Inventory Holder Docking and Lift Control for Autonomous AGVs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs) require manual assistance for loading and unloading inventory, limiting the benefits of automation as workers need to use wheeled carts to help move items, thereby reducing the efficiency and safety of the process.
Innovation Solution
A self-driving system with a mobile base equipped with motorized wheels, an actuator to adjust height, and sensors or cameras for precise docking and movement, allowing the AGV to autonomously engage and move inventory holders by identifying boundaries, determining proper docking, and adjusting its height to lift and transport items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If AGVs are used for transporting inventory, then automated movement is achieved, but manual assistance is still required for loading and unloading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the AGV mobile base with an inventory holder into a single integrated unit. The inventory holder is positioned on the mobile base with its wheels engaged with the base structure, allowing the holder to be automatically transported, loaded, and unloaded without manual intervention. This merging eliminates the need for separate manual cart operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The inventory holder is designed to be self-sufficient on the mobile base, with its own wheels that engage with the base structure. The holder can be autonomously positioned, transported, and maneuvered by the AGV system without requiring workers to manually push or guide it, enabling the system to serve itself.
2Productivity
If workers use wheeled carts to assist AGVs, then loading and unloading can be performed, but efficiency and safety are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of workers pushing wheeled carts with an automated motorized system. The mobile base uses motorized wheels to autonomously transport the inventory holder, eliminating the need for human physical effort and reducing safety risks associated with manual handling of heavy inventory.
3Ease of operation
If manual carts are used to help move inventory, then loading assistance is provided, but automation benefits are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the mobile base for autonomous navigation and transport, and the inventory holder for storage and maneuvering. The holder includes its own wheels that engage with the base, allowing it to be independently positioned and manipulated by the automated system without requiring separate manual assistance tools.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a self-driving system that can engage and move an inventory holder. The self-driving system includes a mobile base comprising motorized wheels, an actuator disposed within the mobile base, the actuator is operable to adjust a height of the mobile base, a console having an upper portion and a main body, the main body being coupled to a first end of the mobile base in a standing configuration, and a first camera disposed on a first side of the upper portion of the console, the first camera facing a second end of the mobile base opposing the first end.