Multi-Functional Cargo Transfer Vehicle for Automated Docking and Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cargo transfer processes at logistics centers like airports, stations, and wharfs are inefficient, requiring multiple vehicles and personnel, leading to increased labor intensity, longer transfer times, and higher costs due to manual handling and multiple vehicle circulation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional cargo transfer vehicle integrating functions of a luggage head trailer, luggage trailer, and luggage conveying vehicle into one unit, equipped with a cargo conveying rack, lifting mechanism, and control system for automated loading, unloading, and omni-directional movement, reducing the need for multiple vehicles and personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple vehicles (head trailer, luggage trailer, luggage transferring vehicle) are used for cargo transfer, then cargo transfer capability is improved, but device complexity and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of the head trailer, luggage trailer, and luggage transferring vehicle into a single multi-functional cargo transfer vehicle. This integration eliminates the need for multiple separate vehicles while maintaining comprehensive cargo transfer capability, directly resolving the contradiction between productivity and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cargo transfer vehicle is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple tasks: it can operate as a head trailer to tow cargo trailers, function as a cargo trailer itself, and serve as a transferring vehicle with conveyor belts. This multi-functionality allows one vehicle to replace three specialized vehicles, reducing system complexity while preserving full operational capability
2Ease of operation
If manual cargo handling is used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but labor intensity and transfer time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo transfer vehicle is equipped with automated conveyor belts that enable self-service cargo transfer. The conveyor system automatically loads and unloads cargo without requiring manual handling by personnel, significantly reducing transfer time while maintaining operational flexibility through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cargo handling with an automated conveyor belt system. This substitution eliminates the need for personnel to physically carry and move cargo, reducing both labor intensity and transfer time while maintaining the flexibility to operate at different speeds and modes
3Productivity
If multiple vehicles circulate for cargo transfer, then cargo transfer capacity is improved, but cargo circulating time and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple vehicle functions into a single multi-functional cargo transfer vehicle, the patent eliminates the need for sequential circulation of multiple vehicles. The unified vehicle can perform all cargo transfer operations in one cycle, significantly reducing cargo circulating time while maintaining high transfer capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-functional cargo transfer vehicle enables continuous cargo transfer operations without the interruptions and coordination delays associated with multiple vehicle circulation. The vehicle can continuously load, transport, and unload cargo in an integrated workflow, improving both capacity and reducing circulating time
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-functional cargo transfer vehicle and method. The multi-functional cargo transfer vehicle comprises a vehicle body, a cargo conveying rack, a lifting mechanism, and a control system; the vehicle body is located below for providing a platform and support; the cargo conveying rack is located above the vehicle body and includes a plurality of layers for loading and unloading cargoes; the lifting mechanism is located on the outer side of the cargo conveying rack for lifting the cargo conveying rack; the control system is located on the vehicle body for controlling omni-directional driving, accurate butt joint, and automatic loading and unloading of the multi-functional cargo transfer vehicle. Accordingly, a multi-functional cargo transfer vehicle is adopted such that the multi-task functions of loading and unloading, transporting, and conveying of cargoes are simultaneously realized, thereby efficiently completing the transferring process of cargoes from a storage place to a transporting carrier.