Vehicle-Based Conveyor System for Logistics Unloading Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large logistics centers, the uneven utilization of unloading points for overseas containers and tractor-trailers leads to idle conveyors and unnecessary costs, as each unloading point typically has a separate conveyor, which is not efficiently utilized due to the variability in cargo volume.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor system where the receiving and transfer conveyors are designed as vehicles or industrial trucks, equipped with adjustable steering and independent power, allowing them to be flexibly maneuvered between unloading points, and connected to a mobile discharge conveyor, enabling efficient transfer and orientation without the need for separate conveyors at each point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a separate conveyor is installed at each unloading point, then the unloading capacity of each point is sufficient, but the utilization of conveyors is uneven leading to idle conveyors and unnecessary costs
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is designed to serve multiple unloading points sequentially. The receiving conveyor and transfer conveyor can be positioned at different unloading points while maintaining connection through the mobile discharge conveyor, allowing one conveyor system to handle cargo from multiple sources rather than requiring dedicated conveyors at each point.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge conveyor is designed as a mobile flex conveyor that can be towed and repositioned dynamically. This dynamic configuration allows the conveyor system to adapt its layout based on which unloading points are actively being used, optimizing utilization by connecting active unloading points to the discharge conveyor as needed.
2Reliability
If the conveyor is designed as a fixed installation, then the conveying function is reliable, but the system cannot be flexibly maneuvered between different unloading points
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving conveyor and transfer conveyor are designed as vehicles or industrial trucks that can move between different unloading points while maintaining their conveying function. This dynamic design allows the system to be repositioned as needed without losing its core conveying capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile discharge conveyor acts as an intermediary element that can be towed to connect the moving receiving/transfer conveyor system with the fixed discharge infrastructure. This intermediary component enables flexibility in positioning while maintaining reliable cargo transfer.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the conveyor is disconnected from mains power supply during transfer, then energy independence is improved, but the conveyor cannot operate electrically operated functions during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is designed with the capability to operate independently of external power sources during transfer between unloading points. The vehicle-based design allows the conveyor to be maneuvered and repositioned using its own propulsion systems without requiring connection to mains power, achieving energy independence during movement phases.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows the conveyor system to serve multiple unloading points, optimizing resource utilization, reducing idle time and costs by enabling flexible movement and operation independent of external power sources, and maintaining a constant flow of goods to sorter systems.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one driven wheel of the drive and steering unit can be driven by an electric motor
Implementation Method 2
the receiving conveyor, for example if it is essentially designed as a belt conveyor with one or more conveyor belts, can pick up the piece goods independently due to static friction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a conveyor (1) for unloading stacked, poured, or loosely heaped goods (6) on the floor of a loading space (9), comprising a receiving conveyor (2) having a height-adjustable receiving end (22), a discharge conveyor (3), and a transfer conveyor (4) arranged between the receiving conveyor (2) and the discharge conveyor (3), characterized in that at least the receiving conveyor (2) is designed as a vehicle (5) or as a forklift truck.