Self-Driving Sliver Can Layout for Compact Impact-Safe Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing driverless transport devices for fiber sliver cans require complex safety mechanisms and occupy more space than conventional cans, posing a risk to personnel and material due to protruding components.
Innovation Solution
The driverless transport device is designed such that the receiving container covers the undercarriage, electrical drive unit, and energy storage means, minimizing protrusions and requiring the same space as a conventional can, with a safety device generating a switching signal on impact to prevent accidents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If driverless transport devices are equipped with safety mechanisms and drive units, then automation and productivity are improved, but the device occupies more space and components protrude beyond the container
Solution Approach 1:
The undercarriage, drive unit, energy storage means, and control unit are integrated into the interior space of the receiving container, with components nested within the container structure. The container essentially becomes the housing for all mechanical and electrical components, eliminating the need for external mounting structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving container serves multiple functions: it acts as both the cargo container for holding fiber sliver and as the structural housing for the drive unit, energy storage means, safety device, and control unit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate chassis or frame structures.
2Reliability
If driverless transport devices have protruding components, then safety mechanisms can be implemented, but personnel and material are at risk
Solution Approach 1:
The safety device with impact detection is positioned to protrude slightly beyond the container in specific locations where impact is most likely to occur. This allows the safety mechanism to engage first in the event of a collision, preventing damage to the main container and its contents while minimizing risk to personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety device acts as an intermediary element between the container and external obstacles. It is strategically positioned to be the first point of contact in case of impact, serving as a protective mediator that absorbs or detects collision forces before they can affect the main container or personnel.
3Volume of moving object
If the receiving container covers all components, then a compact footprint is achieved, but access to working areas may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving container is designed with segmented or modular features that allow specific sections to be accessed or opened while maintaining the integrity of the overall compact structure. This enables access to working areas without requiring the entire container to be enlarged or opened.
Data Source
AI summary
A driverless transport device having a self-driving vehicle for transporting a receiving container for a fibre sliver between sliver-delivering and sliver-fed textile machines. The vehicle has an undercarriage with a plurality of wheels, a vehicle body supported by the undercarriage and having a transport surface for the receiving container, fastening elements for fastening the receiving container to the vehicle body, and an on-board electrical system having an electrical energy storage means, an electrical drive unit and a control unit. A safety device for impact detection. is arranged on the vehicle and is in signalling communication with the control unit and for generating a switching signal on impact with an obstacle. The vehicle is dimensioned so that, in an installed state, the receiving container is fastened to the vehicle body in contact with the transport surface and entirely covers the undercarriage, the electrical drive unit and the electrical energy storage means.