A guiding mechanism and a stacker crane containing the same.

Abstract

This utility model relates to the field of warehouse stacker crane technology, and particularly to a guiding mechanism and a stacker crane containing the same. The mechanism includes a base, a guiding component, a power component, and a positioning component. The base is fixed to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The guiding component is mounted on the base. The power component is connected to the guiding component and drives the guiding component to move along a first preset direction. The positioning component is connected to the guiding component and moves along with the guiding component. The guiding component limits and guides the freely swinging casters of the material cart, effectively preventing collisions caused by the casters swinging freely and thus solving the problem of handling goods with freely swinging casters. Without modifying the casters, it achieves multi-dimensional spatial limitation of the freely swinging casters, solving the problem of positioning difficulties and collision risks caused by the lack of a fixed orientation of the casters when the material carts with freely swinging casters enter and exit the loading platform of the stacker crane, which leads to safety accidents.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of warehouse stacker crane technology, and in particular to a guiding mechanism and a stacker crane containing the same. Background Technology

[0002] In the automated storage and retrieval system (AS / RS) industry, goods with free-swinging casters (such as trolleys and toy cars) present numerous problems during stacker crane handling due to the arbitrary orientation and lack of a fixed position of the casters. On the one hand, a large clearance needs to be reserved to avoid interference from the swinging casters, resulting in wasted space. On the other hand, after the goods are lifted, the casters are prone to swinging freely and colliding with the stacker crane or racks, causing equipment damage or even production accidents. Especially in situations requiring compact stacker crane aisle widths, high top-level space, and a high safety factor, existing technologies are insufficient to meet the stable handling requirements of goods with free-swinging casters.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a dedicated guide mechanism that can adapt to the characteristics of free-swinging casters, has a compact structure, and has buffer adjustment capabilities. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a guiding mechanism and a stacker crane containing the same, to solve the problem that existing stacker cranes are prone to collisions and accidents when handling goods with free-swinging casters.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, one technical solution adopted by this utility model is to provide a guide mechanism and a base, wherein the base is used to fix the stacker crane's loading platform;

[0006] A guide assembly, which is disposed on the base, is used to limit and guide the free swinging casters of the material cart;

[0007] A power assembly, which is connected to the guide assembly and drives the guide assembly to move along a first preset direction;

[0008] A positioning component, which is connected to the guide component and moves with the guide component, is used to align the alignment component on the shelf.

[0009] As an embodiment of this utility model, the guiding component includes a guide rail and a guide member. The guide rail is fixedly disposed on the base and forms a guide rail. The guide member is movably connected to the guide rail. The power component drives the guide member to move along the guide rail in the first preset direction. The positioning component is connected to the guide member and moves with the guide member. The guide member is used to limit and guide the free swing casters of the material cart.

[0010] In one embodiment of this utility model, the power assembly includes a drive assembly and a transmission assembly. The drive assembly is fixed to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The transmission assembly is connected to the drive assembly and the guide member respectively. The drive assembly drives the transmission assembly to rotate, and the transmission assembly drives the guide member to move along the first preset direction.

[0011] In one embodiment of this utility model, the transmission assembly includes a transmission belt, a transmission pin, an adapter block, and a connecting block. The transmission belt is connected to the drive assembly, the adapter block is disposed on the transmission belt, the transmission pin connects the adapter block and the connecting block respectively, and the connecting block is connected to the guide member. The drive assembly drives the transmission belt to rotate, so that the adapter block drives the guide member to move along the first preset direction through the transmission pin and the connecting block.

[0012] In one embodiment of this utility model, the drive assembly includes a drive component, a synchronous pulley, and a tensioning seat. The drive component is fixed to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The synchronous pulley is connected to the output shaft of the drive component. The tensioning seat is fixed to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The tensioning seat has a tensioning pulley opposite to the synchronous pulley. The synchronous pulley and the tensioning pulley are respectively sleeved at both ends of the transmission belt. The drive component drives the synchronous pulley to rotate through the output shaft, thereby causing the transmission belt to rotate.

[0013] As an embodiment of this utility model, the positioning component includes a fixing block, a guide block, and a positioning rod. The fixing block and the guide block are correspondingly disposed on the same outer side wall of the guide member, and the guide block has a guide opening. One end of the positioning rod is connected and fixed to the fixing block, and the other end passes through the guide opening. The positioning rod moves with the guide member through the fixing block, and the positioning rod is used to align the alignment member on the shelf.

[0014] As an embodiment of this utility model, the guiding mechanism further includes a lateral shift buffer assembly and an elastic rod. The lateral shift buffer assembly is fixedly disposed on the lower wall surface of the base opposite to the guiding assembly. One end of the elastic rod is connected to the lateral shift buffer assembly, and the other end is used to fix it to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The elastic force direction of the elastic rod is along a second preset direction, wherein the second preset direction is perpendicular to the first preset direction.

[0015] As an embodiment of the present invention, the guiding mechanism further includes a buffer seat and a buffer block. The bottom wall of the guiding member is provided with a buffer opening. The buffer seat is disposed on the bottom wall of the guiding member and protrudes from the buffer opening. The buffer block is disposed on the buffer seat and is located at the buffer opening. The buffer force direction of the buffer block is along the first preset direction.

[0016] As an embodiment of this utility model, the guiding mechanism further includes a detection element and a sensing plate. The detection element is used to be fixed on the loading platform of the stacker crane. The detection element is used to detect the position of the guide element moving along the first preset direction. The sensing plate is disposed on the bottom wall of the guide element. The sensing plate moves with the guide element so that the sensing plate moves to correspond with the detection element and completes the positioning sensing of the guide element.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the guiding mechanism provided in this embodiment of the utility model has the following advantages:

[0018] 1. In the guiding mechanism provided by this utility model, the guiding component is driven by the transmission component to extend synchronously with the fork in the first preset direction. Under the positioning of the positioning component, the guiding component is precisely docked with the alignment part on the shelf. When the trolley in the alignment part is delivered to the guiding component, the guiding component limits and guides the free swing caster of the trolley, effectively preventing the caster from swinging freely and causing collisions and accidents. It solves the problem of handling goods with free swing casters. Without changing the casters, it solves the problems of positioning difficulties, collision risks, safety accidents, and space waste caused by the lack of fixed orientation of the casters when the existing stacker crane handles trolleys with free swing casters.

[0019] 2. In the guiding mechanism provided by this utility model, by setting a lateral shift buffer component and an elastic rod, the lateral shift buffer component is fixedly set on the lower wall surface of the base opposite to the guiding component. One end of the elastic rod is connected to the lateral shift buffer component, and the other end is used to fix it to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The elastic force direction of the elastic rod is perpendicular to the first preset direction. When there is a lateral deviation in the process of the free swing caster entering the guide component, the elastic component can buffer the lateral force and compensate for the deviation, ensuring the limit of the free swing caster and preventing the free swing caster from getting stuck when it enters the guide component laterally.

[0020] 3. In the guiding mechanism provided by this utility model, by opening a buffer opening in the bottom wall of the guide member, and placing a buffer seat on the bottom wall of the guide member and protruding from the buffer opening, and placing a buffer block on the buffer seat and the buffer block located in the buffer opening, the buffer force direction of the buffer block is along the first preset direction, which can limit the guide component, provide buffer force and stop it.

[0021] 4. In the guiding mechanism provided by this utility model, a detection component is set up to be fixed on the loading platform of the stacker crane. The detection component can be used for position verification and calibration of the guiding mechanism and provide real-time feedback to the PLC of the control system to adjust the running posture of the guiding mechanism. The sensing plate is set on the bottom wall of the guiding component and moves with the guiding component. The detection component can also detect the position sensing of the guiding mechanism by detecting the position of the sensing plate. Attached Figure Description

[0022] 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 of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] in:

[0024] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the application scenario structure of the guiding mechanism provided in Embodiment 1 of this utility model. Figure 1 ;

[0025] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the application scenario structure of the guiding mechanism provided in Embodiment 1 of this utility model. Figure 2 ;

[0026] Figure 3 This diagram shows a partial exploded view of the guide mechanism provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0027] Figure 4 An exploded view of the guide mechanism provided in Embodiment 1 of this utility model is shown.

[0028] Figure 5 This diagram shows a partial exploded view of the guide mechanism provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0029] Figure 6 This diagram shows the overall structure of the guide mechanism provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the stacker crane provided in Embodiment 2 of this utility model is shown.

[0031] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0032] 1. Guiding mechanism; 10. Base; 11. Guiding assembly; 111. Guide rail; 112. Guide component; 1121. Left guide side plate; 1122. Right guide side plate; 1123. Guide base plate; 1124. Buffer port; 12. Power assembly; 121. Transmission assembly; 1211. Transmission belt; 1212. Transmission pin; 1213. Adapter block;

[0033] 1214. Connecting block; 122. Drive assembly; 1221. Drive component; 1222. Synchronous pulley; 1223. Tensioner seat; 13. Positioning assembly; 131. Fixing block; 132. Guide block; 133. Positioning rod; 14. Lateral shift buffer assembly; 15. Elastic rod; 16. Buffer seat; 17. Buffer block; 18. Detection component; 19. Sensing plate;

[0034] 2. Stacker crane; 21. Loading platform;

[0035] 3. Material cart; 31. Free swing casters; 32. Alignment parts. Detailed Implementation

[0036] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more complete description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present application. However, the present application can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application will be thorough and complete.

[0037] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0038] It is understood that the singular forms of “a,” “an,” and “the” may also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that terms such as “comprising,” “including,” or “having” specify the presence of the stated feature, whole, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0039] It should be noted that when one element is considered to be "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element present. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only. In this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "middle," "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," and "longitudinal," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for better description of this invention and its embodiments and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the above terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientation or positional relationship; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0040] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "equipped with," "connected," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0041] Example 1

[0042] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an embodiment of this utility model discloses a guide mechanism 1, which is installed in a stacker crane 2. When the stacker crane 2 is transporting a trolley 3 with free swing casters 31, the guide mechanism 1 provided by this utility model can limit and guide the free swing casters 31 of the trolley 3, which can effectively prevent the free swing casters 31 from swinging freely in the direction of the trolley 31, which is prone to collision and cause accidents.

[0043] Please combine Figures 1 to 4As shown, the guiding mechanism 1 includes a base 10, a guiding component 11, a power component 12, and a positioning component 13. The base 10 is fixed on the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2. The guiding component 11 is disposed on the base 10 and is used to limit and guide the free swing casters 31 of the material cart 3. The power component 12 is connected to the guiding component 11 and drives the guiding component 11 to move along a first preset direction. The positioning component 13 is connected to the guiding component 11 and moves with the guiding component 11 to align the alignment component 32 on the shelf.

[0044] Optionally, please refer to Figure 3 As shown, the first preset direction can be F or the opposite direction of F. Specifically, the first preset direction is F when picking up goods, and the first preset direction is the opposite direction of F when placing goods. In this embodiment of the present invention, the first preset direction is F as an example for detailed description.

[0045] Specifically, the trolley 3 with free swing casters 31 is stored on the alignment component 32 inside the shelf. When the stacker crane 2 moves to the corresponding position on the shelf to pick up the goods, the forks extend, and the transmission component 121 and the transmission guide component 11 extend synchronously with the forks along the first preset direction. Under the positioning of the positioning component 13, the guide component 11 is precisely aligned with the alignment component 32 on the shelf. When the trolley 3 in the alignment component 32 is delivered to the guide component 11, the guide component 11 limits and guides the free swing casters 31 of the trolley 3. It can be understood that the guide mechanism 1 of this utility model can limit the free swing casters 31 in multiple dimensions of space without changing the free swing casters 31. This solves the problems of positioning difficulties, collision risks, safety accidents, and space waste caused by the lack of a fixed orientation of the free swing casters 31 when the trolley 3 moves into and out of the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2.

[0046] Specifically, the base 10 adopts a rigid metal structure, which may be, but is not limited to, welded steel plate components. It is fixed to the frame of the stacker crane 2's loading platform 21 by bolts or other connecting components. The guide component 11 is installed on the base 10. The limiting structure of the guide component 11 restricts the swing range of the free swing casters 31 of the material cart 3. The power component 12 is mechanically connected to the guide component 11 and drives the guide component 11 to move along a first preset direction. The first preset direction is consistent with the extension and retraction direction of the stacker crane 2's forks, so that the guide component 11 extends or retracts synchronously with the forks. The positioning component 13 is fixed on the guide component 11 and moves synchronously with the guide component 11. It is used to accurately align with the alignment component 32 on the shelf when the guide component 11 extends, ensuring that the guide path is aligned with the shelf's picking and placing position, thus solving the positioning confusion and swing interference problems of the material cart 3 with free swing casters 31 when entering and leaving the loading platform 21.

[0047] Furthermore, please combine Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the guide assembly 11 includes a guide rail 111 and a guide member 112. The guide rail 111 is fixedly mounted on the base 10 and forms a guide rail. The guide member 112 is movably connected to the guide rail 111. The power assembly 12 drives the guide member 112 to move along the guide rail 111 in the first preset direction. The positioning assembly 13 is connected to the guide member 112 and moves with the guide member 112. The guide member 112 is used to limit and guide the free swing casters 31 of the material cart 3.

[0048] Specifically, the guide member 112 includes a left guide side plate 1121, a right guide side plate 1122, and a guide bottom plate 1123. The left guide bottom plate 1123 and the right guide bottom plate 1123 are respectively connected to the left and right sides of the guide bottom plate 1123 to form a groove. The groove is used to limit and guide the free swing caster 31 of the material cart 3.

[0049] Specifically, the guide rail component 111 includes a guide rail and a slider, which are fixed to the base 10 by bolts to form a linear guide rail along a first preset direction, providing a moving track for the guide component 112. The physical limiting structure of the left guide side plate 1121 and the right guide side plate 1122 restricts the swing range of the free swing caster 31 of the material cart 3. The guide component 112 is composed of two guide side plates and a guide bottom plate 1123. The bottom of the guide bottom plate 1123 is slidably connected to the guide rail component 111 and can move back and forth along the guide rail. The two guide side plates are vertically fixed on both sides of the guide bottom plate 1123 to form a "U-shaped" groove limiting space, which directly contacts the free swing caster 31 of the material cart 3, restricting the lateral and longitudinal swing of the free swing caster 31. The guide rail component 111 has high moving accuracy and low frictional resistance, ensuring that the guide component 112 extends and retracts smoothly without jamming. The guide component 112 is made of SUS304 material, which has the characteristics of wear resistance, corrosion resistance and smooth surface, reducing frictional wear with the free swing caster 31.

[0050] Furthermore, the guiding mechanism 1 also includes a detection element 18 and a sensing plate 19. The detection element 18 is fixed on the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2 and is used to detect the position of the guide 112 moving along the first preset direction. The sensing plate 19 is disposed on the bottom wall of the guide 112 and moves with the guide 112 so that the sensing plate 19 moves to correspond with the detection element 18 and completes the positioning sensing of the guide 112.

[0051] Specifically, the detection component 18 is fixed on the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2, corresponding to the movement path of the guide component 112. The sensing plate 19 is fixed on the bottom wall of the guide base plate 1123 of the guide component 112 and moves synchronously with the guide component 112. When the guide component 112 moves, the sensing plate 19 moves with it. When the sensing plate 19 reaches the sensing range of the detection component 18, the detection component 18 sends a signal, which is fed back to the control system PLC to confirm that the guide component 112 is in place. By detecting the extension and retraction position of the guide component 112 in real time, the control system is provided with a positioning signal to ensure that the guide component 112 moves according to the preset stroke. This facilitates dynamic adjustment of the deceleration or stopping of the guide component 112, thereby improving the automation level and operational safety of the guiding mechanism 1.

[0052] Furthermore, participation Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the power assembly 12 includes a drive assembly 122 and a transmission assembly 121. The drive assembly 122 is fixed on the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2. The transmission assembly 121 is connected to the drive assembly 122 and the guide member 112 respectively. The drive assembly 122 drives the transmission assembly 121 to rotate, and the transmission assembly 121 drives the guide member 112 to move along the first preset direction.

[0053] Specifically, the drive assembly 122 is fixed on the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2 and is relatively independent from the base 10, providing power output. The transmission assembly 121 mechanically connects the drive assembly 122 and the guide member 112, converting the rotational motion of the drive assembly 122 into the linear motion of the guide member 112. The transmission assembly 121 can buffer the instantaneous impact force of the drive assembly 122, protect the guide member 112 and the free swing caster 31, reduce mechanical wear, facilitate later maintenance, and reduce maintenance costs.

[0054] Furthermore, please combine Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the transmission assembly 121 includes a transmission belt 1211, a transmission pin 1212, an adapter block 1213, and a connecting block 1214. The transmission belt 1211 is connected to the drive assembly 122. The adapter block 1213 is disposed on the transmission belt 1211. The transmission pin 1212 connects the adapter block 1213 and the connecting block 1214 respectively. The connecting block 1214 is connected to the guide member 112. The drive assembly 122 drives the transmission belt 1211 to rotate, so that the adapter block 1213 drives the guide member 112 to move along the first preset direction through the transmission pin 1212 and the connecting block 1214.

[0055] Specifically, the transmission belt 1211 is a synchronous belt, the adapter block 1213 is fixed on the transmission belt 1211 and moves synchronously with the transmission belt 1211, one end of the transmission pin 1212 is inserted into the pin hole of the adapter block 1213, and the other end is inserted into the pin hole of the connecting block 1214 and is axially fixed by the set screw, one end of the connecting block 1214 is connected to the transmission pin 1212, and the other end is fixed to the guide base plate 1123 of the guide member 112.

[0056] It can be understood that the drive assembly 122 drives the transmission belt 1211 to rotate, and moves with the transmission belt 1211 through the adapter block 1213. Then, the transmission pin 1212 drives the guide member 112 to move along the first preset direction through the connecting block 1214.

[0057] Furthermore, the drive assembly 122 includes a drive member 1221, a synchronous pulley 1222, and a tensioning seat 1223. The drive member 1221 is fixed to the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2. The synchronous pulley 1222 is connected to the output shaft of the drive member 1221. The tensioning seat 1223 is fixed to the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2. The tensioning seat 1223 is provided with a tensioning pulley opposite to the synchronous pulley 1222. The synchronous pulley 1222 and the tensioning pulley are respectively sleeved at both ends of the transmission belt 1211. The drive member 1221 drives the synchronous pulley 1222 to rotate through the output shaft, so that the transmission belt 1211 rotates.

[0058] Specifically, the drive component 1221 is a servo motor and electrical control system, fixed on the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2. The output end is connected to the synchronous pulley 1222, which is connected to the output shaft of the drive component 1221 and rotates synchronously with the output shaft, driving the transmission belt 1211 to move. The tensioning seat 1223 is fixed on the loading platform 21 and is arranged opposite to the synchronous pulley 1222. A tensioning pulley is installed on it, which is parallel to the synchronous pulley 1222. The transmission belt 1211 is sleeved between the synchronous pulley 1222 and the tensioning pulley. The drive component 122 also includes an adjusting component, which is located on the tensioning seat 1223. The adjusting component can flexibly adjust the tension of the transmission belt 1211 to ensure the tension of the transmission belt 1211, avoid power loss due to the slack of the transmission belt 1211, ensure power transmission efficiency, and prevent the transmission belt 1211 from slipping.

[0059] Furthermore, the positioning component 13 includes a fixing block 131, a guide block 132, and a positioning rod 133. The fixing block 131 and the guide block 132 are correspondingly disposed on the same outer side wall of the guide member 112, and the guide block 132 has a guide opening. One end of the positioning rod 133 is connected and fixed to the fixing block 131, and the other end passes through the guide opening. The positioning rod 133 moves with the guide member 112 through the fixing block 131. The positioning rod 133 is used to align the alignment member 32 on the shelf.

[0060] Specifically, the fixing block 131 is fixed to the guide member 112 by bolts, specifically the outer wall of the guide member 112, for fixing the positioning rod 133. The guide block 132 is made of POM material and is set on the outer wall of the guide member 112 corresponding to the fixing block 131, with a corresponding guide opening. One end of the positioning rod 133 is welded or bolted to the fixing block 131, and the other end passes through the guide opening of the guide block 132 to form a cantilever structure. When the guide member 112 moves, the positioning rod 133 extends synchronously with the guide member 112 and aligns with the guide hole of the alignment member 32 on the shelf, so as to achieve precise alignment between the guide mechanism 1 and the shelf, and ensure that the free swing caster 31 of the material cart 3 can enter the loading platform 21 from the shelf along the preset path.

[0061] Furthermore, please combine Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the guide mechanism 1 further includes a lateral shift buffer assembly 14 and an elastic rod 15. The lateral shift buffer assembly 14 is fixedly disposed on the lower wall surface of the base 10 opposite to the guide assembly 11. One end of the elastic rod 15 is connected to the lateral shift buffer assembly 14, and the other end is used to fix it to the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2. The elastic force direction of the elastic rod 15 is along a second preset direction, wherein the second preset direction is perpendicular to the first preset direction.

[0062] Specifically, the lateral shift buffer assembly 14 is fixed to the lower wall of the base 10, which is the opposite side to the guide assembly 11. The elastic rod 15 is a compression spring, with one end connected to the lateral shift buffer assembly 14 and the other end fixed to the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2. The elastic force of the elastic rod 15 is along the second preset direction, which is perpendicular to the first preset direction, i.e., the fork extension direction. That is, the second preset direction is lateral. When there is a lateral deviation in the docking of the guide assembly 11, the lateral shift buffer assembly 14 can compensate for the deviation by allowing the guide assembly 11 to move slightly laterally through the compression of the elastic rod 15. After the free swing caster 31 is completely inserted and the deviation is eliminated, the elastic force of the elastic rod 15 allows the guide assembly 11 to return to center. The buffer guide assembly 11 achieves automatic centering of the mechanism through the elastic force, eliminating the lateral position deviation.

[0063] Furthermore, please combine Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the guide mechanism 1 further includes a buffer seat 16 and a buffer block 17. The bottom wall of the guide member 112 has a buffer opening 1124. The buffer seat 16 is disposed on the bottom wall of the guide member 112 and protrudes from the buffer opening 1124. The buffer block 17 is disposed on the buffer seat 16 and is located in the buffer opening 1124. The buffering force direction of the buffer block 17 is along the first preset direction.

[0064] Specifically, the buffer opening 1124 is opened on the bottom wall of the guide member 112, the buffer seat 16 is a metal plate, fixed to the bottom wall of the guide member 112 and protruding from the buffer opening 1124, and the buffer block 17 is made of high elastic polyurethane material, fixed on the buffer seat 16 and located inside the buffer opening 1124. When the guide member 112 moves to the limit position along the first preset direction, such as when the forks are fully extended or retracted, the buffer block 17 abuts against the wall of the buffer opening 1124 inside the buffer opening 1124, and the polyurethane material undergoes elastic deformation, absorbing the impact energy and limiting the excessive movement of the guide member 112, thus limiting the extension and retraction movement of the guide member 112 and buffering the impact force when it extends and retracts to the limit position, preventing the guide member 112 from rigidly colliding with other structures.

[0065] For ease of understanding, this utility model provides a detailed description of the picking and placing process of the guide mechanism 1. Specifically, please refer to... Figures 1 to 6As shown, the picking process involves moving a trolley 3 with free-swinging casters 31 from the shelf into the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2. Specifically, the stacker crane 2 moves to the corresponding position on the target shelf. At this time, the guide mechanism 1 is fixed to the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2 via the base 10, preparing to move synchronously with the forks. The servo motor and electrical control system are started. The output shaft of the servo motor drives the synchronous wheel 1222 to rotate. The rotation of the synchronous wheel 1222 drives the transmission belt 1211, which in turn drives the transfer block 1213 fixed thereon to move. The transfer block 1213 drives the connecting block via the transmission pin 1212. 1214, the connecting block 1214 is rigidly connected to the guide member 112 of the guide assembly 11, thereby driving the guide member 112 to extend along the guide rail of the guide rail member 111, i.e., in the same direction as the extension and retraction of the forks. The "U-shaped" groove formed by the guide member 112 gradually approaches the shelf as the guide member 112 extends. During the extension of the guide member 112, the positioning assembly 13 fixed to the outer wall of the guide member 112 moves synchronously. One end of the positioning rod 133 is fixed to the guide base plate 1123 by the fixing block 131, and the other end passes through the guide opening of the guide block 132, extending with the guide member 112 and inserting into the shelf for alignment. Within the guide hole of component 32, it aligns with the alignment component 32 on the shelf. The free-swinging caster 31 is physically limited within the "U-shaped" groove by the left guide side plate 1121 and the right guide side plate 1122. If there is a lateral deviation during lateral entry, the lateral shift buffer assembly 14 allows the guide component 112 to move slightly laterally. The elastic rod 15 is compressed to buffer the lateral force and compensate for the deviation. After the free-swinging caster 31 of the trolley 3 is fully inserted into the "U-shaped" groove of the guide component 112, the forks begin to retract towards the loading platform 21. The drive assembly 122 reverses the drive of the synchronous pulley 1222, and the transmission belt 1211 drives... The guide member 112 retracts along the guide rail 111. The left guide side plate 1121 and the right guide side plate 1122 continuously restrict the swing of the free-swinging caster 31, ensuring that the free-swinging caster 31 remains in a fixed position during the retraction process. The detection member 18 detects the position of the sensing plate 19 on the bottom wall of the guide member 112 in real time. When the sensing plate 19 moves into the sensing range of the detection member 18, the detection member 18 sends a retraction signal to the control system PLC. After receiving the signal from the detection member 18, the control system confirms that the trolley 3 is stably placed on the loading platform 21, the drive assembly 122 stops working, and the picking process is completed. The unloading process is the process of the trolley 3 being sent from the loading platform 21 of the stacker crane 2 to the shelf. Since the unloading process is the reverse of the picking process, it will not be described in detail here.

[0066] Example 2

[0067] The second embodiment of this utility model discloses a stacker crane 2. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 7 As shown, the stacker crane 2 includes the guide mechanism 1 in Embodiment 1. The stacker crane 2 provided in the second embodiment of this utility model has the same function as the guide mechanism 1 provided in Embodiment 1, and will not be described again here.

[0068] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0069] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the utility model patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A guide mechanism, characterized by: The guiding mechanism includes A base for fixing to the loading platform of the stacker crane; A guide assembly, which is disposed on the base, is used to limit and guide the free swinging casters of the material cart; A power assembly, which is connected to the guide assembly and drives the guide assembly to move along a first preset direction; A positioning component, which is connected to the guide component and moves with the guide component, is used to align the alignment component on the shelf.

2. The guide mechanism of claim 1, wherein: The guiding component includes a guide rail and a guide member. The guide rail is fixedly mounted on the base and forms a guide rail. The guide member is movably connected to the guide rail. The power component drives the guide member to move along the guide rail in the first preset direction. The positioning component is connected to the guide member and moves with the guide member. The guide member is used to limit and guide the free swinging casters of the material cart.

3. A guide mechanism according to claim 2, wherein: The power assembly includes a drive assembly and a transmission assembly. The drive assembly is fixed to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The transmission assembly is connected to the drive assembly and the guide member respectively. The drive assembly drives the transmission assembly to rotate, and the transmission assembly drives the guide member to move along the first preset direction.

4. A guide mechanism according to claim 3, wherein: The transmission assembly includes a transmission belt, a transmission pin, an adapter block, and a connecting block. The transmission belt is connected to the drive assembly. The adapter block is disposed on the transmission belt. The transmission pin connects the adapter block and the connecting block respectively. The connecting block is connected to the guide member. The drive assembly drives the transmission belt to rotate, so that the adapter block drives the guide member to move along the first preset direction through the transmission pin and the connecting block.

5. A guide mechanism according to claim 4, wherein: The drive assembly includes a drive component, a synchronous pulley, and a tensioning seat. The drive component is fixed to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The synchronous pulley is connected to the output shaft of the drive component. The tensioning seat is fixed to the loading platform of the stacker crane and has a tensioning pulley opposite to the synchronous pulley. The synchronous pulley and the tensioning pulley are respectively sleeved at both ends of the transmission belt. The drive component drives the synchronous pulley to rotate through the output shaft, thereby causing the transmission belt to rotate.

6. The guide mechanism of claim 2, wherein: The positioning component includes a fixing block, a guide block, and a positioning rod. The fixing block and the guide block are correspondingly disposed on the same outer side wall of the guide member, and the guide block has a guide opening. One end of the positioning rod is connected and fixed to the fixing block, and the other end passes through the guide opening. The positioning rod moves with the guide member through the fixing block. The positioning rod is used to align the alignment member on the shelf.

7. The guide mechanism of claim 1, wherein: The guiding mechanism further includes a lateral shift buffer assembly and an elastic rod. The lateral shift buffer assembly is fixedly disposed on the lower wall surface of the base opposite to the guiding assembly. One end of the elastic rod is connected to the lateral shift buffer assembly, and the other end is used to fix it to the loading platform of the stacker crane. The elastic force direction of the elastic rod is along a second preset direction, wherein the second preset direction is perpendicular to the first preset direction.

8. The guide mechanism of claim 2, wherein: The guiding mechanism further includes a buffer seat and a buffer block. The bottom wall of the guide member has a buffer opening. The buffer seat is located on the bottom wall of the guide member and protrudes from the buffer opening. The buffer block is located on the buffer seat and is located at the buffer opening. The buffer force of the buffer block is along the first preset direction.

9. The guide mechanism of claim 2, wherein: The guiding mechanism further includes a detection element and a sensing plate. The detection element is fixed to the loading platform of the stacker crane and is used to detect the position of the guide element moving along the first preset direction. The sensing plate is disposed on the bottom wall of the guide element and moves with the guide element so that the sensing plate moves to correspond with the detection element and completes the positioning sensing of the guide element.

10. A stacker characterized by: The stacker crane includes a guiding mechanism, which is the guiding mechanism described in any one of claims 1-9.

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