AGV Loading Fork Transfer Through Slots for Flexible Warehouses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods and systems for handling and reloading goods containers in logistics centers are costly and inflexible, failing to adapt to diverse warehouse designs efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an automated guided vehicle (AGV) with a lifting device and vertical slots in receiving containers, enabling flexible loading and unloading of goods containers between conveying levels without additional infrastructure, facilitated by a central control unit and optical guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional permanently installed conveyor technology is used for transporting goods containers, then reliable transport is achieved, but the system becomes cost-intensive and inflexible regarding adaptation to different warehouse designs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional permanently installed conveyor technology with a mobile robot equipped with a lifting device. This substitution transforms fixed mechanical infrastructure into a mobile, programmable system that can adapt to different warehouse layouts without permanent installations, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and infrastructure complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static conveyor installations to a dynamic mobile robot that can be repositioned and reconfigured. The robot's mobility and programmable control enable the system to adapt to varying warehouse designs and operational requirements, eliminating the need for costly permanent infrastructure while maintaining reliable transport functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate conveyor technology is used for loading and unloading goods containers, then reliable handling is achieved, but the system requires additional infrastructure and becomes less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of transport and loading/unloading operations into a single integrated mobile robot system. The robot's lifting device enables it to perform both transportation and container handling tasks, eliminating the need for separate conveyor systems and reducing infrastructure requirements while maintaining operational reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile robot is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a transport vehicle and a loading/unloading device through its integrated lifting mechanism. This universal system replaces multiple specialized pieces of equipment, enhancing flexibility in warehouse equipping while reducing the need for additional infrastructure
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a system for loading and removing a goods container into and from a receiving container mounted on an AGV at a stationarily mounted loading station is provided. The loading station has a lifting device with a loading fork with two loading tines which can be moved vertically between an upper conveying level and a lower conveying level. Two vertical slots are provided in a side wall of the receiving container, which extend from the upper edge of the side wall to a lower section of the receiving container.