in all respects, and the scope of this invention is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, it is intended that all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims be included within this invention. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0073] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A cage handling device, characterized in that include: A translation mechanism includes a translation guide rail and a translation slide table disposed on the translation guide rail, wherein the translation slide table is capable of sliding back and forth along the translation guide rail; A lifting mechanism is provided on the translation slide. The lifting mechanism includes a lifting guide rail, a lifting slide, forks, and side baffles. The lifting guide rail is fixedly installed on the translation slide in the vertical direction. The lifting slide is slidably installed on the lifting guide rail. The forks are fixedly connected to the lifting slide and extend backward. The side baffles are fixedly connected to both sides of the lifting slide to limit the lateral displacement of the cage supported on the forks.

2. Cage handling apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that The front end of the translation guide rail is pivotally connected to a laterally extending first drive shaft, and a first drive sprocket is provided on the first drive shaft; the rear end of the translation guide rail is provided with a first driven wheel assembly, the first drive sprocket and the first driven wheel assembly are connected by a first drive chain, the first drive shaft is connected to a first drive member, and the first drive chain is connected to the translation slide.

3. Cage handling apparatus according to claim 2, wherein The first driven wheel assembly includes a first driven wheel, a first tensioning column, a first tensioning bolt, and a first fastening nut; The translation guide rail is provided with a first waist-shaped hole that is laterally through it. The first end of the first tensioning column passes through the first waist-shaped hole laterally. The first fastening nut is screwed onto the first end of the first tensioning column to fasten the first tensioning column to the translation guide rail. The first driven wheel is rotatably connected to the second end of the first tensioning column, and the first tensioning bolt is screwed to the first tensioning column in the front-back direction to adjust the position of the first tensioning column in the front-back direction.

4. Cage handling apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that The translation slide includes a base, translation rollers, a mounting bracket, and adjusting bolts. The mounting bracket is fixed to the bottom of the base. The translation rollers are rotatably connected to the mounting bracket and slidably mounted on the translation guide rail. The adjusting bolts are screwed onto the translation rollers and the mounting bracket to adjust the lateral position of the translation rollers.

5. Cage handling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The front and rear ends of the translation guide rail are equipped with first limit sensors for detecting the position of the translation slide.

6. Cage handling apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that The upper end of the lifting guide rail is pivotally connected to a second transmission shaft extending laterally, and the second transmission shaft is provided with a second drive sprocket; the lower end of the lifting guide rail is provided with a second driven wheel assembly, the second drive sprocket and the second driven wheel assembly are connected by a second transmission chain, the second transmission shaft is connected to a second drive component through a chain transmission assembly, and the second transmission chain is connected to the lifting slide.

7. The cage loading and unloading device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second driving component includes a drive motor and a reducer. The output shaft of the driving component is connected to the reducer, and the reducer is connected to the second drive shaft via a chain drive assembly.

8. The cage loading and unloading device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper and lower ends of the lifting guide rail are equipped with second limit sensors for detecting the position of the lifting slide.

9. An unmanned vehicle, characterized in that, It includes a carriage and a cage loading and unloading device as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 installed in the carriage.

10. The unmanned vehicle according to claim 9, characterized in that, A support mechanism is installed at the rear of the carriage. The support mechanism includes a mounting base, a third drive shaft, a third drive component, and a worm gear lift. The mounting base is fixedly installed at the rear of the carriage. The third drive shaft, the third drive component, and the worm gear lift are mounted on the mounting base. The worm gear lift is connected to the third drive component through the third drive shaft to drive the lifting support rod of the worm gear lift to move up and down in the vertical direction.

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