AGV Cargo Loading Units With Tilting Discharge for Multi-Point Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cargo sorting systems in logistics centers face inefficiencies in automating the sorting of multiple pieces of cargo, particularly due to high costs and complexity associated with using robot arms for individual cargo handling, which are expensive and difficult to operate with heavy loads.
Innovation Solution
An automated guided vehicle (AGV) system that includes tiltable cargo loading units and transverse membranes for efficient cargo discharge to multiple sorting units, eliminating the need for individual motor control of each unit and reducing costs by using gravity and conveyor belts with attachments for sorting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If robot arms are used for individual cargo handling, then cargo sorting can be automated, but the system becomes expensive and complex to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo loading units are divided into multiple independent tiltable sections, each capable of being tilted individually to discharge cargo to different sorting units. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex robot arms while achieving automated sorting through simple tilting mechanisms controlled by a central system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cargo loading units incorporate tiltable structures that can dynamically change their orientation from horizontal to tilted positions. This dynamic capability allows the same loading unit to serve multiple sorting destinations without requiring separate stationary discharge mechanisms for each location, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Extent of automation
If robot arms are used for individual cargo handling, then cargo sorting can be automated, but installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive robot arms with simpler, less costly tilting mechanisms for cargo loading units. These tilting mechanisms are much cheaper to manufacture and install while still achieving the desired automated cargo discharge function to multiple sorting units.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple cargo loading units are used, then multiple pieces of cargo can be transported, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each cargo loading unit is designed with universal functionality, capable of being tilted to discharge cargo to any of the multiple sorting units. This multi-functionality means that the same simple tilting mechanism serves multiple purposes, eliminating the need for complex individual control systems for each loading unit and reducing overall control 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
Enables efficient, cost-effective, and simplified sorting of multiple pieces of cargo without the need for expensive robot arms, reducing installation costs and device complexity while maintaining high sorting efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Each cargo loading unit may change its phase so that the cargo loading units are horizontal or have an inside tilted low to prevent the loaded cargo from falling when entering a ready mode and a moving mode, and then have an outside tilted low when entering a discharge mode.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated guided vehicle, a system for sorting cargo, and a method of sorting cargo using the same are provided. The system for sorting cargo according to an embodiment includes an automated guided vehicle, a cargo supply unit, a plurality of cargo sorting units, a supply control unit configured to load the plurality of pieces of cargo supplied from the cargo supply unit into the plurality of cargo loading units of the automated guided vehicle, a transport control unit configured to transport the pieces of cargo to each cargo sorting unit while controlling a movement path of the automated guided vehicle into which the plurality of pieces of cargo are loaded; and a discharge control unit configured to discharge at least one piece of cargo transported through the automated guided vehicle to each cargo sorting unit to sort the at least one piece of cargo.