A carrier and / or forkboard for a lifting device equipped with a weight measuring device, a lifting device equipped with the carrier and / or forkboard, and a method for the lifting device.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a carrier for loads such as a fork for a lifting device, and a forkboard and / or lifting device equipped with such a carrier, and related methods. The carrier according to the present invention comprises coupling means configured to connect the carrier to a lifting device, a carrier section for transporting loads, an optical fiber cable disposed in the carrier section, and an optical fiber controller operably connected to the optical fiber cable and configured to perform measurements using the optical fiber cable, which can determine the weight of a load or a set of loads on the carrier.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a carrier capable of measuring the load on a carrier or the weight of a plurality of loads. Such a carrier relates, for example, to the forks of a forklift truck or a pallet truck. Such a carrier is used to pick up, displace, and set loads.

Background Art

[0002] Lifting devices are actually known in the form of, for example, forklift trucks or pallet trucks. Such forklift trucks and pallet trucks are provided with forks that function as carriers, as described, for example, in Dutch Patent Publication No. 2018218. Also, in practice, weight forks capable of measuring the weight of the load on the forks are known, and the weight of the load on the forks of a forklift truck or the like can be measured. Such weight forks that are actually known utilize so-called load cells. A problem in the use of load cells is that the load cell is placed in a recess provided in the carrier part of the fork. This usually requires milling such a recess. This results in weakening of the carrier part, which reduces the ability to support loads. Furthermore, further operations have to be performed on such forks, which increases the cost of such weight forks.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide a carrier such as a fork for a forklift truck or a pallet truck, whereby the above problems are avoided or at least reduced, and the measurement of the load on such a carrier or the weight of a plurality of loads can be carried out in an effective manner. <C

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] This objective is achieved using a carrier according to the present invention, such as a fork for a lifting device, and the carrier is A coupling means configured to connect the carrier to the lifting device, A carrier for transporting loads, Optical fiber cables located within or on a carrier, It includes an optical fiber controller that is operablely connected to an optical fiber cable and configured to perform measurements using the optical fiber cable, and capable of determining the weight of a load on a carrier or multiple loads.

[0005] This lifting device is, in particular, a forklift truck. Furthermore, such lifting devices also relate to pallet trucks, AGVs, and other lifting devices. Forklift trucks are, for example, mast forklift trucks or forklift trucks with trucks. In addition, carriers may be used for automated warehouses, such as coil booms for steel rolls and carpet rolls, and for crane arms. Carriers are provided as separate components and can be, for example, detachably mounted on the forkboard or fork adjustment part of the lifting device, or fixedly connected to the lifting device.

[0006] The carrier according to the present invention is provided with coupling means that can connect the carrier to a lifting device. The carrier portion of the carrier is configured to carry a load or multiple loads that can be picked up, displaced, and lowered using the carrier.

[0007] An additional fiber optic cable is positioned within or on the carrier, and this fiber optic cable can be operably connected to a fiber optic controller configured to perform measurements using the fiber optic cable, so that the weight of the load on the carrier or multiple loads can be determined. The fiber optic cable enables optical measurement, eliminating the need to carry conventional current / voltage signals through the cable. This significantly reduces the risk of signal interruption transmitted through the fiber optic cable.

[0008] This improves the reliability and accuracy of the measurement. Preferably, the optical fiber cable has one or more measurement points, for example, by providing small notches at the location of the measurement points, thereby allowing the distortion of the optical signal transmitted through the optical fiber cable as a result of the load at this location to be determined. (In some cases) weight measurement can be performed so that the weight of the load on the carrier or multiple loads can be determined from the return signal of the distorted optical (input) signal. In the currently preferred embodiment, in order to perform the measurement, the optical fiber controller is equipped with an (so-called) interrogator for emitting such an optical signal for the purpose of measurement and receiving the return signal.

[0009] In such a preferred embodiment, the interrogator passes the acquired measurement signal to software configured to determine the actual load, which is incidentally configured to determine measurement-based tracking actions, such as alarms in case of overload. A so-called fiber Bragg grating can be used to perform the measurement. The software may be located within the fiber optic controller and / or in a different location, such as the driver's cabin of a lifting device such as a forklift truck, on an external device such as a tablet, telephone, or clock, and / or within a central control system, such as an operator's control room.

[0010] A further advantage of performing weight measurements using the optical fiber cable and carrier according to the present invention is that the measurements can be performed robustly in time. This means that there is no so-called drift in the measurements over time. This results in reliable measurements over long periods. This has the additional advantage of requiring less frequent calibration or weighing. This increases the usefulness of the carrier according to the present invention and further reduces maintenance costs.

[0011] By using the carrier according to the present invention to determine the weight measurement of a load or multiple loads, it becomes possible to efficiently move goods while weight measurements are performed simultaneously. This eliminates the need for individual weighing of products. It also allows for checking during transport whether all products are present, for example, whether any items are missing. Furthermore, it enables detection of carrier overload and, preferably, appropriate action in response to such events, such as alarms and / or shutdowns. This enhances the safety of operations using the carrier.

[0012] According to the present invention, effective weight measurement becomes possible when the load or multiple loads and the optical fiber cable come into direct or indirect contact at the measurement point. This enables weight measurement as directly as possible, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of weight measurement.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, two or more measurement points are provided on the carrier. By establishing two or more measurement points, the measurement becomes independent of the position of the load on the carrier or the position of multiple loads. Reliable measurement results can be obtained regardless of location.

[0014] A further advantage of using two or more measurement points within a carrier in combination with the use of fiber optic cables to perform weight measurements is that the measurement points can be interconnected by a single cable, making it possible to provide multiple measurement points on the carrier using one cable. This eliminates the need to provide a separate cable for each measurement point, which would incur additional costs and potentially weaken the carrier. Therefore, the present invention enables effective measurements while maintaining the strength and robustness of the carrier.

[0015] In embodiments of the present invention, preferably, at least three measurement points are provided, and these three or more measurement points are arranged at least partially outside a single straight line. By not arranging the individual measurement points within a single straight line, the load on the entire surface of the carrier portion can be effectively determined. This eliminates the reliance on the load on the carrier or the correct placement of multiple loads for weight measurement. Consequently, this improves measurement accuracy and reliability.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the carrier portion is provided with a groove or recess in which an optical fiber cable is at least partially received. By incorporating grooves or recesses into the carrier, it becomes possible to conceal most or all of the fiber optic cable within the carrier. Due to the limited dimensions of the fiber optic cable, the reduction in the carrier's strength is extremely limited. The risk of damage to the fiber optic cable is also reduced, enabling robust weight measurement of the load on the carrier or multiple loads.

[0017] Optionally, the fiber optic cable can be completely integrated into the carrier, for example, by being embedded in a channel provided within the carrier. This further enhances the protection of the fiber optic cable and improves the robustness of the weight measurement. In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier includes a U-shaped profile or a tubular profile.

[0018] By providing U-shaped or tubular profiles, fiber optic cables for weight measurement can be efficiently positioned, for example, when applied to existing conventional forks on a forklift truck. As a result, the carrier according to the present invention can be applied to existing lifting equipment that is actually in use, thus improving the practicality of the carrier.

[0019] The profile is preferably provided to cover all or at least part of the fixed fork section. This profile has the additional advantage of further improving the reliability and accuracy of weight measurement. This is especially true when performing weight measurements under loads that are not fully rigid or under multiple loads, which can negatively impact weight measurement. In such cases, using profiled components still allows for reliable and accurate weight measurements.

[0020] In one advantageous embodiment, the carrier portion is provided with a contact element configured to contact the optical fiber cable when the carrier portion is loaded. By providing contact elements in the carrier section, the optical fiber cable can be positioned within the grooves and recesses (which also include channels or gaps) of the carrier in a well-protected manner, and can indirectly contact the load or multiple loads on the carrier section as intended via the contact elements.

[0021] Here, the contact element is preferably configured to achieve this contact at the measurement point, thereby effectively obtaining reliable weight measurement. Such a contact element is provided, for example, in an embodiment, to actually make contact with the optical fiber cable when the optical fiber cable is placed in a groove or recess of the carrier portion. In another embodiment using a U-profile or a tube profile, the contact element contacts an optical fiber cable that is disposed within or on the profile and / or the fixed fork when loaded. The contact element can also function as a kind of spacer that enables movement between the profile and the carrier part, and it should be noted that such movement enables measurement via contact with the optical fiber cable.

[0022] In a presently preferred embodiment, the optical fiber cable is provided on the carrier. In this embodiment, it is preferred to use the above-described profile that contacts the optical fiber cable when loaded so that weight measurement can be performed. When this contact occurs, optionally, one or more of the contact elements already described above are used. Further or alternatively, the optical fiber cable can be provided within or on the U-profile or tube profile. In particular, this embodiment is suitable for use in an existing carrier of, for example, a forklift truck.

[0023] In a presently preferred embodiment according to the invention, the optical fiber cable is operably connected to at least one of the claws of the fork board. By operably connecting the optical fiber cable to at least one claw of the carrier, such as a fork, the relative displacement between the claw and the carrier / fork part can be effectively detected. If necessary, this displacement can then be converted into a measurement of the load applied to the carrier. In a possible preferred embodiment according to the invention, for example, the upper claw of the fork can be used for determining the vertical load, and for example, the lower claw of the fork can be used simultaneously or alternatively for determining the acting torque.

[0024] The carrier preferably comprises one or more chambers for receiving one or more claws, and the optical fiber cable is preferably configured to detect the relative displacement of at least one claw. By using the chamber, effective measurement can be realized in a relatively protected environment.

[0025] If necessary, the claw, the optical fiber cable, and the controller can be used as a unit, together with any components that may be required, when being replaced and / or when being used in an existing carrier such as a fork. Such a unit can also be regarded as a kit of parts and can be sold separately as a system / unit.

[0026] By operably connecting the optical fiber cable to the claw of the carrier, the measurement of load and / or torque can be effectively determined. If necessary, it is also possible to use combinations of different optical fiber cables and / or longer optical fiber cables, which extend, for example, to the carrier part as described above. Such combinations enable even more accurate measurements.

[0027] In a further embodiment according to the invention, the carrier part comprises an extension. Also, by providing the extension, the carrier according to the invention can be applied, for example, to an extended fork for a forklift truck. This further increases the flexibility of the carrier according to the invention. In such an extension, for example, by giving sufficient slack to the cable here, weight measurement can be performed using the optical fiber cable in an efficient manner, thereby enabling the extension of the fork. Due to the flexibility of the optical fiber cable, it is possible to extend the carrier using such an extension while still enabling reliable weight measurement. This provides additional functionality that cannot be achieved with conventional weighing forks.

[0028] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the carrier comprises a transmitter configured to transmit one or more measurements to a controller, and an energy source operably connected to the transmitter.

[0029] Using a transmitter, acquired measurements can be transmitted to a controller, for example, wirelessly. Such a controller can be installed, for example, in the driver's cab of a lifting device such as a forklift truck. Alternatively, or even better, the controller can be installed on a tablet, mobile phone, the driver's watch, or the user of the lifting device, and the obtained measurements can be transmitted to a central control system, for example, a worker's room in a logistics center.

[0030] The controller is equipped with accompanying software that allows it to perform actual weight measurements. In addition, this can determine all subsequent actions, including recording replaced items, checking replaced items, and monitoring carrier overload.

[0031] In a more advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the carrier is equipped with an alarm for indicating carrier overload. By providing an alarm, a signal is generated when an overload is detected, allowing the user or worker to take action to reduce the load on the carrier or multiple loads. This can also be done using software, for example, by stopping the lifting device, such as an AGV, until the overload is removed. This extends the lifespan of the carrier. This also ensures the safety of work using the carrier according to the present invention.

[0032] In such embodiments, the energy source is preferably used to transmit a wireless signal. This can be charged wirelessly as an incidental feature. Such charging can be achieved, for example, using a so-called piezoelectric element, which can generate energy in combination with a load on the carrier or multiple loads as needed, and / or using an inductive charging process. The energy source can also be provided as a capacitor or battery as needed, which can be charged via cable and / or connected to a battery in the lifting device, which can function as an energy source. In the currently preferred embodiment, the energy source is located within or on the carrier.

[0033] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a forkboard for a lifting device such as a forklift truck. Fiber optic cables located inside or on the forkboard, It includes an optical fiber controller that is operablely connectable to an optical fiber cable and configured to perform measurements using the optical fiber cable, and capable of determining the weight of a load on a carrier connected to a forkboard. Such forkboards offer similar advantages and benefits to those described for carriers.

[0034] Such forkboards allow for weighing, particularly weight measurement, using the forkboard itself. This has the advantage that the carrier can be easily replaced without affecting the forkboard that is being used for measurement. This is particularly advantageous because wear occurs mainly in the carrier section, and the forkboard can typically be used throughout the entire lifespan of the lifting device without significant wear.

[0035] It should be noted that various embodiments of the carrier are also applicable to forkboards. These are, for example, various dependent forms of the claims, both individually and in any combination.

[0036] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one hook element is provided that can connect the carrier to a forkboard, and at least one of the hook elements is provided with an optical fiber cable.

[0037] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the forkboard includes a carrier. The optical fiber cable can be provided in or on the forkboard and / or the carrier portion. The present invention further relates to a lifting device such as a forklift truck equipped with a forkboard and / or carrier section according to the present invention.

[0038] Such lifting devices offer similar advantages and effects to those described for carriers and / or forkboards. Lifting devices are, in particular, forklift trucks or pallet trucks. Lifting devices can also be related to the types of lifting devices described above.

[0039] The present invention further provides a method for performing weight measurement of a load on a carrier such as a fork for a lifting device or a plurality of loads, In an embodiment of the present invention, the steps include providing a carrier and / or a forkboard, This includes the process of performing weight measurement.

[0040] Such a method provides similar advantages and effects to those described for forks, forkboards, and / or lifting devices equipped with forks, forkboards. This provides safe use of the carrier according to the present invention, and further information can be obtained as needed.

[0041] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the method further includes the step of detecting an overload using a controller, wherein the overload is detected and a signal is generated to the user, operator, or worker, preferably an alarm notification. If necessary, the alarm notification can be used to intervene in the lifting device using software, for example, to stop the lifting device such as an ATV in such a situation, or to prevent the lifting device from moving. In the latter case, the alarm notification functions as a type of operation disable device.

[0042] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the method further includes a step of detecting the timing or interval of preventive maintenance. Such detection is made possible by tracking the load over time, determining when it exceeds a determined threshold, and deciding when maintenance is needed. This also further enhances the safety of using the carrier according to the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0043] Further advantages, features, and details of the present invention will be described based on its preferred embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1A] This figure shows a first embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 1B] This figure shows a first embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 1C] This figure shows a first embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 2A] This figure shows a second embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 2B] This figure shows a second embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 2C] This figure shows a second embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 3A] This figure shows a third embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 3B] This figure shows a third embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 3C] This figure shows a third embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 4A] This figure shows a fourth embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 4B] This figure shows a fourth embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 5A] This figure shows a forklift truck equipped with a carrier according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5B] This figure shows a forklift truck in an alternative embodiment. [Figure 5C] Figure 1-4 shows an embodiment of a hook for connecting a carrier to the forkboard of a forklift truck. [Figure 5D] Figure 1-3 shows an embodiment of a hook for connecting a carrier to the forkboard of a forklift truck. [Figure 5E] Figures 5C and 5D show alternative embodiments of a forklift rack with hooks. [Figure 6] This figure shows a pallet truck equipped with a carrier according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This figure shows an AGV equipped with a carrier according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This figure shows a further embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Figure 9] This figure shows a further embodiment of the carrier according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the carrier 2 (Figures 1A to 1C) is represented as a fork for a forklift truck and is provided with a vertical fork section 4, which extends substantially vertically when in use and shifts near the bottom via a bend / heel / transition section 6 to a fixed fork section 8 that extends substantially horizontally when in use. In this embodiment, the tube profile 10 is screwed onto the fixed fork portion 8. The optical fiber cable 12 is provided in the intermediate space 11 formed between the tube profile 10 and the fixed fork portion 8. The tube profile 10 is connected to the fixed fork portion 8 by bolts 14 at the location of the recess 16 located in the fixed fork portion 8. In this embodiment, a contact element 18 is positioned between the optical fiber cable 12 and the tube profile 10.

[0045] During use of carrier 2, the tube profile 10 bends to some extent when a load is applied, thereby pushing in the contact element 18 and thereby applying pressure to the optical fiber cable 12. The optical signal passing through the optical fiber cable 12 is distorted to some extent due to this pressure on the optical fiber cable 12. The distorted signal is then used to measure the weight of the load or multiple loads present on carrier 2.

[0046] The optical fiber cable 12 is provided in a loop to interconnect the measurement points 20, which are located along, for example, two rows 22, 24 (Figure 1A), as seen in the longitudinal direction of the carrier 2. In an alternative embodiment, the measurement points 20 are located along a single line 26 (Figure 1B). It will be apparent that other alternative configurations of the measurement points 20 can also be provided on the carrier 2.

[0047] In a further alternative embodiment, the carrier 42 (Figures 2A to 2C) is provided in substantially the same manner as the carrier 2 shown in Figures 1A to 1C. A difference is formed by a contact element 44, where the carrier 42 forms a connection between the tube profile 10 and the fixed fork portion 8, and the optical fiber cable 12 is located between the contact element 44 and the tube profile 10. This eliminates the need for the recess 16. In this embodiment, the contact element 44 primarily serves to achieve the distance between the carrier 42 and the tube profile 10, thereby allowing the tube profile 10 to bend to some extent relative to the carrier 42, thereby deforming the optical fiber cable 12 to some extent and obtaining a usable measurement signal. Alternatively, the optical fiber cable 12 may be positioned below the contact element 44.

[0048] In a further alternative embodiment, the carrier 52 (Figures 3A to 3C) similarly comprises components similar to those described for carriers 2 and 42. However, the carrier 52 is an (extending) fork having an extending tube profile 54 which can be displaced along its longitudinal direction relative to the fixed fork portion 8 and incidentally fixed in a desired position. It will also become clear that the present invention is applicable to an extended fork in which the length of the fork is adjustable, for example, according to the load to be picked up and displaced. The optical fiber cable 12 is positioned directly between the tube profile 10 and the fixed fork portion 8, and is optionally positioned entirely or partially within grooves or channels provided in the tube profile 10 and / or the fixed fork portion 8. Furthermore, the optical fiber cable 12 is provided with sufficient clearance to be displaced together with the tube profile 54 of the extending fork, thereby enabling sufficiently reliable weight measurements across the transport surface.

[0049] In yet another embodiment, carrier 62 (Figures 4A to 4C) comprises components similar to those described for carriers 2, 42, and 52. Carrier 62 includes an optical fiber cable 12 located within a fixed fork portion 8, preferably within a groove or channel 64 within the fixed fork portion 8. This provides a compact carrier 62 with a limited number of components.

[0050] The carrier 62 utilizes the deformation of the carrier section 8 when determining the weight measurement. Specific measurement points 20 can be provided as needed, for example, as shown in other embodiments. Alternatively, specific measurement points 20 can be provided to the carrier 52 at any desired position.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the carrier portion according to the present invention is formed by tube profiles 10 for carriers 2, 42, and 52, and a fixed fork portion 8 for carrier 62. The forklift truck 102 (Figure 5A) comprises a cab 104, a frame 106, and a number of wheels 108. A mast structure 112 is provided on the front side 110 of the forklift truck 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the mast structure 112 is provided with two guides 114, and the forkboards 116 are positioned within or on the guides. The carriers 2, 42, 52, 62 according to the present invention are positioned on the forkboards 116 by coupling means 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the optical fiber cable 12 extends substantially from the forks 2, 42, 52, 62 on the mast structure 112 to an interrogator 120, which transmits optical signals via the optical fiber cable 12 and then receives return signals. It is clear that the optical fiber cable 12 can extend on or along the mast structure 112 in a wide variety of ways.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the interrogator 120 is provided integrated with a software module 122, which is configured to determine the weight of a load or a set of loads on carriers 2, 42, 52, 62 based on the return signal received by the interrogator 120. In the illustrated embodiment, a display 124 is also provided integrated. Notification of the weight measurement can be provided on the display 124, for example, as an alarm notification, as well as a signal in case of detected overload.

[0053] In addition, the illustrated embodiment also provides an energy source 126 integrated with the interrogator 120, software 122, and display 124. Incidentally, a transmitter 128 can be provided, which can wirelessly transmit the signal 130 to an external control system 132, such as an ERP system. In this schematic embodiment, the software 126, among other things, determines alarms and incidentally checks whether all goods have been moved or are currently moved. It will be apparent that separate alarms can be provided if desired.

[0054] It is also possible to provide components within or near the software 122, which has carriers 2, 42, 52, 62, for example, interrogator 120, and incidentally a transmitter 128 and an energy source 126. Furthermore, or alternatively, the signal 130 may be transmitted to a driver's or other operator's tablet, telephone, or watch.

[0055] When performing a weight measurement, an interrogator 120, powered by an energy source 128, transmits an optical signal via an optical fiber cable 12. If no loads are present on carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62, the optical signal will be received by the interrogator 120 without interference. If a load or multiple loads are present on carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62, the optical fiber cable 12 will be deformed to some extent, incidentally interfering with the optical signal through contact elements 18 and 44, and the signal will be received by the interrogator 120 somewhat distorted. Using software 122, the returned signal can be converted into an actual weight measurement, which can be displayed via a display 124 if necessary. The weight measurement can be transmitted via a wireless signal 130, incidentally via a transmitter 128 to other systems such as an ERP system 132.

[0056] Overloads can be detected incidentally using software / controller 122. Based on such detected overloads, alarm notifications can be optionally generated. Such alarm notifications, as well as weight measurements, can be displayed on display 124 or transmitted via wireless signal 130 to an external system, such as an ERP system 132. The timing or interval for preventative maintenance can be detected incidentally using the software / controller 122 and / or external system 132. The software / controller 122 or external system 132 can function as an operation disable device to prevent the lift device 102 from moving in the event of an overload.

[0057] The forklift truck 102a (Figure 5B) is provided with an alternative sensor system 117, in which the fiber optic cable 12 and measurement point 20 are located inside or on the forkboard 116. In the illustrated alternative embodiment, the forklift truck 102a is provided with the same or similar components as described for the forklift truck 102 (Figure 5A). The forklift truck 102a (Figure 5B) optionally includes the sensor system 117, in which the fiber optic cable 12 and measurement point 20 are located inside or on both the forkboard 116 and the carriers 2, 42, 52, 62.

[0058] A forklift truck 102a equipped with an alternative sensor system 117 allows weight measurement to be performed on the forkboard. This has the advantage that carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62 can be easily replaced without affecting the sensor system and measurement.

[0059] Carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62 are connectable to the forkboard 116 by a hook 152 (Figure 5C1-4). The hook 152 can be located on or within the carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62, or on the forkboard 116. The hook 152 is equipped with a channel 154 for the fiber optic cable 12 and the measurement point 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the hook 152 is further provided with a recess 156, which allows for some deformation of the hook 152, and the load on the hook 152 is detectable by the fiber optic cable 12. Here, a measurement system 158 is used, which is (operably) connected to the channel 154 and the fiber optic cable 12. In the illustrated embodiment, a rod or pin 160 is incidentally provided to prevent undesirable deformation, including undesirable twisting, at the bottom of the hook 152.

[0060] In an alternative embodiment, the hook 162 (Figure 5D1-3) is provided in the same manner as the hook 152. In this alternative embodiment, the hook 162 is provided with a recess 164. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that further alternative embodiments are similarly possible.

[0061] The forklift truck 102b (Figure 5E) is provided with a forkboard 116 and carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62, and is provided with (upper) hooks 152 and 162. In the illustrated embodiment, the forklift truck 102b optionally includes a forkboard front 172 as part of the forkboard 116. Carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62 are provided with hook-shaped elements 174 that can be positioned on or on the forkboard front 172 and the forkboard 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the forkboard front 172 is provided with a hook-shaped element 176 that can be positioned on or on the forkboard 116. The hooks 152 and 162 are provided as upper elements of the hook-shaped elements 174 and 176. In addition to or instead of this, an optical fiber cable 12 is provided within the carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62 as previously shown. Further embodiments, such as those illustrated and / or described for forklift trucks 102 and 102a, may also be applied to forklift truck 102b as needed.

[0062] The pallet truck 202 (Figure 6) can also be equipped with similar components, such as the carriers 2, 42, 52, 62 and the forklift truck 102, as shown in Figures 1 to 4. In the pallet truck 202 of the shown embodiment, the optical fiber cable 206 is located on the side of the forks 204 in the groove 208 of the pallet truck 202. It is clear that the configurations shown in Figures 1 to 4 can also be applied to the pallet truck 202. Furthermore, the embodiment shown in Figure 6 can also be applied to other lifting devices such as the forklift truck 102.

[0063] In a schematic embodiment of the pallet truck 202, the fiber optic cable 206 is operably connected to the interrogator 120, the software / controller 122, the transmitter 128, and the energy source 126. Instead of a separate energy source 126, the battery of the pallet truck 202 can also be used. An optional alarm in the form of a lamp 210 is displayed to emit a visual warning signal if an overload is detected. It is clear that such a visual warning signal 210 can also be applied to other lifting devices, such as the forklift truck 102.

[0064] The AGV302 (Figure 7) can also be equipped with carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62 in a similar manner to that shown for the forklift truck 102. Its operation is substantially consistent with the method described for the forklift truck 102 equipped with such carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62. In this embodiment for the AGV302, interrogator 120, software / controller 122, transmitter 128, and energy source 126, these components are provided on the AGV302 in an integrated manner. It will be apparent that these components can also be arranged on the carriers 2, 42, 52, and 62 as separate parts, either as a whole or partially.

[0065] The carrier 72 (Figures 8 and 9) is shown as a fork and comprises two chambers 74, 76. The upper chamber 74 is configured to receive or house the upper suspension claw 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the suspension claw 78 is embodied as a separate component available on the rear 80 of the carrier / fork 72. The lower chamber 76 is configured to receive, house, or otherwise connect to the lower suspension claw 82. In the illustrated embodiment, the suspension claw 82 is connectable to an insert 84 which can be positioned inside or on the lower chamber 76. In the illustrated embodiment, the different parts are connected to each other by threaded connections 86. It will be apparent that other connections, such as welding, are also possible. The advantage of threaded connections 86 is that they facilitate maintenance, assembly, and replacement of wear parts. Such wear can be caused by various factors, including the movement of the forks / carriers 72 on the forkboard. Additionally, the screw connection 86 allows for the replacement of parts with those from another forklift.

[0066] The load and / or deformation of the carrier 72 can be determined using the carrier 72 having chambers 74, 76 and suspension claws 78, 82. This makes it particularly possible to isolate the deformation of the fork back 80 when the carrier 72 is loaded from the deformation of the parts 78, 82, 84 in the chambers 74, 76. This results in a "displacement" between the fork back 80 and the upper suspension claw 78 / insert 80, which can be measured by the measuring instrument 90 (schematically shown in Figures 8 and 9), due to the "deformation" of the optical fiber cable 92 (schematically shown in Figures 8 and 9), in a manner similar to that already described for other embodiments. The measuring instrument 90 comprises, for example, an interrogator 120, software / controller 122, transmitter 128, and energy source 126, as described above. Such a structure with chambers 78, 82 preferably further provides space for mounting the optical fiber cable 92 and any associated (mechanical) amplifier (not shown).

[0067] If necessary, the measuring instrument 90, cables 92, (chambers 74, 76), suspension claws 78, 82, and optionally the insert 80 together as a unit (in the form of a parts kit) can be used to replace and / or use with existing carriers.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper suspension claw 78 is preferably intended to measure the vertical component of the load on the carrier 72. The insert 80 is preferably intended to measure the torque of the load when assembled behind the lower suspension claw 82. The two measurements are preferably combined to provide sufficient data to determine the load weight, the center of gravity of the load, and, for example, overload. The insert 80 is preferably incidentally provided with a slide strip 88 to limit wear / loss due to friction. Alternatively, this can be solved by other means, such as rollers or ball bearings. The strip 88 is preferably replaceable, which is preferable as it is worn by the forklift forks as the forklift truck forks reciprocate and slide on the forkboard to adjust the width dimension of the forklift forks for different pallet sizes.

[0069] It is clear that Carrier 72 can also be applied to forklift truck 102, pallet truck 202, and AGV 302. Furthermore, it will be apparent that the components of the various embodiments shown are interchangeable and / or applicable to each other in other possible embodiments of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. The rights sought are defined by the following claims, within which many modifications are conceivable.

Claims

1. A load carrier such as a fork for a lifting device, A coupling means configured to connect the carrier to the lifting device, A carrier section for transporting the load, A fiber optic cable located inside or on the carrier section, A carrier characterized by comprising an optical fiber controller configured to be operably connected to an optical fiber cable and configured to perform measurements using the optical fiber cable, and configured to determine the weight of a load or multiple loads on the carrier.

2. The carrier according to claim 1, wherein the carrier is provided with two or more measurement points.

3. The carrier according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least three measurement points are provided on the carrier, and the three or more measurement points are at least partially located outside one line.

4. The carrier according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the carrier portion comprises a groove or recess in which the optical fiber cable is at least partially received.

5. A carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a U-shaped profile or a tubular profile.

6. The carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the carrier portion comprises a contact element, the contact element being configured to contact the optical fiber cable when the carrier portion is loaded.

7. The optical fiber cable is provided on the carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the optical fiber cable is provided in or on the U-shaped profile or tube profile.

9. The carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the optical fiber cable is operably connected to at least one of the claws of the forkboard.

10. The carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising one or more chambers for receiving one or more claws, and the optical fiber cable being configured to detect the relative displacement of at least one claw.

11. The carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the carrier portion comprises an extension portion.

12. The carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a transmitter configured to transmit one or more measurement values ​​to a controller, and an energy source operably connected to the transmitter.

13. The carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising an alarm for indicating an overload of the carrier.

14. A fork board for a lifting device such as a forklift truck, Fiber optic cables located inside or on the forkboard, A forkboard comprising: an optical fiber controller that is operablely connectable to an optical fiber cable and configured to perform measurements using the optical fiber cable, the optical fiber controller capable of determining the weight of a load or multiple loads on a carrier connected to the forkboard.

15. The forkboard according to claim 14, further comprising the carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

16. The forkboard according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising at least one hook element, wherein the at least one hook element comprises the optical fiber cable.

17. A lifting device such as a forklift truck, comprising a carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 13 and / or a forkboard according to any one of claims 14 to 16.

18. A method for performing weight measurement of a load on a carrier such as a fork for a lifting device, A step of providing a carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 13, or a forkboard according to any one of claims 14 to 16, A method that includes the step of performing a measurement.

19. The method according to claim 18, further comprising the step of detecting an overload using a controller.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising the step of generating an alarm notification.

21. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, further comprising the step of detecting the timing or interval of preventive maintenance.

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