A transport load carrier for a baggage handling system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing baggage handling systems in airports are space-constrained and inflexible, requiring high capacity and flexibility to manage luggage efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A self-propelled transport load carrier with adjustable wheels and a control unit for maneuverability, allowing horizontal movement in any direction and rotation about a vertical axis, capable of integrating with existing conveyor systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If conventional load carriers are used, then the structural strength is sufficient, but the weight is excessive and structural complexity is high

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveweightVSAvoidstructural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The load carrier employs a space frame structure where strength is concentrated at strategic joints and connection points rather than uniformly distributed throughout the entire structure. This allows the majority of the structure to use minimal material, significantly reducing weight while maintaining structural integrity where it is most needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The load carrier is divided into modular components including a space frame structure with distinct joints, arms, and connection points. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for minimal weight while maintaining overall structural strength through precise joint design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If conventional load carriers are used, then the structural strength is sufficient, but the device complexity is excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple structural functions are merged into the space frame structure itself. The frame provides both structural support and defines the mounting locations for sensors and other components, eliminating the need for separate structural elements and reducing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The space frame structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural strength, defines geometric relationships for sensor mounting, and creates accessible joints for component attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If precise sensor mounting is required, then the manufacturing precision must be high, but this increases manufacturing cost and complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor mounting precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The space frame structure is designed with pre-determined joint locations and mounting points that establish precise geometric relationships before sensors are installed. This preliminary structuring of the mounting framework eliminates the need for high-precision adjustments during sensor installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

High precision is concentrated at the specific joint locations and mounting points where sensors are attached, rather than requiring the entire structure to be manufactured with high precision. The bulk of the structure can be manufactured with standard tolerances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP4469351B1A transport load carrier for a baggage handling system
Publication Date: 2026.04.08 BEUMER GRP AS
  • EP4469351B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4469351B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP4469351B1 patent drawingFigure 2c~2d

AI summary

The present invention concerns a transport load carrier (1) for a baggage handling system, such as a luggage handling system in an airport, said transport load carrier (1) comprising a platform (2) for receiving and accommodating a load, such as one or more items of luggage, a plurality of wheels (6) wherein at least one wheel is selfdriven by drive means, and wherein the orientation of the wheels is adjustable by adjustment means for rotating the load carrier or turning its transport direction with or without rotating the load carrier, and a control unit for controlling the drive means at the at least one wheel and controlling the adjustment means of the wheels for the execution of a load transport task. The invention further concerns a transport system and a method, in particular a baggage handling system, such as a luggage handling system in an airport, comprising a plurality of such transport load carriers.