Method and device for the automated emptying of loose transport goods from a container
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning robot systems lack an automated and safe method for emptying sweeper containers, posing risks due to mechanical hazards and the need for precise positioning and collision avoidance during the emptying process.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for automated sweeper container emptying in a service station, utilizing a spatially defined unloading zone with sensors and protective devices to ensure safe movement and emptying, including the use of 2D laser scanners for contour monitoring and a swiveling device for lifting and emptying the container, while preventing pinch points and ensuring no persons are present in the danger area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual emptying of sweeper containers is performed, then operational simplicity is maintained, but automation capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning robot autonomously navigates to the service station, positions itself relative to the collecting container, and executes the emptying process without human intervention. The system self-manages the entire emptying workflow including movement, positioning, and container emptying, thereby achieving high automation while keeping the service station design relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The service station is pre-configured with a collecting container positioned at a defined location. Before the robot arrives, the unloading zone is prepared and the collecting container is ready to receive sweepings. This preliminary preparation enables the robot to perform the emptying action quickly upon arrival, reducing the complexity of real-time decision-making and system coordination.
2Productivity
If the robot moves close to the collecting container for emptying, then emptying efficiency is improved, but safety risks increase due to mechanical hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The service station acts as an intermediary structure between the cleaning robot and the collecting container. It provides a defined unloading zone with separating protective devices that physically isolate the robot's movement area from potential human presence. This intermediary structure enables close positioning for efficient emptying while maintaining safety through automatic monitoring and physical barriers.
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors continuously monitor the unloading zone to detect the presence of persons or objects. This feedback information is used to control the robot's movements and the emptying process. If a person or object is detected in the danger area, the system automatically prevents or stops the emptying operation, thereby maintaining safety while allowing efficient operation when the zone is clear.
3Reliability
If precise positioning is implemented for safe emptying, then safety is improved, but positioning accuracy requirements increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The service station provides a defined unloading zone with predetermined safe positions for the robot. The collecting container is held at a defined position, and the robot navigates to a predetermined position relative to it. This equipotential approach simplifies positioning by using fixed reference points and predetermined coordinates rather than requiring complex real-time adaptive positioning systems, thereby achieving reliable safety with moderate system complexity.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the unloading zone is completely enclosed for safety, then protection is improved, but accessibility for maintenance and operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The separating protective devices in the unloading zone are designed to be dynamically controllable. They can be automatically activated to enclose the zone during the emptying operation when safety is critical, and can be opened or made accessible when maintenance or operational intervention is needed. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt between safety-enclosed and accessible states, resolving the contradiction between protection and ease of operation.
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
The solution enables safe and automated emptying of sweeper containers, minimizing risks to persons and objects by using an inherently safe design and technical measures, ensuring the process is safe and efficient, allowing for both emptying and charging of the robot independently.
Implementation Method 1
specifically by means of 2D laser scanners
Data Source
AI summary
The invention proposes a method for the automated discharge of loose transport material from a container, transported by means of a self-driving vehicle, into a collection container, where the unloading takes place in a spatially defined unloading cone within an unloading station. Furthermore, an unloading station for automated discharge according to the method is proposed.