Modular AGV Carrier Coupling for Stable Large-Object Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transporters for large-sized objects face issues such as vibrations, instability, low safety, and poor adaptability, requiring frequent replacements and increased costs due to limited size and shape flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A transporter system comprising a carrier with adjustable coupling members and multiple automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) connected in a wired or wireless manner, allowing for kinematic information sharing and flexible re-designation of leading AGVs to accommodate various object sizes and shapes, improving adaptability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a large-sized transporter or towing-type transporter is used to transport large-sized objects, then the transport capacity is improved, but the adaptability to different object sizes and shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transporter system is divided into multiple independent AGV units that can work individually or in coordination. Each AGV has its own patrol assembly and can navigate independently, allowing the system to be configured in different arrangements (single AGV, multiple AGVs in parallel, or AGVs in sequence) to match different object sizes and shapes while maintaining high transport capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The AGV-based transporter system serves multiple functions: it can transport objects of various sizes and shapes by adjusting the number and arrangement of AGVs, provide distributed support to reduce vibrations, and adapt to different path configurations. The coupling members allow flexible connection configurations to accommodate different object geometries
2Productivity
If a towing-type transporter is used, then the transport capacity for large objects is improved, but the stability and safety deteriorate due to large vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large transporter or towing configuration, the system segments the transport function across multiple AGVs. Each AGV provides distributed support and propulsion, eliminating the large vibrations inherent in towing-type transporters while maintaining the ability to transport large objects
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling members act as intermediaries between the AGVs and the transported object. These coupling members provide flexible mechanical connections that can accommodate relative movements and vibrations, isolating the object from harmful vibrations while maintaining secure attachment for high-capacity transport
3Productivity
If a large-sized transporter is used, then the transport capacity is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple standardized, relatively simple AGV units instead of one complex large-sized transporter. Each AGV has a standardized structure with patrol assembly and coupling interfaces, reducing individual unit complexity while achieving high overall transport capacity through coordinated operation of multiple units
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically configures the number and arrangement of AGVs based on the size and shape of the transported object. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to maintain high transport capacity for large objects without requiring a permanently complex large-sized transporter structure, as the complexity is activated only when needed through flexible AGV arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
Transporters and methods for transporting an object. The transporter includes a carrier comprising a plurality of coupling members; a support assembly adapted to support the carrier; and a plurality of automatic guided vehicles configured to obtain kinematic information from a leading automatic guided vehicle of the plurality of automatic guided vehicles. Each of the plurality of automatic guided vehicles includes a carrier connecting member coupled to the respective coupling member of the carrier to enable the carrier to move with the plurality of automatic guided vehicles; and a patrol assembly adapted to enable the respective automatic guided vehicle to move along the predetermined path.