Handling vehicle

Abstract

A handling vehicle, comprising a first frame (10) and a second frame (20) which are split. The first frame (10) comprises a first axle extending in a first direction (X), and a second frame (20) comprises a second axle extending in the first direction (X); in a second direction (Y) perpendicular to the first direction (X), one end of the second frame (20) is provided with forks (22), and the other end of the second frame (20) is slidably connected to one end of the first frame (10) in the second direction (Y), so that the distance between the first axle and the second axle is adjustable. The handling vehicle can be suitable for handling boxes of different weights, meets different handling requirements, has a simple structure, and is convenient to use.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of handling equipment, and in particular, to a handling vehicle with a variable wheelbase.BACKGROUND

[0002] Handling vehicles, such as forklifts, are typically used for transporting goods.

[0003] A forklift is provided with liftable forks at its front end for engaging a pallet. Goods such as containers are placed on the pallet. After engaging the pallet, the forks are raised to a certain height to lift the pallet off the ground. Then the forklift moves to carry the pallet and goods on it to another place.

[0004] However, a load capacity of a forklift is generally fixed.SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments of the present application provide a handling vehicle, comprising: a first frame, comprising a first axle, wherein the first axle extends along a first direction, and first wheels are mounted at both ends of the first axle in the first direction; a second frame, comprising a second axle, wherein the second axle extends along the first direction, and second wheels are mounted at both ends of the second axle in the first direction; wherein a first end of the second frame along a second direction is equipped with forks, the forks extends along the second direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction; an end of the first frame along the second direction is slidably connected to a second end of the second frame along the second direction, so that a distance between the first axle and the second axle along the second direction is adjustable.

[0006] In one embodiment, the end of the first frame and the second end of the second frame are slidably connected via a slide rail mechanism extending along the second direction.

[0007] In one embodiment, the slide rail mechanism comprises two first slide rails and two second slide rails installed in an interlocking manner; wherein the two first slide rails extend from the first frame along the second direction toward the second frame, and the two second slide rails extend from the second frame along the second direction toward the first frame.

[0008] In one embodiment, the two first slide rails are provided on both sides of the first frame in the second direction, and the two second slide rails are provided on both sides of the second frame in the second direction; in one embodiment, each of the two first slide rails is provided with at least one first roller on a side facing the second slide rails, and each of the two second slide rails is provided with at least one second roller on a side facing the first slide rails; rotation axes of the at least one first roller and the at least one second roller are arranged along the first direction.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first frame is fixedly provided with a variable pitch drive mechanism, the second frame is fixedly provided with a driven component, and the variable pitch drive mechanism is configured to drive the driven component to move along the second direction, so that the second frame slides relative to the first frame along the second direction.

[0010] In one embodiment, the variable pitch drive mechanism comprises a hydraulic cylinder, the driven component comprises a piston rod extending along the second direction, one end of the piston rod is fixedly installed on the second frame, and other end of the piston rod is inserted into the hydraulic cylinder.

[0011] In one embodiment, the variable pitch drive mechanism comprises a ball screw extending along the second direction, the driven component comprises a screw nut mounted on the ball screw, and the screw nut is fixedly installed on the second frame.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second frame comprises a lifting mast arranged in a vertical direction, and the lifting mast is configured to vertically raise and lower the fork.

[0013] In one embodiment, the handling vehicle further comprises a distance measuring mechanism configured to measure a distance between the first axle and the second axle.

[0014] In one embodiment, the handling vehicle further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the first frame and the second frame in the second direction.

[0015] The embodiments of the present application provide a handling vehicle, such as a forklift. The handling vehicle comprises separated first and a second frame. The first frame includes a first axle arranged along a first direction, and the second frame includes a second axle arranged along the first direction. A first end of the second frame along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction is equipped with forks for handling pallets carrying containers, and a second end of the second frame is slidably connected to one end of the first frame along the second direction, thereby making the distance between the first axle and the second axle adjustable. This enables a wide-range adjustment of the load capacity of the handling vehicle.

[0016] In other words, the handling vehicle according to the embodiments uses two separate frames, each including one axle, and these two separate frames are slidably connected in a direction perpendicular to the axles. This slidable connection allows the distance between the two axles to be adjusted in a wide range, thereby enabling a wide-range adjustment of the load capacity of the handling vehicle. This solves the technical problem in the prior art where forklifts are inconvenient to use due to their fixed and non-widely-adjustable load capacity. The structure is simple, and the variable wheelbase greatly improves the forklift's versatility in adapting to containers of different load capacities, thereby meeting various handling scenarios.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] To more clearly illustrate technical solutions of embodiments of the present application, drawings used for describing the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description show only some embodiments of the present application. Those of ordinary skill in the art may obtain other drawings based on these without exerting creative efforts. Fig. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a forklift. Fig. 2 is a schematic structural diagram of a handling vehicle according to some embodiments of the present application. Fig. 3 is an exploded structural diagram of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a schematic structural diagram of a handling vehicle according to some other embodiments of the present application. Fig. 5 is another exploded structural diagram of the handling vehicle according to embodiments of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0018] To better understand the aforementioned technical solutions, the exemplary embodiments of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments are merely a part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of them. It should be understood that the present application is not limited by the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0019] In handling vehicles of related art, such as forklifts, a lifting mast is provided at a front end of a vehicle frame. Forks are vertically liftably mounted on the lifting mast, and the lifting mast drives the forks to lift goods. Then, drive wheels of the vehicle frame propel the vehicle to move, thereby achieving transport operations for goods.

[0020] However, since a wheelbase between front and rear axles of the vehicle frame is fixed, a load capacity of the forklift, or a maximum weight of goods it can lift, is also fixed and cannot be adjusted in a wide range, leading to inconvenience in use.

[0021] The reason for this is as follows. Referring to Fig. 1, by simplifying the vehicle frame into a mechanical model, G1 * L1 = G * L2 is derived, where G1 is the vehicle's own weight, G is a weight of goods, L1 is the wheelbase between the front and rear axles, and L2 is a horizontal distance from a center of gravity of the goods to the front axle. From this, G = G1 * L1 / L2 can be obtained. It can be seen that since G1, L1, and L2 are all of fixed values, G (i.e., the load capacity of the forklift) is also a fixed value. This results in a forklift of a specific structural size being only suitable for transporting goods within a certain weight range. When the weight of the goods exceeds the forklift's load capacity, the forklift becomes unsuitable, and a larger forklift is to be used. This causes inconvenience in handling goods of varying weights.

[0022] In terms of the above, embodiments of the present application provide a handling vehicle, such as a forklift. The handling vehicle is provided with two frames that are separate and are slidably connected in a direction perpendicular to axles. This allows a distance between two axles respectively mounted on the two frames to be adjusted in a relatively wide range. Referring to the above formula, it can be seen that adjusting the distance between the two axles enables a wide-range adjustment of the forklift's load capacity. Consequently, it can accommodate transportation of goods of different weights, meeting diverse handling requirements with a simple structure and convenient operation.

[0023] Fig. 2 is a schematic structural diagram of the handling vehicle according to the present application. Referring to Fig. 2, the handling vehicle includes a first frame 10 and a second frame 20 arranged separately. The first frame 10 includes a first axle extending in a first direction X, with first wheels 11 mounted at both ends of the first axle. The second frame 20 includes a second axle extending in the first direction X, with second wheels 21 mounted at both ends of the second axle. A first end of the second frame 20 along a second direction Y is provided with forks 22 extending in the second direction Y, where the second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X. In the second direction Y, one end of the first frame 10 is slidably connected to a second end of the second frame 20 along the second direction Y, allowing the distance between the first axle and the second axle to be adjustable.

[0024] In this embodiment, it is to clarify that the first direction X is an extending direction of the axles, i.e., a width direction of the handling vehicle, and the second direction Y is the fore-aft direction of the handling vehicle.

[0025] The first frame and the second frame are arranged separately.

[0026] The first frame is provided with the first axle, and the first wheels are mounted at both ends of the first axle. The second frame is provided with the second axle, and the second wheels are mounted at both ends of the second axle.

[0027] The first frame may be, for example, a main frame, and the second frame may be, for example, an auxiliary frame. One end of the second frame along the second direction (i.e., the direction perpendicular to the axles) is equipped with forks. It can be understood that these forks can be vertically raised and lowered relative to the second frame and are configured to lift pallets carrying containers and the like. Other end of the second frame along the second direction is slidably connected to one end of the first frame in the second direction, and the direction of slidable connection extends along the second direction. Thus, by sliding the two frames along the fore-aft direction of the handling vehicle, the distance between the two axles respectively provided on the two frames can be adjusted.

[0028] Referring to the discussion on the simplified mechanical model of the vehicle frame above, it is because the distance between the two axles is adjustable, i.e., L1 in the above formula is adjustable, that the load capacity G of the handling vehicle becomes adjustable.

[0029] At the same time, it can be understood that the slidable connection between the two frames in this embodiment allows for stepless and wide-range adjustment of the distance between the two axles. This enables the load capacity of the handling vehicle to be adjusted over a relatively large range, thereby meeting the handling requirements for goods of different weights. In other words, by adjusting the distance between the two axles, the handling vehicle can be adapted to three configurations, namely large, medium and small vehicle models, significantly enhancing its versatility and reducing usage costs.

[0030] The embodiments of the present application provide a handling vehicle, such as a forklift. The handling vehicle includes first frame and second frame that are separate. The first frame includes a first axle arranged along a first direction, and the second frame includes a second axle arranged along the first direction. In a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, one end of the second frame is equipped with forks for handling pallets carrying containers, etc. Other end of the second frame is slidably connected to one end of the first frame along the second direction, allowing the distance between the two axles on the first and second frames to be adjusted. This enables a wide-range adjustment of the handling vehicle's load capacity.

[0031] In other words, in the handling vehicle according to this embodiment, with two frames each including one axle arranged separately and slidably connected in a direction perpendicular to the axles, the distance between the two axles can be adjusted in a relatively wide range through the slidable connection between the two vehicle frames, thereby enabling a wide-range adjustment of the handling vehicle's load capacity. This solves the technical problem in the related art where forklifts are inconvenient to use due to their fixed and non-widely-adjustable load capacity. The structure is simple, and the variable wheelbase greatly improves the forklift's versatility in adapting to goods of different weights, meeting various handling scenarios.

[0032] Regarding the slidable connection between the two frames mentioned above, in one embodiment, one end of the first frame 10 and the second end of the second frame 20 are slidably connected via a slide rail mechanism 30 extending in the second direction Y.

[0033] Referring to Figs. 2 and 3, in one embodiment, the slide rail mechanism 30 includes two first slide rails 31 and two second slide rails 32 connected in an interlocking / mating manner. The first slide rail 31 extends from the end of the first frame 10 along the second direction Y, and the second slide rail 32 extends from the end of the second frame 20 along the second direction Y.

[0034] That is, the slide rail mechanism may take the form of an interlocking type extending in the second direction. i.e., the first slide rail fixed to the first frame and the second slide rail fixed to the second frame can achieve a slidable connection along the second direction through an interlocking manner.

[0035] It can be understood that this way of achieving a slidable connection through the interlocking of two slide rails can provide effective support at the connection parts.

[0036] The first slide rails 31 are provided on both sides of the first frame 10 in the second direction Y, and the second slide rails 32 are provided on both sides of the second frame 20 in the second direction Y. Furthermore, at least one first roller 33 is installed on the side of the first slide rail 31 facing the second slide rail 32, and at least one second roller 34 is installed on the side of the second slide rail 32 facing the first slide rail 31. Rotation axes of the first rollers 33 and the second rollers 34 are arranged in the first direction X.

[0037] That is, on one hand, a first slide rail can be respectively provided on the left and right sides of the first frame, while a second slide rail can be respectively provided on the left and right sides of the second frame. This can effectively reduce the weight of the frames. On the other hand, considering the friction between the two slide rails, rollers can be installed on them, effectively reducing friction by changing from sliding friction to rolling friction.

[0038] In another embodiment, as shown in Fig. 4, the aforementioned slide rail mechanism may also be implemented using a linear guide rail. For example, one end of the first frame is provided with a linear guide rail 51 extending in the second direction, and the second frame is fixedly connected with a guide rail slider 52. Alternatively, one end of the second frame is provided with a linear guide rail 51 extending in the second direction, and the first frame is fixedly connected with a guide rail slider 52. The guide rail slider is slidably mounted on the linear guide rail, thereby achieving a slidable connection between the two frames.

[0039] Regarding a driving unit for the slidable connection between the two frames mentioned above, in one embodiment, a variable pitch drive mechanism is fixedly installed on the first frame 10, and a driven component is fixedly installed on the second frame 20. The variable pitch drive mechanism is configured to drive the driven component to move along the second direction Y, causing the second frame 20 to slide relative to the first frame 10 along the second direction Y.

[0040] In this embodiment, the first frame may be the main frame, and the first wheels may be driving wheels. In this case, the second wheels may be driven wheels. The variable pitch drive mechanism can be fixedly installed on the first frame, and the driven component is fixedly installed on the second frame. The variable pitch drive mechanism adjusts the distance between the two axles, or achieves relative sliding between the two frames, by driving the driven component to move along the second direction.

[0041] Continuing to refer to Figs. 2 and 3, in one embodiment, the variable pitch drive mechanism includes a hydraulic cylinder 41, and the driven component includes a piston rod 42 extending in the second direction Y. One end of the piston rod 42 is fixedly installed on the second frame 20, and the other end of the piston rod 42 is inserted into the hydraulic cylinder 41.

[0042] That is, the relative sliding between the two frames can be driven by the hydraulic cylinder.

[0043] Moreover, considering that both the left and right sides of the first frame are provided with a first slide rail, two hydraulic cylinders can be provided. One hydraulic cylinder corresponds to one first slide rail and can be installed on the inner side of the first slide rail.

[0044] After the cylinder stops moving, the cylinder itself can restrict the relative movement of the first frame and the second frame.

[0045] In another embodiment, as shown in Fig. 5, the variable pitch drive mechanism includes a ball screw 43 extending in the second direction, and the driven component includes a screw nut 44 mounted on the ball screw. The screw nut is fixedly installed on the second frame.

[0046] That is, the relative sliding between the two frames can be driven by a ball screw.

[0047] After a motor corresponding to the ball screw stops rotating, the screw itself can restrict the relative movement of the first frame and the second frame.

[0048] In yet another embodiment, the variable pitch drive mechanism includes an electric cylinder, and the driven component includes a rod extending in the second direction Y. One end of the rod is fixedly installed on the second frame 20, and the other end is inserted into the electric cylinder.

[0049] In one embodiment, the second frame includes a lifting mast 23 arranged in the vertical direction, and the lifting mast 23 is configured to vertically raise and lower the forks 22.

[0050] In one embodiment, the handling vehicle further includes a distance measuring mechanism 60 configured to measure the distance between the first axle and the second axle. The distance measuring mechanism may be, for example, a photoelectric distance sensor. The photoelectric distance sensor includes a signal transmitter 61 fixed to the first axle and a signal reflector 62 fixed to the second axle. The signal transmitter achieves distance measurement by emitting a signal toward the signal reflector and receiving the reflected signal. Of course, the distance measuring mechanism may also be other types of distance sensors based on different principles, which are not limited in this embodiment.

[0051] It can be understood that by measuring the distance between the two axles with the distance measuring mechanism, it can be determined whether the pitch adjustment of the handling vehicle is properly achieved during the adjustment process.

[0052] In one embodiment, the handling vehicle further includes a locking mechanism configured to lock the first frame and the second frame in the second direction. That is, by locking the two frames in the second direction using the locking mechanism, protection is provided for the driving unit of the slidable connection (i.e., the variable pitch drive mechanism), preventing damage caused by accidental relative retraction of the two frames to the variable-distance drive mechanism.

[0053] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes, for example, a locking latch. The locking latch can be provided on one of the frames, and several locking protrusions or several locking grooves are arranged at equal intervals along the second direction on the other frame. Thus, the two frames are locked in the second direction by engaging the locking latch with a locking protrusion or locking groove.

[0054] In one embodiment, the first frame is provided with a through hole, and the second frame is provided with several through holes. The locking mechanism includes a bolt. After positions of the first frame and the second frame are adjusted in place, the bolt can be screwed into the through holes in the first and second frames to lock the two frames in the second direction.

[0055] A minimum distance between the first axle and the second axle is L0, from which an initial load capacity G0 of the handling vehicle can be calculated. A maximum distance between the first axle and the second axle is Lm, from which a maximum load capacity Gm of the handling vehicle can be calculated. In one embodiment, corresponding to the several locking protrusions or locking grooves arranged at equal intervals along the second direction on the frame, the wheelbase corresponding to each locking position is fixed, meaning there are multiple wheelbase levels, and consequently, the corresponding load capacity is also fixed. When a weight of the goods to be transported is less than G0, the wheelbase may not be adjusted, i.e., the first and second frames need not be moved relative to each other. When the weight of the goods to be transported is greater than G0 and less than Gm, an appropriate level for the wheelbase can be selected by relatively moving the first frame and the second frame so that the handling vehicle can be used.

[0056] By comparing the wheelbase measured by the distance measuring mechanism with the wheelbase level, it can be determined whether the wheelbase is adjusted in place. A prompt indicating that the adjustment is in place or not in place can be played in the form of sound through a loudspeaker, or displayed on the vehicle's display screen or a screen of an operator's terminal.

[0057] The basic principles of the present application have been described above in connection with specific embodiments. However, it should be noted that the advantages, benefits, effects, etc., mentioned in the present application are merely illustrative and not limiting; they cannot be considered as necessarily possessed by all embodiments of the present application. Furthermore, the specific details disclosed above are for the purpose of illustration and ease of understanding only, and are not limiting. These details do not restrict the present application to being implemented using the aforementioned specific details.

[0058] The block diagrams of devices, apparatuses, equipment, and systems involved in this application are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that connections, arrangements, or configurations must be made in the manner shown in the block diagrams. As those skilled in the art will recognize, these devices, apparatuses, equipment, and systems can be connected, arranged, and configured in any manner. Words such as "comprising," "including," "having," etc., are open-ended terms meaning "including but not limited to" and can be used interchangeably therewith. The words "and" and "or" as used here refer to the word "and / or" and can be used interchangeably therewith, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The word "such as" as used here refers to the phrase "such as but not limited to" and can be used interchangeably therewith.

[0059] It should also be noted that in the devices, equipment, and methods of the present application, various components or steps can be decomposed and / or recombined. Such decomposition and / or recombination should be considered as equivalent solutions of the present application.

[0060] The above description of the disclosed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present application. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects without departing from the scope of the present application. Therefore, the present application is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0061] The above description is for the purpose of illustration and description. Furthermore, this description is not intended to limit the embodiments of the present application to the forms disclosed herein. Although several exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain variations, modifications, changes, additions, and sub-combinations thereof should all fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]To better understand the aforementioned technical solutions, the exemplary embodiments of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments are merely a part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of them. It should be understood that the present application is not limited by the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0019]In handling vehicles of related art, such as forklifts, a lifting mast is provided at a front end of a vehicle frame. Forks are vertically liftably mounted on the lifting mast, and the lifting mast drives the forks to lift goods. Then, drive wheels of the vehicle frame propel the vehicle to move, thereby achieving transport operations for goods.

[0020]However, since a wheelbase between front and rear axles of the vehicle frame is fixed, a load capacity of the forklift, or a maximum weight of goods it can lift, is also fixed and cannot be adjusted in a wide range, l...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of handling equipment, and in particular, to a handling vehicle with a variable wheelbase.BACKGROUND

[0002] Handling vehicles, such as forklifts, are typically used for transporting goods.

[0003] A forklift is provided with liftable forks at its front end for engaging a pallet. Goods such as containers are placed on the pallet. After engaging the pallet, the forks are raised to a certain height to lift the pallet off the ground. Then the forklift moves to carry the pallet and goods on it to another place.

[0004] However, a load capacity of a forklift is generally fixed.SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments of the present application provide a handling vehicle, comprising: a first frame, comprising a first axle, wherein the first axle extends along a first direction, and first wheels are mounted at both ends of the first axle in the first direction; a second frame, comprising a second axle, wherein the second axle extends along the first direction, and second wheels are mounted at both ends of the second axle in the first direction; wherein a first end of the second frame along a second direction is equipped with forks, the forks extends along the second direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction; an end of the first frame along the second direction is slidably connected to a second end of the second frame along the second direction, so that a distance between the first axle and the second axle along the second direction is adjustable.

[0006] In one embodiment, the end of the first frame and the second end of the second frame are slidably connected via a slide rail mechanism extending along the second direction.

[0007] In one embodiment, the slide rail mechanism comprises two first slide rails and two second slide rails installed in an interlocking manner; wherein the two first slide rails extend from the first frame along the second direction toward the second frame, and the two second slide rails extend from the second frame along the second direction toward the first frame.

[0008] In one embodiment, the two first slide rails are provided on both sides of the first frame in the second direction, and the two second slide rails are provided on both sides of the second frame in the second direction; in one embodiment, each of the two first slide rails is provided with at least one first roller on a side facing the second slide rails, and each of the two second slide rails is provided with at least one second roller on a side facing the first slide rails; rotation axes of the at least one first roller and the at least one second roller are arranged along the first direction.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first frame is fixedly provided with a variable pitch drive mechanism, the second frame is fixedly provided with a driven component, and the variable pitch drive mechanism is configured to drive the driven component to move along the second direction, so that the second frame slides relative to the first frame along the second direction.

[0010] In one embodiment, the variable pitch drive mechanism comprises a hydraulic cylinder, the driven component comprises a piston rod extending along the second direction, one end of the piston rod is fixedly installed on the second frame, and other end of the piston rod is inserted into the hydraulic cylinder.

[0011] In one embodiment, the variable pitch drive mechanism comprises a ball screw extending along the second direction, the driven component comprises a screw nut mounted on the ball screw, and the screw nut is fixedly installed on the second frame.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second frame comprises a lifting mast arranged in a vertical direction, and the lifting mast is configured to vertically raise and lower the fork.

[0013] In one embodiment, the handling vehicle further comprises a distance measuring mechanism configured to measure a distance between the first axle and the second axle.

[0014] In one embodiment, the handling vehicle further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the first frame and the second frame in the second direction.

[0015] The embodiments of the present application provide a handling vehicle, such as a forklift. The handling vehicle comprises separated first and a second frame. The first frame includes a first axle arranged along a first direction, and the second frame includes a second axle arranged along the first direction. A first end of the second frame along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction is equipped with forks for handling pallets carrying containers, and a second end of the second frame is slidably connected to one end of the first frame along the second direction, thereby making the distance between the first axle and the second axle adjustable. This enables a wide-range adjustment of the load capacity of the handling vehicle.

[0016] In other words, the handling vehicle according to the embodiments uses two separate frames, each including one axle, and these two separate frames are slidably connected in a direction perpendicular to the axles. This slidable connection allows the distance between the two axles to be adjusted in a wide range, thereby enabling a wide-range adjustment of the load capacity of the handling vehicle. This solves the technical problem in the prior art where forklifts are inconvenient to use due to their fixed and non-widely-adjustable load capacity. The structure is simple, and the variable wheelbase greatly improves the forklift's versatility in adapting to containers of different load capacities, thereby meeting various handling scenarios.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] To more clearly illustrate technical solutions of embodiments of the present application, drawings used for describing the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description show only some embodiments of the present application. Those of ordinary skill in the art may obtain other drawings based on these without exerting creative efforts. Fig. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a forklift. Fig. 2 is a schematic structural diagram of a handling vehicle according to some embodiments of the present application. Fig. 3 is an exploded structural diagram of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a schematic structural diagram of a handling vehicle according to some other embodiments of the present application. Fig. 5 is another exploded structural diagram of the handling vehicle according to embodiments of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0018] To better understand the aforementioned technical solutions, the exemplary embodiments of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments are merely a part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of them. It should be understood that the present application is not limited by the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0019] In handling vehicles of related art, such as forklifts, a lifting mast is provided at a front end of a vehicle frame. Forks are vertically liftably mounted on the lifting mast, and the lifting mast drives the forks to lift goods. Then, drive wheels of the vehicle frame propel the vehicle to move, thereby achieving transport operations for goods.

[0020] However, since a wheelbase between front and rear axles of the vehicle frame is fixed, a load capacity of the forklift, or a maximum weight of goods it can lift, is also fixed and cannot be adjusted in a wide range, leading to inconvenience in use.

[0021] The reason for this is as follows. Referring to Fig. 1, by simplifying the vehicle frame into a mechanical model, G1 * L1 = G * L2 is derived, where G1 is the vehicle's own weight, G is a weight of goods, L1 is the wheelbase between the front and rear axles, and L2 is a horizontal distance from a center of gravity of the goods to the front axle. From this, G = G1 * L1 / L2 can be obtained. It can be seen that since G1, L1, and L2 are all of fixed values, G (i.e., the load capacity of the forklift) is also a fixed value. This results in a forklift of a specific structural size being only suitable for transporting goods within a certain weight range. When the weight of the goods exceeds the forklift's load capacity, the forklift becomes unsuitable, and a larger forklift is to be used. This causes inconvenience in handling goods of varying weights.

[0022] In terms of the above, embodiments of the present application provide a handling vehicle, such as a forklift. The handling vehicle is provided with two frames that are separate and are slidably connected in a direction perpendicular to axles. This allows a distance between two axles respectively mounted on the two frames to be adjusted in a relatively wide range. Referring to the above formula, it can be seen that adjusting the distance between the two axles enables a wide-range adjustment of the forklift's load capacity. Consequently, it can accommodate transportation of goods of different weights, meeting diverse handling requirements with a simple structure and convenient operation.

[0023] Fig. 2 is a schematic structural diagram of the handling vehicle according to the present application. Referring to Fig. 2, the handling vehicle includes a first frame 10 and a second frame 20 arranged separately. The first frame 10 includes a first axle extending in a first direction X, with first wheels 11 mounted at both ends of the first axle. The second frame 20 includes a second axle extending in the first direction X, with second wheels 21 mounted at both ends of the second axle. A first end of the second frame 20 along a second direction Y is provided with forks 22 extending in the second direction Y, where the second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X. In the second direction Y, one end of the first frame 10 is slidably connected to a second end of the second frame 20 along the second direction Y, allowing the distance between the first axle and the second axle to be adjustable.

[0024] In this embodiment, it is to clarify that the first direction X is an extending direction of the axles, i.e., a width direction of the handling vehicle, and the second direction Y is the fore-aft direction of the handling vehicle.

[0025] The first frame and the second frame are arranged separately.

[0026] The first frame is provided with the first axle, and the first wheels are mounted at both ends of the first axle. The second frame is provided with the second axle, and the second wheels are mounted at both ends of the second axle.

[0027] The first frame may be, for example, a main frame, and the second frame may be, for example, an auxiliary frame. One end of the second frame along the second direction (i.e., the direction perpendicular to the axles) is equipped with forks. It can be understood that these forks can be vertically raised and lowered relative to the second frame and are configured to lift pallets carrying containers and the like. Other end of the second frame along the second direction is slidably connected to one end of the first frame in the second direction, and the direction of slidable connection extends along the second direction. Thus, by sliding the two frames along the fore-aft direction of the handling vehicle, the distance between the two axles respectively provided on the two frames can be adjusted.

[0028] Referring to the discussion on the simplified mechanical model of the vehicle frame above, it is because the distance between the two axles is adjustable, i.e., L1 in the above formula is adjustable, that the load capacity G of the handling vehicle becomes adjustable.

[0029] At the same time, it can be understood that the slidable connection between the two frames in this embodiment allows for stepless and wide-range adjustment of the distance between the two axles. This enables the load capacity of the handling vehicle to be adjusted over a relatively large range, thereby meeting the handling requirements for goods of different weights. In other words, by adjusting the distance between the two axles, the handling vehicle can be adapted to three configurations, namely large, medium and small vehicle models, significantly enhancing its versatility and reducing usage costs.

[0030] The embodiments of the present application provide a handling vehicle, such as a forklift. The handling vehicle includes first frame and second frame that are separate. The first frame includes a first axle arranged along a first direction, and the second frame includes a second axle arranged along the first direction. In a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, one end of the second frame is equipped with forks for handling pallets carrying containers, etc. Other end of the second frame is slidably connected to one end of the first frame along the second direction, allowing the distance between the two axles on the first and second frames to be adjusted. This enables a wide-range adjustment of the handling vehicle's load capacity.

[0031] In other words, in the handling vehicle according to this embodiment, with two frames each including one axle arranged separately and slidably connected in a direction perpendicular to the axles, the distance between the two axles can be adjusted in a relatively wide range through the slidable connection between the two vehicle frames, thereby enabling a wide-range adjustment of the handling vehicle's load capacity. This solves the technical problem in the related art where forklifts are inconvenient to use due to their fixed and non-widely-adjustable load capacity. The structure is simple, and the variable wheelbase greatly improves the forklift's versatility in adapting to goods of different weights, meeting various handling scenarios.

[0032] Regarding the slidable connection between the two frames mentioned above, in one embodiment, one end of the first frame 10 and the second end of the second frame 20 are slidably connected via a slide rail mechanism 30 extending in the second direction Y.

[0033] Referring to Figs. 2 and 3, in one embodiment, the slide rail mechanism 30 includes two first slide rails 31 and two second slide rails 32 connected in an interlocking / mating manner. The first slide rail 31 extends from the end of the first frame 10 along the second direction Y, and the second slide rail 32 extends from the end of the second frame 20 along the second direction Y.

[0034] That is, the slide rail mechanism may take the form of an interlocking type extending in the second direction. i.e., the first slide rail fixed to the first frame and the second slide rail fixed to the second frame can achieve a slidable connection along the second direction through an interlocking manner.

[0035] It can be understood that this way of achieving a slidable connection through the interlocking of two slide rails can provide effective support at the connection parts.

[0036] The first slide rails 31 are provided on both sides of the first frame 10 in the second direction Y, and the second slide rails 32 are provided on both sides of the second frame 20 in the second direction Y. Furthermore, at least one first roller 33 is installed on the side of the first slide rail 31 facing the second slide rail 32, and at least one second roller 34 is installed on the side of the second slide rail 32 facing the first slide rail 31. Rotation axes of the first rollers 33 and the second rollers 34 are arranged in the first direction X.

[0037] That is, on one hand, a first slide rail can be respectively provided on the left and right sides of the first frame, while a second slide rail can be respectively provided on the left and right sides of the second frame. This can effectively reduce the weight of the frames. On the other hand, considering the friction between the two slide rails, rollers can be installed on them, effectively reducing friction by changing from sliding friction to rolling friction.

[0038] In another embodiment, as shown in Fig. 4, the aforementioned slide rail mechanism may also be implemented using a linear guide rail. For example, one end of the first frame is provided with a linear guide rail 51 extending in the second direction, and the second frame is fixedly connected with a guide rail slider 52. Alternatively, one end of the second frame is provided with a linear guide rail 51 extending in the second direction, and the first frame is fixedly connected with a guide rail slider 52. The guide rail slider is slidably mounted on the linear guide rail, thereby achieving a slidable connection between the two frames.

[0039] Regarding a driving unit for the slidable connection between the two frames mentioned above, in one embodiment, a variable pitch drive mechanism is fixedly installed on the first frame 10, and a driven component is fixedly installed on the second frame 20. The variable pitch drive mechanism is configured to drive the driven component to move along the second direction Y, causing the second frame 20 to slide relative to the first frame 10 along the second direction Y.

[0040] In this embodiment, the first frame may be the main frame, and the first wheels may be driving wheels. In this case, the second wheels may be driven wheels. The variable pitch drive mechanism can be fixedly installed on the first frame, and the driven component is fixedly installed on the second frame. The variable pitch drive mechanism adjusts the distance between the two axles, or achieves relative sliding between the two frames, by driving the driven component to move along the second direction.

[0041] Continuing to refer to Figs. 2 and 3, in one embodiment, the variable pitch drive mechanism includes a hydraulic cylinder 41, and the driven component includes a piston rod 42 extending in the second direction Y. One end of the piston rod 42 is fixedly installed on the second frame 20, and the other end of the piston rod 42 is inserted into the hydraulic cylinder 41.

[0042] That is, the relative sliding between the two frames can be driven by the hydraulic cylinder.

[0043] Moreover, considering that both the left and right sides of the first frame are provided with a first slide rail, two hydraulic cylinders can be provided. One hydraulic cylinder corresponds to one first slide rail and can be installed on the inner side of the first slide rail.

[0044] After the cylinder stops moving, the cylinder itself can restrict the relative movement of the first frame and the second frame.

[0045] In another embodiment, as shown in Fig. 5, the variable pitch drive mechanism includes a ball screw 43 extending in the second direction, and the driven component includes a screw nut 44 mounted on the ball screw. The screw nut is fixedly installed on the second frame.

[0046] That is, the relative sliding between the two frames can be driven by a ball screw.

[0047] After a motor corresponding to the ball screw stops rotating, the screw itself can restrict the relative movement of the first frame and the second frame.

[0048] In yet another embodiment, the variable pitch drive mechanism includes an electric cylinder, and the driven component includes a rod extending in the second direction Y. One end of the rod is fixedly installed on the second frame 20, and the other end is inserted into the electric cylinder.

[0049] In one embodiment, the second frame includes a lifting mast 23 arranged in the vertical direction, and the lifting mast 23 is configured to vertically raise and lower the forks 22.

[0050] In one embodiment, the handling vehicle further includes a distance measuring mechanism 60 configured to measure the distance between the first axle and the second axle. The distance measuring mechanism may be, for example, a photoelectric distance sensor. The photoelectric distance sensor includes a signal transmitter 61 fixed to the first axle and a signal reflector 62 fixed to the second axle. The signal transmitter achieves distance measurement by emitting a signal toward the signal reflector and receiving the reflected signal. Of course, the distance measuring mechanism may also be other types of distance sensors based on different principles, which are not limited in this embodiment.

[0051] It can be understood that by measuring the distance between the two axles with the distance measuring mechanism, it can be determined whether the pitch adjustment of the handling vehicle is properly achieved during the adjustment process.

[0052] In one embodiment, the handling vehicle further includes a locking mechanism configured to lock the first frame and the second frame in the second direction. That is, by locking the two frames in the second direction using the locking mechanism, protection is provided for the driving unit of the slidable connection (i.e., the variable pitch drive mechanism), preventing damage caused by accidental relative retraction of the two frames to the variable-distance drive mechanism.

[0053] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes, for example, a locking latch. The locking latch can be provided on one of the frames, and several locking protrusions or several locking grooves are arranged at equal intervals along the second direction on the other frame. Thus, the two frames are locked in the second direction by engaging the locking latch with a locking protrusion or locking groove.

[0054] In one embodiment, the first frame is provided with a through hole, and the second frame is provided with several through holes. The locking mechanism includes a bolt. After positions of the first frame and the second frame are adjusted in place, the bolt can be screwed into the through holes in the first and second frames to lock the two frames in the second direction.

[0055] A minimum distance between the first axle and the second axle is L0, from which an initial load capacity G0 of the handling vehicle can be calculated. A maximum distance between the first axle and the second axle is Lm, from which a maximum load capacity Gm of the handling vehicle can be calculated. In one embodiment, corresponding to the several locking protrusions or locking grooves arranged at equal intervals along the second direction on the frame, the wheelbase corresponding to each locking position is fixed, meaning there are multiple wheelbase levels, and consequently, the corresponding load capacity is also fixed. When a weight of the goods to be transported is less than G0, the wheelbase may not be adjusted, i.e., the first and second frames need not be moved relative to each other. When the weight of the goods to be transported is greater than G0 and less than Gm, an appropriate level for the wheelbase can be selected by relatively moving the first frame and the second frame so that the handling vehicle can be used.

[0056] By comparing the wheelbase measured by the distance measuring mechanism with the wheelbase level, it can be determined whether the wheelbase is adjusted in place. A prompt indicating that the adjustment is in place or not in place can be played in the form of sound through a loudspeaker, or displayed on the vehicle's display screen or a screen of an operator's terminal.

[0057] The basic principles of the present application have been described above in connection with specific embodiments. However, it should be noted that the advantages, benefits, effects, etc., mentioned in the present application are merely illustrative and not limiting; they cannot be considered as necessarily possessed by all embodiments of the present application. Furthermore, the specific details disclosed above are for the purpose of illustration and ease of understanding only, and are not limiting. These details do not restrict the present application to being implemented using the aforementioned specific details.

[0058] The block diagrams of devices, apparatuses, equipment, and systems involved in this application are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that connections, arrangements, or configurations must be made in the manner shown in the block diagrams. As those skilled in the art will recognize, these devices, apparatuses, equipment, and systems can be connected, arranged, and configured in any manner. Words such as "comprising," "including," "having," etc., are open-ended terms meaning "including but not limited to" and can be used interchangeably therewith. The words "and" and "or" as used here refer to the word "and / or" and can be used interchangeably therewith, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The word "such as" as used here refers to the phrase "such as but not limited to" and can be used interchangeably therewith.

[0059] It should also be noted that in the devices, equipment, and methods of the present application, various components or steps can be decomposed and / or recombined. Such decomposition and / or recombination should be considered as equivalent solutions of the present application.

[0060] The above description of the disclosed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present application. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects without departing from the scope of the present application. Therefore, the present application is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0061] The above description is for the purpose of illustration and description. Furthermore, this description is not intended to limit the embodiments of the present application to the forms disclosed herein. Although several exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain variations, modifications, changes, additions, and sub-combinations thereof should all fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]To better understand the aforementioned technical solutions, the exemplary embodiments of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments are merely a part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of them. It should be understood that the present application is not limited by the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0019]In handling vehicles of related art, such as forklifts, a lifting mast is provided at a front end of a vehicle frame. Forks are vertically liftably mounted on the lifting mast, and the lifting mast drives the forks to lift goods. Then, drive wheels of the vehicle frame propel the vehicle to move, thereby achieving transport operations for goods.

[0020]However, since a wheelbase between front and rear axles of the vehicle frame is fixed, a load capacity of the forklift, or a maximum weight of goods it can lift, is also fixed and cannot be adjusted in a wide range, l...

Claims

1. A handling vehicle, comprising: a first frame (10), comprising a first axle, the first axle extending along a first direction (X), the first axle having first wheels (11) mounted at both ends thereof in the first direction (X); a second frame (20), comprising a second axle, the second axle extending along the first direction (X), the second axle having second wheels (21) mounted at both ends thereof in the first direction (X); wherein a first end of the second frame (20) along a second direction (Y) is provided with forks (22), the forks (22) extending along the second direction (Y), and the second direction (Y) being perpendicular to the first direction (X); wherein an end of the first frame (10) along the second direction (Y) is slidably connected to a second end of the second frame (20) in the second direction (Y), so that a distance between the first axle and the second axle along the second direction (Y) is adjustable.

2. The handling vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the end of the first frame (10) and the second end of the second frame (20) are connected via a slide rail mechanism (30) extending along the second direction (Y).

3. The handling vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the slide rail mechanism (30) comprises two first slide rails (31) and two second slide rails (32) installed in an interlocking manner; wherein the two first slide rails (31) extend from the first frame (10) along the second direction (Y) toward the second frame (20), and the two second slide rails (32) extend from the second frame (20) along the second direction (Y) toward the first frame (10).

4. The handling vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the two first slide rails (31) are provided on both sides of the first frame (10) that are along the second direction (Y), and the two second slide rails (32) are provided on both sides of the second frame (20) that are along the second direction (Y).

5. The handling vehicle according to claim 3 or 4, wherein each of the two first slide rails (31) is provided with at least one first roller (33) on a side facing the second slide rails (32), each of the two second slide rails (32) is provided with at least one second roller (34) on a side facing the first slide rails (31); and rotation axes of the at least one first roller (33) and the at least one second roller (34) are arranged along the first direction (X).

6. The handling vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the slide rail mechanism (30) comprises a guide rail slider (52) and a linear guide rail (51) that is extending along the second direction (Y); the guide rail slider (52) is provided on one of the first frame and the second frame, and the linear guide rail (51) is provided on other of the first frame and the second frame; and the guide rail slider (52) is slidably mounted on the linear guide rail (51).

7. The handling vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first frame (10) is fixedly provided with a variable pitch drive mechanism, the second frame (20) is fixedly provided with a driven component; and the variable pitch drive mechanism is configured to drive the driven component to move along the second direction (Y), so that the second frame (20) slides relative to the first frame (10) along the second direction (Y).

8. The handling vehicle according to claim 7, wherein the variable pitch drive mechanism comprises a hydraulic cylinder (41), the driven component comprises a piston rod (42) extending along the second direction (Y), one end of the piston rod (42) is fixedly installed on the second frame (20), and other end of the piston rod (42) is inserted into the hydraulic cylinder (41).

9. The handling vehicle according to claim 7, wherein the variable pitch drive mechanism comprises a ball screw (43) extending along the second direction (Y), the driven component comprises a screw nut (44) mounted on the ball screw, and the screw nut is fixedly installed on the second frame (20).

10. The handling vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second frame (20) comprises a lifting mast (23) arranged in a vertical direction, and the lifting mast (23) is configured to vertically raise and lower the forks (22).

11. The handling vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the handling vehicle further comprises: a distance measuring mechanism (60), the distance measuring mechanism being configured to measure a distance between the first axle and the second axle.

12. The handling vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the handling vehicle further comprises: a locking mechanism, the locking mechanism being configured to lock the first frame (10) and the second frame (20) in the second direction (Y).

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