Universal Interface Unit for Shuttle Load Carrier Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Undercarriage shuttles lack flexibility in accommodating different load carriers due to the need for customized interface units and sensor systems, which complicates the process of switching between various types of pallets and pallet boxes, increasing the risk of accidents and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A generic interface unit with a flat contact surface and adjustable sensor units that can detect the presence and correct positioning of different load carriers, allowing for adaptable configuration without replacing the entire unit, enabling the transport of various pallets and pallet boxes without the need for individualized interface units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If individual interface units are provided for different load carriers, then the detection and positioning of each load carrier type is optimized, but the flexibility of the underride shuttle is reduced and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface unit is designed with a standardized flat support surface that can accommodate multiple types of load carriers (pallets, wire mesh boxes, etc.). The sensor units are positioned to detect different load carrier types through a universal detection pattern, eliminating the need for separate interface units for each load carrier type while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface unit is divided into functional components: a flat support surface for load carrier placement and sensor units for detection. This segmentation allows the support surface to remain standardized while sensor units can be selectively activated or repositioned to adapt to different load carrier types, reducing overall complexity.
2Measurement precision
If individual interface units are provided for different load carriers, then the detection system is optimized for each type, but the time required for switching between load carrier types increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal interface unit replaces multiple specialized units, allowing the underride shuttle to switch between different load carrier types without physical reconfiguration. The standardized support surface and strategically positioned sensor units enable rapid detection and positioning of various load carriers immediately upon placement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the interface unit is designed to accommodate the largest load carrier, then the versatility is maximized, but the contact area for smaller load carriers is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flat support surface is designed with uniform properties across its entire area, providing consistent contact and support for load carriers of different sizes. The sensor units are strategically positioned at multiple locations on the support surface, ensuring that regardless of which load carrier type is placed on the interface unit, the sensor units can detect and position it accurately without requiring reduced contact area.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an interface unit (10) for receiving different load carriers (P1, P2), in particular pallets and wire mesh boxes, on an undercarriage shuttle with a longitudinal axis (L) and a lateral axis (B), comprising a substantially flat support surface (12) for setting up a load carrier (P1, P2), at least one first sensor unit (14) for detecting the presence of the load carrier (P1, P2), wherein the at least one first sensor unit (14) is integrated with a stop element (16) projecting from the support surface (12), which is configured to limit displacement of the load carrier (P1, P2) on the support surface (12), wherein the at least one stop element (16) and thus the corresponding first sensor unit (14) can be attached to the support surface (12) at at least two mounting positions (16a);and at least one second sensor unit (22) for detecting correct reception and positioning of the load carrier (P1, P2), wherein a plurality of recesses (20) are provided in the base surface (12), wherein the at least one second sensor unit (22) is operable in at least two configurations with respect to the base surface (12) such that its detection of the load carrier (P1, P2) is effected by one of the plurality of recesses (20).