Load Handling Device Fork Distance Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load handling devices face challenges in loading various types of loads without significant gaps between them, especially when dealing with different sizes and when space is restricted, leading to installation issues due to interference with frames on carts.
Innovation Solution
A load handling device with a pair of forks that can adjust distance and advance/retract mechanism, supported by a lifting unit and reciprocating base platform, allows for precise positioning and loading of loads of different sizes without gaps, using a fork distance adjusting mechanism and load positioning mechanism with stopper members to align and secure loads efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed-size pusher is used to transfer loads, then the structure is simple, but large gaps occur between loads of different sizes at the loading position
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher is designed to be movable in the width direction rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position according to the width of different loads. This dynamic adjustment eliminates gaps between loads of varying sizes while maintaining structural simplicity, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and positioning accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pusher advances or retracts to accommodate different load sizes, then loads of various dimensions can be handled, but additional space is required between supply position and loading position
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the pusher in the longitudinal direction (advance/retract), the invention moves the pusher in the width direction (laterally). This dimensional change allows the pusher to accommodate different load sizes without requiring additional longitudinal space, enabling compact installation while maintaining versatility.
3Area of stationary object
If a fixed-position pusher is used, then the device structure is compact, but interference occurs with frames on cage carts or stock carts
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher is designed to move laterally in the width direction, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position to avoid interference with cart frames while maintaining a compact device footprint. This dynamic positioning enables compatibility with different cart types without increasing the device's overall size.
Data Source
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AI summary
A load handling device (10) that is installed between a supply position (G) and a loading position (H), and configured to load at the loading position (H) the load (W) that has been fed from the supply position (G). The load handling device (10) includes a base platform (20), a lifting unit (30) that is movable up and down relative to the base platform (20), a pair of forks (32) that is configured to support a bottom surface of the load (W) that has been fed from the supply position (G), a fork distance adjusting mechanism (65) that is configured to adjust a distance between the pair of forks (32) in accordance with a size of the load (W), and a fork advancing/retracting mechanism (40) that is configured to cause the pair of forks (32) to advance to or retract from the loading position (H).