Transfer device and system for loading a load space

Abstract

The invention relates to a transfer device (12) for loading a load space (14), the transfer device (12) comprising a transfer unit (16) arranged to be transferred with load units (18) into and out from the load space (14) while the load units (18) remain in the load space ( 14 ), and a transfer actuator (20) connected to the transfer unit (16) for transferring the transfer unit (16), a plastic sliding surface (24) adapted to be placed against a base (100), the sliding surface (24) comprising discontinuities (26), and a locking actuator (28) for detachably connecting the trans fer actuator (20) to the transfer unit (16) via the discontinuity (26) for transmitting force to the transfer unit (16), wherein in the transfer device (12) said transfer unit (16) is supported on top of the sliding surface (24), and the transfer actuator (20) is arranged essentially parallel with the transfer unit (16) in the operating position below the sliding surface (24), and the transfer actuator (20) is adapted to transfer the transfer unit (16) cyclically, wherein each movement from the starting point into the load space (14) comprises several successive partial transfers in the same direction. The invention also relates to a system for loading the load space (14).

Description

[0001] TRANSFER DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR LOADING A LOAD SPACE

[0002] The invention relates to a transfer device for loading a load space, the transfer device comprising

[0003] - a transfer unit arranged to be transferred with load units into and out from the load space, with the load units remaining in the load space, the transfer unit comprising a stiffening plate, and

[0004] - a transfer actuator connected to the transfer unit for transferring the transfer unit.

[0005] The invention also relates to a corresponding system.

[0006] The prior art discloses the applicant's previous patent publication FI 127495 B, which describes an automated loading system for loading a load space. The system comprises a frame, a transfer unit arranged to be transferred with the load units into and out from the load space, roller sets for transferring the transfer unit, and positioning means for positioning the frame vertically and horizontally. The transfer unit is transferred using winches as the transfer actuator. Such an automated system is quite a robust entity and requires certain modifications to the operating environment during installation. On the other hand, the structure of the system is also large in terms of its manufacture and is logistically challenging, as it takes up a lot of production space. Furthermore, moving the system to its intended site of use requires special transport .

[0007] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a transfer device and system that is simpler and easier to install than the prior art transfer devices and systems. Preferably, the system is also a better overall solution than the prior art systems in terms of manufacturing, installation and transportation. The characteristic features of the transfer device according to the invention are apparent from the accompanying claim 1, while the features of the system are apparent from the claim 11.

[0008] The transfer unit according to the invention is characterized in that the transfer device has a plastic sliding surface adapted to be placed against a base, the sliding surface comprising discontinuities, and a locking actuator for detachably connecting the transfer actuator to the transfer unit via the discontinuity in order to transmit force to the transfer unit. The transfer unit is supported on top of the sliding surface, and the transfer actuator is arranged essentially parallel with the transfer unit in the operating position below the sliding surface. In addition, the transfer actuator is adapted to transfer the transfer unit cyclically, wherein each movement from the starting point into the load space comprises several successive partial transfers in the same direction.

[0009] In this context, the word "cyclically" means that a single movement from the starting point into the load space comprises several partial transfers by the transfer actuator, where in each partial transfer the transfer actuator performs a single movement and returns to the starting point for the next partial transfer as the transfer unit moves towards the load space. A single partial transfer may also be only a part of the total transfer length of the transfer actuator, particularly in the case of the last partial transfer.

[0010] The transfer device according to the invention is very simple, is low in structure and can be placed in existing loading areas with minimal or no modifications. The simplicity of the transfer device is based on the fact that it does not have separate positioning means, instead, for example, the load space of a truck is positioned directly on the transfer device. The advantage of the transfer device according to the invention compared to transfer devices according to the prior art is that it can be installed in existing premises even without any structural modifications to the premises.

[0011] The system according to the invention is characterized in that it uses the transfer device according to the invention and that the transfer device is fixedly arranged to the loading platform level, and the system further comprises a separate alignment unit arranged to the parking level in order to move the load space of the truck at least in a vertical direction to bring the load space essentially to the same level with the transfer unit of the transfer device. In this way the load space is aligned using the separate alignment unit, whereby the structure of the transfer device can be simple. Separating the alignment unit and the transfer device from each other also enables the system to be manufactured in smaller units, as the system is modularly composed of several separate units, each with its own function in the system. Furthermore, the separate units can be transported as individual transports, which allow the system to be transported as a regular transport instead of a special transport.

[0012] The invention, which is not limited to the embodiments presented below, is explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure la shows axonometrically an overall view of one the first embodiments of the system according to the invention,

[0014] Figure lb shows a simplified side view of the embodiment of the system shown in Figure la, Figure 2 shows axonometrically a separate view of the first embodiment of the transfer device according to the invention,

[0015] Figure 3 shows axonometrically a separate view of the second embodiment of the transfer device according to the invention,

[0016] Figure 4 shows axonometrically a separate view of the third embodiment of the transfer device according to the invention,

[0017] Figure 5 shows axonometrically a separate view of the fourth embodiment of the transfer device ac- cording to the invention,

[0018] Figure 6 shows axonometrically a separate view of an embodiment of the alignment unit of the system according to the invention,

[0019] Figure 7 shows axonometrically a partially exploded view of the structure of the transfer plate, Figures 8a - 8h show as a side view the operating steps of the actuator of the transfer unit,

[0020] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional enlargement of the force transmission element of the locking actuator,

[0021] Figure 10a shows the hydraulic diagram of the system,

[0022] Figure 10b shows the hydraulic diagram for detail A of Figure 10a, and

[0023] Figure 10c shows the hydraulic diagram for detail B of Figure 10a.

[0024] Figures la and lb show an embodiment of the system 10 according to the invention and the transfer device 12 according to the invention forming part of it. In all embodiments, the system according to the invention comprises a parking level 34 for the truck 36 shown in Figure lb, a loading platform level 38 arranged on a level above the parking level 34, and the transfer device 12 according to the invention for loading the load space 14 of the truck 36. The transfer device 12 is fixedly arranged on the loading platform level 38, and the system 10 further comprises an alignment unit 40 arranged on the parking level 34 for moving the load space 14 of the truck 36 at least in the vertical direction to bring the load space 14 essentially on the same level as the transfer device 12.

[0025] In turn, the transfer device 12 according to the invention comprises in all embodiments a transfer unit 16 arranged to be transferred with the load units 18 into and out from the load space 14, while the load units 18 remain in the load space 14, and a transfer actuator 20 connected to the transfer unit 16 for transferring it into the load space 14. The transfer device 12 further comprises a plastic sliding surface 24 shown in Figure 7, adapted to be placed against the base 100 of the loading platform level 38, the sliding surface 24 comprising the discontinuities 26 shown in Figures 8a - 9. Preferably, the sliding surface is fitted directly against the base, minimizing the height of the transfer device structure. Alternatively, the sliding surface can also be supported on top of a steel plate, plywood or other sliding surface supported on the loading platform, although these will heighten the overall structure of the transfer device.

[0026] There can be 4 - 20, preferably 8 - 14 discontinuities in a row. These enable the transfer unit to be moved in partial transfers in transfers of different lengths.

[0027] At this point, it should be understood that the transfer device according to the invention requires an external support structure to function, which is preferably the base of the loading platform. In other words, the structure of the transfer device is stiffened by an external structure, preferably by means of the base.

[0028] In addition, the transfer device 12 comprises a locking actuator 28 shown in Figures 8a - 8h for detachably connecting the transfer actuator 20 to the transfer unit 16 via the discontinuity 26 in order to transmit force to the transfer unit 16. The transfer unit 16 can be supported on the base by means of the sliding surface 24 preferably belonging to the transfer unit 16, and the transfer actuator 20 is essentially aligned with the transfer unit 16 in the operating position below the sliding surface 24. Alternatively, the sliding surface can also be a separate part relative to the transfer unit, but in this case the discontinuities must be long slots or gaps. The transfer unit can also be referred to as a transfer plane.

[0029] Preferably, the transfer device 12 further comprises loading means 22 for loading the load units 18 onto the transfer unit 16.

[0030] Preferably, the plastic sliding surface 24 is made of plastic strips attached in parallel at a distance to each other to the stiffening plate 58 of the transfer unit 16, shown in Figure 7. The gap between the plastic strips is preferably the aforementioned discontinuity. However, it should be understood that instead of separate plastic strips, the sliding surface can also be made of a continuous plate with slots or gaps as discontinuities through which the locking actuator attaches to the transfer unit.

[0031] The idea of the invention is to simplify the structure of the transfer device as much as possible by separating the transfer means related to the alignment of the load space from the transfer device to a separate alignment unit. This allows the transfer device to be simple and low in structure, which facilitates its transportation and installation at the site of use. The alignment unit 40 can be placed on the parking level 34 outside the loading platform level 38, freeing up space on the loading platform level 38 for other functions.

[0032] In Figure lb, the alignment unit 40 is arranged under the wheels of a trailer carrying the load space 14. The trajectory of the transfer unit of the transfer device is straight, and for this reason the elongated load space must also be aligned so that it is consistent with the trajectory of the transfer unit. It is essential that the floor height of the load space also corresponds to the level of the transfer unit. Vertical height adjustment is achieved by means of the alignment unit 40. Horizontal alignment of the load space can be achieved in the simplest way by reversing the trailer parallel to and centered with the trajectory of the transfer unit. Alternatively, the alignment unit may also comprise alignment means for the horizontal direction, and in connection with the trailer, a second alignment unit 46 shown in Figure lb may be used together with the alignment unit 40 to align also the front end of the trailer so that the longitudinal direction of the load space is parallel to the trajectory of the transfer unit. The second alignment unit 46 enables at least horizontal alignment of the load space, but vertical alignment may also be possible. Preferably, the second alignment unit 46 is arranged under rear wheels 48 of the truck pulling the trailer carrying the load space, as shown in Figure lb.

[0033] Preferably, in the system according to the invention, a recess 50 in the loading platform level 38 can be utilized in the installation of the transfer device 12, as shown in Figure lb, in which the transfer actuator 20 of the transfer device 12 is arranged essentially parallel to the transfer unit 16 in the operating position below the sliding surface 24. The recess generally exists at loading platform levels for traditional loading ramp actuator and a corresponding recess can be used with minimal or no modifications to accommodate the transfer actuator of the transfer device. In this case, the height of the transfer device is minimally only the height of the transfer unit 16. The steps of the operation of the transfer actuator and the transfer unit movement are presented later in connection with Figures 8a - 8h.

[0034] The more detailed structure of the transfer device can vary significantly depending on the application. Figures 2 - 5 show four different embodiments for implementing the transfer device. The transfer unit is therefore used for loading the load space. The load space is most commonly the load space of a truck or a transport container. On the other hand, the transfer unit can also be used, for example, for loading an open bed, if the protection of the load units is unnecessary. During loading, a load is formed from the load units 18 onto the transfer unit 16, after which the transfer unit 16 with its load is transferred into the load space 14. Finally, the transfer unit 16 is transferred out from the load space 14, while the load units 18 remain in the load space 14.

[0035] The most advantageous embodiment of the transfer unit is the embodiment shown in Figure 2, wherein the transfer unit 16 is a transfer plate 17 and the ramps 32 that at least partially surround the transfer plate 17 serve as loading means 22, through which the load units 18, such as cargo containers or pallets or other units, can be pushed onto the transfer plate 17 to form a load. The ramps 32 also form a trough that guides the transfer plate when the ramps 32 are attached to the base. In all embodiments, the transfer unit 16 is supported directly by means of the plastic sliding surface 24 on the base 100 of the loading platform level 38, whereby the total height of the transfer device of the embodiment shown in Figure 2 can preferably be less than 50 mm. The loading of the load units 18 onto the transfer plate 17 can be done from the sides or end of the transfer plate 17. The transfer unit according to the first embodiment is particularly suitable for loading material that does not break under the queue pressure.

[0036] In the embodiment of Figure 2, the structure of the transfer plate 17 may be similar to that in the applicant's previous patent publication EP 3416896 B, wherein the transfer plate 17 comprises a plastic plate 56 to be placed under the cargo, the stiffening plate 58 attached to the plastic plate 56 as a stiffener, and the plastic sliding surface 24. The transfer unit is therefore a so-called sandwich structure, wherein the stiffening plate 58 is preferably arranged between the plastic plate 56 and the plastic sliding surface 24. The sliding surface is preferably a structure consisting of 10 - 15 mm thick plastic sheet strips, with gaps between the plastic sheet strips as discontinuities for the locking actuator.

[0037] A significant difference between the transfer plate of publication EP 3416896 B and the transfer plate of the transfer device according to the present invention is that, whereas in the prior art solution the transfer plate is fixedly attached to the transfer actuator, in the transfer device according to the present invention the transfer actuator is not fixedly connected to the transfer plate, but is attached to and detached from the transfer actuator by means of the movement of the locking actuator, the locking actuator resting on the discontinuities of the transfer plate. In other words, the transfer actuator can be removably attached to the transfer plate by means of the locking actuator during periodic cyclic transfer.

[0038] The stiffening plate 58 may be a full-length steel plate for moving the transfer plate 17, preferably comprising support surfaces 66 shown in Figure 9 for the locking actuator 28. The plastic plate may be a single long sliding plastic with a thickness of, for example, 20 mm. The length of the transfer plate can be over thirteen meters. Generally speaking, a transfer plate with a thickness of 10 - 100 mm, more preferably 20 - 40 mm, is used for loading.

[0039] It should be understood that if the plastic sliding surface is sufficiently thick and rigid, the transfer unit can also be implemented without the stiffening plate.

[0040] The basic structure of the embodiment described above in Figure 2, comprising the stiffening plate and the plastic sliding surface, can also be part of the basic structure of the transfer unit of other embodiments, on top of which, for example, transfer roller sets are formed. In this case, the transfer roller sets replace the uppermost plastic plate of the transfer unit.

[0041] Figure 3 shows a second embodiment of the transfer device 12 according to the invention, the structure of which differs from the first embodiment shown in Figure 2 in terms of the structure of the transfer unit 16. In the second embodiment, the transfer unit 16 is a transfer roller set 19, in which the surface pressure applied to the load units 18 is reduced by using rolling elements. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the rolling elements are rollers 64 that enable movement between the transfer unit 16 and the load units 18. This facilitates cargo formation and reduces the stress applied on the load units and the transfer unit compared to a fixed transfer plate.

[0042] The structure of the transfer roller set may be similar to that described in publication EP 1963217 B. The rollers of the transfer roller set may be fixed or, for example, raiseable by means of compressed air. Preferably, the transfer roller set 19 in this embodiment comprises a perforated plate cover and rollers raiseable by means of compressed air from under the perforated plate cover for moving the load units. In other respects, the structure may correspond to the structure of the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. The perforated plate cover enables the load units to be brought directly onto the transfer plate, for example, with a pallet transfer trolley, so that the wheels of the pallet transfer trolley can rise onto the cover. If the perforated plate cover is not used, the pallets can be brought in using a forklift that is completely on the top of the base.

[0043] The structure, size and number of the rolling elements may vary in different embodiments. In the embodiments shown, the rolling elements are freely rotating rollers 64, which form longitudinal roller tracks of the transfer unit 16. There can be six roller tracks in the width direction of the transfer unit, and they can be attached through the plastic transfer unit from below with bolts. Each roller track can consist of freely rotating rollers bolted to a U-profile, which are fitted one after the other. The size, load capacity and number of the roller tracks are selected primarily on the basis of the base structures of the load units and the load pattern. The rollers or other rolling elements can also be partially embedded in the transfer unit in order to keep its overall thickness as small as possible. The roller tracks can extend from the front end of the transfer unit to almost the entire length of the transfer unit. Instead, a ramp leading from the rolling elements to the load space is preferably arranged at the rear end of the transfer unit. The ramp ensures that the load units slide smoothly into the load space without any large drops when the transfer unit is pulled out from under the load units.

[0044] The third embodiment shown in Figure 4 differs in turn from the second embodiment shown in Figure 3 in terms of the guide structure and loading. The transfer unit 16 is still the transfer roller set 19, as in the second embodiment, but in this case, the loading means 22 are a packaging unit 23 fitted to the end of the transfer roller set 19. The packaging unit automatically feeds the load units 18 fed into the packaging unit 23 onto the transfer roller set 19. The packaging unit may be, for example, a lifting table.

[0045] The fourth embodiment shown in Figure 5 differs in turn from the third embodiment shown in Figure 4 in that it does not use the packaging unit, but rather the load units 18 are loaded onto the transfer unit 16 from the end of the transfer unit 16 using a forklift. In this case, the transfer unit is preferably 200 - 400 mm higher than the loading platform level. Preferably, in the fourth embodiment, the transfer device also comprises a pre-positioning unit for positioning the forklifts in relation to the transfer unit. Preferably, the pre-positioning unit is integrated into the transfer device, whereby the positioning with respect to the transfer device is horizontal. Vertical positioning can still be in the alignment unit. Alternatively, both alignment and positioning can also be in the transfer unit, whereby there is no separate alignment unit. According to the fifth embodiment, which is not shown in the Figures, the transfer device can also be implemented in such a way that the structure corresponds to the structure according to the fourth embodiment, with the exception that the transfer device also comprises a packaging device. Preferably, in this case, the transfer unit is 200 - 400 mm higher than the loading platform level.

[0046] According to the sixth embodiment, which is not shown in the Figures, the transfer device can also be implemented in such a way that the structure corresponds to the structure according to the fifth embodiment, with the exception that the transfer device also comprises a unit packaging device and the lifting table. In this embodiment, the transfer unit is arranged at a level essentially corresponding to the loading platform level by embedding the transfer unit in the base of the loading platform level. The units can be delivered to the transfer device with a pallet jack or the like.

[0047] Figure 6 shows in more detail separately the structure of an embodiment of the alignment device 40. The alignment unit 40 preferably comprises a frame 52, vertical transfer devices 42 for moving the load space 14 in the vertical direction, and driving platform levels 54. Preferably, the trailer of the truck carrying the load space is reversed onto the driving platform levels 54 and vertical transfer devices 42 are used to raise the load space to the same level as the transfer unit of the transfer device. In addition to the vertical transfer devices, the alignment unit 40 preferably also comprises horizontal transfer devices 44. In this way, the load space can be aligned both horizontally and vertically in relation to the transfer unit. The vertical transfer devices can be implemented using guides, a carriage fitted to the guides on which said driving platform levels are supported, and an actuator that causes the carriage to move. Correspondingly, the carriage can be attached by horizontal guides to another carriage, which is moved by another actuator. A second alignment unit for aligning the rear of a truck may also be similar in structure to the alignment unit.

[0048] In this context, in the case of an alignment unit alignment refers to the centering the load space in relation to the transfer unit, while in the case of the second alignment unit, it refers to alignment parallel with the trajectory of the transfer unit.

[0049] Figures 8a - 8h show the operation of the transfer actuator 20 and the locking actuator 28 in connection with the transfer unit 16. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the transfer unit 16 is the transfer roller set 19 according to the second embodiment, comprising a large number of rollers 64 in succession. In this embodiment, the transfer actuator 20 is depicted as a hydraulic cylinder, but it should be understood that a pneumatic cylinder or an electric linear actuator can be used instead of the hydraulic cylinder. In all cases, the space available under the loading platform level for the transfer actuator is limited, and the transfer actuator cannot protrude into the load space. The transfer of the transfer unit into and out from the load space must be carried out in two or more steps .

[0050] For this purpose, the discontinuities 26, preferably gaps, have been formed in the plastic sliding surface 24 at the bottom of the transfer unit 16, through which the locking actuator 28 connected to the end of the transfer actuator 20 is removably attached to the transfer unit. For example, the transfer actuator may have a programmed positioning, based on which the transfer actuator 20 transfers the locking actuator 28 to the discontinuity 26. The transfer itself takes place in the following steps .

[0051] The locking actuator may be a cylinder fitted transversely to the transfer actuator or a similar actuator that comprises a force transmission element. The cylinder pushes the force transmission element against the stiffening plate of the transfer unit through the discontinuity, preferably a gap, of the plastic sliding surface. Figure 9 shows an enlarged view of the structure of the connection between the transfer unit 16 and the locking actuator 28 shown in Figures 8a - 8h. In this embodiment, the stiffening plate 58 is provided with the support surfaces 66, through which the locking actuator 28 is locked to the transfer unit 16. Preferably, the support surfaces 66 are formed in an opening 68 in the stiffening plate 58. Instead of the opening, the support surfaces could also be formed, for example, as a projection extending partially into the sliding surface.

[0052] Correspondingly, the locking actuator 28 preferably comprises an essentially planar force transmission element 70. The planarity of the planar force transmission element 70 is essentially parallel with the plane of the stiffening plate 58. The force transmission element 70 is preferably clearance-fit relative to the opening 68 of the stiffening plate 58. Due to the clearance, both the support surfaces 66 of the opening 68 and edges 72 belonging to the force transmission element 70 can be beveled such that the bevels of the support su-faces 66 narrow the opening 68 towards the sliding surface 24 in a direction perpendicular to the stiffening plate, while the edges 72 of the force transmission element 70 are beveled to widen the diameter of the force transmission element 70 towards the stiffening plate 58. This provides a form-fit locking in a direction perpendicular to the stiffening plate when the force transmission element 70 is driven into clearance-free contact with one of the support surfaces 66. The above-mentioned structure enables a very low locking actuator and transfer unit structure, which is also reliable.

[0053] The force transmission element can be connected directly or indirectly to the piston rod of the cylinder that preferably functions as the locking actuator. The rod or piston rod attached to the force transmission element should be nitrided, for example, to harden its surface and make it more resistant to repeated stress.

[0054] Preferably, the locking actuator is implemented using a doubleacting cylinder actuator and a force-transmitting linkage, whereby the loads acting on the cylinder actuator itself can be reduced and the movement of the locking actuator in both directions can be controlled.

[0055] Alternatively, instead of beveled edges, the perpendicular locking of the stiffening plate can be achieved by using some other form-fit locking edge structure, such as locking claws. However, the beveled structure is inexpensive to implement and durable compared to other more complex structures.

[0056] Alternatively, the opening 68 can be formed directly in the plastic sliding surface, if the transfer unit is implemented without the stiffening plate using a thick sliding surface.

[0057] Preferably, the openings are formed near to the end of the transfer unit that is closer to the load space. This allows the transfer actuator to be used to pull the transfer unit, whereby the stiffness requirement of the transfer unit is not as great as when pushing. In the first step, as shown in Figure 8a, the locking actuator 28 is locked through the gap to the stiffening plate 58 of the transfer unit 16. The force transmission element of the locking actuator engages the transfer unit with a movement perpendicular to the transfer unit, i.e. in use essentially with vertical movement. In the second step, as shown in Figure 8b, the transfer actuator 20 removes the clearance by transferring the force transmission element 70 into contact with one support surface 66 of the opening 68 of the stiffening plate 58 before pushing, whereby a form-fit locking is formed perpendicular to the plane of the stiffening plate 58. In Figure 8c, the pushing movement of the transfer actuator 20 is at the extreme end of the stroke length, and the locking actuator 28 detaches itself from the transfer unit 16. In the step shown in Figure 8d, the transfer actuator 20 starts moving back while the transfer unit 16 remains in place. The retraction of the transfer actuator 20 is continued until the locking actuator 28 reaches the second opening 68 of the stiffening plate 58. This step can be referred to as "retrieval step". During the retrieval step, the force transmission element belonging to the locking actuator 28 is down and the locking actuator 28 moves between the openings 68 of the stiffening plate by means of the movement of the transfer actuator 20. In the step shown in Figure 8e, the "retrieval" of the transfer actuator 20 has been successful, i.e. the transfer actuator 20 has moved backwards while the transfer unit 16 is in place until the second opening 68 of the stiffening plate 58 has been found for the locking actuator 28. After this, the force transmission element of the locking actuator 28 has been pushed upwards and engaged in the opening 68 for the next transfer.

[0058] Figures 8f - 8h show the steps involved in retracting the transfer unit 16, wherein, correspondingly, in the step shown in Figure 8f, the transfer actuator 20 searches for the open- ing 68 of the stiffening plate 58 for the locking actuator 28, to which the force transmission element of the locking actuator engages with a movement perpendicular to the transfer unit, i.e. in use essentially with vertical movement. In step 8g, the clearance of the transfer actuator 20 is removed, and in step 8h, the actual retraction using the transfer actuator is performed .

[0059] Preferably, the movements of the transfer actuator and the locking actuator are alternating with respect to each other, i.e. when the transfer actuator moves, the locking actuator does not move, and correspondingly when the locking actuator moves, the transfer actuator does not move.

[0060] The duration of the movement of an individual transfer actuator can be 10 - 30 seconds over a distance of 1.5 m. This is generally slightly slower than the speed of movement of the transfer devices known from the prior art utilizing a chain conveyor, but this is compensated by the lower investment cost of the transfer unit and the system.

[0061] Preferably, the transfer unit is adapted to be moved only in a linear trajectory, meaning that the transfer unit moves in a linear trajectory, making it easy to arrange the trajectory and support for the transfer unit.

[0062] Preferably, the transfer actuator is adapted to move the transfer unit by means of repeated linear transfer movements of the transfer actuator, whereby the transfer unit moves in a linear trajectory, making it easy to arrange the trajectory and support for the transfer unit.

[0063] In other words, in a single transfer between the outside of the load space and the load space, the transfer actuator is adapted to move the transfer unit periodically in a series of partial transfers, each of which utilizes a different discontinuity to achieve the entire transfer length of the transfer unit. The transfer device itself is located outside the load space, only the transfer unit of the transfer device moves into the load space during the transfer.

[0064] The phasing of the operation of the transfer actuator in a single partial transfer has been presented above. The operation of the transfer actuator in the terms of the transfer of the entire transfer unit is described below. The transfer device preferably comprises control means 75 shown in Figure lb, with which the actuators of the transfer device and the system are controlled during loading.

[0065] The control means 75 preferably include distance measuring means 76 for determining the transfer length of the transfer unit 16 required for moving the transfer unit 16 into the load space 14, a control unit 78 for controlling the transfer actuator 20 and the locking actuator 28 during the partial transfer, and a calculation unit 80 for determining the number and length of partial transfers per cycle, i.e. the transfer, of the transfer actuator 20, based on the said transfer length.

[0066] The first step of the transfer is to determine the desired transfer length from the home position of the transfer actuator to the wall of the load space, preferably using the distance determination means 76 located at the transfer unit end facing to the load space, and shown in Figure lb. The distance determination means is preferably a laser scanner, with which the required transfer length from the transfer unit can be determined. Alternatively, the distance determination means can also be some other device, such as a point laser sensor. The determination of the transfer length should be done before the transfer begins, as the length of the load space and the distance between the load space and the loading platform may vary.

[0067] More specifically, the distance determining means 76 may be connected to a port 74 shown in Figure lb, wherein the distance determining means may be vertically movable by means of guides.

[0068] Once the required total transfer length has been determined, the number of partial transfers required from the transfer actuator to move the transfer unit into the load space is calculated using the calculation unit 80 shown in Figure lb. In other words, it is calculated how many consecutive maximum transfer lengths of the transfer actuator are required, and what the measurement of the last partial transfer is likely to be. If the transfer length of the transfer actuator is 1500 mm, and the required transfer length is, for example, 9200 mm, six consecutive transfers are first performed at the full transfer length of the transfer actuator (6 x 1500 = 9000) , and the last partial transfer is then only 200 mm (= 9200 - 9000) . Based on the result of the calculation, the control means 75, shown in Figure lb, control the hydraulic system of the transfer device shown in Figures 10a - 10c to perform the necessary transfers.

[0069] During the transfer of the transfer unit, the transfer of the transfer unit can be monitored preferably by positioning means 82 belonging to the control means 75. The positioning means 82 may be an arrangement such as that shown in Figure 7, wherein a visual measuring scale 86, preferably a QR code strip, is formed on the sliding surface, from which the position of the transfer unit can be read by means of an optical sensor 84. The positioning means can be used to verify the position of the transfer unit if, for example, a power failure or other disturbance occurs during the transfer, which interrupts the series of successive transfers of the transfer actuator. In this situation, the control unit 78 can, based on the position information of the positioning means, recalculate the necessary transfers of the transfer actuator to safely transfer the transfer unit into the load space.

[0070] The calculation unit can be, for example, a Siemens S7-1200 or S7-1500 series logic unit or an Allen-Bradley or Rexroth logic unit with equivalent features.

[0071] Figures 10a - 10c show the implementation of the transfer device and the system in more detail from a hydraulics perspective. Figure 10a shows the hydraulics of the system as a whole, while Figures 10b and 10c show details det. A and det.B of Figure 10a. In Figures 10a - 10c, the following reference numbers refer to the following components: 101 tank, 102 basin, 104 pump, 106 reducing flange, 108 pump switch, 110 motor switch, 112 electric motor, 114 level monitor, 116 measuring cylinder, 118 filler cap, 120 check valve, 122 throttle, 124 pressure filter, 126 directional control valve, 128 return filter, P pressure line, T tank line, 132 directional control valve, 134 drive motor, 136 restrictor valve, 138 directional control valve, 140 lock valve, 142 horizontal transfer cylinder for the rear wheels of the pulling vehicle, 144 pressure reducer, 146 directional control valve, 148 valve and 150 valve.

[0072] The hydraulic system implementation presented above is only one example of an implementation suitable for the invention. If the transfer device and the system are used in warm conditions, a separate hydraulic oil cooler may be necessary to prevent the hydraulics from overheating.

[0073] The height of the transfer device 12 according to the invention may be 30 - 200 mm, preferably 40 - 120 mm, depending on the embodiment. The first embodiment presented above is the lowest in structure and the simplest to implement in terms of both manufacturing and installation. In any case, all embodiments are very low in structure compared to prior art solutions, in which alignment or positioning devices are part of the transfer device. Preferably, the system according to the invention is dimensioned using a design load of 10 - 50 tons.

[0074] Preferably, the stroke length of the locking actuator is only 20 - 100 mm, which enables a low overall height of the transfer device .

[0075] The transfer length of the transfer actuator can be 1000 - 2000 mm, preferably 1200 - 1600 mm. In this case, the transfer actuator can be arranged to an existing recess of the loading platform that serves as the base of the transfer device. The most preferable transfer length of the transfer device, i.e. the stroke length, is 1500 mm, which when repeated, provides the length of the most common load spaces without incomplete partial movements.

[0076] Preferably, there is one transfer actuator per transfer unit, but if necessary, there can also be two transfer actuators in parallel on both sides of the center line. This improves the alignment of the transfer unit's transfer so that the transfer unit does not start to turn during the transfer.

[0077] According to one embodiment, there could also be two transfer actuators in a row at a suitable distance from each other, in which case the transfer actuators would transfer the transfer unit alternately so that when one transfer actuator returns to the starting point, the other transfer actuator performs the transfer until the roles of the transfer actuators are reversed. In this way, the transfer speed could be improved. The transfer actuator and the locking actuator of the transfer device according to the invention can also be considered to be used as an independent entity, i.e. as a transfer actuator unit, in connection with already existing transfer units, in particular a transfer plate. Such a transfer actuator unit is characterized in that it comprises a horizontal transfer actuator and a locking actuator arranged essentially perpendicularly at one end of the horizontal transfer actuator, which comprises an essentially planar force transmission element, the plane of which is essentially parallel to the plane of the transfer unit. Furthermore, the force transmission element preferably comprises edges of the force transmission element that are beveled in the direction of the plane of the transfer unit for locking the clearance-fit force transmission element to the transfer unit. In addition, the transfer actuator is preferably adapted to transfer the transfer unit cyclically, wherein the cycle comprises a plurality of successive movements in the same direction to achieve the total transfer length of the transfer unit.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A transfer device (12) for loading a load space (14) , the transfer device (12) comprising- a transfer unit (16) arranged to be transferred with load units (18) into the load space (14) and back to the starting point while the load units (18) remain in the load space (14) , and- a transfer actuator (20) connected to the transfer unit (16) for transferring the transfer unit (16) , characterized in that the transfer device (12) further comprises- a plastic sliding surface (24) adapted to be placed against a base (100) , the sliding surface (24) comprising discontinuities (26) , and- a locking actuator (28) for detachably connecting the transfer actuator (20) to the transfer unit (16) via the discontinuity (26) for transmitting force to the transfer unit (16) , wherein in the transfer device (12) the transfer unit (16) is supported on top of the sliding surface (24) , and the transfer actuator (20) is arranged essentially parallel with the transfer unit (16) in the operating position below the sliding surface (24) , and in that the transfer actuator (20) is adapted to transfer the transfer unit (16) cyclically, wherein each movement from the starting point into the load space (14) comprises several successive partial transfers in the same direction.

2. The transfer device according to claim 1, characterized in that the transfer device (12) comprises control means (75) for controlling the operation of the transfer actuator (20) and the locking actuator (28) to achieve the partial transfers.

3. The transfer device according to claim 2, characterized in that the control means (75) comprise distance measuring means (76) for determining a required transfer length of the transfer unit (16) for transferring the transfer unit (16) into the load space (14) , a control unit (78) for controlling the transfer actuator (20) and the locking actuator (28) during the partial transfers, and a calculation unit (80) for determining the number and length of the partial transfers of the transfer actuator (20) based on the transfer length.

4. The transfer device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the control means (75) comprise positioning means (82) for determining a position of the transfer actuator (20) relative to the load space (14) .

5. The transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the transfer unit (16) comprises a stiffening plate (58) fitted against the sliding surface (24) , and in that the locking actuator (28) comprises an essentially planar force transmission element (70) , a plane of which is essentially parallel with the stiffening plate (58) .

6. The transfer device according to claim 5, characterized in that the stiffening plate (58) comprises support surfaces (66) for transmitting force from the transfer actuator (20) via the force transmission element (70) of the locking actuator (28) to the transfer unit (16) .

7. The transfer device according to claim 6, characterized in that the support surfaces (66) are edges of openings (68) belonging to the stiffening plate, and in that the support surfaces (66) are beveled and, correspondingly, the force transmission element (70) comprises edges (72) of the force transmission element, which are beveled to correspond to the supportsurfaces (66) of the openings (68) of the stiffening plate (58) .

8. The transfer device according to claim 7, characterized in that the force transmission element (70) is clearance-fit in a direction of the plane of the stiffening plate (58) relative to the opening (68) .

9. The transfer device according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the transfer unit (16) is a transfer plate (17) , comprising- a plastic plate (56) to be placed under the load,- the stiffening plate (58) attached to the plastic plate (56) as a stiffener, and- the plastic sliding surface (24) , wherein the transfer plate (17) is a so-called sandwich structure, wherein the stiffening plate (58) is arranged between the plastic plate (56) and the plastic sliding surface (24) .

10. The transfer device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the height of the transfer device (12) is 30 - 200 mm, preferably 40 - 120 mm.

11. A system (10) for loading the load space (14) , the system (10) comprising- a parking level (34) for a truck (36) ,- a loading platform level (38) arranged on a level above the parking level (34) , and- the transfer device (12) for loading the load space (14) , characterized in that said transfer device (12) is the transfer device (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, fixedly arranged on the loading platform level (38) , and in that the system further comprises an alignment unit (40) arranged on the parking level (34) for moving the load space (14) of thetruck (36) at least in vertical direction to bring the load space (14) essentially to the same level as the transfer unit (16) of the transfer device (12) .

12. The system according to claim 11, characterized in that the alignment unit (40) comprises vertical transfer devices (42) for moving the load space (14) in the vertical direction.

13. The system according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the alignment unit (40) comprises horizontal transfer devices (44) for moving the load space (14) in horizontal direction transversely relative to trajectory of the transfer unit (16) in order to center the load space (14) relative to the transfer unit (16) .

14. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the system (10) further comprises a second alignment unit (46) for aligning rear wheels (48) of the truck (36) horizontally parallel relative to the transfer device (12) .

15. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the loading platform level (38) comprises a recess (50) for the transfer actuator (20) of the transfer device (12) .

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