AGV Lifting Fork Vertical Transfer Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring goods between containers in logistics centers are expensive and inflexible, lacking the ability to adapt to various bearing designs.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an AGV with a lifting device and loading forks that can move vertically between two conveyor levels, enabling the transfer of goods containers between an outer container and the AGV, allowing for flexible and cost-effective handling of goods containers using a stationary loading station.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard permanently installed conveyor technology is used for transferring goods containers, then the transfer process is reliable and automated, but the system becomes expensive and inflexible with regard to adapting to different bearing designs
Solution Approach 1:
The loading fork is designed with vertical mobility between upper and lower conveyor levels, allowing dynamic adaptation to different container bearing designs. The fork can move vertically to engage with containers at different heights and configurations, providing flexibility without requiring multiple fixed conveyor systems for different bearing types.
Solution Approach 2:
The single loading fork serves multiple functions by operating at both upper and lower conveyor levels and accommodating various container bearing designs. This multi-functional device replaces the need for multiple specialized conveyor systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Productivity
If standard conveyor technology is used for goods transfer, then the transfer process is efficient, but additional conveyor technology is required increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The loading fork integrates the functions of both upper and lower conveyor level operations into a single device. By combining vertical movement capability with horizontal loading/unloading functions, the system achieves efficient goods transfer without requiring separate conveyor systems for different levels, thereby reducing overall conveyor technology requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading fork operates in the vertical dimension by moving between upper and lower conveyor levels, adding a vertical movement capability to the traditional horizontal conveyor system. This dimensional change allows a single device to perform functions that would otherwise require multiple horizontal conveyor systems at different levels.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
The invention relates to methods and a system for loading a goods container (16) into a top container (2) mounted on an AGV (1) and for removing a goods container (16) from a top container (2) mounted on an AGV (1) in a stationarily mounted transfer station (9), wherein the transfer station (9) comprises a lifting unit (10) having a loading fork (12) with two loading prongs (13) that can be moved vertically between an upper conveyor plane (E1) and a lower conveyor plane (E2). In addition, two vertical slots (V1, V2) are provided in a lateral wall (3) of the top container (2), extending from the upper edge of the lateral wall to a lower section of the top container (2).