Item transport device

Abstract

To provide an article conveyance device provided with a lifting platform and a transfer unit on a traveling wagon capable of traveling, allowing installation of a power source at a position different from the wagon.SOLUTION: An article conveyance device has: a traveling wagon 3 capable of traveling; a carriage 4 liftable on the traveling wagon 3; a transfer unit 5 having a folk 5b allowing horizontal taking-in / out on the carriage 4; and a driving unit 6 for transmitting power to the traveling wagon 3, the carriage 4 and the transfer unit 5, by generating the power. The driving unit 6 has: a power source installed outside the traveling wagon 3 and generating the power; and a cable for transmitting the power generated in the power source to the traveling wagon 3, the carriage 4 and the transfer unit 5.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an article transport device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a stacker crane that transports cargo in an automated warehouse or the like. The stacker crane disclosed in Patent Document 1 is equipped with a transfer device that moves up and down along a mast erected on a crane cart. In addition, the stacker crane disclosed in Patent Document 1 has an elevation drive unit for raising and lowering the transfer device, an egress / egress drive unit for moving the transfer device in and out, and other components disposed on the crane cart. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-186075 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the stacker crane disclosed in Patent Document 1 and in a transport device having a similar structure but smaller than a stacker crane, a power source is disposed on a mobile carriage. Therefore, the power source moves along with the carriage. For example, when the carriage is moved in a special environment such as a low-temperature environment, a high-temperature environment, or an explosion-proof environment, the special environment may not be suitable for the operation of the power source, making it difficult to install the power source on the carriage. Furthermore, when performing maintenance on the power source, a worker must approach the carriage to perform the work. If the power source is disposed on the carriage, the special environment must be disrupted in order to perform maintenance on the power source.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to enable the power source to be placed in a position different from the cart in an article transport device in which a lifting platform and a transfer unit are provided on a movable cart. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention employs the following configuration as a means for solving the above problems.

[0007] A first aspect of the present invention is an article transport device comprising a movable carriage, a lifting platform that can be raised and lowered on the carriage, a transfer unit having an article transfer arm that can be moved in and out horizontally on the lifting platform, and a drive unit that generates power and transmits the power to the carriage, the lifting platform and the transfer unit, wherein the drive unit is configured to comprise a power source that is installed outside the carriage and generates the power, and a cord-like body that transmits the power generated by the power source to the carriage, the lifting platform and the transfer unit.

[0008] A second aspect of the present invention is the same as the first aspect, except that it includes a partition section that houses the cart, the lifting platform, and the transfer unit, and the power source is arranged outside the partition section.

[0009] A third aspect of the present invention is the first or second aspect, wherein the drive unit comprises a running motor as the power source, and the cord-like body comprises a running cord-like body connecting the running motor and the bogie, one end of the running cord-like body being fixed to the bogie from one side in the running direction of the bogie, and the other end of the running cord-like body being fixed to the bogie from the other side in the running direction of the bogie.

[0010] A fourth aspect of the present invention is a configuration in which, in any of the first to third aspects, the drive unit comprises a first lifting sprocket provided on a first side of the lifting platform and a second lifting sprocket provided on a second side of the lifting platform opposite the first side, the power source comprises a first lifting motor and a second lifting motor, and the cord-like body comprises a first lifting cord-like body connected to the first lifting motor and supporting the first lifting sprocket from below, and a second lifting cord-like body connected to the second lifting motor and supporting the second lifting sprocket from below.

[0011] A fifth aspect of the present invention is the fourth aspect, in which the drive unit is configured to include, as the cord-like body, a connecting cord-like body that connects to an end of the first lifting cord-like body located on the opposite side of the first lifting motor with the cart in between, and an end of the second lifting cord-like body located on the opposite side of the second lifting motor with the cart in between, and further includes a support sprocket that supports the connecting cord-like body.

[0012] A sixth aspect of the present invention adopts a configuration in which, in the fourth or fifth aspect, the drive unit is connected to the first lifting cord and the second lifting cord and is provided with a transfer unit drive mechanism capable of transmitting power transmitted from the first lifting cord and the second lifting cord to the transfer unit.

[0013] A seventh aspect of the present invention is the sixth aspect, wherein the transfer unit drive mechanism is configured to transmit the power to the transfer unit when the first lifting cord and the second lifting cord move in opposite directions, and to not transmit the power to the transfer unit when the first lifting cord and the second lifting cord move in the same direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, power generated by the power source is transmitted to the cart, the lifting platform, and the loading / unloading unit by the cable-like member. Therefore, the power source can be located away from the cart. Therefore, according to the present invention, in an article transport device in which the lifting platform and the loading / unloading unit are provided on a movable cart, the power source can be located at a position different from the cart. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic side view of an article transport apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an article transport apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 1 is a partially enlarged view of an article transport apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, seen from the +Y side and including a loading / unloading unit support section and the like. [Figure 4] 10 is a partially enlarged view of an article transport apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, seen from the -Y side including a loading / unloading unit support section and the like. FIG. [Figure 5] 2 is an enlarged perspective view including a connector provided in the article transport device according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 6] 3 is a partially enlarged view of a first lifting chain provided in the article transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] 4 is a partially enlarged view of a second lifting chain provided in the article transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 8] 3 is a plan view of a carriage and other components provided in an article transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the +Z direction. FIG. [Figure 9] 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a loading / unloading unit drive mechanism provided in an article transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an article transport device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of an article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment. The article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment is provided, for example, in an automatic storage apparatus that automatically carries in and out articles and stores articles. In addition to the article transport apparatus 1, the automatic storage apparatus may, for example, include storage shelves for storing articles and a carry-in / out device for carrying luggage into and out of the automatic storage apparatus. The article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment moves articles between the storage shelves and the carry-in / out device, and moves articles within the storage shelves. Note that there are no particular limitations on the size of articles transported by the article transport apparatus 1. For example, the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment can be used as an article transport apparatus for transporting articles weighing several tonnes or articles weighing several kg.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, an article transport device 1 of this embodiment includes a rail 2, a traveling cart 3 (cart), a carriage 4 (lifting platform), a loading / unloading unit 5, a drive unit 6, and a partition wall 7. In the following description, the traveling direction of the traveling cart 3 is referred to as the X direction, the horizontal direction perpendicular to the X direction is referred to as the Y direction, and the up-down direction is referred to as the Z direction. In addition, one side of the X direction is referred to as the +X side, and the other side is referred to as the -X side. In addition, in the Y direction, one side is referred to as the +Y side, and the other side is referred to as the -Y side. In addition, in the Z direction, the upper side is referred to as the +Z side, and the lower side is referred to as the -Z side.

[0019] The rails 2 are laid so as to extend linearly along the X direction. The rails 2 are provided on the floor surface and guide the traveling carriage 3 along the X direction. In this embodiment, the rails 2 are provided on the floor surface. However, for example, the rails can also be laid on the ceiling of the partition wall portion 7. It is also possible to lay the rails on both the floor surface and the ceiling.

[0020] The traveling carriage 3 is capable of traveling along the rail 2 by receiving power from the drive unit 6. The traveling carriage 3 comprises a base 3a, a mast 3b, and an upper frame 3c. The base 3a is a platform on which the mast 3b is erected. The base 3a also comprises a plurality of rollers that come into contact with the rail 2. These rollers roll while in contact with the rail 2, allowing the base 3a (i.e., the traveling carriage 3) to move smoothly along the rail 2. The drive unit 6 comprises a unit that includes a traveling motor 10 and a traveling chain 20, as will be described later. The traveling carriage 3 travels by receiving power from the unit that includes the traveling motor 10 and the traveling chain 20.

[0021] Two masts 3b are provided on the base 3a. These masts 3b are aligned in the X direction. The space between these masts 3b is a lifting space for the carriage 4. These masts 3b extend along the Z direction and guide the carriage 4 in the Z direction. The upper frame 3c connects the upper end of one mast 3b to the upper end of the other mast 3b. For example, if a rail is provided on the ceiling, rollers that come into contact with the rail are provided on the upper frame 3c.

[0022] The carriage 4 includes a mast connection portion 4a and a loading / unloading unit support portion 4b. The carriage 4 is raised and lowered along the mast 3b by power transmitted from the drive unit 6. As will be described later, the drive unit 6 includes a unit including a first lifting motor 11, a second lifting motor 12, a first lifting chain 21, a second lifting chain 22, and a connecting chain 23. The carriage 4 is raised and lowered by power supplied from the unit including the first lifting motor 11, the second lifting motor 12, the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23.

[0023] A mast connection part 4a is provided for each mast 3b. In other words, two mast connection parts 4a are provided. One mast connection part 4a is connected to one mast 3b so as to be movable in the Z direction. The other mast connection part 4a is connected to the other mast 3b so as to be movable in the Z direction.

[0024] The loading and unloading unit support part 4b is installed between one mast connection part 4a and the other mast connection part 4a. The loading and unloading unit support part 4b is formed in a shape extending in the X direction. The loading and unloading unit support part 4b supports the loading and unloading unit 5 from below.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a partial enlarged view of the article transport apparatus 1 as seen from the +Y side, including the loading / unloading unit support portion 4b. As shown in FIG. 3, the loading / unloading unit support portion 4b has a side surface 4c (first side surface) facing the +Y side. This side surface 4c forms the side surface of the carriage 4. This side surface 4c is provided with a +X side lifting sprocket 44 (first lifting sprocket) and a -X side lifting sprocket 47 (first lifting sprocket), which will be described later, of the drive unit 6. These +X side lifting sprocket 44 and the -X side lifting sprocket 47 are supported from below by a first lifting chain 21, which will be described later, of the drive unit 6. In other words, the loading / unloading unit support portion 4b (i.e., the carriage 4) is supported by the first lifting chain 21 via the +X side lifting sprocket 44 and the -X side lifting sprocket 47.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged view of the article transport apparatus 1, including the loading / unloading unit support portion 4b, as seen from the -Y side. As shown in FIG. 4, the loading / unloading unit support portion 4b has a side surface 4d (second side surface) facing the -Y side. This side surface 4d forms the side surface of the carriage 4 facing the opposite side to the side surface 4c. This side surface 4d is provided with a +X-side lifting sprocket 55 (second lifting sprocket) and a -X-side lifting sprocket 57 (second lifting sprocket), which will be described later, of the drive unit 6. These +X-side lifting sprocket 55 and the -X-side lifting sprocket 57 are supported from below by a second lifting chain 22, which will be described later, of the drive unit 6. In other words, the loading / unloading unit support portion 4b (i.e., the carriage 4) is supported by the second lifting chain 22 via the +X-side lifting sprocket 55 and the -X-side lifting sprocket 57.

[0027] The loading and unloading unit 5 is installed on the carriage 4 and moves an article along the Y direction. The loading and unloading unit 5 includes a base 5a and a fork 5b (article loading and unloading arm). The base 5a is fixed to the loading and unloading unit support part 4b of the carriage 4 from the +Z direction. In other words, the base 5a is supported from below by the carriage 4. The base 5a supports the fork 5b so that it can move in the Y direction.

[0028] The fork 5b is capable of moving in and out in the Y direction on the carriage 4 by power transmitted from the drive unit 6. The fork 5b supports the article to be transported from below and moves it in the Y direction. That is, in this embodiment, the loading and unloading unit 5 is equipped with the fork 5b that is capable of moving in and out horizontally on the carriage 4. As will be described later, the drive unit 6 includes a unit including a first lifting motor 11, a second lifting motor 12, a first lifting chain 21, a second lifting chain 22, and a connecting chain 23. The fork 5b is moved by power supplied from the unit including the first lifting motor 11, the second lifting motor 12, the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23.

[0029] The drive unit 6 generates power and transmits the power to the traveling cart 3, the carriage 4, and the loading / unloading unit 5. The drive unit 6 includes a unit including a traveling motor 10 and a traveling chain 20 (described later), and a unit including a first lifting motor 11, a second lifting motor 12, a first lifting chain 21, a second lifting chain 22, and a connecting chain 23 (described later). As shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the drive unit 6 includes the traveling motor 10 (power source), the first lifting motor 11 (power source), and the second lifting motor 12 (power source).

[0030] These power sources are motors that generate rotational power when supplied with electric power from an external source. The traveling motor 10 generates power for traveling the traveling carriage 3. The first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12 generate power for raising and lowering the carriage 4. The first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12 are also used as power for moving the fork 5b. In other words, the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12 generate power for driving the loading / unloading unit 5.

[0031] In this embodiment, the traveling motor 10, the first lifting motor 11, and the second lifting motor 12 are arranged outside the partition wall 7. In this embodiment, the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12 are located on the +X side of the traveling carriage 3.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 2, the drive unit 6 also includes a running chain 20 (running cord), a first lifting chain 21 (first lifting cord), a second lifting chain 22 (second lifting cord), and a connecting chain 23 (connecting cord).

[0033] These chains transmit the power generated by the power source to the traveling cart 3, the carriage 4, and the transfer unit 5. The traveling chain 20 transmits the power generated by the traveling motor 10 to the traveling cart 3. The first lifting chain 21 transmits the power generated by the first lifting motor 11 to the carriage 4 and the transfer unit 5. The second lifting chain 22 transmits the power generated by the second lifting motor 12 to the carriage 4 and the transfer unit 5.

[0034] The traveling chain 20 connects the traveling motor 10 and the traveling bogie 3. One end of the traveling chain 20 is fixed to the traveling bogie 3 from the +X side. The other end of the traveling chain 20 is fixed to the traveling bogie 3 from the -X side. As shown in FIG. 2, the drive unit 6 is equipped with a traveling sprocket 30. The traveling sprocket 30 is positioned on the -X side of the traveling bogie 3. The traveling sprocket 30 is rotatably supported by a support part (not shown). The traveling chain 20 is wound around the traveling motor 10, which is positioned on the +X side of the traveling bogie 3, and the traveling sprocket 30, which is positioned on the -X side of the traveling bogie 3.

[0035] The routing shape of the traveling chain 20 will be described sequentially from one end of the traveling chain 20 to the other end. The traveling chain 20 extends from one end fixed to the +X side end of the traveling carriage 3 toward the +X side in the X direction toward the traveling motor 10. Next, the traveling chain 20 is wrapped around the traveling motor 10 from the +X side and guided in the -X direction. Next, the traveling chain 20 extends from the traveling motor 10 toward the traveling sprocket 30 toward the -X side in the X direction. Next, the traveling chain 20 is wrapped around the traveling sprocket 30 from the -X side and guided to the +X side. Next, the traveling chain 20 extends from the traveling sprocket 30 toward the +X side in the X direction toward the traveling carriage 3. The other end of the traveling chain 20 is fixed to the -X side end of the traveling carriage 3 from the -X side.

[0036] When the travel motor 10 is driven, the travel chain 20 moves forward while being supported by the travel motor 10 and the travel sprocket 30. As a result, the travel carriage 3 travels along the X direction. For example, when the travel motor 10 is rotated in one direction, one end of the travel motor 10 pulls the travel carriage 3 toward the +X side, causing the travel carriage 3 to travel on the +X side. When the travel motor 10 is rotated in the other direction, the other end of the travel motor 10 pulls the travel carriage 3 toward the -X side, causing the travel carriage 3 to travel on the -X side.

[0037] The first lifting chain 21 is connected to the first lifting motor 11. One end 21a of the first lifting chain 21 is located above the first lifting motor 11 and on the +X side of the traveling carriage 3. One end 21a of the first lifting chain 21 is fixed to the partition wall 7, for example, via a support part (not shown). The other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 is connected to the connecting chain 23 on the -X side of the traveling carriage 3.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 2, drive unit 6 includes a first upper sprocket 40 and a first floor sprocket 41. In addition, as shown in Fig. 3, drive unit 6 includes a +X side base sprocket 42, a +X side upper frame sprocket 43, a +X side lifting sprocket 44, a +X side guide sprocket 45, a -X side guide sprocket 46, a -X side lifting sprocket 47, a -X side upper frame sprocket 48, and a -X side base sprocket 49. These first upper sprocket 40, first floor sprocket 41, +X side base sprocket 42, +X side upper frame sprocket 43, +X side lifting sprocket 44, +X side guide sprocket 45, -X side guide sprocket 46, -X side lifting sprocket 47, -X side upper frame sprocket 48, and -X side base sprocket 49 are sprockets that guide the first lifting chain 21.

[0039] The first upper sprocket 40 is disposed on the +X side of the traveling carriage 3 and above the first lifting motor 11. The first floor sprocket 41 is disposed on the -X side of the traveling carriage 3 and at a height close to the rail 2. The first upper sprocket 40 and the first floor sprocket 41 are rotatably supported by a support portion (not shown).

[0040] The +X-side base sprocket 42 is rotatably supported by the base 3a of the traveling carriage 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the +X-side base sprocket 42 is disposed at the +X-side end of the base 3a. The +X-side upper frame sprocket 43 is rotatably supported by the upper frame 3c of the traveling carriage 3. The +X-side upper frame sprocket 43 is disposed at the +X-side end of the upper frame 3c, and is located above the +X-side base sprocket 42.

[0041] +X side lifting sprocket 44, +X side guide sprocket 45, -X side guide sprocket 46, and -X side lifting sprocket 47 are rotatably supported on the side surface 4c facing the +Y side of the loading and unloading unit support part 4b of the carriage 4. +X side lifting sprocket 44 is disposed at the end of the loading and unloading unit support part 4b closest to the +X side, and is located below +X side upper frame sprocket 43.

[0042] The +X-side guide sprocket 45 is disposed in the X direction between the +X-side lifting sprocket 44 and a first input gear 81, which will be described later. The -X-side guide sprocket 46 is disposed in the X direction between the -X-side lifting sprocket 47 and the first input gear 81. The +X-side guide sprocket 45 and the -X-side guide sprocket 46 guide the first lifting chain 21 so that it comes into contact with the underside of the first input gear 81. The -X-side lifting sprocket 47 is disposed at the end of the loading / unloading unit support part 4b closest to the -X side, and is located below the -X-side upper frame sprocket 48.

[0043] The -X-side upper frame sprocket 48 is rotatably supported by the upper frame 3c of the traveling carriage 3. The -X-side upper frame sprocket 48 is disposed at the -X-side end of the upper frame 3c, and is located above the -X-side base sprocket 49. The -X-side base sprocket 49 is rotatably supported by the base 3a of the traveling carriage 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the -X-side base sprocket 49 is disposed at the -X-side end of the base 3a.

[0044] The routing shape of first lifting chain 21 will be described in order from one end 21a to the other end 21b of first lifting chain 21. First lifting chain 21 extends downward from one end 21a located above first lifting motor 11, forms hanging portion 21c, and then extends upward. Next, first lifting chain 21 extends upward from hanging portion 21c toward first upper sprocket 40, and is wrapped around first upper sprocket 40 from above.

[0045] Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends downward from the first upper sprocket 40 toward the first lifting motor 11 and is wrapped around the first lifting motor 11 from below. Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends in the X direction from the first lifting motor 11 toward the +X side base sprocket 42 and is wrapped around the +X side base sprocket 42 from below. Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends upward from the +X side base sprocket 42 toward the +X side upper frame sprocket 43 and is wrapped around the +X side upper frame sprocket 43 from above.

[0046] Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends downward from the +X side upper frame sprocket 43 and is looped around the +X side lifting sprocket 44 from below. Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends from the +X side lifting sprocket 44 toward the -X side and is looped around the -X side lifting sprocket 47 from below via the +X side guide sprocket 45 and the -X side guide sprocket 46. Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends upward from the -X side lifting sprocket 47 and is looped around the -X side upper frame sprocket 48 from above. Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends downward from the -X side upper frame sprocket 48 and is looped around the -X side base sprocket 49 from below.

[0047] Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends in the X direction from the -X side base sprocket 49 toward the first floor sprocket 41, and is looped around the first floor sprocket 41 from below. Next, the first lifting chain 21 extends upward from the first floor sprocket 41. The other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 is then connected to the connecting chain 23.

[0048] The second lifting chain 22 is connected to the second lifting motor 12. One end 22a of the second lifting chain 22 is located above the second lifting motor 12 and on the +X side of the traveling carriage 3. One end 22a of the second lifting chain 22 is fixed to the partition wall 7, for example, via a support part (not shown). The other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 is connected to the connecting chain 23 on the -X side of the traveling carriage 3.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 2, drive unit 6 includes second upper sprocket 50 and second floor sprocket 51. Also, as shown in Fig. 4, drive unit 6 includes +X side base sprocket 52, +X side upper frame sprocket 53, +X side lifting sprocket 54, +X side lifting sprocket 55, -X side guide sprocket 56, -X side lifting sprocket 57, -X side upper frame sprocket 58, and -X side base sprocket 59. These second upper sprocket 50, second floor sprocket 51, +X side base sprocket 52, +X side upper frame sprocket 53, +X side lifting sprocket 54, +X side lifting sprocket 55, -X side guide sprocket 56, -X side lifting sprocket 57, -X side upper frame sprocket 58, and -X side base sprocket 59 are sprockets that guide the second lifting chain 22.

[0050] The second upper sprocket 50 is disposed on the +X side of the traveling carriage 3 and above the second lifting motor 12. The second floor sprocket 51 is disposed on the -X side of the traveling carriage 3 and at a height closer to the rail 2. The second upper sprocket 50 and the second floor sprocket 51 are rotatably supported by a support portion (not shown).

[0051] The +X-side base sprocket 52 is rotatably supported by the base 3a of the traveling carriage 3. As shown in FIG. 4, the +X-side base sprocket 52 is disposed at the +X-side end of the base 3a. The +X-side upper frame sprocket 53 is rotatably supported by the upper frame 3c of the traveling carriage 3. The +X-side upper frame sprocket 53 is disposed at the +X-side end of the upper frame 3c, and is located above the +X-side base sprocket 52.

[0052] The +X side lifting sprocket 54, the +X side lifting sprocket 55, the -X side guide sprocket 56, and the -X side lifting sprocket 57 are rotatably supported on the side surface 4c facing the +Y side of the loading and unloading unit support part 4b of the carriage 4. The +X side lifting sprocket 54 is disposed at the end of the loading and unloading unit support part 4b on the +X side, and is located below the +X side upper frame sprocket 53.

[0053] The +X-side lifting sprocket 55 is disposed between the +X-side lifting sprocket 54 and a second input gear 84, which will be described later, in the X direction. The -X-side guide sprocket 56 is disposed between the -X-side lifting sprocket 57 and the second input gear 84 in the X direction. The +X-side lifting sprocket 55 and the -X-side guide sprocket 56 guide the second lifting chain 22 so that it comes into contact with the upper side of the second input gear 84. The -X-side lifting sprocket 57 is disposed at the end of the loading / unloading unit support part 4b closest to the -X side, and is located below the -X-side upper frame sprocket 58.

[0054] The -X-side upper frame sprocket 58 is rotatably supported by the upper frame 3c of the traveling cart 3. The -X-side upper frame sprocket 58 is disposed at the -X-side end of the upper frame 3c, and is located above the -X-side base sprocket 59. The -X-side base sprocket 59 is rotatably supported by the base 3a of the traveling cart 3. As shown in FIG. 4, the -X-side base sprocket 59 is disposed at the -X-side end of the base 3a.

[0055] The routing shape of the second lifting chain 22 will be described in order from one end 22a to the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22. The second lifting chain 22 extends downward from one end 22a located above the second lifting motor 12, forms a hanging portion 22c, and then extends upward. The second lifting chain 22 then extends upward from the hanging portion 22c toward the second upper sprocket 50 and is looped around the second upper sprocket 50 from above.

[0056] Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends downward from the second upper sprocket 50 toward the second lifting motor 12 and is wrapped around the second lifting motor 12 from below. Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends in the X direction from the second lifting motor 12 toward the +X side base sprocket 52 and is wrapped around the +X side base sprocket 52 from below. Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends upward from the +X side base sprocket 52 toward the +X side upper frame sprocket 53 and is wrapped around the +X side upper frame sprocket 53 from above.

[0057] Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends downward from the +X side upper frame sprocket 53 and is looped around the +X side lifting sprocket 54 from below. Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends from the +X side lifting sprocket 54 toward the -X side and passes through the +X side lifting sprocket 55 and the -X side guide sprocket 56, and is looped around the -X side lifting sprocket 57 from below. Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends upward from the -X side lifting sprocket 57 and is looped around the -X side upper frame sprocket 58 from above. Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends downward from the -X side upper frame sprocket 58 and is looped around the -X side base sprocket 59 from below.

[0058] Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends in the X direction from the -X side base sprocket 59 toward the second floor sprocket 51, and is looped around the second floor sprocket 51 from below. Next, the second lifting chain 22 extends upward from the second floor sprocket 51. The other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 is connected to the connecting chain 23.

[0059] The first lifting chain 21 supports the +X side lifting sprocket 44 and the -X side lifting sprocket 47 from below. The second lifting chain 22 supports the +X side lifting sprocket 54 and the -X side lifting sprocket 57 from below. The first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 support the carriage 4.

[0060] As a result of the length from the other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 to the first lifting motor 11 and the length from the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 to the second lifting motor 12 simultaneously becoming shorter, the +X side lifting sprocket 44 and the -X side lifting sprocket 47, and the +X side lifting sprocket 54 and the -X side lifting sprocket 57 are lifted, and the carriage 4 rises. Furthermore, if the length from the other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 to the first lifting motor 11 and the length from the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 to the second lifting motor 12 simultaneously become longer, the carriage 4 will descend under its own weight.

[0061] The connecting chain 23 connects the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22. The connecting chain 23 connects the other end 21b (end) of the first lifting chain 21, which is located on the opposite side of the first lifting motor 11 with the traveling cart 3 in between, to the other end 22b (end) of the second lifting chain 22, which is located on the opposite side of the second lifting motor 12 with the traveling cart 3 in between.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 2, the drive unit 6 has a connector 60 for connecting the connecting chain 23 and the first lifting chain 21, and a connector 61 for connecting the connecting chain 23 and the second lifting chain 22. FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view including the connector 60. As shown in FIG. 5, the first lifting chain 21 connected to the connector 60 has pin axes parallel to the Y direction. On the other hand, the connecting chain 23 connected to the connector 60 has pin axes parallel to the X direction. In other words, the connector 60 connects the first lifting chain 21 and the connecting chain 23 so that the pin axes of the first lifting chain 21 and the connecting chain 23 intersect when viewed from the Z direction.

[0063] Similarly, the second lifting chain 22 connected to the connector 61 has its pin axes parallel to the Y direction. On the other hand, the connecting chain 23 connected to the connector 61 has its pin axes parallel to the X direction. In other words, the connector 61 connects the second lifting chain 22 and the connecting chain 23 so that the pin axes of the second lifting chain 22 and the connecting chain 23 intersect when viewed from the Z direction.

[0064] The pin axes of the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 are parallel to the Y direction, and as shown in Fig. 2, they are bendable in the XZ plane. On the other hand, the pin axes of the connecting chain 23 are parallel to the X direction, and as shown in Fig. 2, they are bendable in the YZ plane. The first lifting chain 21 and the connecting chain 23, which have different bendable surfaces, are connected via a connector 60. The second lifting chain 22 and the connecting chain 23, which have different bendable surfaces, are connected via a connector 61.

[0065] The drive unit 6 also includes a connecting chain sprocket 70 (support sprocket) around which the connecting chain 23 is wound from above. The connecting chain sprocket 70 is disposed above the first floor sprocket 41 and the second floor sprocket 51. The connecting chain sprocket 70 is rotatably supported by a support (not shown).

[0066] The drive unit 6 also includes a first counterweight 71 provided midway along the first lifting chain 21 and a second counterweight 72 provided midway along the second lifting chain 22. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view of the first lifting chain 21. As shown in FIG. 6, the first counterweight 71 is provided in a portion of the first lifting chain 21 between the first upper sprocket 40 and the hanging portion 21c. FIG. 7 is a partially enlarged view of the second lifting chain 22. As shown in FIG. 7, the second counterweight 72 is provided in a portion of the second lifting chain 22 between the second upper sprocket 50 and the hanging portion 22c.

[0067] Here, for example, the first lifting chain 21 is rotated so that the portion of the first lifting chain 21 connected to the first lifting motor 11 faces the +X side. At the same time, the second lifting chain 22 is rotated so that the portion of the second lifting chain 22 connected to the second lifting motor 12 faces the +X side. The other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 and the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 are connected by a connecting chain 23. Therefore, when the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12 are rotated in this manner, the distance from the other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 to the first lifting motor 11 and the distance from the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 to the second lifting motor 12 become shorter. In other words, when the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as one chain, the length of the chain from the first lifting motor 11 to the second lifting motor 12 is shortened. As a result, the carriage 4 rises.

[0068] Also, for example, the first lifting chain 21 is rotated so that the portion of the first lifting chain 21 connected to the first lifting motor 11 faces the -X side. At the same time, the second lifting chain 22 is rotated so that the portion of the second lifting chain 22 connected to the second lifting motor 12 faces the -X side. The other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 and the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 are connected by a connecting chain 23. Therefore, when the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12 are rotated in this manner, the distance from the other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 to the first lifting motor 11 and the distance from the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 to the second lifting motor 12 become longer. In other words, when the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as one chain, the length of the chain from the first lifting motor 11 to the second lifting motor 12 becomes longer. As a result, the carriage 4 descends.

[0069] Also, for example, the first lifting chain 21 is rotated so that the portion of the first lifting chain 21 connected to the first lifting motor 11 faces the +X side. At the same time, the second lifting chain 22 is rotated so that the portion of the second lifting chain 22 connected to the second lifting motor 12 faces the -X side. In such a case, the distance from the other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 to the first lifting motor 11 becomes shorter, and the distance from the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 to the second lifting motor 12 becomes longer accordingly. In other words, when the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as a single chain, the length of the chain from the first lifting motor 11 to the second lifting motor 12 does not change. As a result, the carriage 4 does not move up or down.

[0070] Also, for example, the first lifting chain 21 is rotated so that the portion of the first lifting chain 21 connected to the first lifting motor 11 faces the -X side. At the same time, the second lifting chain 22 is rotated so that the portion of the second lifting chain 22 connected to the second lifting motor 12 faces the +X side. In such a case, the distance from the other end 21b of the first lifting chain 21 to the first lifting motor 11 becomes longer, and the distance from the other end 22b of the second lifting chain 22 to the second lifting motor 12 becomes shorter accordingly. In other words, when the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as a single chain, the length of the chain from the first lifting motor 11 to the second lifting motor 12 does not change. As a result, the carriage 4 does not move up or down.

[0071] 8 is a plan view of the carriage 4 and the like as viewed from the +Z direction. As shown in this figure, the drive unit 6 is equipped with a loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80. The loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80 is rotatably supported by the carriage 4. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80. As shown in FIG. 9, the loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80 is equipped with a first input gear 81, a first input shaft 82, a first side gear 83, a second input gear 84, a second input shaft 85, a second side gear 86, a first pinion 87, a second pinion 88, a pinion shaft 89, a case 90, a ring gear 91, a drive pinion 92, and an output shaft 93.

[0072] The first input gear 81 is disposed opposite the side surface 4c of the carriage 4. As shown in Fig. 3, the first input gear 81 is disposed between the +X side guide sprocket 45 and the -X side guide sprocket 46 in the X direction. The lower side of the first input gear 81 is connected to the first lifting chain 21.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 8, the first input shaft 82 is provided so as to penetrate the side surface 4c of the carriage 4, and is rotatably supported with respect to the carriage 4 by a bearing (not shown). As shown in Fig. 9, a first input gear 81 is fixed to one end of the first input shaft 82. Furthermore, a first side gear 83 is fixed to the other end of the first input shaft 82.

[0074] 9, the first side gear 83 is a helical gear and is housed inside a case 90. The first side gear 83 is meshed with a first pinion 87 and a second pinion 88 inside the case 90.

[0075] The second input gear 84 is disposed opposite the side surface 4d of the carriage 4. As shown in Fig. 4, the second input gear 84 is disposed between the +X side lifting sprocket 55 and the -X side guide sprocket 56 in the X direction. The upper side of the second input gear 84 is connected to the second lifting chain 22.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 8, the second input shaft 85 penetrates the side surface 4d of the carriage 4 and is rotatably supported relative to the carriage 4 by a bearing (not shown). As shown in FIG. 9, a second input gear 84 is fixed to one end of the second input shaft 85. A second side gear 86 is fixed to the other end of the second input shaft 85. An opening (not shown) is provided in the center of the ring gear 91, and the second input shaft 85 is inserted through this opening. Therefore, the second input shaft 85 can rotate separately from the ring gear 91.

[0077] 9, the second side gear 86 is a helical gear, and is housed inside the case 90. The second side gear 86 is meshed with a first pinion 87 and a second pinion 88 inside the case 90.

[0078] The first pinion 87 and the second pinion 88 are fixed to a pinion shaft 89 and rotatably supported inside a case 90. Each of the first pinion 87 and the second pinion 88 is a helical gear, and is meshed with the first side gear 83 and the second side gear 86.

[0079] As described above, pinion shaft 89 is a shaft to which first pinion 87 and second pinion are fixed. Pinion shaft 89 is disposed so as to extend in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction (Y direction) of first input shaft 82 and second input shaft 85. Both end portions of pinion shaft 89 are rotatably supported with respect to case 90 by bearings or the like (not shown).

[0080] The case 90 houses the first side gear 83, the second side gear 86, the first pinion 87, and the second pinion 88. A ring gear 91 is fixed to the case 90. The ring gear 91 rotates when the case 90 rotates in the circumferential direction about an axis (referred to as the Y axis) parallel to the Y direction.

[0081] The ring gear 91 is fixed to the case 90 as described above. The ring gear 91 is a helical gear and is meshed with the drive pinion 92. The drive pinion 92 is disposed above the case 90. The drive pinion 92 is a helical gear and is meshed with the ring gear 91. The output shaft 93 is fixed to the drive pinion 92. When the drive pinion 92 is rotated, the output shaft 93 is rotated in the circumferential direction about an axis (referred to as the Z-axis) parallel to the Z direction. The output shaft 93 is connected to the loading / unloading unit 5.

[0082] When the output shaft 93 is rotated in the circumferential direction around the Z axis, the fork 5b of the loading / unloading unit 5 is moved along the Y direction. For example, when the output shaft 93 is rotated clockwise about the Z axis as viewed from the +Z direction, the fork 5b is moved in the +Y direction. Also, when the output shaft 93 is rotated counterclockwise about the Z axis as viewed from the +Z direction, the fork 5b is moved in the -Y direction.

[0083] Such a loading and unloading unit drive mechanism 80 is made up of a differential gear unit. The loading and unloading unit drive mechanism 80 may further include a mechanism other than the differential gear unit. In other words, the loading and unloading unit drive mechanism 80 only needs to include a differential gear unit. Such a loading and unloading unit drive mechanism 80 is connected to the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22. The loading and unloading unit drive mechanism 80 can transmit power transmitted from the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 to the loading and unloading unit 5.

[0084] For example, when viewed from the +Y direction, if the first input gear 81 and the second input gear 84 are rotated in the same direction around the Y axis, the case 90 rotates around the Y axis, and power is transmitted from the output shaft 93 to the loading / unloading unit 5 via the ring gear 91 and the drive pinion 92. More specifically, when the first input gear 81 and the second input gear 84 are rotated in the same direction around the Y axis, forces are applied in opposite directions to the first pinion 87 and the second pinion 88, preventing the first pinion 87 and the second pinion 88 from rotating around the pinion shaft 89. As a result, the pinion shaft 89 is rotated around the Y axis, and further, the case 90 and the ring gear 91 are also rotated coaxially with the pinion shaft 89. Therefore, the drive pinion 92 and the output shaft 93 are rotated in the circumferential direction around the Z axis.

[0085] Here, the first lifting chain 21 meshes with the lower side of the first input gear 81. Furthermore, the second lifting chain 22 meshes with the upper side of the second input gear 84. Therefore, when the moving direction of the first lifting chain 21 in the first input gear 81 is opposite to the moving direction of the second lifting chain 22 in the second input gear 84, the rotation direction of the first input gear 81 and the rotation direction of the second input gear 84 are the same. Therefore, when the moving direction of the first lifting chain 21 in the first input gear 81 is opposite to the moving direction of the second lifting chain 22 in the second input gear 84, power is transmitted to the loading and unloading unit 5.

[0086] For example, when the moving direction of the first lifting chain 21 at the first input gear 81 is the +X direction and the moving direction of the second lifting chain 22 at the second input gear 84 is the -X direction, the output shaft 93 is rotated counterclockwise about the Z axis. As a result, the fork 5b is moved, for example, in the -Y direction.

[0087] For example, when the moving direction of the first lifting chain 21 at the first input gear 81 is the -X direction and the moving direction of the second lifting chain 22 at the second input gear 84 is the -X direction, the output shaft 93 is rotated clockwise about the Z axis. As a result, the fork 5b is moved, for example, in the +Y direction.

[0088] On the other hand, for example, when viewed from the +Y direction, if the first input gear 81 and the second input gear 84 are rotated in opposite directions around the Y axis, the case 90 does not rotate around the Y axis, and the ring gear 91 and the output shaft 93 do not rotate either, and power is not transmitted to the loading / unloading unit 5. More specifically, when the first input gear 81 and the second input gear 84 are rotated in opposite directions around the Y axis, forces are applied to the first pinion 87 and the second pinion 88 in the same direction, and the first pinion 87 and the second pinion 88 rotate around the pinion shaft 89. As a result, the pinion shaft 89 only rotates in the circumferential direction around the Z axis, and the case 90 does not rotate. Therefore, the ring gear 91 and the output shaft 93 do not rotate either, and power is not transmitted to the loading / unloading unit 5.

[0089] Here, when the traveling direction of the first lifting chain 21 at the first input gear 81 and the traveling direction of the second lifting chain 22 at the second input gear 84 are the same, the rotation direction of the first input gear 81 and the rotation direction of the second input gear 84 are opposite. Therefore, when the traveling direction of the first lifting chain 21 at the first input gear 81 and the traveling direction of the second lifting chain 22 at the second input gear 84 are the same, power is not transmitted to the loading and unloading unit 5.

[0090] In this way, the loading and unloading unit drive mechanism 80 transmits the power to the loading and unloading unit 5 when the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 move in opposite directions. On the other hand, the loading and unloading unit drive mechanism 80 does not transmit power to the loading and unloading unit 5 when the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 move in the same direction.

[0091] Returning to FIG. 1 , the partition 7 is provided to cover the travelable area of ​​the traveling carriage 3. The partition 7 can maintain the internal environment of the partition 7. That is, the partition 7 isolates the internal space of the partition 7 from the external space. For example, the interior of the partition 7 can be a low-temperature environment, a high-temperature environment, or an explosion-proof environment. In addition, in this embodiment, the partition 7 does not house the travel motor 10, the first lifting motor 11, and the second lifting motor 12, which are power sources. That is, the travel motor 10, the first lifting motor 11, and the second lifting motor 12 are located outside the partition 7. Part of the partition 7 has openings through which the travel chain 20, the first lifting chain 21, and the second lifting chain are inserted.

[0092] A power source partition for accommodating the power sources (travel motor 10, first lift motor 11, and second lift motor 12) may be provided in addition to partition 7. The first upper sprocket 40 and the second upper sprocket 50 may be accommodated inside this power source partition.

[0093] In the article transport device 1 of this embodiment, when the traveling cart 3 is caused to travel, the traveling motor 10 is driven under the control of a control device (not shown). When the traveling motor 10 is driven to generate rotational power, the traveling chain 20 moves while being wound around the traveling motor 10 and the traveling sprocket 30. The movement of the traveling chain 20 causes the traveling cart 3 to move in the X direction.

[0094] For example, when the traveling chain 20 is moved so that one end of the traveling chain 20 connected to the end on the +X side of the traveling carriage 3 is moved in the +X direction, the traveling carriage 3 travels on the +X side. Also, when the traveling chain 20 is moved so that the other end of the traveling chain 20 connected to the end on the -X side of the traveling carriage 3 is moved in the - direction, the traveling carriage 3 travels on the -X side.

[0095] Here, when the traveling cart 3 travels, the carriage 4 supported by the traveling cart 3 also moves in the X direction. When the carriage 4 moves in the X direction, the carriage 4 moves relative to the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 because the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 are stopped.

[0096] However, even when the traveling cart 3 is traveling, if the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as one chain, the length of the chain from the first lifting motor 11 to the second lifting motor 12 does not change. Therefore, even when the traveling cart 3 is traveling, the height of the carriage 4 is maintained as long as the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12 are not driven.

[0097] Furthermore, when the traveling cart 3 travels, the direction of travel of the first lifting chain 21 as seen from the first input gear 81 of the loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80 is the same as the direction of travel of the second lifting chain 22 as seen from the second input gear 84. Therefore, the first input gear 81 and the second input gear 84 rotate in opposite directions as described above. As a result, the case 90 and ring gear 91 of the loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80 do not rotate. Therefore, even if the traveling cart 3 travels, power is not transmitted to the loading / unloading unit 5 unless the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12 are driven.

[0098] Furthermore, in the article transport device 1 of this embodiment, when raising and lowering the carriage 4, the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor are driven under the control of a control device (not shown). Here, the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor are driven so that the portion of the first lifting chain 21 connected to the first lifting motor 11 and the portion of the second lifting chain 22 connected to the second lifting motor 12 are directed in the same direction.

[0099] When the first lifting / lowering chain 21, the second lifting / lowering chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as one chain, if the first lifting / lowering motor 11 and the second lifting / lowering motor 12 are driven so that the length of the chain from the first lifting / lowering motor 11 to the second lifting / lowering motor 12 is shortened, the carriage 4 will rise. When the first lifting / lowering chain 21, the second lifting / lowering chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as one chain, if the first lifting / lowering motor 11 and the second lifting / lowering motor 12 are driven so that the length of the chain from the first lifting / lowering motor 11 to the second lifting / lowering motor 12 is lengthened, the carriage 4 will descend.

[0100] However, when the carriage 4 is raised or lowered, the direction of travel of the first lifting chain 21 as seen from the first input gear 81 of the loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80 and the direction of travel of the second lifting chain 22 as seen from the second input gear 84 are the same. Therefore, the first input gear 81 and the second input gear 84 are rotated in opposite directions as described above. As a result, the case 90 and ring gear 91 of the loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80 are not rotated. Therefore, even if the carriage 4 is raised or lowered, no power is transmitted to the loading / unloading unit 5.

[0101] Furthermore, in the article transport device 1 of this embodiment, when the fork 5b of the loading / unloading unit 5 is moved, the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor are driven under the control of a control device (not shown). Here, the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor are driven so that the portion of the first lifting chain 21 connected to the first lifting motor 11 and the portion of the second lifting chain 22 connected to the second lifting motor 12 move in opposite directions. Therefore, the first input gear 81 and the second input gear 84 rotate in the same direction as described above. As a result, the case 90 and the ring gear 91 of the loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80 rotate. Therefore, power is transmitted to the loading / unloading unit 5, and the fork 5b is moved.

[0102] For example, if the traveling direction of the first lifting chain 21 at the first input gear 81 is the +X direction and the traveling direction of the second lifting chain 22 at the second input gear 84 is the -X direction, the output shaft 93 is rotated counterclockwise about the Z axis. As a result, the fork 5b is moved, for example, in the -Y direction. Also, if the traveling direction of the first lifting chain 21 at the first input gear 81 is the -X direction and the traveling direction of the second lifting chain 22 at the second input gear 84 is the -X direction, the output shaft 93 is rotated clockwise about the Z axis. As a result, the fork 5b is moved, for example, in the +Y direction.

[0103] However, even when the fork 5b of the loading / unloading unit 5 is moved, if the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as one chain, the length of the chain from the first lifting motor 11 to the second lifting motor 12 does not change. Therefore, even when the fork 5b of the loading / unloading unit 5 is moved, the carriage 4 does not move up or down.

[0104] The article transport device 1 of this embodiment as described above comprises a traveling cart 3, a carriage 4, a loading and unloading unit 5, and a drive unit 6. The traveling cart 3 is capable of traveling. The carriage 4 is capable of rising and falling on the traveling cart 3. The loading and unloading unit 5 has a fork 5b that can be moved horizontally in and out on the carriage 4. The drive unit 6 generates power and transmits the power to the traveling cart 3, the carriage 4, and the loading and unloading unit 5. The drive unit 6 also comprises a power source (travel motor 10, first lifting motor 11, and second lifting motor 12) and a cord-like body (traveling chain 20, first lifting chain 21, and second lifting chain 22). The power source is installed outside the traveling cart 3 and generates power. The cord-like body transmits the power generated by the power source to the traveling cart 3, the carriage 4, and the loading and unloading unit 5.

[0105] According to the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, power generated by the power source is transmitted by the cord-like member to the traveling cart 3, the carriage 4, and the loading and unloading unit 5. This allows the power source to be located away from the traveling cart 3. Therefore, according to the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, in an article transport apparatus in which the carriage 4 and the loading and unloading unit 5 are provided on the travelable traveling cart 3, the power source can be located in a position different from the traveling cart 3.

[0106] According to the article transport device 1 of this embodiment, the power source is disposed in a position different from the traveling carriage 3, so the power source does not move with the traveling carriage 3. Maintenance of this power source can be performed in a position away from the traveling carriage 3. Furthermore, even if the traveling carriage 3 is disposed in a special environment such as a low-temperature environment, a high-temperature environment, or an explosion-proof environment, maintenance of the power source can be performed without disturbing the special environment. Furthermore, because there is no need to dispose the power source in such a special environment, the power source can be designed without having to be adapted to the special environment.

[0107] The article transport device 1 of this embodiment also includes a partition 7. The partition 7 houses the traveling cart 3, the carriage 4, and the loading / unloading unit 5. The power sources (travel motor 10, first lifting motor 11, and second lifting motor 12) are disposed outside the partition 7.

[0108] According to the article transport device 1 of this embodiment, the space in which the traveling carriage 3 travels is covered by the partition wall 7. Therefore, the space in which the traveling carriage 3 travels can easily be made into a special environment.

[0109] Furthermore, in the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the drive unit 6 includes a traveling motor 10 as a power source. The drive unit 6 also includes a traveling chain 20 as a cord-like member that connects the traveling motor 10 and the traveling carriage 3. One end of the traveling chain 20 is fixed to the traveling carriage 3 from one side in the traveling direction of the traveling carriage 3. The other end of the traveling chain 20 is fixed to the traveling carriage 3 from the other side in the traveling direction of the traveling carriage 3. According to the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the traveling motor 10 is driven to cause the traveling carriage 3 fixed to the traveling chain 20 to travel.

[0110] Furthermore, in the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the drive unit 6 includes a +X side lifting sprocket 44 and a -X side lifting sprocket 47 provided on the side surface 4c of the carriage 4, and a +X side lifting sprocket 54 and a -X side lifting sprocket 57 provided on the side surface 4d opposite to the side surface 4c of the carriage 4. The drive unit 6 also includes a first lifting motor 11 and a second lifting motor 12 as power sources. The drive unit 6 also includes a first lifting chain 21 and a second lifting chain 22 as cord-like bodies. The first lifting chain 21 is connected to the first lifting motor 11 and supports the +X side lifting sprocket 44 and the -X side lifting sprocket 47 from below. The second lifting chain 22 is connected to the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting motor 12, and supports the +X side lifting sprocket 54 and the -X side lifting sprocket 57 from below. According to the article transport device 1 of this embodiment, the carriage 4 can be raised and lowered by driving the first lifting motor 11 and the second lifting motor 12.

[0111] Furthermore, in the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the drive unit 6 is provided with a connecting chain 23 as a cord-like body. The connecting chain 23 connects an end of the first lifting chain 21 located on the opposite side of the first lifting motor 11 with the traveling cart 3 in between, and an end of the second lifting chain 22 located on the opposite side of the second lifting motor 12 with the traveling cart 3 in between. Furthermore, the drive unit 6 further includes a connecting chain sprocket 70 that supports the connecting chain 23.

[0112] According to the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, when the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as a single chain, the length of the chain from the first lifting motor 11 to the second lifting motor 12 can be changed. Furthermore, when the first lifting chain 21, the second lifting chain 22, and the connecting chain 23 are considered as a single chain, the chain can be advanced without changing the length of the chain from the first lifting motor 11 to the second lifting motor 12. Therefore, the chain can be advanced without raising or lowering the carriage 4.

[0113] Furthermore, in the article transport device 1 of this embodiment, the drive unit 6 is equipped with a loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80. The loading / unloading unit drive mechanism 80 is connected to the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22, and is capable of transmitting power transmitted from the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 to the loading / unloading unit 5.

[0114] According to the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the forks 5b of the loading and unloading unit 5 can be moved using the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22. Therefore, according to the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, there is no need to provide a separate power source for moving the forks 5b.

[0115] Furthermore, in the article transport apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the loading and unloading unit drive mechanism 80 includes a differential gear unit. The differential gear unit transmits power to the loading and unloading unit 5 when the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 travel in opposite directions, and does not transmit power to the loading and unloading unit 5 when the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 travel in the same direction.

[0116] According to the item conveying device 1 of this embodiment, the moving directions of the first lifting chain 21 and the second lifting chain 22 can be selected to be either the same direction or opposite directions, so that the carriage 4 can be raised and lowered and the fork 5b can be moved separately.

[0117] While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The shapes and combinations of the components shown in the above-described embodiments are merely examples, and various modifications can be made based on design requirements, etc., without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0118] For example, in the above embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the power sources include the traveling motor 10, the first lifting motor 11, and the second lifting motor 12. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a separate power source for moving the forks 5b may be provided as a power source.

[0119] In the above embodiment, a configuration in which a chain is used as the cord-like member has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a wire or a belt may be used as the cord-like member. In such cases, a pulley may be used as necessary. Note that, if a wire is used as the cord-like member, the above-described connector 60 and connecting portion 61 may be omitted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1...Item conveying device, 3...Traveling cart (cart), 4...Carriage (lifting platform), 4c...Side (first side), 4d...Side (second side), 5...Transfer unit, 5a...Base, 5b...Fork (item loading arm), 6...Drive unit, 7...Bulkhead, 10...Traveling motor (power source), 11...First lifting motor (power source), 12...Second lifting motor (power source), 20...Traveling chain (traveling cord-like body), 21...First lifting chain (first lifting cord-like body), 21a...One end, 21b...Other end, 22... ...Second lifting chain (second lifting cord), 22a...one end, 22b...other end, 23...connecting chain (connecting cord), 44...+X side lifting sprocket (first lifting sprocket), 47...-X side lifting sprocket (first lifting sprocket), 54...+X side lifting sprocket (second lifting sprocket), 57...-X side lifting sprocket (second lifting sprocket), 70...connecting chain sprocket (connecting cord), 80...transfer unit drive mechanism (differential gear unit)

Claims

1. A drivable cart, a lifting platform that can be raised and lowered on the carriage; a transfer unit having an article transfer arm that can be moved in and out horizontally on the lifting platform; and a drive unit that generates power and transmits the power to the carriage, the lifting platform, and the transfer unit. Equipped with The drive unit is a power source that is installed outside the carriage and generates the power; a cord-like body that transmits the power generated by the power source to the carriage, the lifting platform, and the loading / unloading unit; Equipped with The drive unit is a driving motor is provided as the power source, The cord-like body includes a running cord-like body that connects the running motor and the bogie, one end of the running cord-like body is fixed to the bogie from one side in the running direction of the bogie, The other end of the traveling cord is fixed to the carriage from the other side in the traveling direction of the carriage. An article transport device characterized by:

2. A drivable cart, a lifting platform that can be raised and lowered on the carriage; a transfer unit having an article transfer arm that can be moved in and out horizontally on the lifting platform; and a drive unit that generates power and transmits the power to the carriage, the lifting platform, and the transfer unit. Equipped with The drive unit is a power source that is installed outside the carriage and generates the power; a cord-like body that transmits the power generated by the power source to the carriage, the lifting platform, and the loading / unloading unit; Equipped with The drive unit is a first lifting sprocket provided on a first side surface of the lifting platform; a second lifting sprocket provided on a second side surface of the lifting platform opposite to the first side surface, The power source includes a first lifting motor and a second lifting motor, The cord-like body includes a first lifting cord-like body connected to the first lifting motor and supporting the first lifting sprocket from below, and a second lifting cord-like body connected to the second lifting motor and supporting the second lifting sprocket from below. An article transport device characterized by:

3. The drive unit is the cord-like body includes a connecting cord-like body that connects an end of the first lifting cord-like body that is located on the opposite side of the first lifting motor with the carriage sandwiched therebetween and an end of the second lifting cord-like body that is located on the opposite side of the second lifting motor with the carriage sandwiched therebetween, a support sprocket for supporting the connecting cord-like body; 3. The article transport device according to claim 2.

4. An item transport device as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the drive unit is connected to the first lifting / lowering cord and the second lifting / lowering cord and is provided with a transfer unit drive mechanism capable of transmitting power transmitted from the first lifting / lowering cord and the second lifting / lowering cord to the transfer unit.

5. The loading / unloading unit drive mechanism includes: a differential gear unit that transmits the power to the loading / unloading unit when the first lifting / lowering cord and the second lifting / lowering cord advance in opposite directions, and does not transmit the power to the loading / unloading unit when the first lifting / lowering cord and the second lifting / lowering cord advance in the same direction; 5. The article transport device according to claim 4.

6. a partition wall portion that accommodates the carriage, the lifting platform, and the loading / unloading unit, The power source is disposed outside the partition wall.

6. An article transport device according to claim 1.

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