Receiving and storage equipment

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of avoiding easily accumulation of attachments attached to a luggage as trash, dirt or the like in a storage part.SOLUTION: A receiving storage device 10 includes a takeoff and landing part 21, a luggage receiving part 22, a storage part, a takeout part for taking out a luggage M stored in the storage part, a transport device 15 for transporting a luggage M between the luggage receiving part 22, the storage part and the takeout part, and a gas spray device 80 installed on the luggage receiving part 22, or on a transportation route of the luggage M from the receiving part 22 to the storage part, for spraying gas to the luggage M in order to remove attachment attached to the luggage M.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cargo receiving and storage device that receives cargo from an unmanned aerial vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Drone ports that receive cargo from unmanned aerial vehicles are known. Patent Document 1 (JP 2021-046111 A) describes a drone port that has a takeoff and landing section on the top surface of a building skeleton and receives cargo released from an unmanned aerial vehicle that has landed on the takeoff and landing section.

[0003] In the drone port described in Patent Document 1, the takeoff and landing area is open to the outside, so there is a possibility that water droplets, dust, and other particles may adhere to the cargo when the cargo is separated and transported in the takeoff and landing area. Furthermore, depending on the structure of the unmanned aircraft, water droplets, dust, and other particles may also adhere to the cargo during flight. Furthermore, when the cargo is stored in a storage area after being separated from the unmanned aircraft, the water droplets, dust, and other particles that have adhered to the cargo may separate from the cargo in the storage area and accumulate as trash, dirt, and the like. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-046111 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to realize a technology that can easily prevent substances attached to luggage from accumulating as dust, dirt, etc. in the storage area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A cargo receiving and storage device according to the present disclosure includes a takeoff and landing section where an unmanned aerial vehicle takes off and lands, a cargo receiving section that receives cargo from the unmanned aerial vehicle, a storage section that stores a plurality of the cargo, a retrieval section where the cargo stored in the storage section is retrieved, a transport device that transports the cargo between the cargo receiving section, the storage section, and the retrieval section, and a gas blowing device that is installed in the cargo receiving section or on a transport route for the cargo from the cargo receiving section to the storage section and that blows gas onto the cargo to remove any adhering matter adhering to the cargo. The gas spraying device also sprays gas onto the unmanned aerial vehicle that has landed on the takeoff and landing area.

[0007] This configuration allows for removal of any attachments attached to the luggage received from the unmanned aerial vehicle before storing it in the storage unit. Therefore, for example, it is easy to prevent attachments from separating from the luggage in the storage unit, which could lead to the accumulation of debris and dirt in the storage unit. Examples of such attachments include water droplets from rain or snow, dust, and fallen leaves. This configuration also reduces the likelihood of luggage with attachments being removed from the retrieval unit. Furthermore, with this configuration, any attachments that have adhered to the unmanned aerial vehicle can also be removed.

[0008] Further features and advantages of the techniques according to the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description of exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, which proceeds with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view of a load receiving and storage device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] A plan view showing the receiving and storage equipment on the roof of Figure 1. [Figure 3] A plan view showing the receiving and storage facility on the second floor of Figure 1. [Figure 4] A plan view showing the receiving and storage equipment on the first floor of Figure 1. [Figure 5] Plan view of a goods receiving and storing device according to a second embodiment [Figure 6] Plan view of a goods receiving and storing device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] A side view of a goods receiving and storing device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] Plan view of a goods receiving and storing device according to a fourth embodiment [Figure 9] A side view of a load receiving and storage device according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [First embodiment] A cargo receiving and storage device 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the cargo receiving and storage device 10. The cargo receiving and storage device 10 includes a takeoff and landing section 21 where an unmanned aerial vehicle 90 takes off and lands, and a cargo receiving section 22 that receives cargo M from the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. The cargo receiving and storage device 10 also includes a storage section 40 that stores multiple cargo M, and a retrieval section 45 where the cargo M stored in the storage section 40 is retrieved. The cargo receiving and storage device 10 also includes a transport device 15 that transports cargo M between the cargo receiving section 22, the storage section 40, and the retrieval section 45.

[0011] In this embodiment, the receiving and storage equipment 10 is provided in one building. Fig. 2 is an enlarged plan view showing the receiving and storage equipment 10 on the rooftop R3. Fig. 3 is a plan view showing the receiving and storage equipment 10 on the second floor R2. Fig. 4 is a plan view showing the receiving and storage equipment 10 on the first floor R1. In this embodiment, the receiving and storage equipment 10 is provided with a baggage delivery section 23 that delivers baggage M to the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. In this embodiment, the receiving and storage equipment 10 is provided with a replenishment storage section 50 that stores multiple unmanned aerial vehicles 90 and replenishes energy (specifically, energy required for flight) for the stored unmanned aerial vehicles 90.

[0012] The unmanned aerial vehicle 90 is, for example, a fixed-wing aircraft or a rotary-wing aircraft capable of remote control or autonomous flight. In this embodiment, the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 is an electric rotary-wing aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 is rechargeable and includes a storage battery 92. The unmanned aerial vehicle 90 also includes a power receiving coil 94. The unmanned aerial vehicle 90 is also a multicopter (a so-called drone) capable of autonomous flight. The unmanned aerial vehicle 90 includes a ground contact portion 96 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the ground contact portion 96 is four legs, but the ground contact portion 96 may also be a sled or wheels.

[0013] In this embodiment, the conveying device 15 includes an external conveying device 20 disposed above the storage section 40 and configured to convey the luggage M at least horizontally, and a lifter 30 configured to convey the luggage M at least in the vertical direction Z. In this embodiment, the external conveying device 20 conveys the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 between the takeoff and landing section 21 and the lifter 30. A first entrance 35 is disposed between the external conveying device 20 and the lifter 30. Here, the vertical direction is defined as the vertical direction Z. A specific horizontal direction is defined as the specific direction X, one side of the specific direction X is defined as the specific direction first side Xa, and the other side of the specific direction X is defined as the specific direction second side Xb. As shown in FIG. 2 , the direction along the conveying path of the external conveying device 20 is defined as the conveying direction L1, and the direction perpendicular to the conveying direction L1 in a vertical view is defined as the conveying width direction W1. Examples of the external conveying device 20 include a roller conveyor and a belt conveyor. The external conveying device 20 corresponds to the first conveying section.

[0014] In this embodiment, the lifter 30 transports each of the luggage M and the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 at least in the vertical direction Z. The storage section 40 is disposed adjacent to the lifter 30 on the specific direction first side Xa. The replenishing storage section 50 is disposed adjacent to the lifter 30 on the specific direction second side Xb. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the lifter 30 is provided with an internal conveying device 32 that can transport the luggage M and the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 in the specific direction X. Here, the direction along the transport path of the internal conveying device 32 is referred to as the transport direction L2, and the direction perpendicular to the transport direction L2 when viewed in the vertical direction is referred to as the transport width direction W2. Examples of the internal conveying device 32 include a roller conveyor and a belt conveyor. The lifter 30 corresponds to the second transport section.

[0015] In this embodiment, the takeoff and landing section 21 is equipped with a support platform 27 that supports the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 from below. The support platform 27 is located above the storage section 40 and the replenishment storage section 50. In the example shown, the takeoff and landing section 21 is provided on the rooftop R3 of the building. The takeoff and landing section 21 is designed for vertical takeoff and landing. Preferably, the cargo receiving and storage device 10 is equipped with a retractable roof that covers the takeoff and landing section 21. Preferably, the takeoff and landing section 21 is equipped with a heater that melts frozen water on the takeoff and landing section 21.

[0016] In this embodiment, the takeoff and landing section 21 is arranged so as to overlap with the storage section 40 when viewed in the vertical direction. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the external transport device 20 also serves as the takeoff and landing section 21. The takeoff and landing section 21 is also provided with an inclined section 25 on at least one side of the transport width direction W1 that slopes upward in the vertical direction Z as it moves away from the external transport device 20. This inclined section 25 makes it easier for the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 to land vertically on the external transport device 20, and allows the dimension of the external transport device 20 in the transport width direction W1 to be relatively small.

[0017] In this embodiment, the storage unit 40 is located below the support base 27. The storage unit 40 is located inside the building. The replenishment storage unit 50 is also located inside the building. The cargo receiving unit 22 and the cargo delivery unit 23 are located on the rooftop R3 of the building. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the cargo receiving and storage device 10 is provided with a cargo entrance / exit 41 and an unmanned aerial vehicle entrance / exit 51 on the first floor R1 of the building. The cargo entrance / exit 41 is used, for example, to store and retrieve cargo M without using the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. The unmanned aerial vehicle entrance / exit 51 is used, for example, to perform maintenance and inspection of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the cargo receiving and storage device 10 is provided in a two-story warehouse, and the first floor R1 of the warehouse is the first floor above ground. It is preferable that the storage unit 40 and the replenishment storage unit 50 of the cargo receiving and storage device 10 be an automated warehouse. Here, an automated warehouse is a warehouse in which the storage and retrieval of stored items is automated.

[0018] In this embodiment, the luggage delivery section 23 is equipped with a luggage delivery device 24 that delivers luggage M to the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. In addition, in this embodiment, the luggage delivery section 23 also functions as the luggage receiving section 22, and the luggage delivery device 24 also functions as a luggage receiving device that separates luggage M from the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. Examples of the luggage delivery device 24 include a luggage delivery robot and an elevator. In addition, in this embodiment, the external transport device 20 also functions as the luggage receiving section 22. In addition, in this embodiment, the external transport device 20 also functions as the luggage delivery section 23.

[0019] In this embodiment, the external conveying device 20 is disposed above the storage section 40 and the replenishment storage section 50 in the vertical direction Z. The external conveying device 20 is disposed so as to overlap with the storage section 40 when viewed in the vertical direction Z. The external conveying device 20 also serves as the cargo receiving section 22, and transports luggage M from directly below the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 supported on the support base 27 to the lifter 30. The external conveying device 20 is configured to be able to perform a luggage transport operation S10 for transporting luggage M separated from the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 to the lifter 30 at least along the horizontal direction, and an aircraft transport operation S20 for transporting the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 separated from the luggage M and landed on the external conveying device 20 to the lifter 30 at least along the horizontal direction.

[0020] 2, the external conveying device 20 is equipped with a distribution conveying device 26 that can separately transport the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 and the luggage M separated from the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 when the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 and the luggage M separated from the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 are placed on the upper surface of the external conveying device 20. In this embodiment, the case where the external conveying device 20 transports only the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 by the distribution conveying device 26 is the above-mentioned aircraft transport operation S20, and the case where the external conveying device 20 transports only the luggage M by the distribution conveying device 26 is the above-mentioned luggage transport operation S10.

[0021] In this embodiment, the external conveying device 20 includes an aircraft conveying surface 20B that supports and conveys the ground contact portion 96 of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90, and a baggage conveying surface 20A that supports and conveys baggage M, and the conveying speeds can be different from each other. In this embodiment, the baggage conveying surface 20A and the aircraft conveying surface 20B function as the distribution conveying device 26. Also, in this embodiment, the aircraft conveying surface 20B functions as the support platform 27 described above. In the illustrated example, the aircraft conveying surfaces 20B are provided on both outer sides of the baggage conveying surface 20A in the conveying width direction W1.

[0022] The cargo receiving and storage device 10 is equipped with a luggage transport device 60 that transports luggage M between the luggage receiving section 22 and the storage section 40 and between the luggage delivery section 23 and the storage section 40. The cargo receiving and storage device 10 also has an aircraft transport device 70 that transports unmanned aerial vehicles 90 between the takeoff and landing section 21 and the replenishment storage section 50. In this embodiment, the luggage transport device 60 and the aircraft transport device 70 are equipped with a shared external transport device 20. In this embodiment, the luggage transport device 60 and the aircraft transport device 70 are equipped with a shared lifter 30.

[0023] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3 , the luggage conveying device 60 includes an external conveying device 20, a lifter 30, and a storage conveying device 61 that conveys luggage M between the lifter 30 and the storage unit 40. In this embodiment, the above-mentioned internal conveying device 32 provided in the lifter 30 conveys the luggage M in the specific direction first side Xa, thereby conveying the luggage M to the storage unit 40. In the illustrated example, a circulating conveying device 62 and a branching conveying device 63 are provided in the storage unit 40. The luggage M conveyed from the lifter 30 to the storage unit 40 is placed on the circulating conveying device 62 and stored. The branching conveying device 63 branches and conveys the luggage M to the circulating conveying device 62 or the lifter 30. In the example shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the circulating conveying device 62 and the branching conveying device 63 are provided on each floor, and the branching conveying device 63 provided on the first floor R1 branches and conveys the luggage M to the circulating conveying device 62, the lifter 30, or the luggage loading / unloading gate 41. In the illustrated example, the internal conveying device 32 and the branching conveying device 63 function as a storage conveying device 61 that conveys the luggage M between the lifter 30 and the storage section 40.

[0024] In this embodiment, the storage unit 40 is installed across multiple floors of a building. Also, in this embodiment, a second entrance / exit functioning as the above-mentioned removal unit 45 is disposed between the storage unit 40 and the lifter 30. The storage unit 40 is provided with a storage and transport device 61 that can store and transport the luggage M within the storage unit 40, and thereby functions as an automated warehouse for the luggage M.

[0025] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3 , the aircraft transport device 70 includes an external transport device 20, a lifter 30, and a storage transport device 71 that transports the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 between the lifter 30 and the replenishment storage section 50. In this embodiment, the internal transport device 32 provided in the lifter 30 transports the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 to the specific direction second side Xb, thereby transporting the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 to the replenishment storage section 50. In the illustrated example, a branching transport device 73 is provided in the replenishment storage section 50. The unmanned aerial vehicle 90 transported from the lifter 30 to the replenishment storage section 50 is branched and transported by the branching transport device 73 to a hangar 52 or the lifter 30, which will be described later. In the example shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the branching transport device 73 is provided on each floor, and the storage transport device 71 provided on the first floor R1 is configured to be able to transport the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 to the unmanned aerial vehicle entrance / exit 51. In the illustrated example, the internal transport device 32 and the branch transport device 73 function as a storage transport device 71 that transports the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 between the lifter 30 and the replenishment storage section 50.

[0026] In this embodiment, the replenishment storage section 50 is installed across multiple floors of a building. In the illustrated example, a third entrance / exit 55 is located between the replenishment storage section 50 and the lifter 30. Furthermore, the replenishment storage section 50 is equipped with a storage transport device 71 that can transport the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 within the replenishment storage section 50, thereby functioning as an automated warehouse for the unmanned aerial vehicle 90.

[0027] In this embodiment, the replenishment storage unit 50 includes a plurality of hangars 52. Each of the hangars 52 includes a wireless charging device 53. The charging device 53 has a power supply coil 54 and supplies power to a storage battery 92 via a power receiving coil 94 of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 stored in the hangar 52. This enables wireless charging of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 stored in the replenishment storage unit 50. In this manner, in this embodiment, energy is replenished to the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 by the replenishment storage unit 50 by charging the storage battery 92. In the illustrated example, the floor of the hangar 52 is capable of transporting the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 between the replenishment storage unit 50 and the branch conveyance device 73.

[0028] Returning to FIG. 2, the cargo receiving and storage equipment 10 is provided with a gas blowing device 80 that is installed on the transport path of the cargo M from the cargo receiving section 22 to the storage section 40 and blows gas onto the cargo M to remove any attachments adhering to the cargo M. In this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is installed so as to blow gas onto the cargo M on the external transport device 20. In the illustrated example, the gas blowing device 80 is gate-shaped, and the cargo M is transported directly below the gas blowing device 80. Examples of the gas that can be blown onto the cargo M include air, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, dimethyl ether, and propane. Preferably, the gas blown onto the cargo M is warm air.

[0029] In this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is configured to blow gas over an area wider than the dimension Wm of the luggage M in the conveying width direction W1 at a target location on the conveying path of the external conveying device 20. Also, in this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is configured to blow gas over an area wider than the dimension Wd of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 in the conveying width direction W1 at a target location on the conveying path of the external conveying device 20. In the illustrated example, the gas blowing device 80 includes an upper blowing section 82, and the dimension Wb of the upper blowing section 82 in the conveying width direction W1 is larger than the dimension Wm of the luggage M and the dimension Wd of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90.

[0030] In this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is configured to blow gas onto the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 that has landed on the takeoff and landing section 21. In the illustrated example, the gas blowing device 80 is located on the rooftop R3 of the building. Preferably, the gas blowing device 80 blows gas only while the baggage M and the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 are passing by. Furthermore, preferably, the baggage M and the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 are transported separately, and the gas blowing device 80 blows gas onto each of the baggage M and the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. The gas blowing onto the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 may be performed when the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 is in a stored configuration with its wings folded, or in a flying configuration with its wings spread. In the illustrated example, the dimension Wd of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 in the transport width direction W1 and the dimension Ld of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 in the transport direction L1 are dimensions when the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 is in the stored configuration.

[0031] Second Embodiment The following describes a cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 according to a second embodiment with reference to the drawings. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 does not include a baggage delivery section 23, an inclined section 25, a distribution and conveying device 26, a replenishment storage section 50, and an aircraft conveying device 70, and the external conveying device 20 and the lifter 30 do not transport unmanned aerial vehicles 90. The following mainly describes the differences from the first embodiment. Note that points not specifically described are the same as those in the first embodiment. Figure 5 is an enlarged plan view of the cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment on the rooftop R3, and corresponds to Figure 2.

[0032] In this embodiment, the support platform 27 that supports the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 from below is a landing platform that is C-shaped when viewed in the vertical direction. One end of the external conveying device 20 in the conveying direction L1 is located in the center of the support platform 27 when viewed in the vertical direction. This one end of the external conveying device 20 also serves as a cargo receiving section 22. Therefore, the cargo receiving section 22, which is one end of the external conveying device 20, is located directly below the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 that has landed on the support platform 27, which is a C-shaped landing platform. The external conveying device 20 is configured to transport the cargo M to the lifter 30 on the other end.

[0033] In this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is installed so as to blow gas onto the luggage M on the external conveying device 20, and in this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 blows out gas only while the luggage M is passing. In the illustrated example, the gas blowing device 80 is gate-shaped and includes an upper blowing section 82, and the dimension Wb of the upper blowing section 82 in the conveying width direction W1 is larger than the dimension Wm of the luggage M but smaller than the dimension Wd of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90.

[0034] Third Embodiment The following describes a cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 according to the third embodiment with reference to the drawings. This embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the gas blowing device 80 moves in the conveying direction L1. The following mainly describes the differences from the second embodiment. Note that points not specifically described are the same as those in the second embodiment. Note that in this embodiment, the cargo receiving section 22 also serves as the cargo delivery section 23. Figure 6 is an enlarged plan view of the cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 according to the third embodiment on the rooftop R3, and corresponds to Figure 2. Figure 7 is an enlarged side view of the cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 according to the third embodiment on the rooftop R3. In Figure 7, the external conveying device 20 and the gas blowing device 80 are shown in cross section.

[0035] In this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is installed in the cargo receiving section 22 and is configured to move in the conveying direction L1 to blow gas onto the cargo M in the cargo receiving section 22 and the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 that has landed on the takeoff and landing section 21. In this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is configured to blow gas onto an area wider than the dimension Wd of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 in the conveying width direction W1, at the support base 27, which is a C-shaped landing platform, and the cargo receiving section 22 located at its center. In the illustrated example, the gas blowing device 80 is gate-shaped and includes an upper blowing section 82, and the dimension Wb of the upper blowing section 82 in the conveying width direction W1 is larger than the dimension Wm of the cargo M and the dimension Wd of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. In addition, the gas blowing device 80 is provided with a pillar-side blowing section 84 at its gate pillar portion that is capable of blowing gas onto the side of the cargo M.

[0036] [Fourth embodiment] The following describes a cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 according to the fourth embodiment with reference to the drawings. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the gas blowing device 80 moves in the vertical direction Z. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment. Note that points that are not specifically described are the same as those in the first embodiment. Figure 8 is an enlarged plan view of the cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 according to the fourth embodiment on the rooftop R3, and corresponds to Figure 2. Figure 9 is an enlarged side view of the cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 according to the fourth embodiment on the rooftop R3. In Figure 9, the external conveying device 20 and the gas blowing device 80 are shown in cross section.

[0037] In this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is installed in the cargo receiving section 22 and moves in the vertical direction Z to blow gas onto the cargo M in the cargo receiving section 22 and onto the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 that has landed on the takeoff and landing section 21. In this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is provided in the cargo receiving section 22 and is configured to blow gas over an area wider than the dimension Wm of the cargo M in the conveying width direction W1 and the dimension Lm of the cargo M in the conveying direction L1. In addition, in this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is provided in the cargo receiving section 22 that also serves as the takeoff and landing section 21 and is configured to blow gas over an area wider than the dimension Wd of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 in the conveying width direction W1 and the dimension Ld of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 in the conveying direction L1. In addition, in this embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 includes an upper blowing unit 82 that is movable in the vertical direction Z. In the illustrated example, the upper blowing unit 82 has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed in the vertical direction. Preferably, when the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 takes off or lands, the upper blowing section 82 is positioned below in the vertical direction Z, and when the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 or luggage M is transported toward the lifter 30, the upper blowing section 82 is positioned above in the vertical direction Z.

[0038] Other Embodiments Next, other embodiments of the goods receiving and storage equipment 10 will be described.

[0039] (1) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 is a rechargeable rotorcraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example, and the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 may be, for example, an electrically powered rotorcraft or fixed-wing aircraft equipped with a fuel cell.

[0040] (2) In the above embodiment, the conveying device 15 includes an external conveying device 20 that conveys the luggage M at least horizontally and a lifter 30 that conveys the luggage M at least in the vertical direction Z, and the gas blowing device 80 blows gas onto the luggage M on the external conveying device 20. However, without being limited to such an example, for example, the conveying device 15 may be configured without the external conveying device 20 and the lifter 30, and the gas blowing device 80 may be installed to blow gas onto the luggage M on the luggage receiving section 22. Furthermore, the gas blowing device 80 may be installed to blow gas onto the luggage M passing through a first entrance / exit 35 provided on the rooftop R3 or a second entrance / exit (removal section 45) provided on each floor. Furthermore, the conveying device 15 may be configured to include an external conveying device 20 that functions as a first conveying section that conveys the luggage M at least horizontally, but not a second conveying section. Furthermore, the conveying device 15 may be configured to include a lifter 30 or a stacker crane that functions as a second conveying section that conveys the cargo M at least in the vertical direction Z, and not to include a first conveying section.

[0041] (3) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the gas blowing device 80 is disposed on the rooftop R3 of the building has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, the gas blowing device 80 may be provided on a lifter 30 or stacker crane that functions as a second conveying unit disposed inside the building. Also, a configuration in which multiple gas blowing devices 80 are provided may be used. Also, the gas blowing device 80 may be configured to constantly blow out gas. Also, the column-side blowing unit 84 may be provided on the gas blowing device 80 of the first and second embodiments.

[0042] (4) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the replenishment storage unit 50 includes a wireless charging device 53. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example, and the replenishment storage unit 50 may include a wired charging device 53. Furthermore, the replenishment storage unit 50 may replenish fuel to the fuel cell of the unmanned aerial vehicle 90, for example. In this case, the replenishment storage unit 50 replenishes energy to the unmanned aerial vehicle 90 by replenishing the fuel that serves as the energy source (for example, filling a hydrogen storage container with hydrogen).

[0043] (5) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 is provided in a two-story building. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example, and the cargo receiving and storage apparatus 10 may be provided in, for example, a multi-story building with a basement, or the cargo transport apparatus 60 and the aircraft transport apparatus 70 may be provided in multiple buildings. Also, a floor above the first floor or a basement floor may be the first floor R1 provided with the cargo loading / unloading entrance 41 and the unmanned aerial vehicle loading / unloading entrance 51. Also, the cargo loading / unloading entrance 41 and the unmanned aerial vehicle loading / unloading entrance 51 may be provided on different floors.

[0044] (6) In the above embodiment, the transport device 15 is described as having a configuration in which the luggage transport device 60 and the aircraft transport device 70 are provided with the lifter 30, which is a shared second transport unit. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, the luggage transport device 60 and the aircraft transport device 70 may each be provided with the lifter 30. Furthermore, for example, the luggage receiving and storage device 10 may be provided in a building with only one above-ground floor, and the luggage transport device 60 may be a stacker crane that transports luggage M to each of multiple levels of storage shelves that function as the storage unit 40. Furthermore, the aircraft transport device 70 may be a stacker crane that transports unmanned aerial vehicles 90 to each of multiple levels of storage shelves that function as the replenishment storage unit 50. Furthermore, the luggage transport device 60 and the aircraft transport device 70 may each be provided with a stacker crane, or may be provided with a shared stacker crane. Furthermore, the removal unit 45 may be an exit port operated by a stacker crane, such as an exit shelf or an exit conveyor.

[0045] (7) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the storage unit 40 is disposed adjacent to the lifter 30 on the first side Xa in the specific direction, and the replenishment storage unit 50 is disposed adjacent to the lifter 30 on the second side Xb in the specific direction. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, both the storage unit 40 and the replenishment storage unit 50 may be disposed on the second side Xb in the specific direction relative to the lifter 30, away from the lifter 30. Furthermore, the storage conveying device 61 and the storage conveying device 71 may be automated guided vehicles that travel between the storage unit 40, the replenishment storage unit 50, and the lifter 30.

[0046] (8) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the external transport device 20 is provided on the rooftop R3 and doubles as the takeoff and landing section 21. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example, and the external transport device 20 may be disposed downstream of the takeoff and landing section 21. Furthermore, the external transport device 20 may not overlap with the storage section 40 when viewed from above and below. Furthermore, the takeoff and landing section 21 may be terrace-shaped, or may be hanger-shaped to hang and hang the unmanned aerial vehicle 90. Furthermore, the takeoff section and landing section of the takeoff and landing section 21 may be provided in different locations, or may each be provided in multiple locations.

[0047] (9) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the external conveying device 20 is provided on the rooftop R3 and serves as both the luggage receiving section 22 and the luggage delivery section 23. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example, and for example, the luggage receiving section 22 and the luggage delivery section 23 may be provided in different locations. Also, for example, the luggage receiving section 22 may be provided on the first floor R1 instead of the rooftop R3. Also, for example, the luggage receiving section 22 and the luggage delivery section 23 may each be provided in multiple locations. Also, for example, the external conveying device 20 that also serves as the takeoff and landing section 21 may be provided indoors.

[0048] (10) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the external conveying device 20 is provided with a baggage delivery device 24 that also serves as a baggage receiving device. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, the baggage receiving section 22 and the baggage delivery section 23 may not be provided with the baggage delivery device 24, and workers may perform the baggage receiving and baggage delivery operations. Furthermore, the baggage receiving section 22 may be a platform or a chute that does not have a baggage receiving device.

[0049] (11) In the above embodiment, the gas blowing device 80 is configured to blow gas over an area wider than the dimension Wm of the load M in the conveyance width direction W1. However, the present invention is not limited to this example, and the gas blowing device 80 may be configured to blow gas over an area wider than the dimension Lm of the load M in the conveyance direction L1.

[0050] (12) The configurations disclosed in the above-described embodiments may be combined with configurations disclosed in other embodiments as long as no contradictions arise. Regarding other configurations, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are merely examples in all respects. Therefore, various modifications may be made as appropriate within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0051] [Summary of the above embodiment] The above-described goods receiving and storage device will now be described.

[0052] The cargo receiving and storage device of the present disclosure comprises a takeoff and landing section where unmanned aerial vehicles take off and land, a cargo receiving section that receives luggage from the unmanned aerial vehicle, a storage section that stores multiple pieces of luggage, an retrieval section where the luggage stored in the storage section is retrieved, a transport device that transports the luggage between the cargo receiving section, the storage section, and the retrieval section, and a gas blowing device that is installed in the cargo receiving section or on the transport route of the luggage from the cargo receiving section to the storage section and that blows gas onto the luggage to remove any attachments adhering to the luggage.

[0053] This configuration allows for removal of any attachments attached to the luggage received from the unmanned aerial vehicle before storing it in the storage unit. Therefore, for example, it is easy to prevent attachments from separating from the luggage in the storage unit, which could lead to the accumulation of debris and dirt in the storage unit. Examples of such attachments include water droplets from rain or snow, dust, and fallen leaves. This configuration also reduces the likelihood of luggage with attachments being removed from the retrieval unit.

[0054] Here, it is preferable that the conveying device has a first conveying section that conveys the luggage at least horizontally, and the gas blowing device is installed so as to blow gas onto the luggage on the first conveying section.

[0055] According to this configuration, the gas blowing device blows gas onto the luggage on the first conveying section, which simplifies the gas blowing device and enables luggage received from the unmanned aerial vehicle to be quickly transported.

[0056] It is also preferable that the takeoff and landing section includes a support platform that supports the unmanned aerial vehicle from below, the storage section is positioned below the support platform, and the conveying device includes a first conveying section that is positioned above the storage section and a second conveying section that conveys the luggage at least in the vertical direction, and the first conveying section also serves as the luggage receiving section and is configured to convey the luggage from directly below the unmanned aerial vehicle supported on the support platform to the second conveying section.

[0057] According to this configuration, multiple packages can be stored using the space below the takeoff and landing section. Furthermore, according to this configuration, the first transport section also serves as the package receiving section, which simplifies the device configuration and allows packages received from the unmanned aerial vehicle to be transported quickly.

[0058] Furthermore, it is preferable that the direction along the conveying path of the first conveying unit is defined as the conveying direction, and the direction perpendicular to the conveying direction when viewed from above is defined as the conveying width direction, and that the gas blowing device is configured to blow gas over a range wider than the dimensions of the luggage in the conveying width direction at a target location on the conveying path of the first conveying unit.

[0059] According to this configuration, the movement of the luggage by the first transport section can be used to blow gas onto the entire luggage.

[0060] It is also preferable that the takeoff and landing section and the first transport section are arranged so as to overlap with the storage section when viewed in the up-down direction.

[0061] According to this configuration, it is easy to keep the installation area of ​​the cargo receiving and storage device small in plan view while ensuring the storage capacity of the cargo.

[0062] It is also preferable that the gas spraying device is configured to also spray gas onto the unmanned aerial vehicle that has landed on the takeoff and landing area.

[0063] According to this configuration, any foreign matter adhering to the unmanned aerial vehicle can also be removed.

[0064] It is also preferable that the storage section is located inside a building, and the takeoff and landing section, the cargo receiving section, and the gas spraying device are located on the roof of the building.

[0065] This configuration allows for easy takeoff and landing of the unmanned aerial vehicle, and also makes it difficult for debris blown off by the gas blowing device to get inside the building. [Explanation of symbols]

[0066] 10: Receiving and storage equipment 15:Transportation device 20: External transport device (first transport unit) 21: Takeoff and landing area 22: Receiving section 27: Support stand 30: Lifter (second conveying section) 40:Storage Department 45: Removal part 80: Gas spraying device 90:Unmanned aerial vehicle M: Luggage L1: Transfer direction W1: Transport width direction Wm: Package dimensions

Claims

1. a takeoff and landing section for the unmanned aerial vehicle to take off and land; a receiving unit that receives luggage from the unmanned aerial vehicle; a storage unit for storing a plurality of the packages; a take-out section where the luggage stored in the storage section is taken out; a conveying device that conveys the luggage between the luggage receiving unit, the storage unit, and the unloading unit; a gas blowing device that is installed in the cargo receiving section or on a transport route of the cargo from the cargo receiving section to the storage section and that blows gas onto the cargo to remove any adhering matter that has adhered to the cargo; The cargo receiving and storage device is configured so that the gas spraying device also sprays gas onto the unmanned aerial vehicle that has landed on the takeoff and landing area.

2. the conveying device includes a first conveying unit that conveys the luggage at least horizontally; 2. The cargo receiving and storage device according to claim 1, wherein the gas blowing device is installed so as to blow gas onto the cargo on the first transport section.

3. a takeoff and landing section for the unmanned aerial vehicle to take off and land; a receiving unit for receiving luggage from the unmanned aerial vehicle; a storage unit for storing a plurality of the packages; a take-out section where the luggage stored in the storage section is taken out; a conveying device that conveys the luggage between the luggage receiving unit, the storage unit, and the unloading unit; a gas blowing device that is installed on a transport path of the luggage from the luggage receiving section to the storage section and that blows gas onto the luggage to remove any adhering matter that has adhered to the luggage, the conveying device includes a first conveying unit that conveys the luggage at least horizontally, and a second conveying unit that conveys the luggage at least vertically, the second transport unit is installed closer to the storage unit than the first transport unit on the transport path, The storage unit is located inside a building; the takeoff and landing unit, the cargo receiving unit, the first conveying unit, and the gas blowing device are arranged on the roof of the building, The gas blowing device blows gas onto the luggage being transported by the first transport section on the second transport section side of the luggage receiving section on the transport path, in a luggage receiving and storage device.

4. A cargo receiving and storage device as described in Claim 3, wherein the gas spraying device is arranged so as to overlap with the storage section when viewed from the top and bottom.

5. a takeoff and landing section for the unmanned aerial vehicle to take off and land; a receiving unit for receiving luggage from the unmanned aerial vehicle; a storage unit for storing a plurality of the packages; a take-out section where the luggage stored in the storage section is taken out; a conveying device that conveys the luggage between the luggage receiving unit, the storage unit, and the unloading unit; a gas blowing device that is installed on a transport path of the luggage from the luggage receiving section to the storage section and that blows gas onto the luggage to remove any adhering matter that has adhered to the luggage, The storage unit is located inside a building; the takeoff and landing section, the cargo receiving section, and the gas blowing device are arranged on the roof of the building, A cargo receiving and storage device, wherein the gas blowing device is arranged so as to overlap with the storage section when viewed from above.

6. The takeoff and landing unit includes a support platform that supports the unmanned aerial vehicle from below, The storage unit is disposed below the support base, the conveying device includes the first conveying unit disposed above the storage unit and a second conveying unit that conveys the luggage at least in a vertical direction; A cargo receiving and storage device as described in claim 2 or 3, wherein the first conveying unit also serves as the cargo receiving unit and is configured to transport the cargo from directly below the unmanned aerial vehicle supported on the support base to the second conveying unit.

7. a direction along the conveying path of the first conveying unit is defined as a conveying direction, and a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction when viewed in the up-down direction is defined as a conveying width direction, A cargo receiving and storage device as described in claim 2 or 3, wherein the gas blowing device is configured to blow gas over an area wider than the dimensions of the cargo in the conveying width direction at a target location on the conveying path of the first conveying section.

8. The cargo receiving and storage device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the takeoff and landing section and the first transport section are arranged so as to overlap with the storage section when viewed in the up-down direction.

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