ES1228041U - LOGISTICS MODULAR AUTOMATIC LINE (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) - Google Patents

Abstract

Automatic logistics modular line, for movement of loads (11) in a warehouse or installation, characterized in that it comprises one or more modules (1,2,3,4) coordinated with each other, each module (1,2,3, 4) with a flat base structure (10), with: at least one motorized displacement and/or rotation element (12), comprising wheels, rollers or the like mounted on an elevation/concealment system that urges/hides the displacement and/or motorized rotation element (12) towards the upper surface of the base (10) and hiding it under it, and defining a direction of transport of the load (11); and a series of passive sliding elements (13) that allow movement without friction of the load (11) on the base structure (10); and whose modules (1,2,3,4,) are managed by a software for control, monitoring and recording of all processes, warnings, errors, incidents, and the activation of security measures. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Logistic modular automatic line

TECHNICAL SECTOR

The present invention refers to a modular automatic line for loading, unloading, storage and advanced logistics of merchandise in aerial plates inside a warehouse or facility. It is specially designed for large loads (> 1 t), where its advantages are better exploited, although it can be used for smaller loads and other uses, once the design has been adapted.

It is applicable in the field of logistics and the management of merchandise in aerial plates, packets, trays, etc. for any weight range of goods to be managed.

STATE OF THE ART

For the transport of medium and large scale loads (pallets, air plates, containers, etc.), a large number of personnel with accredited qualifications and specialized vehicles (forklifts, conditioned trucks, etc.) are required. This implies a great cost and limits the time, besides increasing the risks for the workers and for the integrity of the loads.

However, it is known to move the loads and distribute them by means of conveyor belts and bypass nodes. In the case of packet or baggage distribution in an airport, it involves conveyor belts, code readers and motorized transport mechanisms.

These systems are adequate, but they are unsuitable for large loads transported in aerial plates or other methods of palletizing merchandise, since such loads tend to have enormous masses and volumes of merchandise that imply the existence of other additional variables to be taken into account and that are too high and complex. In addition, these variables imply procedures and risks inherent to them that need to be considered in the design of the merchandise management procedures and that need to be constantly monitored and monitored.

The applicant does not know of any device really similar to the invention.

BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

The invention consists of a modular automatic logistic line for loading, unloading, storage and any advanced logs of air plates according to the claims. The combination of the different elements and modules (for example, the control desk) allows to facilitate the management of large loads with any type of merchandise, being specially designed, but not exclusively, for the transport in air plates.

Thus, a modular automatic line for loading, unloading, storage and advanced merchandise logs in airplanes comprises at least one basic line element, and generally one of each specific type described in the invention.

In the first place, it will have at least one line module, formed by a base structure located on a pit or trench, and that allows moving the load in one or more transport directions.

Likewise, the most preferred version may have one or more lifting modules, with elevation systems that allow the base structure to rise or fall, even below ground level.

This preferred version will have a module to load or empty the trucks or cargo containers, which we will call the emptying module. This emptying module is defined to extract the load of a container, truck, or other type of transport system that is placed in the proper position. Likewise, the emptying module could place the load in the truck, container, etc.

Finally, to facilitate the movements, the most preferred version will have one or more derivation modules, where the transport direction of the load can be varied.

These modules that form the automatic line will be controlled automatically, or performing automatic tasks following manual orders of the operator (hereinafter "manual") .To do this, individual control posts will be available and they will be able to print tickets, delivery notes ... or any type of documentation that is considered necessary to attach to the load.

From this desk or control point the operators will be able to monitor and / or control and / or perform the registration of all processes, warnings, errors, incidents, activation of security measures, etc. of the assigned sector (complete line, sublines, modules, etc.) for said position by the general automation system.

The line will include automated data monitoring and / or memorization systems in continuous and / or discrete mode for any of the data collected during the processes registered in each line, in each module or in each sub-line or group of modules managed in parallel (weight of merchandise, warnings, errors, incidents, activation of security measures, etc.). The security measures can be stops of the modules, blocking the line, and it is not possible to disconnect them manually, but it will always be automatic. They can have their corresponding emergency buttons and manual reset.

The system can be formed by a single automata or by a structured and hierarchical network of multiple automatas (master-slave).

Thus, the modular transport platform, for advancing loads in a warehouse or installation, comprises one or more modules. Each module has a substantially flat upper surface base structure with at least one motorized displacement and / or rotation element comprising wheels, rollers or the like that drive the load when it contacts them. The motorized displacement and / or rotation elements are mounted on a concealment system (formed by a spring, a hydraulic cylinder, an up and down actuator or any similar mechanism that fulfills the function of elevation and concealment) that drives the motorized element towards the upper surface of the base, to ensure contact. These motorized displacement and / or rotation elements define a direction of transport of the load that will be relevant later on. As will be seen, the concealment system can also hide the displacement and / or rotation element.

The modules may also possess a series of passive sliding elements that allow movement without friction of the load on the base structure. Later examples will be indicated, being especially "universal" or omnidirectional, that is, independent of the direction of transport of the load.

In cases where it is necessary for the platform to vary the height at which the load is located (entry of goods from trucks, palletization and stacking of goods, etc.) , it is convenient to have the base structure of at least one module on an elevator, for example a scissor, to vary the position of the load.

Likewise, one of the modules may comprise at least one load carrying system on one edge. The cargo drag system is made up of a winch that can be motorized, hydraulic, manual, mixed, or any other similar system with the same function in its collection and a drag strip finished in a grip. The grip will be compatible with the pallet, tray or type of load in general, to make temporary fixings. The cargo drag system will be hidden inside the structure that has the base, or it will be hidden inside it, to facilitate the passage of the load over it.

Preferably, at least one module will have omnidirectional sliding elements, which can be complemented in the same module with:

- Motorized displacement and / or rotation elements of the module. These motorized displacement and / or rotation elements allow the transport direction to be varied.

- At least one load hauling system, as previously indicated, arranged in an area opposite to the entrance area of the load (where the truck will be, container ...) and which will often be parallel to the direction of loading. transport.

The most preferred solution is that the base structure of the modules is flush with the ground and that it comprises a trench under most of the base structure, accessible by trapdoors.

Other variants are commented on elsewhere in the report.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A series of figures is presented to facilitate the comprehension of the invention, corresponding to non-limiting examples of realization:

Figure 1: Perspective view of a schematic platform example with different types of modules.

Figure 2: view of an embodiment example of a derivation module, in its top and bottom view

Figure 3: perspective view of an embodiment of a drainage module with an adjacent container.

Figure 4: example of the position of an elevation module prior to filling or emptying the load.

Figure 5: example of the previous elevation module in the middle of the filling process.

MODES OF EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

In the following, a mode of carrying out the invention will be briefly described, as an illustrative and non-limiting example thereof.

The platform of transport and management of loads is formed by a series of modules (1,2,3,4), which consist of a common part and variable elements according to the type of module (1,2,3,4).

The common part is formed by a base structure (10), with an essentially flat upper surface and generally embedded in the ground to be flush with it. Thus it is avoided having to raise the loads (11), which can be moved without cutting the pace of the operators and allowing the soil itself to directly support the load, avoiding a cumbersome and complicated load-bearing structure. The base structure (10) performs the functions of cover and base of the module, so that it protects the main components and supports the weight of all the elements. The base structure (10) has a supporting structure, which in this case is formed by profiles in omega, double "T" and similar, which gives it the necessary strength, it can also have fixed or adjustable anchors for its colocation and leveling.

Each base structure (10) can have a motorized displacement and / or rotation element (12) or more, driven by a motor, generally electric. Each displacement and / or motorized rotation element (12) has wheels, rollers or the like that contact without sliding with their upper part on the lower part of the load (11) (Figures 1 and 2). The wheels, rollers or the like will, for example, have an outer rubber part to ensure that there is no slippage and that the entire movement is transmitted. Preferably they will be mounted on a concealment system that drives the wheels or rollers upwards to ensure contact and allow them to be hidden once they have performed their function. The motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12) may have analog and / or digital calibration systems for varying the height and the speed of rise and / or fall of the concealment system.

Likewise, the base structure (10) carries passive sliding elements (13) that allow relative movement between the base structure (10) and the load (11) without friction. These sliding elements (13) can be rollers or freewheeling wheels according to their respective axis, or teflon plates or other antifriction material. In several types of modules (1,2,3,4) or of embodiments it is convenient that they are omnidirectional or "non-directional." That is, they can perform their function independently of the direction in which the load moves (11) These omnidirectional slide elements (13) could be anti-friction plates, spherical or self-adjustable wheels (for example, of the so-called "casters" in English) or other similar devices.

The motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12) mark a transport direction at the exit, whose direction depends on its rotation. Therefore, it is preferable that it be reversible. However, the input direction of the load in the module (1,2,3,4) may be different from the transport direction in the output, provided that the motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12) can be removed downwards, that is, they are movable in a vertical direction, to facilitate the entry of the load, and that the sliding elements (13) are omnidirectional.

In the areas of input and output of the load, each module (1,2,3,4) may have some couplings (not shown) that allow the adjacent module (1,2,3,4) to be aligned in the exact position (for example, a tongue and groove system). Also, at various points of the contour, including the edges of entry, may have stops (19), fixed or mobile (with systems of concealment by abatement, descent, etc.), to ensure the centering of the load (11) and that Stay inside the line when it is necessary to perform some operation on it, such as elevation or change of direction. The computer system will monitor and estimate when each mobile top (19) should be hidden or displayed, including during emergency stops.

The basic module (1) has only one or more motorized elements (12), with the same transport direction, and the corresponding sliding elements (13) and guided load.

In the derivation modules (2), the motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12) are designed to be able to vary the transport direction. Generally, it suffices that the motorized displacement and / or rotation element (12) can rotate 180 ° in total to be able to fully choose the transport direction. However, in particular constructions with 90 ° will be sufficient. In these bypass modules (2), the sliding elements (13) will be omnidirectional. The angle of rotation can be fixed or variable, as estimated by the automata as a function of the desired transport direction.

The bypass modules (2) may comprise a motorized rotating and / or rotating element (12), main, and auxiliary motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12 ') with fixed orientation, which are retracted when they do not correspond to the transport direction of the main displacement and / or motorized rotation element (12) (figure 2). The auxiliary motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12 ') can be in several orientations so that there is always one in the desired transport direction.

One way of removing the displacement and / or auxiliary motorized rotation element (12 ') is by taking advantage of a lift / conceal cylinder, which drives a seat where the motor of the displacement and / or auxiliary motorized rotation element (12') is supported. . This construction is applicable to motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12) of other types of modules (1,2,3,4).

In figure 2 a lower view of a rotating motorized displacement and / or rotation element (12) is shown, where it is seen that it is fixed to the base structure (10) and comprises a rotation cylinder (14) or the like for vary the orientation.

In the modules with lifting systems (3), the base structure (10) is mounted in a lifting system (15), for example scissors, which allows modifying the height to which the base structure (10) is disposed for facilitate the filling or emptying of the load, or to adapt to another height inside the ship or of the truck or cargo container that is being emptied or filled. The lifting system (15) can be programmed to descend or ascend to predetermined heights without intermediate interruptions, or to do so continuously. Likewise, the base structure (10) can be connected to a pressure or scale sensor that indicates the mass of the load and estimates the height to which it is disposed (figure 4), or that measures the height it reaches by means of a sensor, to adjust it to an ergonomic position or to the position marked by the operator. All this can be done automatically (monitored and operated by the automata) or manually (monitored by the automata and the operator and operated by the operator) as required. It can also comprise a cargo management mechanism configured to analyze its characteristics (weight, volume, form, type of packaging, etc.), and decide whether the cargo in question can be managed, that is, that it does not violate any of the security conditions ( it's too heavy, too high ...)

This module with lifting system (3) allows the operator to fill or empty the load (11) always in the most ergonomic position, reducing injuries and facilitating operations.

An emptying module (4) can be located on one edge of the platform or load transport circuit, which also comprises a load-pulling system (16) formed by a winch (161) and a pulling belt (162). in the form of a cable or the like finished in a grip (163). This grip (163) will depend on the type of cargo container (11) (aerial sheet, pallet, etc.), and should be able to be fixed to it reliably and safely. In this way a container, truck, forklift or similar can be emptied without them needing their own means of advancement. The load-pulling system (16) is normally hidden in a plane inferior to the base structure (10), so that it only protrudes when the pulling belt (162) is needed. On the edge facing outward (truck, container.), Opposite the load-pulling system (16), a retractable articulated ramp (164) can be arranged that covers the gap between the module and the container, the aerial sheet, the pallet, etc., and reduces the risk of accidents when the height alignment is not exact.

The load-pulling system (16) can adapt its direction of drag to the angle created between it and the load by means of displacement and / or rotation mechanisms implemented in the load-pulling system (16) and / or one of its components . That is, the drag direction may vary to take the load from variable angles, for example to allow loading by several edges of the emptying module (4).

Figure 3 shows a moment of operation of a dump module (4). It begins with the alignment of the container, truck or similar with the emptying module (4) in the correct direction, so that the load-pulling system (16) is on the opposite edge of the truck. The conveyor belt (162) is deployed to fix its hook to the cargo container (11) and it is collected, placing the container with the load (11) on the emptying module (4). Finally the hooking of the conveyor belt (162) is released and the load can start its travel. In this figure two grips (163) are shown but they can be more.

It is important to note that the transport direction of the emptying module (4) can be at an angle with the pickup direction of the conveyor belt (162), although it will not be usual. In that case, the sliding elements (13) will be omnidirectional.

The final platform can contain all kinds of modules (1,2,3,4) in any combination. It is preferred to understand a trench in the floor of the ship or installation to facilitate maintenance from the bottom, where the motors, supports, winches and other elements are located. This trench or pit will be accessible by trapdoors (5) at various points on the platform, such as through the base structure (10).

It is important to note that the modules (1,2,3,4) are compatible with each other, each module (1,2,3,4) can do several different functions. For example, a module with elevation system (3) can also function as a derivation module (2) or as a discharge module (4). For this, it is enough to implement the corresponding elements that are needed and that, as can be seen, are compatible.

The platform can be completed with roller panels (17), passive and independent, forming micromodules between adjacent modules (1,2,3,4), stops (19), load presence sensors (optical, pressure ...) and security (passing people (photoelectric or optical), etc. The control can be automated, using the sensors, commanded by an operator or establishing areas in which the control is automated and areas in which the control is commanded by a Operator The configuration of the linear makes it possible to completely customize the drive mode that controls the behavior of any of the elements and modules of the line.

Thus, in several figures sensor barriers (6) formed by network presence detectors have been shown. When a sensor barrier (6) detects a presence, it produces the interlocking of the load (11), stopping the motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12), but leaving the stops (19) in their position. This sensor barrier (6) must be reset, either manually or automatically.

It can also comprise security sensors in the trap access doors (5), as well as security sensors (for example, presence detectors) inside it.

A series of desks or control stations (7) allow operators to control the load (11) and its movements. They can have a printer incorporated to issue delivery notes or tickets, usually as stickers, to serve as documentation associated with the load (11) and / or data download. The control post (7) can have a touch screen. Figure 1 shows a module with elevation system (3) that can be used to complete or empty a cargo tray (11).

The set will generally have automated monitoring and / or memorization systems of data in continuous and / or discrete mode for any of the data collected during the processes registered in each module (weight of goods, warnings, errors, incidents, activation of security measures , etc.).

The entire system will start from a mechanical, electrical or electronic drive, either with the operator present at a control station (7) or remote. In the same realization Several control and drive systems can be combined. The control post (7) has specific actuators for safety and prevention of built-in hazards (emergency stop mushroom, etc).

The set will be organized by a software of control and monitoring, executed in an adequate computer equipment, that will take care of the monitoring and registry of all the processes, warnings, errors, incidences, activation of security measures, etc., and to communicate them to the control posts (7) of the affected sector (complete line, sub-lines, modules, etc.). Likewise, it will be responsible for activating / deactivating the security protocols, (electronic interlocks, automatic and instantaneous and / or delayed automatic resets, etc.). The system can be formed by a single automata (or machine that executes the software) or by a structured and hierarchical network of multiple automatas (master-slave).

The most convenient way to group the modules (1,2,3,4) in sublines will fulfill a series of criteria:

- They are operated in the same way (manual / automatic) except in security systems:

- They are adjacent to each other, so that there is no one module (1,2,3,4) interposed from another subline.

Claims (1)

1- Logistic modular automatic line, for movement of loads (11) in a warehouse or installation, characterized in that it comprises one or more modules (1,2,3,4) coordinated among themselves, each module (1,2,3, 4) with a flat base structure (10), with: at least one motorized displacement and / or rotation element (12), comprising wheels, rollers or the like mounted on an elevation / concealment system that urges / hides the displacement and / or motorized rotation element (12) towards the upper surface of the base (10) and hiding it under it, and defining a direction of transport of the load (11); Y a series of passive sliding elements (13) that allow movement without friction of the load (11) on the base structure (10); and whose modules (1,2,3,4,) are managed by a software for control, monitoring and recording of all processes, warnings, errors, incidents, and the activation of security measures. 2- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, wherein at least one module (1,2,3,4) has sliding elements (13) omnidirectional, independent of the direction of transport of the load (11). 3- Modular automatic line, according to claim 2, comprising a derivation module (2) whose motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12) are rotatable and allow to vary the transport direction and the sliding elements (13) are omnidirectional 4- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, wherein the base structure (10) of at least one module (1,2,3,4) is mounted on an elevation system (15). 5- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, comprising a module with a load-pulling system (16) formed by a winch (161) motorized, hydraulic, manual, mixed or any similar system in its collection and a belt of drag (162) topped in a hook or grip (163). 6- Modular automatic line, according to claim 5, whose load-pulling system (16) is arranged on a border coinciding or parallel to the transport direction and the sliding elements (13) are omnidirectional. 7- Modular automatic line, according to claim 5, whose load drag system (16) is hidden within the base structure (10). 8 - Modular automatic line, according to claim 5, comprising an articulated ramp (164) retractable on the edge opposite the load carrying system (16). 9 - Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, whose motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12) are reversible in the direction of rotation. 10. Modular automatic line according to claim 2, wherein the motorized displacement and / or rotation elements (12) of a module (1,2,3,4) with omnidirectional slide elements (13) are movable in the vertical direction. 11 - Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, comprising stops (19) on the edges of the base structure (10) of at least one module (1,2,3,4). 12- Modular automatic line, according to claim 11, wherein the stops (19) of at least the transport direction are concealable. 13- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, comprising sensor barriers (6) formed by presence detectors arranged in a network around the modules, and configured to brake the load (11) if it detects a presence. 14- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, whose base structure (10) has a scale, pressure sensor or load management mechanism configured to analyze its characteristics (weight, volume, shape, type of packaging, etc.), and decide if the cargo in question can be managed. 15- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, comprising micromodules between adjacent modules (1,2,3,4), which incorporate passive roller panels (17). 16- Modular automatic line, according to claim 5, whose load drag system (16) can adapt its tow direction to the angle created between it and the load by means of displacement and / or rotation mechanisms implemented in the cargo drag system and / or of any of its components. 17- Modular automatic line, according to claim 5, whose load pulling system has two or more grips (163) or hooks. 18- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the processes is monitored by at least one automata that executes the control software. 19- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the processes is registered by at least one automata that executes the control software. 20- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the processes is activated by at least one automata that executes the control software. 21- Modular automatic line, according to claims 18, 19 and 20, where the control software is implemented in at least two automatas in master-slave regime. 22- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, in which the control software is implemented in individual control stations or desks. 23- Modular automatic line, according to claim 22, in which the control station or desk has devices for printing and / or downloading data in situ. 24- Modular automatic line, according to claim 22, in which the control post has a touch screen. 25- Modular automatic line, according to claim 1, in which a specific element of the line is controlled from a remote control.