Article Sorting System With Vertical Shelf Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing article sorting systems face challenges in improving processing capability and efficiency, particularly in managing a large number of sorting destinations efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An article sorting system incorporating an input portion, conveying apparatus, and shelf portion, utilizing an automated guided vehicle, article transfer mechanism, and processors to facilitate precise movement and sorting of articles into multiple destinations, enhancing control and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If sorting destinations are arranged in a plane to secure the number of sorting destinations, then the number of sorting destinations increases, but the processing capability and efficiency cannot be easily improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement of sorting destinations to a three-dimensional configuration by introducing vertical movement capability. The conveying apparatus can move the article transfer portion up and down to access sorting destinations at different heights, effectively utilizing the vertical dimension to increase the number of sorting destinations without compromising processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elements to the sorting system. The conveying apparatus includes a moving mechanism that enables the article transfer portion to move vertically, and an automated guided vehicle that can dynamically position itself. This dynamic capability allows the system to efficiently access multiple sorting destinations at different locations and heights, improving both the number of destinations and processing speed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional conveying system is used, then the structure is simple, but the flexibility and control for precise article transfer to multiple destinations are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying apparatus is designed as a multi-functional system that combines automated guided vehicle navigation, vertical movement capability, article transfer mechanisms, and processor-controlled coordination. This universal apparatus can handle multiple tasks including transporting articles, positioning at different locations, adjusting to various heights, and transferring articles to diverse sorting destinations, all within a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a processor as an intermediary that coordinates between the automated guided vehicle, the moving mechanism, and the article transfer portion. This central control unit receives information about sorting destinations and articles, processes this data, and generates coordinated control signals to optimize the transfer process, enhancing flexibility and precision without requiring complex direct mechanical linkages.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an embodiment, a shelf of an article sorting system is spaced apart from an input portion, is defined by a plurality of stages at least in a height direction, and includes a plurality of sorting destinations into which the articles are sorted. The automated guided vehicle is configured to move between the input portion and the sorting destinations of the shelf. The article transfer portion extends upward from the automated guided vehicle, and is configured to move according to a movement of the automated guided vehicle and operate so as to transfer the articles to the sorting destinations. The moving mechanism is configured to move according to a movement of the automated guided vehicle and move the article transfer portion in a vertical direction with respect to the automated guided vehicle to a height that allows the articles to be transferred to the sorting destinations of the shelf.