AGV Ramp Mechanism for Simultaneous Container Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated warehouse systems using AGVs cannot simultaneously deliver or receive multiple containers between the AGV and carts, limiting efficiency in production line operations.
Innovation Solution
A conveyance system featuring an AGV and carts with platforms having ramps, where the AGV applies a force to the cart to climb the ramps, lift, and support containers, enabling simultaneous delivery or receipt of multiple containers without the need for a power mechanism on the cart.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional automated warehouse systems using AGVs are used, then the system structure is simple, but multiple containers cannot be simultaneously delivered or received between the AGV and carts
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the container transfer function into multiple independent transfer units, each consisting of a cart and associated ramps. Each transfer unit can independently handle container delivery or receipt operations, enabling parallel processing of multiple containers simultaneously while maintaining modular system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces vertical dimension through ramps with different heights to enable simultaneous operations. By positioning ramps at different elevations, the AGV can transfer containers to multiple carts at different levels concurrently, or perform both delivery and receipt operations simultaneously, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing horizontal space requirements
2Ease of operation
If the cart includes a power mechanism to lift containers, then the cart can independently lift containers, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for independent power mechanisms on carts by utilizing the AGV's existing power and lifting capabilities. The AGV performs the lifting and transfer work, while the carts serve as passive receiving platforms, thereby simplifying cart structure while maintaining operational effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The AGV is designed to perform multiple functions including lifting, transferring, and positioning containers for multiple carts simultaneously. This multi-functionality consolidates the power mechanism requirements into a single device rather than requiring separate mechanisms on each cart, reducing overall system complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient and simultaneous delivery or receipt of multiple containers between the AGV and cart, enhancing operational efficiency in production line settings by leveraging the AGV's power to lift and move containers.
Implementation Method 1
by a force applied from the AGV, climb up the ramp
Implementation Method 2
climb up the ramp
Implementation Method 3
a height of the ramp may be larger than a distance between a lower surface of the lateral end of the containers placed on the AGV and a corresponding support part of the cart
Data Source
AI summary
A conveyance system and a conveyance method capable of efficiently delivering/receiving containers between an AGV and a cart are provided. A conveyance system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes an AGV configured to convey a plurality of containers, a cart configured to support the containers, and two platforms each of which includes a ramp on which the cart travels. The cart is further configured to, by a force applied from the AGV, climb up the ramp, and lift and support the containers placed on the AGV.