Conveying equipment

Abstract

To provide a transport facility capable of suppressing vibrations caused in a transport vehicle when the transport vehicle passes through an overlapping region between a door locus which is a moving locus of a door, and a rail travel route.SOLUTION: A movable rail section 6 is capable of changing its posture between a connecting posture in which it is arranged in the overlapping region and connects a first fixed rail section 40 and a second fixed rail section 41, and a retracted posture in which it retracts from the overlapping region and divides the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41. When the movable rail section 6 is in the connecting posture, it becomes a normal posture that does not overlap with a transport vehicle locus which is a moving locus of the transport vehicle, and a transport facility comprises a regulating device 7 that, in conjunction with the movable rail section 6 changing its posture from the connecting posture to the retracted posture, becomes a protruding posture that protrudes to a position that overlaps with the transport vehicle locus and regulates the travel of the transport vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a conveying facility including a rail along which a carrier travels and arranged along a travel route passing through an opening formed in a wall, and a door for opening and closing the opening.

Background Art

[0002] An example of such a conveying facility is disclosed in Patent Document 1 below. In the following description of the background art, the reference numerals and names in Patent Document 1 are cited in parentheses.

[0003] The transport equipment described in Patent Document 1 comprises an article transport vehicle (1) that travels along a travel path (L) through an opening (3) formed in a wall (2), a guide rail (4) that guides the article transport vehicle (1) along the travel path (L), and a fire door (7) that closes the opening (3) by moving in a direction along the wall surface of the wall (2), with a first gap (G1) through which the fire door (7) can pass provided in the guide rail (4). The guide rail (4) comprises a first rail body (41) and a second rail body (42) that are separated on both sides in the direction along the travel path (L) with a second gap (G2) larger than the first gap (G1) in between, and a first adjustment member (8) attached to the first rail body (41) and a second adjustment member (9) attached to the second rail body (42). The first rail body (41) is provided with a first main running surface (41a) on which the running wheels (16) of the goods transport vehicle (1) roll, and the second rail body (42) is provided with a second main running surface (42a) on which the running wheels (16) of the goods transport vehicle (1) roll. The first adjustment member (8) is provided with a first adjustment running surface (8a) that forms a running surface following the first main running surface (41a), and is arranged so that at least a part of the first adjustment running surface (8a) protrudes into the second gap (G2). The second adjustment member (9) is provided with a second adjustment running surface (9a) that forms a running surface following the second main running surface (42a), and is arranged so that at least a part of the second adjustment running surface (9a) protrudes into the second gap (G2). The gap between the first adjustment member (8) and the second adjustment member (9) is the first gap (G1), and an adjustment mechanism (MA) is provided that allows the position of the first gap (G1) to be changed in a direction along the travel path (L). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-59596 (Figures 1-6) [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] However, in the transport equipment described in Patent Document 1, a first gap (G1) through which the fire door (7) can pass is always provided in the guide rail (4). Therefore, when the goods transport vehicle (1) is driven at a high speed, vibrations tend to increase as it passes through the first gap (G1). In order to reduce such vibrations, lowering the travel speed of the goods transport vehicle (1) would result in a decrease in the efficiency of goods transport by the goods transport vehicle (1).

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for a transport system that can minimize vibrations generated in the transport vehicle when it passes through the overlapping area between the door's movement path and the rail's travel path. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In view of the above, the characteristic configuration of the transport equipment is arranged along a travel path that passes through an opening formed in the wall, and includes rails on which the transport vehicle travels, A conveying device comprising a door for opening and closing the aforementioned opening, The direction along the aforementioned travel path will be defined as the path direction, one side of the path direction will be defined as the first path direction side, and the other side of the path direction will be defined as the second path direction side. The rail comprises a movable rail portion positioned in an overlapping region that overlaps with the door trajectory, which is the movement trajectory of the door when opening and closing the opening; a first fixed rail portion positioned on the first side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region; and a second fixed rail portion positioned on the second side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region. The movable rail section is capable of changing its orientation between a connecting orientation, where it is positioned in the overlapping area and connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and a retracted orientation, where it is retracted from the overlapping area and separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. When the movable rail section is in the connection position, it assumes a normal position that does not overlap with the transport vehicle's trajectory, which is the transport vehicle's movement path. In conjunction with the movable rail section changing its position from the connection position to the retracted position, it assumes a protruding position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, and is equipped with a restricting device that restricts the transport vehicle's movement. The restricting device includes a detectable portion that functions as a part detected by an obstacle sensor provided on the transport vehicle when in the protruding position, wherein the obstacle sensor is an optical sensor and the detectable portion includes a reflector.It's at a single point.

[0008] This configuration allows the movable rail section to change its position from connected to retracted, preventing it from interfering with the opening and closing of the door. Furthermore, when the movable rail section is in the connected position, it connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, making it possible to reduce the height difference and gaps in the rails in the overlapping area, thus making it easier to suppress vibrations generated in the transport vehicle when it passes through the overlapping area.

[0009] Furthermore, this configuration includes a restricting device that, when the movable rail section is in a retracted position, protrudes to a position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, thereby restricting the transport vehicle's movement. This allows for appropriate restriction of the transport vehicle entering the section where the movable rail section is separating the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section.

[0010] Furthermore, with this configuration, since the restricting device is configured to protrude in conjunction with the movable rail changing its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the need to provide a dedicated drive source for changing the position of the restricting device can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to simplify the configuration of the restricting device and reduce costs.

[0011] With this configuration, the movable rail section separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and it is possible to appropriately restrict the transport vehicle from entering the separated section without causing damage to the transport vehicle.

[0012] In view of the above, the characteristic configuration of the transport equipment is arranged along a travel path that passes through an opening formed in the wall, and includes rails on which the transport vehicle travels, A conveying device comprising a door for opening and closing the aforementioned opening, The direction along the aforementioned travel path will be defined as the path direction, one side of the path direction will be defined as the first path direction side, and the other side of the path direction will be defined as the second path direction side. The rail comprises a movable rail portion positioned in an overlapping region that overlaps with the door trajectory, which is the movement trajectory of the door when opening and closing the opening; a first fixed rail portion positioned on the first side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region; and a second fixed rail portion positioned on the second side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region. The movable rail section is capable of changing its orientation between a connecting orientation, where it is positioned in the overlapping area and connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and a retracted orientation, where it is retracted from the overlapping area and separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. When the movable rail section is in the connection position, it assumes a normal position that does not overlap with the transport vehicle's trajectory, which is the transport vehicle's movement path. In conjunction with the movable rail section changing its position from the connection position to the retracted position, it assumes a protruding position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, and is equipped with a restricting device that restricts the transport vehicle's movement. The restricting device includes a detection portion that, in the protruding position, functions as at least one of a portion that is detected by an obstacle sensor provided by the transport vehicle and a portion that contacts a collision detection sensor provided by the transport vehicle. The transport vehicle comprises a trolley section that travels on the upper surface of the rails, and a vehicle body section that is suspended from the trolley section and travels below the rails. When viewed from above, the direction perpendicular to the path direction is defined as the width direction. The aforementioned movable rail section is A first shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing with respect to the first fixed rail portion around a first rotation axis along the width direction, In the aforementioned connection position, the rail connection portion is the connection portion between the first fixed rail portion and the second fixed rail portion, The connection posture includes a first extension portion formed to extend toward the first side in the path direction relative to the first shaft support portion, As the movable rail portion changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the rail connection portion swings upward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis, and the first extension portion swings downward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis. The point is that the detected part is provided on the first extension or on a member that descends in conjunction with the descent of the first extension. 。

[0013] This configuration allows the movable rail section to change its position from connected to retracted, preventing it from interfering with the opening and closing of the door. Furthermore, when the movable rail section is in the connected position, it connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, making it possible to reduce the height difference and gaps in the rails in the overlapping area, thus making it easier to suppress vibrations generated in the transport vehicle when it passes through the overlapping area.

[0014] Furthermore, this configuration includes a restricting device that, when the movable rail section is in a retracted position, protrudes to a position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, thereby restricting the transport vehicle's movement. This allows for appropriate restriction of the transport vehicle entering the section where the movable rail section separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. 。

[0015] Furthermore, with this configuration, since the restricting device is configured to protrude in conjunction with the change in posture of the movable rail section from the connected position to the retracted position, the need to provide a dedicated drive source for changing the posture of the restricting device can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to simplify the configuration of the restricting device and reduce costs. 。

[0016] With this configuration, the movable rail section separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and it is possible to appropriately restrict the transport vehicle from entering the separated section without causing damage to the transport vehicle. 。

[0017] With this configuration, when the movable rail section is retracted, the rail connection section swings upward and is positioned above the first fixed rail section, making it possible to make the rail connection section function as a stopper for the transport vehicle's bogie. Therefore, the reliability of stopping the transport vehicle when the movable rail section is in the retracted position can be increased. 。

[0018] Furthermore, this configuration allows the detected portion of the regulating device to protrude downward relative to the first fixed rail portion in conjunction with the oscillation of the movable rail portion. Therefore, there is no need to provide a dedicated drive source for changing the posture of the regulating device, making it easier to simplify the configuration of the regulating device and reduce costs.

[0019] In view of the above, the characteristic configuration of the transport equipment is arranged along a travel path that passes through an opening formed in the wall, and includes rails on which the transport vehicle travels, A conveying device comprising a door for opening and closing the aforementioned opening, The direction along the aforementioned travel path will be defined as the path direction, one side of the path direction will be defined as the first path direction side, and the other side of the path direction will be defined as the second path direction side. The rail comprises a movable rail portion positioned in an overlapping region that overlaps with the door trajectory, which is the movement trajectory of the door when opening and closing the opening; a first fixed rail portion positioned on the first side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region; and a second fixed rail portion positioned on the second side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region. The movable rail section is capable of changing its orientation between a connecting orientation, where it is positioned in the overlapping area and connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and a retracted orientation, where it is retracted from the overlapping area and separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. When the movable rail section is in the connection position, it assumes a normal position that does not overlap with the transport vehicle's trajectory, which is the transport vehicle's movement path. In conjunction with the movable rail section changing its position from the connection position to the retracted position, it assumes a protruding position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, and is equipped with a restricting device that restricts the transport vehicle's movement. The restricting device includes a detection portion that, in the protruding position, functions as at least one of a portion that is detected by an obstacle sensor provided by the transport vehicle and a portion that contacts a collision detection sensor provided by the transport vehicle. The transport vehicle comprises a trolley section that travels on the upper surface of the rails, and a vehicle body section that is suspended from the trolley section and travels below the rails. When viewed from above, the direction perpendicular to the path direction is defined as the width direction. The aforementioned movable rail section is A first shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing with respect to the first fixed rail portion around a first rotation axis along the width direction, In the aforementioned connection position, the rail connection portion is provided as a connecting portion between the first fixed rail portion and the second fixed rail portion. The rail further comprises a support member, The aforementioned support member is A second shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing around a second rotation axis along the width direction relative to the second fixed rail portion, With the movable rail section in the connected position, a support section supports the end of the rail connection section on the second side in the path direction from below, The movable rail portion is formed to extend toward the second side in the path direction relative to the second shaft support portion when the movable rail portion is in the connected position, As the movable rail portion changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the rail connection portion swings upward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis, and as the end of the rail connection portion on the second side in the path direction separates from the support portion, the support member swings downward relative to the second fixed rail portion around the second rotation axis, The point is that the detected part is provided on the second extension, or on a member that descends in conjunction with the descent of the second extension. 。

[0020] This configuration allows the movable rail section to change its position from connected to retracted, preventing it from interfering with the opening and closing of the door. Furthermore, when the movable rail section is in the connected position, it connects the first and second fixed rail sections, reducing the height difference and gaps in the rails within the overlapping area. This makes it easier to minimize vibrations in the transport vehicle when it passes through the overlapping area. 。

[0021] Furthermore, this configuration includes a restricting device that, when the movable rail section is in a retracted position, protrudes to a position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, thereby restricting the transport vehicle's movement. This allows for appropriate restriction of the transport vehicle entering the section where the movable rail section separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. .

[0022] Furthermore, with this configuration, since the restricting device is configured to protrude in conjunction with the change in posture of the movable rail section from the connected position to the retracted position, the need to provide a dedicated drive source for changing the posture of the restricting device can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to simplify the configuration of the restricting device and reduce costs. .

[0023] With this configuration, the movable rail section separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and it is possible to appropriately restrict the transport vehicle from entering the separated section without causing damage to the transport vehicle. .

[0024] With this configuration, when the movable rail section is retracted, the rail connection section swings upward and is positioned above the first fixed rail section, making it possible to make the rail connection section function as a stopper for the transport vehicle's bogie. Therefore, the reliability of stopping the transport vehicle when the movable rail section is in the retracted position can be increased. .

[0025] Furthermore, this configuration allows the detected portion of the regulating device to protrude downward relative to the second fixed rail portion in conjunction with the oscillation of the movable rail portion. Therefore, there is no need to provide a dedicated drive source for changing the posture of the regulating device, making it easier to simplify the configuration of the regulating device and reduce costs. . [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] [Figure 1] Plan view of the main components of the conveying equipment. [Figure 2] Side view including the movable rail section in the connection position [Figure 3] Side view including the movable rail section when changing posture [Figure 4] Side view including the movable rail section when changing posture [Figure 5] Side view including the movable rail section in the retracted position [Figure 6] Side view of a transport vehicle whose movement is restricted by the first restriction device. [Figure 7] Cross-sectional view of the line of arrow VII-VII in Figure 6. [Figure 8] Perspective view of the first regulating device in its protruding position. [Figure 9] Side view of a transport vehicle whose movement is restricted by the second restriction device. [Figure 10] Cross-sectional view along the line X-X in Figure 9. [Figure 11] Perspective view of the second restricting device in the protruding position. [Figure 12] Block diagram showing the control configuration of the conveying equipment. [Figure 13] Schematic diagram showing the sensor configuration in the movable rail section. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] 1. Embodiment An embodiment of the conveying equipment 100 will be described based on the drawings. As shown in Figure 1, the transport equipment 100 is arranged along a travel path through an opening 3 formed in the wall 2 and includes rails 4 on which the transport vehicle 1 travels and a door 5 for opening and closing the opening 3. In this embodiment, the door 5 is assumed to be a fire door, but it is not limited to this and may be an air-blocking door or the like.

[0028] The transport vehicle 1 includes a trolley section 10 that travels along the rail 4, which is suspended and supported from the ceiling H (see Figure 13) via a suspension member h, a vehicle body section 11 that is suspended and supported by the trolley section 10 and travels below the rail 4, and a connecting section 12 that connects the trolley section 10 and the vehicle body section 11.

[0029] The bogie section 10 has a front bogie section 10F and a rear bogie section 10R arranged in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body. The vehicle body 11 is rotatably connected to a pair of front and rear connecting sections 12, respectively, around a vertical axis, and the front bogie section 10F and the rear bogie section 10R are configured to rotate integrally with the connecting sections 12 around the vertical axis. The pair of front and rear connecting sections 12 (see Figure 6) are located between a pair of left and right rails 4.

[0030] The front bogie section 10F is equipped with a pair of left and right running wheels 13 that are rotated by an electric drive motor, and which roll along the running surfaces formed on the upper surfaces of the left and right rails 4. In addition, the front bogie section 10F is equipped with two sets of left and right guide wheels that rotate freely around an axis along the vertical direction, and which contact the inner surfaces of the left and right rails 4.

[0031] Furthermore, the rear bogie section 10R is equipped with one pair of left and right running wheels 13 and two pairs of left and right guide wheels, similar to the front bogie section 10F. Thus, the transport vehicle 1 is equipped with a pair of left and right running wheels 13, and each of the left and right rails 4 has a running surface on which the running wheels 13 of the transport vehicle 1 roll.

[0032] Sensors 14 (see Figure 6) for detecting the regulating device 7, which will be described later, are provided on both sides of the vehicle body 11 in the direction of travel. Examples of such sensors 14 include obstacle sensors 14A and collision detection sensors 14B. In this embodiment, obstacle sensors 14A are provided on the forward direction side of the transport vehicle 1, and collision detection sensors 14B are provided on the reverse direction side of the transport vehicle 1. For example, an optical sensor is preferably used as the obstacle sensor 14A. For example, a bumper switch is preferably used as the collision detection sensor 14B.

[0033] The transport vehicle 1 is configured to travel along the rails 4 by rotating the running wheels 13 of the front and rear bogie sections 10F and 10R, while its position in the width direction Y of the vehicle body is restricted by the guide wheels of the front bogie section 10F and the rear bogie section 10R being guided by a pair of rails 4 on the left and right.

[0034] As shown in Figure 1, the transport equipment 100 configured in this way is installed across the first area A1 and the second area A2. In this embodiment, both the first area A1 and the second area A2 are set up as clean rooms.

[0035] At the boundary between the first area A1 and the second area A2, there is a wall 2 that separates the first area A1 and the second area A2 and has an opening 3 corresponding to the travel path of the transport vehicle 1, and a door 5 that opens and closes this opening 3. The door 5 is configured to move along the surface of the wall 2 so as to be movable between a closed position that closes the opening 3 and an open position that opens the opening 3. In this embodiment, the door 5 is configured to move vertically along the surface of the wall 2. However, it is not limited to this, and the door 5 may also be configured to move horizontally along the surface of the wall 2. Thus, the transport equipment 100 is equipped with a door 5 that closes the opening 3 by moving along the surface of the wall 2.

[0036] Furthermore, the direction along the travel path is defined as the path direction X, one side of the path direction X is defined as the first path direction side X1, and the other side of the path direction X is defined as the second path direction side X2. In this embodiment, the side where the first area A1 is located is the first path direction side X1, and the side where the second area A2 is located is the second path direction side X2. In this embodiment, the forward direction of the transport vehicle 1 is defined as the direction from the first path direction side X1 to the second path direction side X2, and the reverse direction of the transport vehicle 1 is defined as the direction from the second path direction side X2 to the first path direction side X1.

[0037] The rail 4 comprises a movable rail section 6 positioned in an overlapping region W that overlaps with the door trajectory 50, which is the movement trajectory of the door 5 when opening and closing the opening 3; a first fixed rail section 40 positioned on the first side X1 in the path direction relative to the overlapping region W; a second fixed rail section 41 positioned on the second side X2 in the path direction relative to the overlapping region W; and a support member 71 that supports the end of the movable rail section 6. The positions of the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41 are fixed relative to the opening 3.

[0038] In this embodiment, the first fixed rail section 40 refers to the rail portion in front of the overlapping area W in the forward direction of the transport vehicle 1. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and it may also refer to the rail portion behind the overlapping area W in the forward direction of the transport vehicle 1. If the transport vehicle 1 can detect the restricting device 7 a certain distance in advance using the obstacle sensor 14A described later, it can stop before the overlapping area W.

[0039] In this embodiment, the second fixed rail section 41 refers to the rail portion located behind the overlapping area W in the forward direction of the transport vehicle 1. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and it may also refer to the rail portion located in front of the overlapping area W in the forward direction of the transport vehicle 1.

[0040] The movable rail section 6 is configured to change its orientation between a connecting orientation (see Figure 2) where it is positioned in the overlapping region W and connects the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41, and a retracted orientation (see Figure 5) where it is retracted from the overlapping region W and separates the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41. The movable rail section 6 is positioned in an area wider than the overlapping region W when viewed in the vertical direction.

[0041] As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the movable rail section 6 includes a first shaft support section 60 that is pivotably supported around a first rotation axis along the width direction Y relative to the first fixed rail section 40, with the width direction Y being the direction perpendicular to the path direction X when viewed from above; a rail connection section 61 that becomes the connection portion between the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41 in the connected position; and a first extension section 62 that is formed to extend toward the first side X1 in the path direction relative to the first shaft support section 60 in the connected position.

[0042] As the movable rail section 6 changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the rail connection section 61 swings upward relative to the first fixed rail section 40 around the first rotation axis, and the first extension section 62 swings downward relative to the first fixed rail section 40 around the first rotation axis.

[0043] The transport equipment 100 also includes a restricting device 7 that restricts the movement of the transport vehicle 1. In this embodiment, the restricting device 7 is configured to include a first restricting device 7A that restricts the forward movement of the transport vehicle 1 and a second restricting device 7B that restricts the reverse movement of the transport vehicle 1.

[0044] In this embodiment, the first restricting device 7A is supported on the first fixed rail section 40, and the second restricting device 7B is supported on the second fixed rail section 41. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the restricting device 7 may be supported by a support structure or wall 2 that supports the rail 4.

[0045] The first regulating device 7A is configured to include a swinging member 70 that descends in conjunction with the descent of the first extension 62 of the movable rail section 6.

[0046] The oscillating member 70 is supported so as to be able to swing around a rotation axis along the width direction Y relative to the first fixed rail section 40 at a position upstream of the movable rail section 6 in the direction of travel. When the movable rail section 6 is in the connected position, the oscillating member 70 is supported by the first extension 62 of the movable rail section 6 and is held in a direction along the extension direction of the first fixed rail section 40. When the movable rail section 6 is in the retracted position, the support is released as the first extension 62 descends, and the oscillating member is allowed to descend by its own weight. The configuration of the oscillating member 70 is not limited to the above configuration, and it may also be configured to be linked to the first extension 62 by a known link mechanism or the like, rather than by its own weight.

[0047] The second restricting device 7B is configured to include a support member 71. Although not shown in the figures, the second restricting device 7B may further include a swinging member 70 in addition to the support member 71, which descends in conjunction with the descent of the second extension 712 of the support member 71. In this case, the swinging member 70 may be configured to descend by its own weight after the support is released when the second extension 712 descends, or it may be configured to be linked to the second extension 712 by a known link mechanism or the like, rather than by its own weight.

[0048] The support member 71 includes a second shaft support portion 710 that is pivotably supported on the second fixed rail portion 41 around a second rotation axis along the width direction Y, a support portion 711 that supports the end of the rail connection portion 61 on the second side X2 in the path direction from below when the movable rail portion 6 is in the connected position, and a second extension portion 712 that is formed to extend on the second side X2 in the path direction relative to the second shaft support portion 710 when the movable rail portion 6 is in the connected position.

[0049] The support member 71 is configured such that when the movable rail section 6 changes its position from a connected position to a retracted position, the rail connection section 61 swings upward relative to the first fixed rail section 40 around the first rotation axis, and the end of the rail connection section 61 on the second side X2 in the path direction separates from the support member 711, causing the support member 71 to swing downward relative to the second fixed rail section 41 around the second rotation axis.

[0050] Both the first restricting device 7A and the second restricting device 7B are in a normal position (see Figure 2) when the movable rail section 6 is in the connected position, and when the movable rail section 6 changes position from the connected position to the retracted position, they protrude to a position that overlaps with the transport vehicle trajectory (see Figure 5), thereby restricting the movement of the transport vehicle 1. In this embodiment, neither the first restricting device 7A nor the second restricting device 7B has an independent drive source and is configured to protrude in conjunction with the movable rail section 6 by a rocking mechanism based on its own weight. Alternatively, a mechanism that protrudes by the biasing force of a spring may be used instead of the rocking mechanism based on its own weight.

[0051] Furthermore, the posture change operation from the normal position to the protruding position in the first restricting device 7A and the second restricting device 7B is not limited to the above, and may be performed in conjunction with the posture change of the movable rail section 6. In this case, for example, a configuration using a link mechanism, gear mechanism, cam mechanism, etc., may be adopted to perform the movement in conjunction. Also, the posture change operation may be performed by the first restricting device 7A and the second restricting device 7B using a common drive source with the movable rail section 6.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, both the first restricting device 7A and the second restricting device 7B are configured to change from a protruding position to a normal position in conjunction with the change in position of the movable rail section 6 from a retracted position to a connected position. Specifically, when the movable rail section 6 changes from a retracted position to a connected position, the first extension portion 62 of the movable rail section 6 pushes the swinging member 70, causing the first restricting device 7A to change from a protruding position to a normal position. Also, when the movable rail section 6 changes from a retracted position to a connected position, the rail connection portion 61 of the movable rail section 6 pushes the support portion 711, causing the second restricting device 7B to change from a protruding position to a normal position. Note that the operation of the first restricting device 7A and the second restricting device 7B changing from a protruding position to a normal position may be performed manually by an operator or the like, without being linked to the movable rail section 6.

[0053] As shown in Figures 6 and 9, the restricting device 7 includes a detectable portion 8 that, when in a protruding position, functions as at least one of a portion that is detected by the obstacle sensor 14A provided on the transport vehicle 1 and a portion that contacts the collision detection sensor 14B provided on the transport vehicle 1. However, the restricting device 7 is not limited to this configuration, and may also include a member that does not get detected by the sensor 14 of the transport vehicle 1, but instead contacts the wheels or body of the transport vehicle 1 to forcibly restrict the movement of the transport vehicle 1.

[0054] As shown in Figures 6 to 8, in the first regulating device 7A, a detection unit 8 can be provided on the first extension 62 of the movable rail section 6 or on the oscillating member 70. In this embodiment, a detection unit 8 is provided on the oscillating member 70, and a reflector 80 detected by the obstacle sensor 14A (optical sensor) of the transport vehicle 1 is used as the detection unit 8.

[0055] As shown in Figures 9 to 11, in the second regulating device 7B, a detection unit 8 can be provided on the second extension 712 of the support member 71. In this embodiment, a detection unit 8 is provided on the second extension 712 of the support member 71, and a contact member 81 that is detected by the collision detection sensor 14B (bumper switch) of the transport vehicle 1 is used as the detection unit 8. The contact member 81 is positioned in a location that overlaps with the movement trajectory of the collision detection sensor 14B of the transport vehicle 1.

[0056] The type and installation location of the detected part 8 are not limited to the above configuration and may be appropriately changed depending on the type of sensor 14 provided on the transport vehicle 1. For example, a contact member 81 may be provided on the oscillating member 70 of the first restricting device 7A, or if the first restricting device 7A does not have an oscillating member 70, that is, if the movable rail section 6 is the first restricting device 7A, a detected part 8 such as a reflector 80 or a contact member 81 may be provided on the first extension 62 of the movable rail section 6. In addition, a reflector 80 may be provided as the detected part 8 on the second extension 712 of the support member 71 of the second restricting device 7B, or if the second restricting device 7B has an oscillating member 70, a detected part 8 such as a reflector 80 or a contact member 81 may be provided on the oscillating member 70.

[0057] The rail 4 includes a biasing mechanism (for example, one equipped with a spring and utilizing its biasing force) that biases the rail connection portion 61 toward the upward direction relative to the first fixed rail portion 40 around the first rotation axis when the movable rail portion 6 is in the connected position, and a holding mechanism D3 (see Figure 12) that changes state between a holding state in which the movable rail portion 6 is held in the connected position and a released state in which the holding of the movable rail portion 6 is released.

[0058] The holding mechanism D3 is configured to be in a holding state when power is supplied and in a released state when power is not supplied. That is, when the holding mechanism D3 is released, the rail connection part 61 rises relative to the first fixed rail part 40 around the first rotation axis, and the movable rail part 6 changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position. Examples of such a holding mechanism D3 include a mechanism that uses a motor, a mechanism that uses an electromagnetic lock, and a mechanism that holds using an electromagnet.

[0059] With this configuration, if the holding mechanism D3 is not supplied with power and becomes unpowered, the holding mechanism D3 is released, and the biasing mechanism changes the position of the movable rail section 6 to the retracted position. Therefore, even if a power outage occurs due to a fire, the movable rail section 6 can be appropriately changed from the connected position to the retracted position. Consequently, the movable rail section 6 can be prevented from interfering with the opening and closing operation of the door 5.

[0060] As shown in Figure 12, the transport equipment 100 is equipped with a fire detection device D2 for detecting the occurrence of a fire, a control device C, and an uninterruptible power supply D1. The control device C controls the operation of the uninterruptible power supply D1, the transport car 1, and the door 5.

[0061] The control device C is configured to issue a power cut-off command to the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) D1 when it receives fire information from the fire detection device D2. Upon receiving the power cut-off command, the UPS D1 stops supplying power to the holding mechanism D3, causing the holding mechanism D3 to be released, which in turn causes the movable rail section 6 to change its position from the connected position to the retracted position.

[0062] As shown in Figures 2 to 5, when the movable rail section 6 changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the first restricting device 7A and the second restricting device 7B change from a normal position that does not overlap with the transport vehicle trajectory, which is the movement trajectory of the transport vehicle 1, to a protruding position that overlaps with the transport vehicle trajectory.

[0063] In this embodiment, the rail connection portion 61 of the movable rail portion 6 in the first regulating device 7A rises relative to the first fixed rail portion 40 and becomes upright, while the first extension portion 62 of the movable rail portion 6 lowers relative to the first fixed rail portion 40. Furthermore, as the first extension portion 62 lowers, the support of the swinging member 70 is released, and the swinging member 70 lowers due to its own weight. In addition, the second extension portion 712 of the support member 71 in the second regulating device 7B lowers relative to the second fixed rail portion 41.

[0064] As shown in Figure 6, in the transport equipment 100, when the transport vehicle 1 is moving forward, an obstacle sensor 14A provided on the body of the transport vehicle 1 detects a reflector 80 provided on the oscillating member 70 of the first restricting device 7A, and when this detection signal is input to the control device C, the control device C stops the transport vehicle 1 from moving. Also, as shown in Figure 9, when the transport vehicle 1 is moving backward, a collision detection sensor 14B provided on the body of the transport vehicle 1 contacts a contact member 81 provided on the second extension 712 of the support member 71 of the second restricting device 7B, and when this contact signal is input to the control device C, the control device C stops the transport vehicle 1 from moving. Next, the control device C operates the door 5 (fire door) to close the opening 3 formed in the wall 2.

[0065] 2. Other Embodiments (1) As shown in Figure 13, a step detection sensor S1 and a detected member M may be provided on both the side of the first fixed rail section 40 and the side of the second fixed rail section 41 to measure the size of the step difference between the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41 (i.e., the distance in the path direction X). In this embodiment, the step detection sensor S1 is provided on the suspension member h on the side of the first fixed rail section 40, and the detected member M is provided on the support member 71. As the step detection sensor S1, for example, a known laser distance meter can be used, and as the detected member M, for example, a reflector can be used. With this configuration, for example, when the size of the step difference between the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41 exceeds a predetermined size, it becomes possible to perform control such as issuing a warning to the manager or allowing the transport vehicle 1 to pass through the movable rail section 6 at a reduced speed.

[0066] (2) As shown in Figure 13, a connection posture detection sensor S2 for detecting the connection posture state of the movable rail section 6 and a retracted posture detection sensor S3 for detecting the retracted posture state of the movable rail section 6 may be provided near the first shaft support section 60 of the movable rail section 6. With this configuration, the connection posture detection sensor S2 makes it possible to more reliably detect when the movable rail section 6 is fully lowered, that is, when the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41 are connected. In addition, the retracted posture detection sensor S3 makes it possible to more reliably detect when the movable rail section 6 is fully raised, that is, when the first fixed rail section 40 and the second fixed rail section 41 are separated. As a result, the lowering operation of the door 5 and the stopping operation of the transport vehicle 1 by the control device C (see Figure 12) after detection by the retracted posture detection sensor S3, or the traveling operation of the transport vehicle 1 by the control device C after detection by the connection posture detection sensor S2, can be carried out more smoothly and reliably. Note that the connection posture detection sensor S2 and the retraction posture detection sensor S3 may be configured with a single sensor. For example, by using a sensor that detects the rotation angle of the movable rail section 6, connection posture detection and retraction posture detection can be performed with a single sensor.

[0067] Furthermore, the configurations disclosed in the embodiments described above, the other optional configurations, and the configurations disclosed in other embodiments may be combined and applied as appropriate, provided that they do not conflict with each other. Also, the embodiments disclosed herein are merely illustrative in all respects. Therefore, various modifications can be made as appropriate, without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0068] 3. Summary of this embodiment The following is a summary of the embodiments of the conveying equipment described above.

[0069] The transport equipment is arranged along a travel path that passes through an opening formed in the wall, and the rails on which the transport vehicle travels, A conveying device comprising a door for opening and closing the aforementioned opening, The direction along the aforementioned travel path will be defined as the path direction, one side of the path direction will be defined as the first path direction side, and the other side of the path direction will be defined as the second path direction side. The rail comprises a movable rail portion positioned in an overlapping region that overlaps with the door trajectory, which is the movement trajectory of the door when opening and closing the opening; a first fixed rail portion positioned on the first side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region; and a second fixed rail portion positioned on the second side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region. The movable rail section is capable of changing its orientation between a connecting orientation, where it is positioned in the overlapping area and connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and a retracted orientation, where it is retracted from the overlapping area and separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. When the movable rail section is in the connection position, it assumes a normal position that does not overlap with the transport vehicle's movement trajectory. In conjunction with the movable rail section changing its position from the connection position to the retracted position, it assumes a protruding position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, and is equipped with a restricting device that restricts the transport vehicle's movement.

[0070] With this configuration, the movable rail section can be changed from a connected position to a retracted position, preventing the rail from interfering with the opening and closing of the door. Furthermore, when the movable rail section is in the connected position, it connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, making it possible to reduce the height difference and gaps in the rails in the overlapping area, and thus making it easier to suppress vibrations that occur in the transport vehicle when it passes through the overlapping area.

[0071] Furthermore, this configuration includes a restricting device that, when the movable rail section is in a retracted position, protrudes to a position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, thereby restricting the transport vehicle's movement. This allows for appropriate restriction of the transport vehicle entering the section where the movable rail section is separating the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section.

[0072] Furthermore, with this configuration, since the restricting device is configured to protrude in conjunction with the movable rail changing its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the need to provide a dedicated drive source for changing the position of the restricting device can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to simplify the configuration of the restricting device and reduce costs.

[0073] Here, it is preferable that the restricting device is configured to change from the protruding position to the normal position in conjunction with the change in posture of the movable rail portion from the retracted position to the connected position.

[0074] With this configuration, the restricting device changes to its normal position in conjunction with the movable rail changing from a retracted position to a connected position, thus reducing the effort required of workers to return the restricting device from a protruding position to a normal position.

[0075] Furthermore, it is preferable that the restricting device includes a detectable portion that, in the protruding position, functions as at least one of a portion that is detected by an obstacle sensor provided on the transport vehicle and a portion that contacts a collision detection sensor provided on the transport vehicle.

[0076] With this configuration, the movable rail section separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and it is possible to appropriately restrict the transport vehicle from entering the separated section without causing damage to the transport vehicle.

[0077] Furthermore, the transport vehicle comprises a trolley section that travels on the upper surface of the rails, and a vehicle body section that is suspended from the trolley section and travels below the rails. When viewed from above, the direction perpendicular to the path direction is defined as the width direction. The aforementioned movable rail section is A first shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing with respect to the first fixed rail portion around a first rotation axis along the width direction, In the aforementioned connection position, the rail connection portion is the connection portion between the first fixed rail portion and the second fixed rail portion, The connection posture includes a first extension portion formed to extend toward the first side in the path direction relative to the first shaft support portion, As the movable rail portion changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the rail connection portion swings upward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis, and the first extension portion swings downward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis. Preferably, the detected portion is provided on the first extension portion, or on a member that descends in conjunction with the descent of the first extension portion.

[0078] With this configuration, when the movable rail section is retracted, the rail connection section swings upward and is positioned above the first fixed rail section, making it possible to make the rail connection section function as a stopper for the transport vehicle's bogie. Therefore, the reliability of stopping the transport vehicle when the movable rail section is in the retracted position can be increased.

[0079] Furthermore, this configuration allows the detected portion of the regulating device to protrude downward relative to the first fixed rail portion in conjunction with the oscillation of the movable rail portion. Therefore, there is no need to provide a dedicated drive source for changing the posture of the regulating device, making it easier to simplify the configuration of the regulating device and reduce costs.

[0080] Furthermore, the transport vehicle comprises a trolley section that travels on the upper surface of the rails, and a vehicle body section that is suspended from the trolley section and travels below the rails. When viewed from above, the direction perpendicular to the path direction is defined as the width direction. The aforementioned movable rail section is A first shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing with respect to the first fixed rail portion around a first rotation axis along the width direction, In the aforementioned connection position, the rail connection portion is provided as a connecting portion between the first fixed rail portion and the second fixed rail portion. The rail further comprises a support member, The aforementioned support member is A second shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing around a second rotation axis along the width direction relative to the second fixed rail portion, With the movable rail section in the connected position, a support section supports the end of the rail connection section on the second side in the path direction from below, The movable rail portion is formed to extend toward the second side in the path direction relative to the second shaft support portion when the movable rail portion is in the connected position, As the movable rail portion changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the rail connection portion swings upward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis, and as the end of the rail connection portion on the second side in the path direction separates from the support portion, the support member swings downward relative to the second fixed rail portion around the second rotation axis, Preferably, the detected portion is provided on the second extension portion, or on a member that descends in conjunction with the descent of the second extension portion.

[0081] With this configuration, when the movable rail section is retracted, the rail connection section swings upward and is positioned above the first fixed rail section, making it possible to make the rail connection section function as a stopper for the transport vehicle's bogie. Therefore, the reliability of stopping the transport vehicle when the movable rail section is in the retracted position can be increased.

[0082] Furthermore, this configuration allows the detected portion of the regulating device to protrude downward relative to the second fixed rail portion in conjunction with the oscillation of the movable rail portion. Therefore, there is no need to provide a dedicated drive source for changing the posture of the regulating device, making it easier to simplify the configuration of the regulating device and reduce costs. [Industrial applicability]

[0083] The technology disclosed herein can be used in a transport system that includes rails on which a transport vehicle travels, and doors for opening and closing the opening, arranged along a travel path through an opening formed in a wall. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 100: Conveying equipment 1: Transport vehicle 10: Bogie section 10F: Front bogie section 10R: Rear bogie section 11: Body 12:Connection part 13: Driving wheels 14: Sensor 14A: Obstacle Sensor 14B: Collision detection sensor 2: Wall 3: Opening 4: Rails 40: First fixed rail section 41: Second fixed rail section 5: Door 50: Door Trajectory A1: Area 1 A2: Area 2 X1: First side in the path direction X2: Second side in the path direction W: Overlapping area 6: Movable rail section 60: 1st axis support part 61: Rail connection section 62:First extension part 7: Regulatory device 7A: 1st regulating device 70: Oscillating member 7B:Second regulation device 71: Support member 710:Second axis support part 711: Support part 712:Second extension part 8: Detected part 80:Reflector 81: Contact Member C: Control device D1: Uninterruptible power supply D2: Fire detection device D3: Holding mechanism X: Path direction Y: width direction h: Hanging component H:Ceiling S1: Step detection sensor S2: Connected attitude detection sensor S3: Retracted posture detection sensor M: Detected component

Claims

1. Arranged along the travel path that passes through an opening formed in the wall, the rails on which the transport vehicle travels, A conveying device comprising a door for opening and closing the aforementioned opening, The direction along the aforementioned travel path will be defined as the path direction, one side of the path direction will be defined as the first path direction side, and the other side of the path direction will be defined as the second path direction side. The rail comprises a movable rail portion positioned in an overlapping region that overlaps with the door trajectory, which is the movement trajectory of the door when opening and closing the opening; a first fixed rail portion positioned on the first side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region; and a second fixed rail portion positioned on the second side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region. The movable rail section is capable of changing its orientation between a connecting orientation, where it is positioned in the overlapping area and connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and a retracted orientation, where it is retracted from the overlapping area and separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. When the movable rail section is in the connection position, it assumes a normal position that does not overlap with the transport vehicle's trajectory, which is the transport vehicle's movement path. In conjunction with the movable rail section changing its position from the connection position to the retracted position, it assumes a protruding position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, and is equipped with a restricting device that restricts the transport vehicle's movement. The regulating device comprises a detection unit that functions as a part detected by an obstacle sensor provided on the transport vehicle when in the protruding position, wherein the obstacle sensor is an optical sensor and the detection unit comprises a reflector.

2. Rails arranged along a travel path passing through an opening formed in a wall, on which a transport vehicle travels, A conveying device comprising a door for opening and closing the aforementioned opening, The direction along the aforementioned travel path will be defined as the path direction, one side of the path direction will be defined as the first path direction side, and the other side of the path direction will be defined as the second path direction side. The rail comprises a movable rail portion positioned in an overlapping region that overlaps with the door trajectory, which is the movement trajectory of the door when opening and closing the opening; a first fixed rail portion positioned on the first side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region; and a second fixed rail portion positioned on the second side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region. The movable rail section is capable of changing its orientation between a connecting orientation, where it is positioned in the overlapping area and connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and a retracted orientation, where it is retracted from the overlapping area and separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. When the movable rail section is in the connection position, it assumes a normal position that does not overlap with the transport vehicle's trajectory, which is the transport vehicle's movement path. In conjunction with the movable rail section changing its position from the connection position to the retracted position, it assumes a protruding position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, and is equipped with a restricting device that restricts the transport vehicle's movement. The restricting device includes a detection portion that, in the protruding position, functions as at least one of a portion that is detected by an obstacle sensor provided by the transport vehicle and a portion that contacts a collision detection sensor provided by the transport vehicle. The transport vehicle comprises a trolley section that travels on the upper surface of the rails, and a vehicle body section that is suspended from the trolley section and travels below the rails. When viewed from above, the direction perpendicular to the path direction is defined as the width direction. The aforementioned movable rail section is A first shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing with respect to the first fixed rail portion around a first rotation axis along the width direction, In the aforementioned connection position, the rail connection portion is the connection portion between the first fixed rail portion and the second fixed rail portion, The connection posture includes a first extension portion formed to extend toward the first side in the path direction relative to the first shaft support portion, As the movable rail portion changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the rail connection portion swings upward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis, and the first extension portion swings downward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis. The conveying equipment wherein the detected part is provided on the first extension or on a member that descends in conjunction with the descent of the first extension.

3. Rails arranged along a travel path passing through an opening formed in a wall, on which a transport vehicle travels, A conveying device comprising a door for opening and closing the aforementioned opening, The direction along the aforementioned travel path will be defined as the path direction, one side of the path direction will be defined as the first path direction side, and the other side of the path direction will be defined as the second path direction side. The rail comprises a movable rail portion positioned in an overlapping region that overlaps with the door trajectory, which is the movement trajectory of the door when opening and closing the opening; a first fixed rail portion positioned on the first side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region; and a second fixed rail portion positioned on the second side in the path direction relative to the overlapping region. The movable rail section is capable of changing its orientation between a connecting orientation, where it is positioned in the overlapping area and connects the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section, and a retracted orientation, where it is retracted from the overlapping area and separates the first fixed rail section and the second fixed rail section. When the movable rail section is in the connection position, it assumes a normal position that does not overlap with the transport vehicle's trajectory, which is the transport vehicle's movement path. In conjunction with the movable rail section changing its position from the connection position to the retracted position, it assumes a protruding position that overlaps with the transport vehicle's trajectory, and is equipped with a restricting device that restricts the transport vehicle's movement. The restricting device includes a detection portion that, in the protruding position, functions as at least one of a portion that is detected by an obstacle sensor provided by the transport vehicle and a portion that contacts a collision detection sensor provided by the transport vehicle. The transport vehicle comprises a trolley section that travels on the upper surface of the rails, and a vehicle body section that is suspended from the trolley section and travels below the rails. When viewed from above, the direction perpendicular to the path direction is defined as the width direction. The aforementioned movable rail section is A first shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing with respect to the first fixed rail portion around a first rotation axis along the width direction, In the aforementioned connection position, the rail connection portion is provided as a connecting portion between the first fixed rail portion and the second fixed rail portion. The rail further comprises a support member, The aforementioned support member is A second shaft support portion is supported so as to be able to swing with respect to the second fixed rail portion around a second rotation axis along the width direction, With the movable rail section in the connected position, a support section supports the end of the rail connection section on the second side in the path direction from below, The movable rail portion is formed to extend toward the second side in the path direction relative to the second shaft support portion when the movable rail portion is in the connected position, As the movable rail portion changes its position from the connected position to the retracted position, the rail connection portion swings upward relative to the first fixed rail portion around the first rotation axis, and as the end of the rail connection portion on the second side in the path direction separates from the support portion, the support member swings downward relative to the second fixed rail portion around the second rotation axis. The conveying equipment wherein the detected part is provided on the second extension or on a member that descends in conjunction with the descent of the second extension.

4. The conveying equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the restricting device is configured to change from the protruding position to the normal position in conjunction with the movable rail portion changing its position from the retracted position to the connected position.

Images