Logistics loading and unloading automation solution using data linkage between logistics center and cargo vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a logistics loading and unloading automation solution using data linkage between a logistics center and a cargo vehicle, and, more particularly, can provide an automatic logistics system comprising: a vehicle for transmitting cargo box information through a communication network; a logistics server for receiving and managing the cargo box information transmitted from the vehicle; and a logistics center for selecting, on the basis of the cargo box information transmitted from the logistics server, cargo to be loaded, and loading the selected cargo in the cargo box of the vehicle through a conveyor system.

Description

A logistics loading and unloading automation solution that links data between logistics centers and cargo vehicles.

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated loading and unloading solution for logistics through data linkage between a logistics center and a cargo vehicle, and more specifically, to an automatic logistics system and method that can automatically select and load cargo boxes to be loaded onto a cargo vehicle at a logistics center by providing the logistics center with information on cargo that can be loaded onto a cargo vehicle.

[0002] Recently, with the rise of online shopping via the Internet or smartphone apps, as well as TV home shopping, the volume of parcel delivery has been rapidly increasing. In order to dominate the parcel delivery market, parcel delivery companies are competing to introduce expedited delivery services such as same-day delivery and early morning delivery.

[0003] For example, in the case of a system for loading and unloading parcel logistics, it may be composed of a conveyor for transporting cargo, personnel for loading and unloading cargo transported through the conveyor into or from the cargo hold of a truck, and an operating system for managing them.

[0004] However, although the conventional logistics system may be useful for unloading cargo from trucks, it is difficult to determine the loading space and loading capacity of the trucks, so workers are loading cargo manually.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a problem that it takes a long time to load or unload cargo onto a truck, and management costs increase due to the difficulty of loading cargo.

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to provide an automatic logistics system and method that can automatically select and load cargo to be loaded into a vehicle system at a logistics center by providing information on the cargo loading box of a vehicle to the logistics center.

[0007] The present invention can provide an automatic logistics system and method that can share loadable cargo information with a logistics center by detecting loadable cargo information in a vehicle system through a bulkhead structure provided in the vehicle.

[0008] The present invention can provide an automatic logistics system and method that controls the automatic loading of cargo into a designated vehicle system at a logistics center using loadable cargo information.

[0009] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, the automatic logistics system of the present invention may include a vehicle that transmits information on a cargo loading box through a communication network; a logistics server that receives and manages information on a cargo loading box transmitted from the vehicle; and a logistics center that selects cargo to be loaded based on the information on the cargo loading box transmitted from the logistics server and loads the selected cargo onto the cargo loading box of the vehicle through a conveyor system.

[0010] The above cargo loading box may include a transfer plate installed so as to be transferred along the floor; a transfer driving unit that provides a driving force to transfer the transfer plate in a forward or backward direction; a rotation guide located below the exit that changes the direction of movement of the transfer plate; and a bulkhead structure that slides in conjunction with the transfer plate and transfers cargo.

[0011] The information of the above cargo loading box may include information on total loading weight, loading weight, loading volume, loadable weight, and loadable volume.

[0012] The above loadable volume can be calculated as the product of the moving distance of the bulkhead plate vertically mounted on the bulkhead structure, the height of the cargo loading box, and the width of the cargo loading box.

[0013] The movement distance of the above bulkhead plate can be calculated using the rotation angle of the above rotation guide.

[0014] The above load weight can be calculated from the power required to rotate the above rotation guide.

[0015] The above loadable weight can be calculated as a value obtained by subtracting the above load weight from the above total load weight.

[0016] The conveyor system may include a conveyor plate positioned at the same height as the transport plate and moving at the same speed as the transport plate.

[0017] The conveyor system may include an elevating frame that is raised and lowered to load cargo onto the cargo loading box; a conveyor plate that can move forward or backward while the cargo is loaded; and a transport guide that supports the conveyor plate.

[0018] The above-mentioned lifting frame can load cargo onto the vehicle by lowering from the top to the bottom of the cargo loading box while the vehicle is parked.

[0019] In addition, the vehicle of the present invention is a vehicle that is linked to a logistics server through a communication network, and includes a cargo loading box for loading cargo; and a communication module for transmitting information of the cargo loading box to the logistics server through the communication network, wherein the cargo loading box may include a transfer plate installed so as to be transferred along the floor; a transfer driving unit that provides a driving force so that the transfer plate is transferred in a forward or backward direction; a rotation guide located below an exit that changes the moving direction of the transfer plate; and a bulkhead structure that slides in conjunction with the transfer plate and transfers cargo.

[0020] In addition, the logistics server of the present invention is a logistics server that is linked to a vehicle and a logistics center through a communication network, and includes a vehicle management module that receives and manages information on a cargo loading box transmitted from the vehicle; a logistics management module that manages dispatch data, transportation data, and transportation cargo data of vehicles using the logistics center; and a center management module that manages data on cargo unloaded at the logistics center and data on cargo loaded at the logistics center, wherein information on the cargo loading box can be transmitted to the logistics center through a communication network.

[0021] In addition, the logistics center of the present invention may include a logistics center that is linked to a logistics server through a communication network, and may include an elevating frame that is raised and lowered to load cargo onto the cargo loading compartment of a vehicle using information on the cargo loading compartment of a vehicle transmitted from the logistics server; a conveyor plate that can move forward or backward while loaded with cargo; and a transport guide that supports the conveyor plate.

[0022] In addition, the automatic logistics method of the present invention may include a step of calculating information on a cargo loading compartment in a vehicle; a step of transmitting the information on the cargo loading compartment to a logistics center via a logistics server; and a step of loading selected cargo onto a cargo loading compartment of the vehicle at the logistics center using the information on the cargo loading compartment.

[0023] According to the present invention, by providing cargo loading information of a vehicle to a logistics center, there is an effect of automatically selecting and controlling cargo to be loaded onto a vehicle system at the logistics center.

[0024] In addition, according to the present invention, by detecting information on cargo that can be loaded into a vehicle system through a bulkhead structure provided in the vehicle, there is an effect of enabling information on cargo that can be loaded to be shared with a logistics center.

[0025] In addition, according to the present invention, there is an effect of controlling the automatic loading of cargo into a designated vehicle system at a logistics center using loadable cargo information.

[0026] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of an automatic logistics system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an example of a loading box in a vehicle system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an example of a bulkhead structure of a cargo loading box in a vehicle system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a drawing explaining the operation of the bulkhead structure of a cargo loading box in a vehicle system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a concept of generating cargo loading information of a vehicle system in an automatic logistics system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an example of cargo loading information transmitted by a vehicle system to a logistics center via a logistics server in an automatic logistics method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an example of a process of unloading cargo from a vehicle system and a process of loading cargo onto a vehicle system in an automatic logistics system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIGS. 8 to 10 are drawings illustrating the operation of a conveyor system capable of loading cargo onto a vehicle in the automatic logistics system of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a module and database used in a logistics server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a program configuration of a logistics server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing a flow chart of an automatic logistics method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] The logistics server (100) may include an electronic device capable of accessing one or more general-purpose computing resources, such as Internet services, e-mail services, and data transmission services. Additionally, it may include a user database storing information specific to a vehicle (200) or logistics center (300) that accesses online resources via a communications network. The database may also store other information and data necessary to implement the automated logistics system of the present invention.

[0038] The logistics server (100) may include any device or equipment that includes a processor and associated memory. The processor may implement an operating system and execute computer programs, known as instructions, software code, executables, applications, apps, etc. The processor may be formed by a microcontroller, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or a combination thereof. The memory may store or retain computer programs, and may store text, databases, graphics, audio, video, combinations thereof, and other data. The memory may be referred to as a computer-readable medium or a computer-readable storage medium, and may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), optical storage media such as a flash drive, floppy disk, hard disk, compact disc (CD-ROM), digital video disc (DVD), or a combination thereof.

[0039] The logistics server (100) may additionally include a file store including multiple hard disks, network attached storage, or a separate storage network along with such memory.

[0040] The communication modules of the logistics server (100), vehicle (200), and logistics center (300) may specifically include a mobile communication device (including a wireless device), a workstation, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a palmtop computer, a tablet computer, a portable digital assistant (PDA), a smartphone, or a combination thereof. Various embodiments of the communication module may include a computer capable of wired connection, such as a mobile phone, a cell phone, a smartphone, or a PC.

[0041] The logistics server (100), vehicle (200), and logistics center (300) may have electronic displays such as cathode ray tubes, liquid crystal displays, plasmas, or touchscreens that display visual graphics, images, text, etc.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a computer program installed in a logistics server (100), a vehicle (200), and a logistics center (300) facilitates interaction and communication through a graphical user interface (GUI) displayed on an electronic display. The graphical user interface allows the user to interact with the electronic display by touching or pointing at display areas to provide user information to the user control interface.

[0043] Additionally, the logistics server (100), vehicle (200), and logistics center (300) may include optical devices such as digital cameras, video cameras, and optical scanners to capture, store, and transmit digital images or videos.

[0044] The logistics server (100), vehicle (200), and logistics center (300) may include a user control interface to enable one or more users to share information and commands with each other. The user control interface may include one or more functional inputs, such as buttons, a keyboard, switches, a scroll wheel, a voice recognition element such as a microphone, and a pointing device such as a mouse, a touchpad, a trackball, and a stylus. The user control interface may also include a speaker for providing audible instructions and feedback. In addition, the user control interface may include wired or wireless data transmission elements, such as communication components, removable memory, a data transceiver, or a transmitter, to enable remote interfacing with a user or other electronic device.

[0045] A communications network may be wired or wireless, and may include communications servers, routers, switches, wireless receivers and transmitters, as well as electrically conductive cables or optical cables. The communications network may include wireless Internet interfaces such as WirelessLAN (WLAN), Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), Wireless broadband (Wibro), World Interoperability for Microwave Access (Wimax), High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), and Long Term Evolution (LTE), as well as short-range communication interfaces such as Bluetooth and Infrared Data Association (IrDA), which use the ISM (Industrial Scientific and Medical) frequency band of 2400 to 2483.5 MHz. Furthermore, the communications network may include a cellular or mobile telephone network, as well as a landline phone network, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), and an optical fiber network.

[0046] The logistics server (100), vehicle (200), and logistics center (300) may be connected to a communication network via a communication module. The communication module may also communicate with other servers, computer terminals, etc. via the communication network. The connection to the communication network may be wired or wireless, and the logistics server (100), vehicle (200), and logistics center (300) may include appropriate components for establishing a wired or wireless connection.

[0047] The computer program for performing the automatic logistics method of the present invention can be executed in the vehicle (200), the logistics center (300), and the logistics server (100). For example, a first portion of the program, code, or instructions can be executed in the vehicle (200), while a second portion of the program, code, or instructions can be executed in the logistics center (300) or the logistics server (100). In some embodiments, other portions of the program, code, or instructions can be executed in other electronic devices. For example, information specific to the vehicle (200) and the logistics center (300) can be stored in the memory of the logistics server (100), so that each piece of information can be remotely accessed by the driver of the vehicle (200) or the manager of the logistics center (300) using one or more computer programs.

[0048] In an embodiment of the present invention, the computer program may be implemented as a standalone program installed on the logistics server (100) or as a web-accessible program accessible by a communication module of a vehicle (200) or logistics center (300) via a communication network. In the case of a standalone program, a downloadable version of the computer program may be stored at least partially on the logistics server (100). A user may download at least a portion of the computer program to the vehicle (200) or logistics center (300) via the communication network.

[0049] To perform the automatic logistics method according to an embodiment of the present invention, the computer program may be an application, such as an app, installed on a mobile device. After the computer program is downloaded, the program may be installed in an executable format on a vehicle (200) or a logistics center (300). The executable program allows the driver of the vehicle (200) or the manager of the logistics center (300) to access the logistics server (100) through an electronic resource, such as a mobile app or website. In the case of a web-accessible computer program, the driver of the vehicle (200) or the manager of the logistics center (300) may access the computer program of the logistics server (100) through a communication network using a communication module.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an example of a cargo loading box in a vehicle system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 2, in a vehicle (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention, a cargo loading box (202) has a gate (210) formed at the exit, and the gate (210) can be folded up and down by the operation of a hydraulic device (220) to open or close the exit.

[0052] The cargo loading box (202) is equipped with a cargo transfer device (400) on the floor.

[0053] The cargo transfer device (400) may include a transfer drive unit (410), a transfer plate (430), a rotation guide (450), and a controller (not shown). The cargo transfer device (400) may include a bulkhead structure (500) that receives power from the transfer drive unit (410) and can move along the transfer plate (430).

[0054] The transfer drive unit (410) is located on one side of the bottom surface of the cargo loading box (202) and can provide driving force to move the transfer plate (430) in a forward or backward direction. The transfer drive unit (410) can be installed on the bottom opposite to the exit of the cargo loading box (202).

[0055] The transport drive unit (410) may include at least one chain, a motor, and a drive shaft. In addition, a movement guide may be installed along the length of the bottom surface of the cargo loading box (202) to prevent sagging of the chain and guide movement.

[0056] The transfer plate (430) is linked to a chain on both sides and moves forward or backward along the chain to transfer the loaded cargo toward the exit of the cargo loading box (202) to unload it, or to move the cargo placed at the exit toward the inside of the cargo loading box (202) to load the cargo.

[0057] The transfer plate (430) is installed so as to be movable along the bottom of the cargo loading box (202). The transfer plate (430) is located on the upper surface of the bottom of the cargo loading box (202) so that cargo can be loaded on top of it. The transfer plate (430) is rotated by power transmitted from the transfer drive unit (410) so that its position can be moved to the bottom surface of the cargo loading box (202).

[0058] The transfer plate (430) may be made of rubber, urethane, or the like, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the transfer plate (430) may be made of a flexible material that can be rotated along the chain while being in close contact with the bottom of the cargo loading box (202). The transfer plate (430) may be linked to one side of the chain by installing a connecting plate at the end in the exit direction, and may be linked to the other side of the chain by installing a bulkhead structure (500) at the inner end.

[0059] The rotation guide (450) is located at the lower part of the exit of the cargo loading box (202) and guides the rotational movement of the transfer plate (430) to change the direction of movement of the transfer plate. The rotation guide (450) is composed of a pair of rollers, and as the rollers rotate, the transfer plate passes between the pair of rollers and moves from the upper surface of the bottom of the cargo loading box (202) to the lower surface or from the lower surface of the bottom to the upper surface.

[0060] The rotary guide (450) is a driven shaft of a drive shaft that rotates by the motor of the transport drive unit (410), and can rotate in conjunction with the drive shaft.

[0061] A stopper may be formed protrudingly on the bottom surface of the cargo loading box (202). The stopper determines the stop position when the transfer plate (430) located on the bottom upper surface of the cargo loading box (202) rotates and moves toward the bottom surface.

[0062] A controller (not shown) can open the exit by folding the gate (210) of the cargo loading box (202) according to user operation through an electrical connection, and can drive the motor of the transport drive unit (410) to operate the transport plate (430) installed on the bottom of the cargo loading box (202) to perform loading or unloading operations of cargo.

[0063] The cargo loading box (202) of the vehicle (200) may include a bulkhead structure (500) that slides within the cargo loading box (202) in conjunction with a transfer plate (430). The bulkhead structure (500) can unload cargo by horizontally transferring cargo placed on the transfer plate (430) while sliding.

[0064] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an example of a bulkhead structure of a cargo loading box in a vehicle system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 3, in a vehicle (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention, a bulkhead structure (500) provided in a cargo loading box (202) may include a bulkhead plate (510) that is vertically mounted in a loading space to form a bulkhead.

[0066] The bulkhead plate (510) may be made of a metal material. The bulkhead plate (510) may divide the space of the cargo loading box (202) into a space where cargo is not loaded and a space where cargo is loaded.

[0067] The transport drive unit (410) can be positioned in a space where cargo is not loaded. The bulkhead plate (510) can be formed with an upper vertical surface (511) and a lower inclined surface (513). The lower inclined surface (513) is formed to be inclined downward toward the exit of the cargo loading box (202), so that the cargo can be stably placed within the cargo loading box (202). In addition, the lower inclined surface (513) can effectively pressurize and push the cargo when moving, and can secure a free space for installing the transport drive unit (410). The lower inclined surface (513) can be formed to be inclined at an angle of 25 to 45 degrees with respect to the upper vertical surface (511).

[0068] The bulkhead plate (510) may be formed flat or may be formed in a curved shape at least in part.

[0069] A reinforcing frame (520) can be joined to both left and right sides of the bulkhead plate (510). The reinforcing frame (520) can be joined to the bulkhead plate (510) by welding and can provide reinforcing force for structural reinforcement of the bulkhead plate (510).

[0070] The reinforcing frame (520) is connected to the bulkhead plate (510) in steps and is accommodated on the inner walls on both sides of the loading space of the cargo loading box (202) to ensure stable movement of the bulkhead plate (510). On the inner walls on both sides of the cargo loading box (202), side guides are formed on the upper side to protrude inwardly so as to allow the bulkhead plate (510) to slide.

[0071] A rubber pad can be attached to the reinforcing frame (520) by means of bolts or the like. The rubber pad can effectively push out cargo stuck on both sides by ensuring that the rubber pad adheres to the inner walls on both sides of the cargo loading box (202) when the bulkhead plate (510) slides.

[0072] The bulkhead plate (510) can move the loading space of the cargo loading box (202) forward or backward along the rotation of the chain.

[0073] FIG. 4 is a drawing explaining the operation of the bulkhead structure of a cargo loading box in a vehicle system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 4, in a vehicle (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention, a cargo loading box (202) has an open top so that cargo can be loaded into a loading space using heavy equipment such as a forklift, and the open top of the cargo loading box (202) can be covered with a cover or the like for transport.

[0075] A transfer plate (430) linked to a chain (411) is positioned on the bottom surface of the cargo loading box (202), so that cargo can be loaded on top of the transfer plate (430). The cargo loading box (202) can be divided into a space where cargo is not loaded and a space where cargo is loaded by a bulkhead plate (510) coupled to one side of the transfer plate (430).

[0076] Cargo loaded in the loading space of the cargo loading box (202) can be supported by the bulkhead plate (510).

[0077] When unloading cargo loaded on the cargo loading box (202), the transfer drive unit (410) is driven to provide rotational force to the chain (411) so that the transfer plate (430) is controlled to be transferred in the exit direction. Transfer plates (430) are linked to both sides of the chain (411) so that the transfer plate (430) moves along the chain (411). The chain (411) can pull the transfer plate (430) in a forward or backward direction so that the cargo loaded on the transfer plate (430) on the bottom of the cargo loading box (202) is transferred forward or backward.

[0078] The transport drive unit (410) transmits the power of the motor to the chain (411) to rotate the chain (411), and drives the transport plate (430) linked to the chain (411) in a linear and rotational manner to transport the cargo placed on top toward the exit.

[0079] The chain (411) rotates by the drive shaft that rotates according to the rotation of the motor, and the transfer plate (430) linked to the chain (411) rotates along the rotation guide (450) located at the bottom of the exit of the cargo loading box (202). By this motion, the transfer plate (430) can be moved to the bottom surface of the cargo loading box (202).

[0080] That is, the transfer plate (430) is located on the upper surface of the bottom of the cargo loading box (202), and when the chain (411) rotates in the first direction while cargo is loaded, a pulling force is applied to the transfer plate (430) linked to the chain (411) through the connecting plate (440), causing the transfer plate (430) to move forward toward the exit. In the process of the transfer plate (430) moving forward, the bulkhead plate (510) moves together to support the cargo loaded on the upper part of the transfer plate (430) so that it does not fall backward.

[0081] During the process of moving the bulkhead plate (510), the inner walls on both sides of the cargo loading box (202) are scraped by the rubber pads, so that the cargo can be discharged from the cargo loading box (202) without any residue. The transfer plate (430) is moved to the bottom surface of the cargo loading box (202) by the rotation guide (450) located at the bottom of the exit, and the cargo can be unloaded from the exit. (In the case of (a))

[0082] The connecting plate (440) is pulled along the bottom surface of the cargo loading box (202) by the chain (411) toward the opposite side of the exit, and when it reaches the position where the stopper is installed, the motor stops and stops. At this time, the bulkhead plate (510) stops close to the exit of the cargo loading box (202), so that the cargo is completely unloaded.

[0083] When all or part of the cargo is unloaded, the chain (411) is rotated inwardly of the cargo loading box (202) through the transfer drive unit (410), causing the transfer plate (430) to move backward toward the inside of the cargo loading box (202). In the process of the transfer plate (430) moving backward, the bulkhead plate (510) moves together, and cargo can be loaded onto the transfer plate (430) at the cargo center (300) to unload the cargo. (In the case of (b))

[0084] At this time, the automatic logistics system of the present invention can receive cargo loading information of a vehicle (200) entering a logistics center (300), designate a parking location for the vehicle (200) based on this, and automatically process the unloading of loaded cargo and the loading process of necessary cargo.

[0085] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a concept of generating cargo loading information of a vehicle system in an automatic logistics system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 5, in the automatic logistics system according to an embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle (200) is assigned a unique number, such as a vehicle number, and a total load weight of cargo that can be loaded into a cargo loading box (202). In addition, after the vehicle (200) loads cargo at a logistics center (300), a destination for transporting the cargo can be determined.

[0087] Additionally, the vehicle (200) can produce information on the loading weight and loading volume of cargo loaded in the cargo loading box (202).

[0088] For example, the total volume of the vehicle loading box (202) can be expressed as the product of the total length (TL), height (H), and width (W) of the cargo loading box (TL XH XW). At this time, the volume of the space in the cargo loading box (202) where cargo is not loaded can be expressed as the product of the movement distance (ML) of the bulkhead plate (510) from the inside of the cargo loading box (202) and the height (H) and width (W) (ML XH XW).

[0089] Here, the movement distance of the bulkhead plate (510) may be calculated using a distance sensor placed inside the cargo loading box (202) or using the rotation angle of the rotation guide (450). In addition to the rotation angle, the radius of the rotation pulley may be used to calculate the linear movement displacement of the bulkhead plate (510).

[0090] That is, the total volume of the cargo loading box (202) is TL XHXW, the volume of the space where cargo is not loaded separated by the bulkhead plate (510) is ML XHXW, and the loading volume where cargo is loaded is (TL XHXW) - (ML XHXW).

[0091] At this time, the volume (ML XHXW) of the space where cargo is not loaded by the bulkhead plate (510) becomes the loadable volume in which cargo can be additionally loaded in the logistics center (300).

[0092] Additionally, the load weight of the cargo may be measured using a weight sensor or may be calculated from the power required to rotate the rotation guide (450).

[0093] At this time, the loadable weight of the vehicle (200) can be calculated as a value obtained by subtracting the load weight of the cargo from the total load weight.

[0094] Accordingly, when the vehicle (200) provides cargo loading information to the logistics center (300) through the logistics server (100) during the process of moving to the logistics center (300), the logistics center (300) can use the cargo loading information of the vehicle (200) to determine and prepare in advance the type and weight of cargo to be loaded.

[0095] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an example of cargo loading information transmitted by a vehicle system to a logistics center via a logistics server in an automatic logistics method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 6, in the automatic logistics method according to the embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle (200) transmits cargo loading information to the logistics center (300) through the logistics server (100), thereby automatically performing the process of unloading or loading cargo at the logistics center (300).

[0097] The loading information of cargo transmitted from the vehicle (200) to the logistics center (300) may include information on the vehicle number, destination, total loading weight, current loading weight, current loading volume, loadable weight, and loadable volume.

[0098] The logistics center (300) can determine the location where the vehicle (200) will unload or load cargo by considering the destination information of the vehicle (200).

[0099] Additionally, the logistics center (300) may be able to determine the cargo unloading location and transfer space by considering the loading weight and loading volume of the vehicle (200).

[0100] In addition, the logistics center (300) may determine and prepare the type and quantity of cargo to be loaded onto the vehicle (200) in advance by considering the loadable weight and loadable volume of the vehicle (200).

[0101] In this way, the automatic logistics system of the present invention can control the logistics center (300) to automatically select and load cargo to be loaded onto the vehicle (200) by providing cargo loading information of the vehicle (200) to the logistics center (300) in advance.

[0102]

[0103] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an example of a process of unloading cargo from a vehicle system and a process of loading cargo onto a vehicle system in an automatic logistics system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Referring to Fig. 7, in the automatic logistics system according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the gate is opened while the vehicle (200) is parked at the unloading position, the transfer plate moves toward the rear to unload the cargo. (Case (a))

[0105] At this time, the conveyor system (310) of the logistics center (300) is positioned at the gate for unloading cargo from the vehicle (200). The conveyor system (310) is positioned at the same height as the transfer plate of the vehicle (200), and the conveyor plate of the conveyor system (310) moves at the same speed as the transfer plate of the vehicle (200), thereby safely unloading cargo.

[0106] In addition, when the gate is opened while the vehicle (200) is parked at the loading position, the transfer plate moves forward to load cargo from the logistics center (300). (In the case of (b))

[0107] At this time, the conveyor system (310) of the logistics center (300) is positioned at the same height as the transfer plate of the vehicle (200), and the conveyor plate of the conveyor system (310) moves at the same speed as the transfer plate of the vehicle (200), thereby safely loading cargo.

[0108] Meanwhile, in the automatic logistics system of the present invention, the logistics center (300) is installed so that the conveyor system (310) can be raised and lowered in accordance with the height of the cargo loading box of the vehicle (200), thereby enabling stable loading of cargo.

[0109] FIGS. 8 to 10 are drawings illustrating the operation of a conveyor system capable of loading cargo onto a vehicle in the automatic logistics system of the present invention.

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, in the automatic logistics system of the present invention, the conveyor system (310) of the logistics center (300) may include an elevating frame (311), a conveyor plate (312), and a transport guide (313).

[0111] The lifting frame (311) is a structure that supports the upper and lower portions of the conveyor system (310) to load cargo onto the vehicle (200). The lifting frame (311) may be formed as a bar-shaped structure that supports the outer surface of the conveyor system (310).

[0112] The conveyor plate (312) is a structure that moves cargo loaded on the conveyor system (310), and is a structure that can move forward or backward while loaded with cargo by the rotational motion of a conveyor drive unit (not shown) coupled to the conveyor plate (312).

[0113] The transport guide (313) supports the lifting portion of the conveyor system (310) and supports the cargo so that it can be stably maintained during the movement of the conveyor plate (312).

[0114] Among the conveyor systems (310), the part that is raised or lowered is lowered from the upper part of the cargo loading box of the vehicle (200) to the lower part and is placed on the cargo loading box, and in this state, cargo transferred through the conveyor plate (312) is loaded on the cargo loading box of the vehicle (200).

[0115]

[0116] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a module and database used in a logistics server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 11, a logistics server (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a vehicle management module (110), a logistics control module (120), and a center management module (130).

[0118] The vehicle management module (110) is a module that manages information about a vehicle (200) transporting cargo.

[0119] The vehicle management module (110) can manage vehicle data such as identification information of a vehicle transporting cargo, for example, vehicle number and driver information of the vehicle.

[0120] The vehicle management module (110) can manage loaded cargo data including the volume and weight of cargo loaded in the cargo loading compartment of the vehicle (200).

[0121] The vehicle management module (110) can manage loadable cargo data including the volume of space in the cargo loading area where cargo is not loaded and the weight of loadable cargo.

[0122] The logistics control module (120) is a part that manages dispatch data of vehicles (200) using the logistics center (300), transportation data of the vehicles (200), and transportation cargo data.

[0123] The logistics server (100) can check the transportation status of the vehicle and the transportation status of the cargo through the logistics control module (120).

[0124] The center management module (130) is a part that manages the status of the logistics center (300), cargo information, cargo data unloaded at the logistics center (300), and cargo data loaded at the logistics center (300).

[0125] Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a program configuration of a logistics server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 12, an application module (180) used in a logistics server (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a vehicle management module (110) that manages the status of a vehicle (200) using an automatic logistics system, a logistics control module (120) that manages the transport status of a vehicle using a logistics center (300) and the delivery status of cargo, and a center management module (130) that manages cargo loading and unloading data at a logistics center (300).

[0127] The program including such an application module (180) can use various OSs as the OS of the system. Such an OS controls the operation of each application module (180) by providing high-level commands to the API (Application Program Interface: 161). The program installed in the logistics server (100) includes a high-level command processing unit (162) that identifies each corresponding application module (180) according to the high-level commands provided from the API (161), decodes the high-level commands, and provides them to the corresponding location.

[0128] The application module control unit (170) controls the operation of the application module (180) according to the command provided from the high-level command processing unit (162). That is, the high-level command processing unit (162) identifies whether there is a corresponding application module (180) according to the high-level command provided through the API (161), and if there is a corresponding application module (180), decodes the command into one that can be recognized by the corresponding application module (180) and transmits it to the corresponding mapping unit or controls message transmission. Accordingly, the application module control unit (170) includes mapping units (171, 173, 175) and interface units (172, 174, 176) for the vehicle management module (110), the logistics control module (120), and the center management module (130), respectively.

[0129] The vehicle management module mapping unit (171) receives high-level commands for managing data on a vehicle (200) connected to a logistics server (100), cargo loaded on the vehicle (200), and loadable cargo from the high-level command processing unit (162), maps the commands to a device level that can be processed by the vehicle management module (110), and provides the commands to the vehicle management module (110) through the vehicle management module interface unit (172).

[0130] The logistics control module mapping unit (173) and the logistics control module interface unit (174) are parts that store and manage vehicle transportation and cargo delivery data. That is, the logistics control module mapping unit (173) receives high-level commands for using the logistics control module (120) from the high-level command processing unit (162), maps them into device-level commands, and provides them to the logistics control module (120) through the logistics control module interface unit (174).

[0131] The center management module (130) is a part that manages data on cargo unloaded from a vehicle (200) or cargo to be loaded onto a vehicle (200). The center management module mapping unit (175) receives a high-level command authorized through the high-level command processing unit (162) and maps it into a device-level command that the center management module (130) can recognize. The device-level command is provided to the center management module (130) through the center management module interface unit (176).

[0132] However, the application module (180) and its functions mentioned above may all be performed in the logistics server (100), but some of the functions may be shared and processed by distributing the modules between the vehicle (200) and the logistics center (300).

[0133]

[0134] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing a flow chart of an automatic logistics method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 13, an automatic logistics method according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a step of calculating information on a cargo loading box (202) in a vehicle (200), a step of transmitting the information on the cargo loading box to a logistics center (300) via a logistics server (100), and a step of loading selected cargo onto a cargo loading box of the vehicle (200) using the information on the cargo loading box in the logistics center (300).

[0136] The step of calculating information on the cargo loading box (202) in the vehicle (200) is a process of determining the volume and weight of cargo loaded in the cargo loading box (202) using a sensor system placed inside the vehicle (200), or determining the volume and weight of cargo that can be loaded by considering the free space of the cargo loading box (202).

[0137]

[0138] The step of transmitting the information of the cargo loading box to the logistics center (300) through the logistics server (100) is a process of transmitting information on cargo loaded in the cargo loading box (202) or information on cargo that can be loaded in the cargo loading box (202) to the logistics server (100) using communication equipment mounted on the vehicle or the driver's wireless terminal (such as a mobile phone).

[0139] In the above logistics center (300), the step of loading selected cargo onto the cargo loading box of the vehicle (200) using the information on the cargo loading box is a process of loading designated cargo from among cargo stored in the warehouse onto the vehicle (200) using a conveyor system using the information on the cargo loading box of the vehicle transmitted through the logistics server (100).

[0140] In this way, the automatic logistics method of the present invention has the effect of enabling the logistics center (300) to select cargo to be loaded onto the vehicle (200) in advance and automatically load the cargo by providing information on cargo loading boxes that can be loaded onto the vehicle (200) to the logistics center (300).

[0141]

[0142] The above description and the attached drawings are merely illustrative of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations, such as combination, separation, substitution, and change of the configuration, may be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of ​​the present invention, but to explain it, and the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. That is, within the scope of the purpose of the present invention, all of the components may be selectively combined and operated one or more times. The protection scope of the present invention should be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. A vehicle that transmits information about its cargo compartment through a communication network; A logistics server that receives and manages information on cargo loading boxes transmitted from the above vehicles; and An automatic logistics system including a logistics center that selects cargo to be loaded based on cargo loading information transmitted from the above logistics server and loads the selected cargo into the cargo loading box of the vehicle through a conveyor system.

2. In paragraph 1, The above cargo loading box A transfer plate installed so that it can be moved along the floor; A transport drive unit that provides a driving force to move the above transport plate in a forward or backward direction; A rotary guide located at the bottom of the outlet to change the direction of movement of the transfer plate; and An automatic logistics system including a bulkhead structure that slides in conjunction with the above-mentioned transfer plate and transfers cargo.

3. In paragraph 2, Information on the above cargo loading box An automated logistics system that includes information on total load weight, load weight, load volume, loadable weight, and loadable volume.

4. In paragraph 3, The above loadable volume is An automatic logistics system calculated by multiplying the moving distance of the bulkhead plate vertically mounted on the bulkhead structure, the height of the cargo loading box, and the width of the cargo loading box.

5. In paragraph 4, The movement distance of the above bulkhead plate is An automatic logistics system calculated using the rotation angle of the above rotation guide.

6. In paragraph 3, The above loading weight is An automatic logistics system calculated from the power required to rotate the above-mentioned rotary guide.

7. In paragraph 3, The above loadable weight is An automatic logistics system calculated by subtracting the above-mentioned loading weight from the above-mentioned total loading weight.

8. In paragraph 2, The above conveyor system An automatic logistics system comprising a conveyor plate positioned at the same height as the above-mentioned transfer plate and moving at the same speed as the above-mentioned transfer plate.

9. In paragraph 1, The above conveyor system A lifting frame that is raised and lowered to load cargo onto the above cargo loading box; An automatic logistics system comprising a conveyor plate capable of moving forward or backward while loaded with cargo; and a transport guide supporting the conveyor plate.

10. In paragraph 9, The above lifting frame An automatic logistics system that loads cargo onto the vehicle by lowering from the top to the bottom of the cargo loading box while the vehicle is parked.

11. In vehicles that are connected to a logistics server through a communication network, A cargo loading box for loading cargo; and Including a communication module that transmits information of the cargo loading box to the logistics server through the communication network, The above cargo loading box A transfer plate installed so that it can be moved along the floor; A transport drive unit that provides a driving force to move the above transport plate in a forward or backward direction; A rotary guide located at the bottom of the outlet to change the direction of movement of the transfer plate; and A vehicle including a bulkhead structure that slides in conjunction with the above-mentioned transfer plate and transports cargo.

12. In paragraph 11, Information on the above cargo loading box A vehicle containing information on gross payload, payload weight, payload volume, payloadable weight, and payloadable volume.

13. In a logistics server that connects with vehicles and logistics centers through a communication network, A vehicle management module that receives and manages information on a cargo loading box transmitted from the above vehicle; A logistics management module that manages dispatch data, transportation data, and transportation cargo data of vehicles using the above logistics center; and Including a center management module that manages cargo data unloaded at the above logistics center and cargo data loaded at the above logistics center, A logistics server that transmits information on the cargo loading box to the logistics center via a communication network.

14. In paragraph 13, Information on the above cargo loading box A logistics server containing information on total load weight, load weight, load volume, loadable weight, and loadable volume.

15. In a logistics center that is connected to a logistics server through a communication network, A lifting frame that is raised and lowered to load cargo onto the vehicle's cargo loading box using information on the vehicle's cargo loading box transmitted from the logistics server; A conveyor plate that can move forward or backward while loaded with cargo; and A logistics center including a transport guide supporting the above conveyor plate.

16. In paragraph 15, Information on the above cargo loading box A logistics center that contains information on total load weight, load weight, load volume, loadable weight, and loadable volume.

17. Step of calculating information on the cargo loading area in the vehicle; A step of transmitting information on the cargo loading box to the logistics center through the logistics server; An automatic logistics method comprising a step of loading selected cargo into the cargo loading compartment of the vehicle using information of the cargo loading compartment at the logistics center.

18. In paragraph 17, Information on the above cargo loading box An automated logistics method including information on total load weight, load weight, load volume, loadable weight and loadable volume.

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