Method for approaching a target position in a logistics facility using an autonomous vehicle

By successively reducing speed and initiating braking at a predetermined distance, the method optimizes time and precision in autonomous vehicle target positioning, addressing the trade-off between speed and safety in logistics facilities.

DE102024136309A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-06-11JUNGHEINRICH AG
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102024136309
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-12-05
Publication Date
2026-06-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing autonomous vehicles in logistics facilities face a tension between optimizing time requirements and ensuring safety during the final approach phase, particularly in densely packed storage areas, where reducing speed early increases overall time and precision is compromised.

Method used

The method involves a successive reduction of vehicle speed from a first to a second speed during the final approach phase, with the safety field deactivated, and initiates a braking process at the second predetermined distance to ensure precise and efficient target positioning.

Benefits of technology

This approach allows for faster and more precise target positioning, minimizing the impact of safety margins on the final stopping position, enabling efficient and safe operation in densely packed environments.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for approaching a target position in a logistics facility by an autonomous vehicle, comprising detecting the environment of the target position by means of at least one detection unit of the vehicle during an approach phase to the target position, wherein during the approach phase at least one safety field or safety volume is monitored by a safety device of the vehicle and the vehicle moves at a first speed (v_0), and upon falling below a predetermined first distance to the target position, deactivating the at least one safety field or safety volume in order to transition to a final approach phase.According to the invention, the method further comprises, during the final approach phase, a successive reduction of the vehicle's speed from the first speed (v_0) to a second speed (v_1), and, upon reaching a second predetermined distance (x_1') to the target position during the final approach phase, initiating a braking process with a predetermined deceleration, which is carried out until the vehicle comes to a standstill. The invention further relates to an autonomous vehicle equipped to perform such a method.
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