Chain, chain housing device, and parking device

Abstract

To provide a chain capable of being restrained from overbrimming a chain housing part and having a new structure, a chain housing device having a new structure, and a parking device having a new structure.SOLUTION: Each chain comprises: first and second chain groups in which an outside link and an inside link connected to the inside of the outside link are alternately coupled together and which have first and second ends; and a link member which is coupled to the second end of the first chain group and the first end of the second chain group and which includes a protrusion extending to the opposite side of the side where the inside link is coupled to the outside link.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a chain. Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a chain storage device that stores a chain. Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a parking system that includes a chain storage device and that parks a vehicle such as an automobile. [Background technology]

[0002] A multi-level parking system is known as a vehicle parking system in which vehicles are placed on pallets and parked in a stacked manner. In a multi-level parking system, the pallets can be moved up and down or sideways to allow vehicles placed on the pallets to be loaded and unloaded from the entrance / exit gate.

[0003] For example, a multi-level parking device includes a drive sprocket that rotates when driven by a drive source, and a chain that is wound around the drive sprocket and has one end connected to a pallet and the other end connected to a chain housing that houses the chain. For example, when the multi-level parking device moves the pallet up and down, the chain moves from one end to the other end as the drive sprocket rotates when driven by the drive source, and the chain that has moved from one end to the other end is housed in the chain housing so as to pile up inside the chain housing.

[0004] However, if the chain is bent in an unspecified direction and piled up haphazardly inside the chain storage section, the chain may not be able to store the intended length, and the chain may overflow from the chain storage section. In order to prevent the chain from overflowing from the chain storage section, parking devices that can prevent the chain from piling up haphazardly have been proposed (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 4). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-136985 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-58179 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-62449 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-83097 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the objectives of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a chain with a novel structure that can prevent the chain from overflowing from the chain storage section. Another objective of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a chain storage device with a novel structure that can prevent the chain from overflowing. Another objective of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a parking device with a novel structure that can prevent the chain from overflowing from the chain storage section. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A chain according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first chain group and a second chain group, each of which has a first end and a second end, and in which outer links and inner links connected to the inside of the outer links are alternately connected, and a link member connected to the second end of the first chain group and the first end of the second chain group, and including a protrusion extending on the side opposite to the side to which the inner links are connected relative to the outer links.

[0008] A chain storage device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a chain comprising: a first chain group and a second chain group, each of which has outer links and inner links connected to the inside of the outer links alternately connected, and which has a first end and a second end; a link member connected to the second end of the first chain group and the first end of the second chain group, and which includes a protrusion extending on the side opposite to the side to which the inner links are connected relative to the outer links; an inclined portion inclined relative to the horizontal; and a storage portion for storing the chain, wherein when the chain is stored in the storage portion, the protrusion abuts the inclined portion.

[0009] A parking system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a pallet for placing a vehicle, a chain, an inclined portion inclined relative to the horizontal, and a storage portion for storing the chain, wherein the protrusion abuts against the inclined portion when the chain is stored in the storage portion, and a conveying device for controlling movement of the pallet connected to one end of the chain, the conveying device including a drive sprocket around which the chain is wound and a chain guide arranged opposite the drive sprocket, wherein the chains each have outer links and inner links connected inside the outer links alternately connected, and have a first end and a second end and a link member connected to the second end of the first chain group and the first end of the second chain group and including a protrusion extending on the side opposite to the side where the inner link is connected to the outer link, wherein when the chains are stored in the storage section, the rotation of the drive sprocket causes the pallet to move, the chain passes between the drive sprocket and the chain guide and hangs down toward the storage section, and the first chain group and the link member of the chain are stored in the storage section, and the protrusion of the link member abuts the inclined portion.

[0010] A chain storage device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first chain, a second chain different from the first chain, an inclined portion inclined with respect to the horizontal, and a storage portion for storing the first chain and the second chain, wherein the first chain and the second chain are each formed into a first chain group and a second chain group, each having a first end and a second end, with outer links and inner links connected to the inside of the outer links alternately connected, and link members connected to the second end of the first chain group and the first end of the second chain group, and including protrusions extending on the side opposite to the side to which the inner links are connected relative to the outer links, and when the first chain and the second chain are stored in the storage portion, the protrusions of the link members of the first chain and the second chain abut against the inclined portion.

[0011] A parking device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a chain storage device including a pallet for placing a vehicle, a first chain, a second chain different from the first chain, an inclined portion inclined relative to the horizontal, and a storage portion for storing the first chain and the second chain, wherein the first chain and the second chain are each formed by alternatingly connecting outer links and inner links connected to the inside of the outer links, forming a first chain group and a second chain group having a first end and a second end, and link members connected to the second end of the first chain group and the first end of the second chain group, and including protrusions extending on the side opposite to the side to which the inner links are connected relative to the outer links; a drive sprocket around which each of the first chain and the second chain is wound; and a chain storage device arranged opposite the drive sprocket. and a conveying device including a chain guide and configured to control movement of the pallet connected to one end of the first chain and one end of the second chain, wherein when the first chain and the second chain are stored in the storage section, the pallet moves due to rotation of drive sprockets around which the first chain and the second chain are wound, respectively, and the first chain and the second chain pass between the drive sprockets and the chain guide corresponding to the first chain and the second chain, respectively, and hang down toward the storage section, the first chain group and the link members of the first chain and the first chain group and the link members of the second chain are stored in the storage section, and the protruding portions of the link members of the first chain and the protruding portions of the link members of the second chain abut against the inclined portions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a chain having a novel structure capable of preventing the chain from overflowing from a chain storage section. Also, according to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a chain storage device having a novel structure capable of preventing the chain from overflowing. Also, according to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a parking device having a novel structure capable of preventing the chain from overflowing from a chain storage section. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a parking device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of a chain storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a chain according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is an exploded view showing the configuration of a chain according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a chain according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams showing state transitions of a chain storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a state of a chain storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a chain accommodating portion according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a chain storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention and a transition of the state of the chain storage device; [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a chain storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention and a transition of the state of the chain storage device; [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a chain according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1(A) to 1(C) are schematic diagrams showing the configuration of a chain according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014]

[0016] Below, various embodiments of the chain and chain storage device of the present invention used in a parking system for parking vehicles such as automobiles will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention can be embodied in various forms without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and should not be construed as being limited to the description of the embodiments exemplified below. For example, the chain and chain storage device can be used to move an object suspended by the chain by winding the chain and storing the wound chain in the chain storage device. For example, the chain and chain storage device may be used in a transport device for transporting vehicles such as automobiles, or in a transport device for transporting objects other than vehicles.

[0015] In order to clarify the description, the drawings may show the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part schematically compared to the actual embodiment, but these are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention. Furthermore, in this specification and each drawing, elements having the same functions as those explained with reference to the previous drawings may be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations may be omitted.

[0016] In this specification and drawings, the same reference numerals are used to collectively refer to the same or similar components, and a hyphen and a number are added after the reference numerals to refer to them individually.

[0017] In this specification, the letters "first," "second," or "third" attached to each component are convenient labels used to distinguish each component, and have no other meaning unless otherwise specified.

[0018] In the following explanation, for convenience of explanation, terms indicating directions such as "up" and "down" may be used. For the chain, chain storage device, and parking device, the direction in which gravity acts is "down," and the opposite is "up."

[0019] In the following description, when the terms parallel, perpendicular, symmetrical, identical (the same), and coincident are used, the terms parallel, perpendicular, symmetrical, identical (the same), and coincident may include errors within the range of design and manufacturing.

[0020] In the following description, a pin may be a member such as a bolt and a nut, or may be an attachable member.

[0021] In this specification, the first direction D1 intersects the second direction D2, and the third direction D3 intersects the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 (D1D2 plane). For example, the first direction D1, the second direction D2, and the third direction D3 correspond to the X direction (x direction), the Y direction (y direction), and the Z direction (z direction).

[0022] 1. First Embodiment A parking device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0023] [1-1. Overview of the parking device 100] An overview of the parking device 100 will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the parking device 100. Specifically, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the parking device 100 viewed from the side. For example, if the side where the entrance / exit 109 is located is defined as the front, the front is a plane parallel to the plane formed by the first direction D1 and the third direction D3, and the side is a plane parallel to the plane formed by the second direction D2 and the third direction D3.

[0024] The parking device 100 includes at least a structure formed by support pillars 102, a pallet 104 on which the vehicle 101 is placed, a control panel 110 that controls each component, an operation panel 105 for operating the parking device 100, a conveying device 106 for operating the raising and lowering of the pallet 104, and a gate 108 arranged at the entrance / exit 109 for the vehicle 101.

[0025] The parking device 100 forms parking areas P1 to P4 stacked in multiple levels in the vertical direction, and can store and park the vehicle 101 in a three-dimensional manner. Furthermore, the parking device 100 can move a specific pallet 104 to an entrance / exit gate 109 in accordance with the elevation of the pallets 104, thereby allowing the vehicle 101 to enter or exit the parking device 100. There are several methods for moving the specific pallet 104 to the entrance / exit gate 109. For example, one method for moving the specific pallet 104 to the entrance / exit gate 109 is to slide the lower or upper pallet 104 toward the vehicle body (first direction D1) and lower the upper pallet 104 into an area where no lower pallet 104 exists. The parking device 100 can accommodate either method. Below, each component included in the parking device 100 will be described.

[0026] [1-1-1. Structure formed by support 102 and pallet 104] Pallets 104 are arranged within a structure formed by support pillars 102. Pallets 104 can be raised and lowered along support pillars 102 by conveying device 106. Furthermore, the multiple pallets 104 are arranged in predetermined positions with spacing such that when multiple vehicles 101 are stacked vertically (third direction D3) within the structure, the vehicles do not interfere with each other. As a result, the structure formed by support pillars 102 forms parking areas P1, P2, P3, and P4 stacked vertically in multiple tiers.

[0027] Although the parking device 100 shown in FIG. 1 has four parking areas, the number of parking areas of the parking device 100 is not limited to four and may be m (m is a natural number). That is, the structure may form m parking areas P1 to Pm. Also, although not shown, the parking areas P1, P2, P3, and P4 may be arranged not only vertically but also horizontally (first direction D1). That is, the structure may form multiple parking areas arranged vertically and horizontally. As a result, the parking device 100 can move the pallet 104 not only vertically but also horizontally.

[0028] [1-1-2. Control panel 110] The control panel 110 is disposed on the side of the parking device 100. The control panel 110 may be disposed in the direction in which the vehicle 101 enters the parking device. The control panel 110 controls each component. For example, each component is a pallet 104, a conveying device 106, a gate 108, etc. For example, the control panel 110 includes a memory unit (not shown) and a control unit (not shown). The memory unit includes storage devices such as RAM and ROM. The memory unit stores programs and the like that cause the control panel 110 to realize various functions. The programs may be stored in the memory unit in advance, may be stored in the memory unit using a computer-readable recording medium, or may be downloaded via a network. The control unit includes an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0029] For example, the control panel 110 (control unit) receives an instruction signal from the operation panel 105, reads out a program stored in the storage unit, processes the program using an arithmetic circuit, and outputs control signals for executing various functions (e.g., movement of the pallet 104, opening and closing of the gate 108, etc.) based on the program to the conveyance device 106 that moves the pallet 104 or the drive device that opens and closes the gate 108. For example, the drive device includes a motor.

[0030] [1-1-3.Operation panel 105] The operation panel 105 is disposed outside the parking device 100. For example, the operation panel 105 shown in FIG. 1 is disposed on a support 102 near the entrance / exit gate 109 of the parking device 100. The operation panel 105 is a user interface that allows a user to input automatic operation instructions (such as instructions to move the pallet 104 and instructions to open / close the gate 108) to the control panel 110. When a user operates the operation panel 105 from outside the parking device 100, the operation panel 105 transmits an automatic operation instruction signal to the control panel 110. As a result, the user can move the desired pallet 104 to the entrance / exit gate 109 and open / close the gate 108.

[0031] [1-1-4. Conveyor device 106] Conveying devices 106-2, 106-3, and 106-4 are arranged corresponding to parking spaces P2, P3, and P4, respectively. In describing parking device 100, when multiple conveying devices need to be distinguished, they are referred to as conveying devices 106-2, 106-3, and 106-4, and when multiple conveying devices are not distinguished, they are referred to as conveying device 106.

[0032] The conveying device 106 includes drive sprockets 122 and 120 that rotate when driven by a drive source (not shown) such as an electric motor, a chain (front hanging chain) 126 that is wound around the drive sprocket 122 and has one end connected to the pallet 104 via a rotatable driven sprocket 124, a chain (rear hanging chain) 128 that is wound around the drive sprocket 120 and has one end connected to the pallet 104, and chain storage devices 200 and 201 for winding up the chains 128 and 126. The drive sprockets 120 and 122, the driven sprocket 124, the chains 126 and 128, and the chain storage devices 200 and 201 are similarly installed on the opposite side of the vehicle 101 (the far side of the paper in FIG. 1 along the first direction D1). The conveying device 106 can raise and lower the pallet 104 by rotating the drive sprockets 120 and 122. It should be noted that the chain storage device 200 may include the chain 128 and the chain storage device 201 may include the chain 126 .

[0033] Since the drive sprocket 120 and the drive sprocket 122 overlap in the first direction D1, the drive sprocket 122 is hidden by the drive sprocket 120 as shown in Fig. 1. Furthermore, since the chain storage device 200 and the chain storage device 201 overlap in the first direction D1, the chain storage device 201 is hidden by the chain storage device 200 as shown in Fig. 1.

[0034] One end of chain 126 is connected to pallet 104, and a load is applied to the portion between connecting portion 1041 of pallet 104 and drive sprocket 122. On the other hand, the other end of chain 126 (the hook portion 214 side shown in FIG. 2), i.e., the side opposite connecting portion 1041 of pallet 104 with respect to drive sprocket 122 (the chain storage device 201 side), is not loaded and hangs down from drive sprocket 122. Like chain 126, one end of chain 128 is connected to pallet 104, and a load is applied to the portion between connecting portion 1042 of pallet 104 and drive sprocket 120, and the other end of chain 128 (the hook portion 214 side shown in FIG. 2), i.e., the side opposite connecting portion 1042 of pallet 104 with respect to drive sprocket 120 (the chain storage device 200 side), is not loaded and hangs down from drive sprocket 120. The portion of the chain hanging down from the drive sprockets 120 and 122 is called excess chain.

[0035] Each of the multiple chain storage devices 200 includes chain storage sections 202-2, 202-3, and 202-4 corresponding to the conveying devices 106-2, 106-3, and 106-4, respectively. For example, when the drive sprocket 120 is rotated to lift the pallet 104, the chain 128 is moved between the chain guides 206 and 210 by the chain guides 206 and 210 arranged on the conveying device 106 and corresponding to the chain 128, and into the chain storage section 202, increasing the amount of excess chain in the chain storage section 202. In this way, each of the chain storage sections 202-2, 202-3, and 202-4 can sequentially store the increased amount of excess chain. Note that when the drive sprocket 122 is rotated, the chain 126 operates in the same manner as the chain 128 when the drive sprocket 120 is rotated.

[0036] Note that the drive sprocket 122 has the same configuration and function as the drive sprocket 120, the chain storage device 201 has the same configuration and function as the chain storage device 200, and the chain 126 has the same configuration and function as the chain 128. Therefore, in the description of the parking device 100 with reference to Figure 1, the drive sprocket 120, the chain storage device 200, and the chain 128 will be described in detail, and the drive sprocket 122, the chain storage device 201, and the chain 126 will be described as needed. The chain storage device 200 and the chain 128 will be described in detail later.

[0037] [1-1-5. Gate 108] Gate 108 is disposed at entrance / exit gate 109 of parking device 100. Gate 108 is opened and closed by operating control panel 105. Gate 108 is kept closed except when it is opened to allow vehicle 101 to enter or exit the parking device. Therefore, when pallet 104 is moving, gate 108 is kept closed. By keeping gate 108 closed, people cannot enter parking device 100 while pallet 104 is moving.

[0038] [1-2. Configuration of the chain storage device 200 and the chain 128] The configurations of the chain storage device 200 and the chain 128 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of the chain storage device 200. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an enlarged portion of the chain 128 when the chain 128 is extended along a plane formed by the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. FIG. 4 is an exploded view showing the configuration of the chain 128 shown in FIG. 3, disassembled into its individual components. FIG. 5 is a four-sided view showing an enlarged area 600 shown in FIG. 3. For ease of explanation, the chain 128 shown in FIG. 2 is shown simplified or more simplified than the actual chain, and the second outer link 300 shown in FIG. 2 is shown simply when the chain storage device 200 is viewed from the side. Configurations that are the same as or similar to those in FIG. 1 will be described as necessary.

[0039] First, the configuration of the chain storage device 200 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The chain storage device 200 includes a chain storage section 202, an attachment section 212, a hook section 214, and an inclined section 220 within the storage section.

[0040] The chain accommodating section 202 includes an inclined section 204 having an opening on the upper side along the third direction D3, a bottom section 216 on the lower side along the third direction D3, and a bottom-side inclined section 218 continuous with the bottom section 216. For example, the bottom section 216 is parallel to a reference plane 222 that is parallel to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2, and the inclined section 204 is inclined at an angle α with respect to a reference plane 224 that is parallel to the reference plane 222. In other words, the angle formed between the inclined section 204 and the reference plane 222 is the angle α.

[0041] 2 and 6 to 8, the shape of the inclined portion 204 is linear, for example, but the shape of the inclined portion 204 is not limited to the shape shown in Figures 2 and 6 to 8. For example, the shape of the inclined portion 204 may be any shape that allows, after the protrusion 304 abuts, the second outer link 300 including the abutted protrusion 304 and the chain group connected to the second outer link 300 to slide along the inclined portion 204, and may be an arc shape from below to above in the third direction D3 (from the bottom 216 side toward the drive sprocket 120 side), or may be an arc shape from above to below in the third direction D3 (from the drive sprocket 120 side toward the bottom 216 side).

[0042] As an example, the shape of the chain accommodating section 202 is box-shaped. Furthermore, the chain accommodating section 202 only needs to include at least the inclined section 204, and does not necessarily have to include the bottom section 216, the bottom-side inclined section 218, or the in-accommodating section inclined section 220. Furthermore, the reference surface 222 and the reference surface 224 are both horizontal surfaces, and the inclined section 204 and the bottom-side inclined section 218 are inclined relative to the horizontal.

[0043] The attachment portion 212 is attached to the inclined portion 204 side inside the chain accommodating portion 202, and fixes the hook portion 214 attached to the attachment portion 212. The other end of the chain 128 is hung on the hook portion 214, and the hook portion 214 fixes the other end of the chain 128. Note that the attachment location of the hook portion 214 is one example and is not limited to the example shown here. For example, the hook portion 214 may be attached inside the chain accommodating portion 202, or may be attached to the inside of the chain accommodating portion 202 at the bottom portion 216.

[0044] For example, the in-receiving section ramp 220 is disposed within the chain receiving section 202 along the bottom side ramp 218 .

[0045] Next, the configuration of the chain 128 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5. As shown in FIG. 3, the chain 128 includes a plurality of inner links 400, a plurality of first outer links 500, and a plurality of second outer links 300. The chain 128 is a roller chain in which the inner links 400 and the first outer links 500 are connected in an alternating combination, and the first outer links 500 are replaced with second outer links 300 at predetermined intervals within the chain 128. Details will be described later, but the predetermined length is the length between the second outer links 300 and the second outer links 300, and may be length A (FIG. 7), length B (FIG. 7), length C (FIG. 7), length D (FIG. 7), or length E (FIG. 7). The second outer links 300 may also be referred to as link members.

[0046] 3 and 4, the inner link 400 includes two inner plates 402, two bushings 406, and two rollers 404. For example, the inner link 400 is formed by press-fitting two bushings 406 with rollers 404 inserted therethrough into two apertures (not shown) of the two inner plates 402. At this time, each of the two rollers 404 can freely rotate around the bushing 406 through which it is inserted.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first outer link 500 includes two outer plates 502. The outer plate 502 includes a plate portion 503 having two openings 505 for inserting pins 506. For example, the first outer link 500 is formed by press-fitting and coupling the two outer plates 502 and two pins 506. At this time, the inner link 400 is disposed between the two outer plates 502 so that the opening into which one bushing 406 of the inner link 400 is press-fitted and the opening 505 overlap, and the first outer link 500 is formed by press-fitting and coupling the two outer plates 502 and two pins 506. The two pins 506 press-fitted into the two outer plates 502 protrude from the side opposite the side where the two outer plates 502 face each other (the side opposite the side where the inner link 400 is disposed, along the first direction D1 in FIG. 4 ).

[0048] As shown in Figure 4 or 5, the second outer link 300 includes two outer plates 302 (302A and 302B), two pins 306, and one pin 308. The outer plate 302 includes a plate portion 303 having two openings 305 for inserting the pins 306, and a protrusion 304 attached to the plate portion 303, and the pin 306 has an opening 307 for inserting the pin 308. The configuration of the second outer link 300 other than the opening 307 of the protrusion 304 and the pin 306 is the same as that of the first outer link 500. Therefore, in the description of the second outer link 300, configurations similar to those of the first outer link 500 will be described as necessary.

[0049] For example, the plate portion 303 extends in the second direction D2, and the protruding portion 304 extends in the first direction D1 and is attached to the plate portion 303 by overlapping with a portion of the plate portion 303. That is, when the plane formed by the second direction D2 and the first direction D1 is viewed from the third direction D3, and when the plane formed by the first direction D1 and the third direction D3 is viewed from the second direction D2, the protruding portion 304 is attached so as to intersect perpendicularly with the plate portion 303 and protrude from the plate portion 303 along the first direction D1. As an example, the protruding portion 304 is attached to both of the two plate portions 303, but it may be attached to either one of the two plate portions 303.

[0050] Furthermore, the shape of the protruding portion 304 is, for example, rectangular and plate-like as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, but the shape of the protruding portion 304 is not limited to the shapes shown in FIGS. 3 to 5. For example, the shape of the protruding portion 304 may be any shape that can contact the inclined portion 204 and that protrudes along the first direction D1, and may be polygonal, rod-like, column-like, or a rounded shape such as circular or fan-like. For example, when the shape of the protruding portion 304 is rod-like or column-like, the contact area with the inclined portion 204 is small, and the contact resistance with the inclined portion 204 can be reduced. As a result, when the shape of the protruding portion 304 is rod-like or column-like, it is easy for the protruding portion 304 to slide on the inclined portion 204.

[0051] Note that the protrusion 304 and the plate portion 303 may be an integrally formed member, or may be formed separately and connected (attached). Also, for example, the chains 126 and 128 may have a configuration in which the first outer links 500 and the inner links 400 are alternately connected, and the protrusion 304 may include an attachment member (not shown) and be configured to be detachable from any of the first outer links 500 or inner links 400. In this case, any of the first outer links 500 to which the protrusion 304 including the attachment member is attached, or any of the inner links 400 to which the protrusion 304 including the attachment member is attached, is called a link member.

[0052] [1-3. Driving method of parking device 100] A method for driving the parking device 100 will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Figures 6 and 7 are schematic diagrams showing how the state of the chain storage device 200 changes when the parking device 100 is driven. Configurations that are the same as or similar to those in Figures 1 to 5 will be described as necessary.

[0053] For example, if a user wishes to move a specific pallet 104 upward along the third direction D3, the user operates the operation panel 105 to input a command to move the specific pallet 104 upward along the third direction D3. Based on the command from the user, the operation panel 105 transmits an instruction signal to the control panel 110 to move the specific pallet 104 upward along the third direction D3. Based on the instruction signal, the control panel 110 transmits an instruction signal to the conveyance device 106 including the pallet 104 to move the pallet 104 upward.

[0054] Based on the instruction signal, the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 transitions the chain storage device 200 to the state shown in chain storage device 200A in FIG. 6. Specifically, the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 rotates the drive sprocket 120 in the direction of the arrow (counterclockwise) to pull and move the chain 128 upward along the third direction D3, and begins to wind up the chain 128. As a result, the pallet 104 connected to the chain 128 (and 126) moves upward along the third direction D3. Furthermore, due to the rotation of the drive sprocket 120, the chain 128 passes between the curved portion 207 and the straight portion 208 of the chain guide 206 and between the drive sprocket 120 and the chain guide 210, and moves downward along the third direction D3 until it is stored in the chain storage section 202. Since the other end of the chain 128 is fixed to the hook portion 214, the chain 128 is pulled from the drive sprocket 120 side toward the other end of the chain 128 and receives a downward force along the third direction D3, causing the chain 128 to hang down and become slack.

[0055] Next, the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 transitions the chain storage device 200 from the state shown in chain storage device 200A in FIG. 6 to the state shown in chain storage device 200B in FIG. 6. More specifically, the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 further rotates the drive sprocket 120 in the direction of the arrow (counterclockwise) to move the chain 128 into the chain storage section 202. As in the state shown in chain storage device 200A in FIG. 6, the chain 128 is pulled from the drive sprocket 120 toward the other end of the chain 128 and receives a downward force along the third direction D3. This causes the chain 128 to droop further, and a portion of the chain 128 comes into contact with the inner side of the chain storage section 202 on the side opposite the side where the drive sprocket 120 is located, further loosening the chain 128. At this time, the pallet 104 connected to the chain 128 (and 126) moves further upward along the third direction D3.

[0056] Next, the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 transitions the chain storage device 200 from the state shown in chain storage device 200B in Fig. 6 to the state shown in chain storage device 200C in Fig. 6. More specifically, the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 further rotates the drive sprocket 120 in the direction of the arrow (counterclockwise) to move the chain 128 to the chain storage section 202. Similar to the states shown in the chain storage devices 200A and 200B in Fig. 6, the chain 128 is pulled from the drive sprocket 120 toward the other end of the chain 128 and is subjected to a downward force along the third direction D3, so that the chain 128 further hangs down, and the chain 128A comes into contact with the inner side surface of the chain storage section 202 opposite the side where the drive sprocket 120 is disposed (the surface to which the mounting portion 212 is attached). Furthermore, chain 128C comes into contact with storage interior inclined portion 220 and slides along storage interior inclined portion 220, so that chain 128B becomes loose between chain 128A and chain 128C.

[0057] 6, the second outer links 300 provided at predetermined intervals of the chain 128 are wound up, and the protruding portions 304 of the second outer links 300 come into contact with the inclined portions 204 and are instantly locked. At this time, the pallet 104 connected to the chain 128 (and 126) moves further upward in the third direction D3.

[0058] Next, the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 transitions the chain storage device 200 from the state shown in chain storage device 200C in Fig. 6 to the state shown in chain storage device 200D in Fig. 6. More specifically, the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 further rotates the drive sprocket 120 in the direction of the arrow (counterclockwise) to move the chain 128 to the chain storage section 202. As a result, the second outer link 300, whose protruding portion 304 abuts against the inclined portion 204, receives forces along the third direction D3 and the second direction D2, and therefore the second outer link 300 moves along the inclined portion 204 from the side where the drive sprocket 120 is disposed toward the surface where the mounting portion 212 is attached. Therefore, for example, chain 128D connected to second outer link 300 contacts chain 128A, a portion of chain 128B contacts the surface to which mounting portion 212 is attached, a portion of chain 128C moves away from storage interior inclined portion 220 and contacts chain 128A, and a portion of chain 128C moves away from storage interior inclined portion 220. Also, chain 128E is pulled by second outer link 300 and receives a downward force along third direction D3, causing it to hang down and become slack. At this time, pallet 104 connected to chain 128 (and 126) moves further upward along third direction D3.

[0059] When the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104 has fully wound up the chain 128, the pallet 104 connected to the chain 128 (and 126) moves in the third direction D3 to the top (e.g., P4 in FIG. 1). For example, the chain storage device 200 at this time transitions to the state shown in the chain storage device 200E in FIG. 7. For example, the chain 128 includes a second outer link 300 connected to a chain of a predetermined length A, a second outer link 300 connected to a chain of a predetermined length B, a second outer link 300 connected to a chain of a predetermined length C, a second outer link 300 connected to a chain of a predetermined length D, and a second outer link 300 connected to a chain of a predetermined length E. The protrusions 304 of the second outer links 300 connected to the chains of each predetermined length abut against the inclined portions 204. Furthermore, the chain of the predetermined length A is bent at approximately the length A / 2. Like the chain of predetermined length A, the chains of predetermined lengths B to E are also bent at roughly half their respective lengths.

[0060] Furthermore, a chain of predetermined length A is adjacent to a chain of predetermined length B, and the chain of predetermined length B is adjacent to a chain of predetermined length C. Similarly, the chain of predetermined length C and the chain of predetermined length D are adjacent to the chain of predetermined length D and the chain of predetermined length E, respectively. Furthermore, the second outer link 300 connected to the chain of predetermined length A is adjacent to the second outer link 300 connected to the chain of predetermined length B. Similarly, the second outer links 300 connected to the chain of predetermined length B to the chain of predetermined length E are in contact with adjacent second outer links 300. For example, the predetermined length A is longer than the predetermined length B, the predetermined length B is longer than the predetermined length C, the predetermined length C is longer than the predetermined length D, and the predetermined length D is longer than the predetermined length E. For example, the predetermined length A, the predetermined length B, the predetermined length C, the predetermined length D, and the predetermined length E may be the same length.

[0061] Among chains 128, one of the chains of a predetermined length that are adjacent to each other is called a first chain group, and the other chain of a predetermined length is called a second chain group. For example, if a chain of a predetermined length A is adjacent to a chain of a predetermined length B, the chain of the predetermined length A is called the first chain group, and the chain of the predetermined length B is called the second chain group. Also, even if chain 128 includes two chains of a predetermined length A that are adjacent to each other, one chain of the predetermined length A is called the first chain group, and the other chain of the predetermined length A is called the second chain group.

[0062] As explained above, the chains 128 and 126 include the protrusions 304, and the protrusions 304 are movable along the inclined portions 204 of the chain storage devices 200 and 201. As a result, the parking device 100 and the driving method of the parking device 100 can orderly store the chains 128 and 126 connected to the pallet 104 in the chain storage devices 200 and 201 by driving the transport device 106 including the pallet 104. Therefore, the parking device 100 and the driving method of the parking device 100 can prevent the chains 128 and 126 from spilling out of the chain storage devices 200 and 201.

[0063] Furthermore, the parking apparatus 100 and the driving method of the parking apparatus 100 drive the conveying device 106 including the pallet 104, thereby allowing the chains 128 and 126 connected to the pallet 104 to be neatly stored in the chain storage devices 200 and 201. Therefore, the chains 128 and 126 do not bend in unspecified directions and pile up haphazardly inside the chain storage devices 200 and 201. As a result, the parking apparatus 100 and the driving method of the parking apparatus 100 can prevent the chains 128 and 126 from becoming tangled in the chain storage section 202 and can prevent the chains 128 and 126 from overflowing from the chain storage section 202. Furthermore, by using the driving method of the parking apparatus 100 and the parking apparatus 100, the chains 128 and 126 do not break down inside the chain storage section 202, thereby suppressing noise caused by the chains 128 and 126 breaking down. Furthermore, by using the parking device 100 and the driving method of the parking device 100, it is possible to reduce the volume of the chain storage devices 200 and 201 that is secured by the chains 128 and 126 being stacked in a shifted manner.

[0064] 2. Second Embodiment A parking device 100 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Configurations that are the same as or similar to those in Figs. 1 to 7 will be described as necessary.

[0065] For example, as shown in Figure 8, the parking device 100 includes a chain accommodating section 202A. The chain accommodating section 202A differs from the chain accommodating section 202 in that the chain accommodating section 202A does not include a bottom-side inclined section 218 inside the chain accommodating section 202A, but includes a flat bottom section 216A. In all other respects, the chain accommodating section 202A is the same as the chain accommodating section 202.

[0066] 8, the parking device 100 may also include a chain accommodating section 202B. The chain accommodating section 202B differs from the chain accommodating section 202 in that the chain accommodating section 202B does not include an inclined section 220 inside the chain accommodating section 202B, but includes a flat bottom section 216A. In all other respects, the chain accommodating section 202B is the same as the chain accommodating section 202.

[0067] 8, the parking device 100 may further include a chain accommodating section 202C. The chain accommodating section 202C differs from the chain accommodating section 202 in that it does not include an internal inclined section 220 inside the chain accommodating section 202C, but includes a deformable bag-shaped bottom section 216B. In all other respects, it is the same as the chain accommodating section 202.

[0068] For example, the chain accommodating sections 202 and 202A to 202C included in the parking apparatus 100 include an inclined portion 204. Furthermore, each of the chain accommodating sections 202 and 202A to 202C included in the parking apparatus 100 only needs to include at least the inclined portion 204, and may include a plurality of holes between the bottom portion and the inclined portion 204. For example, each of the chain accommodating sections 202 and 202A to 202C included in the parking apparatus 100 may include a plurality of rod-shaped or plate-shaped members connecting the bottom portion and the inclined portion 204, as well as a plurality of holes. Note that each of the chain accommodating sections 202 and 202A to 202C included in the parking apparatus 100 does not need to have a bottom portion as long as it includes the inclined portion 204. Furthermore, the chains 128 and 126 include second outer links 300 at predetermined lengths. Therefore, the protruding portion 304 of the second outer link 300 abuts against the inclined portion 204, and the chains 128 and 126 are suspended inside the chain accommodating portions 202 and 202A to 202C. Therefore, the chains 128 and 126 are spaced apart without contacting the bottom of each chain accommodating portion. As a result, the chains 128 and 126 do not come into contact with the bottom of each chain accommodating portion, which would damage the bottom of each chain accommodating portion.

[0069] Furthermore, the chain accommodating sections 202 and 202A to 202C included in the parking device 100 have a function to prevent oil from scattering from the chains 128 and 126 therein, and a function to protect the chains 128 and 126 from rain.

[0070] Therefore, the strength of the bottom of the chain housing included in parking device 100 may be lower than when chains 128 and 126 contact the bottom of each chain housing, while maintaining the chain housing's functions of preventing oil splatter and keeping out rain. Furthermore, the shape of the bottom of the chain housing included in parking device 100 can be various, as shown in chain housings 202 and 202A-202C, while maintaining the chain housing's functions of preventing oil splatter and keeping out rain. Furthermore, the material used for the chain housing included in parking device 100 may be a material other than metal, while maintaining the chain housing's functions of preventing oil splatter and keeping out rain.

[0071] As a result, the parking device 100 can include chain housings of various shapes formed using various materials depending on the environment in which the parking device 100 is installed. Therefore, the parking device 100 has high redundancy in manufacturing the parking device 100.

[0072] 3. Third Embodiment A parking apparatus 100A according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12(C). FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a chain storage device 700 included in the parking apparatus 100A as viewed from the front along the second direction D2, and a schematic diagram showing the state of the chain storage device 700C when the parking apparatus 100A is driven. Also, FIG. 9 corresponds to the enlarged view of the second outer link 300 of the chain storage device 200C in FIG. 6 and the cross-sectional view along A1-A2, and is an enlarged view of the second outer link 300D of the chain storage device 700C and a view of the second outer link 300D from a plane parallel to the cross-section along A3-A4. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the chain storage devices 200 and 201 included in the parking apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment as viewed from the front along the second direction D2, and a schematic diagram showing the state of the chain storage devices 200C and 201C when the parking apparatus 100 is driven. 10 is an enlarged view of the second outer link 300 of the chain storage device 200C of FIG. 6 and a cross-sectional view taken along A1-A2, with the addition of a chain storage device 201C superimposed along the first direction D1. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an enlarged view of portions of the chains 128A and 126A when the chains 128A and 126A are extended along a plane formed by the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. FIG. 12(A) is a schematic diagram showing an enlarged view of portions of the chains 128B and 126 when the chains 128B and 126 are extended along a plane formed by the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. FIG. 12(B) corresponds to the cross-sectional view taken along A1-A2 of the enlarged second outer link 300 of the chain storage device 200C of FIG. 6, and is an enlarged view of the second outer link 300D of the chain storage device 700C shown in FIG. 9 and a cross-sectional view taken along A3-A4. Fig. 12(C) is a diagram in which protrusion 304 of chain 126 abutting on inclined portion 204E shown in Fig. 12(B) is replaced with protrusion 304E. Note that, for convenience of explanation, like the chain shown in Fig. 2, the chains shown in Figs. 9 to 12 are shown simplified or more simplified than the actual chain, and second outer link 300D shown in Fig. 9 is shown simply when chain storage device 700C is viewed from the side, and second outer link 300 shown in Fig. 10 is shown simply when chain storage device 200C is viewed from the side.9 or 10, in which the chain storage devices 700, 200, and 201 are viewed from the front, components other than the chain storage devices 700, 200, and 201 are omitted from the illustration. Configurations that are the same as or similar to those in FIGS. 1 to 8 will be explained as needed. In the explanation of the parking device 100A with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12(C), configurations and functions that are similar to those of the parking device 100 will be explained as needed.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 9, parking apparatus 100A includes a chain storage device 700. Chain storage device 700 includes a chain storage section 202D that combines chain storage section 202 (see FIG. 1) of chain storage device 200 (see FIG. 1) in parking apparatus 100 (see FIG. 1) and chain storage section 202 (see FIG. 1) of chain storage device 201 (see FIG. 1) in parking apparatus 100 (see FIG. 1). Parking apparatus 100A also includes a configuration in which chains 126 (see FIG. 1) and 128 (see FIG. 1) in parking apparatus 100 (see FIG. 1) are replaced with chains 126A and 128A, or chain 128B, depending on chain storage device 700. In parking apparatus 100A, the configurations and functions other than chain storage section 202D, chains 126A and 128A, and chain 128B are similar to those of parking apparatus 100.

[0074] For example, chain accommodating section 202D includes first accommodating area 228, second accommodating area 226, partition plate 229, flat bottom 216C, and bottom-side inclined portion 218A. First accommodating area 228 is an area within chain accommodating section 202D for accommodating chain 128A, and second accommodating area 226 is an area within chain accommodating section 202D for accommodating chain 126A. Partition plate 229 is a plate-like member that separates first accommodating area 228 and second accommodating area 226, and also serves to divide chain accommodating section 202D into first accommodating area 228 and second accommodating area 226. The chain accommodating section 202D may be configured to include a first accommodating area 228 and a second accommodating area 226 using a partition plate similar to the partition plate 229 in the chain accommodating sections 202, 202A to 202C according to the second embodiment.

[0075] In chains 126A and 128A, second outer link 300 included in chains 126 and 128 is replaced with second outer link 300D. Also, in second outer link 300D, protrusion 304 included in second outer link 300 is replaced with protrusion 304D.

[0076] 9, in the state of the chain storage device 700C, of ​​the two protrusions 304D of the second outer link 300D included in the chain 128A, one protrusion 304D abuts against the inclined portion 204D of the chain storage portion 202D, and the other protrusion 304D abuts against the inclined portion 204E of the partition plate 229. Also, in the state of the chain storage device 700C, of ​​the two protrusions 304D of the second outer link 300D included in the chain 126A, one protrusion 304D abuts against the inclined portion 204D of the chain storage portion 202D, and the other protrusion 304D abuts against the inclined portion 204E of the partition plate 229. Furthermore, when the state of the chain storage device 700C is viewed from a plane parallel to the cross section along A3-A4 in Figure 9, a portion of the other protrusion 304D included in the chain 128A overlaps and is hidden by the other protrusion 304D included in the chain 126A.

[0077] 11, in a plan view, the other protrusion 304D of the second outer link 300D of the chain 128A protrudes toward the second outer link 300D of the chain 126A, and the other protrusion 304D of the second outer link 300D of the chain 126A protrudes toward the second outer link 300D of the chain 128A. In a plan view, the protrusion 304D of the second outer link 300D is disposed so as to be offset from half the width W of the plate portion 303, W / 2. For example, in a plan view, the other protrusion 304D of the chain 128A and the other protrusion 304D of the chain 126A that face each other are disposed adjacent to each other and spaced apart from each other. Note that in a plan view, the other protrusion 304D of the chain 128A and the other protrusion 304D of the chain 126A that face each other may be disposed adjacent to each other and in contact with each other.

[0078] For example, when winding up chains 126A and 128A, just before chain 126A gets caught on drive sprocket 122, and just before chain 128A gets caught on drive sprocket 120, the other protrusions 304D of chain 128A and the other protrusions 304D of chain 126A, which face each other, mesh with each other like fastener elements (teeth) and abut against inclined portion 204E of partition plate 229, so that chain 126A is suspended in second storage area 226 of chain storage section 202D, and chain 128A is suspended in first storage area 228.

[0079] 10, the parking apparatus 100 includes a space 203 between the chain storage device 200 and the chain storage device 201. Therefore, similar to what has been described with reference to FIG. 6, in the state of the chain storage device 200C, the two protrusions 304 included in the second outer link 300 of the chain storage device 200 abut against the inclined portion 204 of the chain storage section 202 of the chain storage device 200, the chain 128 is suspended inside the chain storage section 202 of the chain storage device 200, and the two protrusions 304 included in the second outer link 300 of the chain storage device 201 abut against the inclined portion 204 of the chain storage section 202 of the chain storage device 201, and the chain 126 is suspended inside the chain storage section 202 of the chain storage device 201.

[0080] As explained above, parking apparatus 100A has a chain storage device 700 that does not include space 203. More specifically, parking apparatus 100A has one chain storage device 700 that includes chain storage section 202D that includes partition plate 229 for storing chains 126A and 128A. Therefore, parking apparatus 100A can reduce the width of the chain storage device along first direction D1, and can provide a compact chain storage device 700.

[0081] [3-1. Modifications] 12(A) and 12(B), parking device 100A may have a configuration in which chains 126A and 128A are replaced with chains 126 and 128B. Chain 126 has a configuration similar to that of chain 126 according to the first embodiment, while chain 128B has a configuration in which the other of the two protrusions 304 of second outer link 300 included in chain 128 according to the first embodiment is replaced with protrusion 304E. As shown in FIG. 12(A), in a plan view of the state of chain storage device 700C, the other protrusion 304E included in chain 128B overlaps with the other protrusion 304 included in chain 126.

[0082] 12(B), in an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along A3-A4 of second outer link 300D of chain storage device 700C, one of two protrusions 304 of second outer link 300 included in chain 126 abuts against inclined portion 204D of chain storage section 202D, and the other protrusion 304 abuts against inclined portion 204E of partition plate 229. Also, one of protrusions 304 of second outer link 300E included in chain 128B abuts against inclined portion 204D of chain storage section 202D, and the other protrusion 304E abuts against inclined portion 204E of partition plate 229. Furthermore, the other protrusion 304E included in chain 128B abuts against the other protrusion 304 included in chain 126 above the other protrusion 304 included in chain 126.

[0083] Here, a reference plane 230 passing through the surface where one of the two protrusions 304 of the second outer link 300 included in the chain 126 abuts against the inclined portion 204D of the chain accommodating section 202D, the surface where the other protrusion 304 abuts against the inclined portion 204E of the partition plate 229, and the surface where one of the protrusions 304 of the second outer link 300E included in the chain 128B abuts against the inclined portion 204D of the chain accommodating section 202D is parallel to a reference plane 231 passing through the lower end of the second outer link 300 included in the chain 126 and the lower end of the second outer link 300E included in the chain 128B.

[0084] For example, when reeling in chains 126 and 128B, just before chain 126 engages with drive sprocket 122 and just before chain 128B engages with drive sprocket 120, the other protrusion 304 of second outer link 300D included in chain 126 and the other protrusion 304E of second outer link 300D included in chain 128B overlap vertically. For example, if the other protrusion 304 of second outer link 300D included in chain 126 and the other protrusion 304E of second outer link 300D included in chain 128B are misaligned when they overlap vertically, each chain may lift up from the sprocket and become disengaged from the sprocket. In parking device 100A, because reference surface 230 is configured to be parallel to reference surface 231, it is possible to prevent the chains from lifting up from the sprocket and each chain from becoming disengaged from the sprocket. For example, the height of the inclined portion of chain accommodating section 202D may be adjusted so that reference surface 231 is horizontal. Furthermore, the surfaces that come into contact when the other protrusion 304 of second outer link 300D included in chain 126 and the other protrusion 304E of second outer link 300D included in chain 128B are overlapped one on the other have magnets, and the other protrusion 304 of second outer link 300D included in chain 126 and the other protrusion 304E of second outer link 300D included in chain 128B may come into contact just before engaging with the sprocket, or may separate just before separating from the sprocket.

[0085] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12(C), the protrusion 304 of the chain 126 that abuts against the inclined portion 204E shown in FIG. 12(B) may be configured like the protrusion 304F. The end 304G of the protrusion 304F is shaped like a hook. When the chain 126 is stored in the chain storage section 202D, the end 304G of the protrusion 304F gets caught on the inclined portion 204E, and the protrusion 304F abuts against the inclined portion 204E. This prevents the chain 126 including the protrusion 304F from coming off the inclined portion 204E. Note that the protrusion 304 according to the first to third embodiments may have a configuration similar to the protrusion 304F. In this case, it is possible to prevent each chain including the protrusion 304F from coming off the inclined portion with which it abuts.

[0086] The respective components of the chain, chain storage device, parking device, and parking device drive method described above as embodiments of the present invention can be combined as appropriate as long as they are not mutually inconsistent. Furthermore, the respective components of the chain, chain storage device, parking device, and parking device drive method described above as embodiments of the present invention can be interchanged as appropriate as long as they are not mutually inconsistent. Furthermore, even if a person skilled in the art appropriately adds, deletes, or modifies components based on each embodiment, these additions, deletions, or design changes are included within the scope of the present invention as long as they maintain the gist of the present invention.

[0087] Furthermore, even if there are other effects and advantages different from those brought about by the above-mentioned embodiments, those that are clear from the description in this specification or that can be easily predicted by a person skilled in the art are naturally understood to be brought about by the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 100: Parking device, 100A: Parking device, 101: Vehicle, 102: Support, 104: Pallet, 105: Operation panel, 106: Conveying device, 106-2: Conveying device, 106-3: Conveying device, 106-4: Conveying device, 108: Gate, 109: Entrance / exit gate, 110: Control panel, 120: Driving sprocket, 122: Driving sprocket, 124: Driven sprocket, 126: Chain, 126A: Chain, 128: Chain, 128A: Chain, 128B: Chain, 128C: Chain, 128D: Chain, 128E: Chain , 200: chain storage device, 200A: chain storage device, 200B: chain storage device, 200C: chain storage device, 200D: chain storage device, 200E: chain storage device, 201: chain storage device, 202: chain storage section, 202-2: chain storage section, 202-3: chain storage section, 202-4: chain storage section, 202A: chain storage section, 202B: chain storage section, 202C: chain storage section, 202D: chain storage section, 203: space, 204: inclined section, 204D: inclined section, 204E: Inclined portion, 206: chain guide, 207: curved portion, 208: straight portion, 210: chain guide, 212: mounting portion, 214: hook portion, 216: bottom portion, 216A: flat bottom portion, 216B: bag-shaped bottom portion, 216C: flat bottom portion, 218: bottom side inclined portion, 218A: bottom side inclined portion, 220: storage portion inclined portion, 222: reference surface, 224: reference surface, 226: second storage area, 228: first storage area, 229: partition plate, 230: reference surface, 231: reference surface, 300: second outer link, 302: outer plate, 302A: outer plate 102B: outer plate, 303: plate portion, 304: protrusion, 304D: protrusion, 304E: protrusion, 304F: protrusion, 304G: end, 305: aperture, 306: pin, 307: aperture, 308: pin, 400: inner link, 402: inner plate, 404: roller, 406: bushing, 500: first outer link, 502: outer plate, 503: plate portion, 505: aperture, 506: pin, 600: area, 700: chain storage device, 700C: chain storage device, 1041: connection portion, 1042: connection portion

Claims

1. a first group of chains and a second group of chains, each group of chains having outer links and inner links connected to the inside of the outer links alternately connected together, and each group of chains having a first end and a second end; a link member connected to the second end of the first chain group and the first end of the second chain group, the link member including a protrusion extending on the opposite side of the outer link from the side to which the inner link is connected; chain.

2. The length of the second group of chains is different from the length of the first group of chains.

2. The chain of claim 1.

3. The length of the second chain group is the same as the length of the first chain group.

2. The chain of claim 1.

4. the link member is either the outer link or the inner link, 2. The chain of claim 1.

5. The protrusions of the link member are disposed on both sides of the link member.

2. The chain of claim 1.

6. The protrusion of the link member is plate-shaped.

2. The chain of claim 1.

7. The protrusion of the link member has a columnar shape.

2. The chain of claim 1.

8. A chain according to claim 1; an inclined portion inclined with respect to the horizontal; a receiving portion for receiving the chain; Including, When the chain is accommodated in the accommodation portion, the protruding portion of the link member abuts against the inclined portion. Chain storage device.

9. When the protruding portion of the link member abuts against the inclined portion, the first chain group is suspended from the inclined portion. The chain storage device according to claim 8.

10. The chain is a third group of chains each having a first end and a second end, the third group of chains each having alternating outer links and inner links connected to the inside of the outer links; another link member connected to the second end of the second chain group and the first end of the third chain group, the link member including a protrusion extending on the opposite side of the outer link from the side to which the inner link is connected; further comprising The chain storage device according to claim 9.

11. When the protruding portion of the other link member abuts against the inclined portion, the second chain group is suspended from the inclined portion, After the protruding portion of the other link member abuts against the inclined portion, the protruding portion of the other link member is adjacent to the protruding portion of the link member, and a portion of the third chain group is suspended from the inclined portion. The chain storage device according to claim 10.

12. A pallet on which the vehicle is placed; a conveying device including the chain storage device according to claim 8, a drive sprocket around which the chain is wound, and a chain guide disposed opposite the drive sprocket, and controlling movement of the pallet connected to one end of the chain; Including, When the chain is accommodated in the accommodation section, the rotation of the drive sprocket moves the pallet, the chain passes between the drive sprocket and the chain guide and hangs down toward the accommodation section, the first chain group and the link member of the chain are accommodated in the accommodation section, and the protruding portion of the link member abuts the inclined portion. Parking equipment.

13. a first chain; a second chain different from the first chain; an inclined portion inclined with respect to the horizontal; a receiving portion for receiving the first chain and the second chain; Including, The first chain and the second chain a first group of chains and a second group of chains, each group of chains having outer links and inner links connected to the inside of the outer links alternately connected together, and each group of chains having a first end and a second end; a link member connected to the second end of the first chain group and the first end of the second chain group, the link member including a protrusion extending on the opposite side of the outer link from the side to which the inner link is connected; Equipped with When the first chain and the second chain are housed in the housing portion, the protruding portions of the link members of the first chain and the protruding portions of the link members of the second chain abut against the inclined portions. Chain storage device.

14. When the first chain and the second chain are housed in the housing portion, a protruding portion of the link member of the first chain protrudes toward the link member of the second chain; The protruding portion of the link member of the second chain protrudes toward the link member of the first chain. The chain storage device according to claim 13.

15. When the first chain and the second chain are housed in the housing portion, When viewed from a side, the protruding portions of the link members of the first chain are disposed above the protruding portions of the link members of the second chain. The chain storage device according to claim 13.

16. A pallet on which the vehicle is placed; a conveying device including the chain storage device according to claim 13, a drive sprocket around which each of the first chain and the second chain is wound, and a chain guide disposed opposite the drive sprocket, and which controls movement of the pallet connected to one end of the first chain and one end of the second chain; Equipped with When the first chain and the second chain are stored in the storage section, the pallet moves due to rotation of drive sprockets around which the first chain and the second chain are wound, respectively, and the first chain and the second chain pass between the drive sprockets and the chain guides corresponding to the first chain and the second chain, respectively, and hang down toward the storage section, the first chain group and the link members of the first chain and the first chain group and the link members of the second chain are stored in the storage section, and the protruding portions of the link members of the first chain and the protruding portions of the link members of the second chain abut against the inclined portions. Parking equipment.

Images