Vehicle Loading and Shifting Assemblies Using Modular Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual handling in logistics networks for loading, shifting, and staging objects is time-consuming and inefficient, limiting the speed and precision of these processes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of automated or semi-automated systems, including loading mechanisms, shifting mechanisms, and door assemblies, which utilize actuator assemblies, track systems, and control systems to facilitate the movement and organization of objects within vehicles and storage spaces, enabling coordinated and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated or semi-automated systems are implemented for loading, shifting, and staging objects, then the speed and efficiency of object handling is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system is divided into separate functional modules: a loading mechanism with actuator assemblies for loading objects, a shifting mechanism with actuator assemblies for moving objects between positions, and a door assembly with actuator assemblies for opening/closing doors. Each module operates semi-independently, allowing the system to achieve high productivity while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator assemblies serve multiple functions across different mechanisms. The same type of actuator is used in the loading mechanism, shifting mechanism, and door assembly, creating a universal component that performs various tasks. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by standardizing components while maintaining high productivity.
2Measurement precision
If automated or semi-automated systems are implemented for loading, shifting, and staging objects, then the precision of object handling is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system incorporates control systems that monitor and adjust the operation of actuator assemblies in real-time. This feedback mechanism ensures precise positioning and handling of objects, while the control system automatically compensates for variations, maintaining high precision without requiring overly complex mechanical designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator assemblies are configured to automatically position and secure objects without continuous human intervention. The system self-regulates the loading, shifting, and door operations through programmed sequences, achieving precise object handling through automated control rather than complex manual coordination.
3Device complexity
If manual handling is used for loading, organizing, and staging objects, then the device complexity is reduced, but the time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system performs preliminary positioning and preparation of objects using actuator assemblies before final loading or staging operations. Objects are pre-positioned and organized by the shifting mechanism, so that when manual or automated final placement is needed, the time required is significantly reduced compared to starting from scratch.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated loading, shifting, and door assembly systems operate continuously without interruption. Multiple actuator assemblies work in parallel to load, shift, and secure objects simultaneously, eliminating the sequential delays inherent in manual handling processes and dramatically reducing total time consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
Loading, shifting, and staging objects in automated or semi-automated fashion including systems, methods, and apparatuses for the same. The embodiments hereof enable automated and/or semi-automated loading, shifting, organizing, staging, and accessing of objects in different environments, e.g., those associated with a logistics network operation. For example, one such environment is a vehicle. In one aspect, a loading mechanism is used to load objects into a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a shifting mechanism is used to shift objects in a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a door assembly allows for automated opening and closing of a door into a storage space of a vehicle. In addition, methods of manufacturing and using the same are provided.