Lift Robot Direction-Switching Module for Rail Intersections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Logistic distribution centers face inefficiencies due to robots' limited maneuverability and interference between paths, leading to increased delivery times and maintenance needs, particularly when robots pause or require direction changes between horizontal and vertical motions.
Innovation Solution
A direction switching module for lift robots, comprising a pivotable-holder with serially mounted pinions that can switch between horizontal and vertical orientations, coupled with a motor and clutch system, allowing for dynamic velocity control and independent braking, enabling seamless transitions between motion modes without changing spatial orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If robots use fixed horizontal or vertical motion modes, then the robot structure is simple, but the robot maneuverability is limited and path interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by enabling the robot to dynamically switch between horizontal and vertical motion modes through a direction-switching module. The robot can pivot its drive wheels between horizontal and vertical orientations, allowing it to adapt its motion mode based on the track configuration ahead, thereby improving maneuverability without requiring completely separate robot structures for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single robot platform that can perform both horizontal and vertical motion using the same drive mechanism. The direction-switching module allows the robot to function in multiple motion modes, eliminating the need for separate specialized robots and reducing overall system complexity while enhancing versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If robots frequently change direction between horizontal and vertical motions, then maneuverability improves, but maintenance needs and wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the horizontal and vertical drive functions into a single integrated direction-switching module. By combining both motion modes into one mechanism that shares common components, the patent reduces the total number of parts that require maintenance compared to having separate drive systems for each mode, thereby improving reliability while maintaining direction-switching capability.
3Loss of time
If robots pause during operation, then delivery times increase, but path interference is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by equipping the robot with sensors that detect track conditions and communicate with the central control system. This allows the robot to receive real-time information about path occupancy and adjust its routing decisions dynamically, enabling it to choose alternative paths or timing to avoid pausing, thereby reducing delivery time while minimizing path interference through coordinated traffic management.
Data Source
AI summary
A direction switching module for lift robots using a pair of pinions coupled to a rack for propelling vertically and horizontally according to the track's orientation, is disclosed. In a linear motion mode both pinions rotate in the same velocity. In a direction switching mode, when changing from vertical to horizontal motion mode and vise versa, the module is capable of propelling one pinion on a vertical track and its counterpart on a horizontal track, simultaneously, each pinion in a different velocity. A bogie propelled by two pairs of said module is also disclosed, and a controller configured to drive both pinions in same velocity during linear motion and each pinion in a separate appropriate velocity during the direction switching mode. A method for turning a pinion-driven lift-robot in an intersection of rails and a controller for controlling the linear motion modes and the direction switching modes of the lift robot are also disclosed.