CA2652635A1 - A facility for and method of take-in, storage and take-out containers or platforms, either loaded or unloaded, in multi-level vertical structures (sections) arranged as a line or as several parallel lines - Google Patents
A facility for and method of take-in, storage and take-out containers or platforms, either loaded or unloaded, in multi-level vertical structures (sections) arranged as a line or as several parallel lines Download PDFInfo
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- CA2652635A1 CA2652635A1 CA 2652635 CA2652635A CA2652635A1 CA 2652635 A1 CA2652635 A1 CA 2652635A1 CA 2652635 CA2652635 CA 2652635 CA 2652635 A CA2652635 A CA 2652635A CA 2652635 A1 CA2652635 A1 CA 2652635A1
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- platform
- platforms
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- supports
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
- B65G1/00—Storing articles, individually or in orderly arrangement, in warehouses or magazines
- B65G1/02—Storage devices
- B65G1/14—Stack holders or separators
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- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Warehouses Or Storage Devices (AREA)
Abstract
A facility for the take-in, storage and take-out of containers of platforms, either with goods or empty,in multi-level vertical structures (sections) arranged linearly.
The invention pertains to the area of warehousing of goods with certain dimensions, such as, for example, containers or open platforms loaded with goods, the storage being done in multi-level sections following each other in a line or in several parallel lines,with the take-in of the platforms at one end of of each line(the entrance point) and take-out of the goods either at the opposite end of each line(the exit point),or at both the entrance and the exit points,simultaneously.
The invention pertains to the area of warehousing of goods with certain dimensions, such as, for example, containers or open platforms loaded with goods, the storage being done in multi-level sections following each other in a line or in several parallel lines,with the take-in of the platforms at one end of of each line(the entrance point) and take-out of the goods either at the opposite end of each line(the exit point),or at both the entrance and the exit points,simultaneously.
Description
The invention title:
A facility for and a method of take-in, storage and take-out of containers or platforms, either loaded or unloaded, in multi-level vertical structures (sections) arranged as a line or as several parallel lines The invention pertains to the area of warehousing of goods with certain dimensions, such as, for example, containers or other units, such as automobiles, the storage being done in multi-level sections following each other in a line or in several parallel lines, with take-in of platforms at the entrance point of the line and take-out of the goods both at the entrance and the exit points of each line.
The major advantages of the invention are as follows:
A Much better utilization of storage space, due to multi-level storage of goods, i.e., more efficient utilization of the building height or of the ground storage space, at the expense of multi-level structures arrangement into parallel lines, which would not require lift-trucks between these lines for loading and unloading of the goods.
B Take-in and take-out of the platforms both at the entrance point and at some other point along the line, allows full mechanization and automatic performance of the take-in and the take-out processes.
At present goods are stored on platforms rigidly fixed and attached to structures that can relocate only vertically; as a result, platforms have no way of being relocated separately, either within a section, or betweed different sections.
This invention uses a method which allows not to fix platforms rigidly to movable elements of the structure.
In order to illustrate how this invention can be applied, we have chosen a method of vertical relocation of platforms from one tier to another up and down within a section, by way of of gripping the platforms with special lug supports pin-hinged to pillars opposing each other in pairs, with at least one of the pairs being able to move up and down according to a preset sequence. In order to fix the platforms upon lug-supports, the lug-suports have special fingers that enter special holes in the platforms, which provides firm support of the platforms, during .- / -their relocation by lug-supports from one tier to another as well as after they are installed upon the lug-supports. This method is illustrated in Fig. 1 cx.a, l cxb , l Cxc.and 1 Cxd Fig. 1 cxa presents a schedule of vertical upward relocation of platforms within a section:
Step 0. The initial position: Platform 5 is installed on Lug Supports 4 of Stationary Pipars 3 at the lowest (first) tierof the Section. Lifter 1 Lug Supports 2 are pin-hinged to Pillars 1 of the lifting device, below the upper surface of Lug Supports 4 of their stationary pillars. Fingers 6 are rigidly fixed , and Fingers 7 are rigidly fixed to Lug-supports 2 of the lifting device. At the same time Fingers 6 of Lug-supports 4 enter the respective holes 8 of the platform.
Step 1. Pillar 1 is to be moved upward, Lug Supports 21ift Platforms 5 off Lug Supports 4. At the same time Fingers 6 move out of Holes 8 of the platforms, and Fingers 7 of Lug-supports 2 of the lifting pillars enter respective holes of Platforms 9.
Step 2. During the elevation, Lug Supports 2 enter their ingers 7 into Holes 9 of the platforms, which provide firm support of the platforms upon Lug-Supports 2. While Lug-supports 2 are lifting the platforms, Fingers 6 leave Holes 8 of the platforms. The platfonns are raised above Lug-supports 4, to a height enough for turning Lug-supports 4 into a non-operational vertical position. Lug-supports 4 are turned compulsively by way of their contact with the contours of Platform 5 or with the help of a drive-gear.
Step 3. Lifting pillars 1 use their Lug -Supports 2 to raise Platforms 5 into the upper position, with Lug-supports 4 to be rturned into their operational (horizontal) position.
Then Lug Supports 2 continue lowering the platforms.
Step 4. Platforms 5 are installed upon Lug -supports 4, but one tier lower; at the same time, Fingers 6 of these Lug Supports enter Holes 8 of the platforms, providing for their firm fixing upon Lug Supports 4. Then Lug Supports 2 are compulsively turned into their non-operatonal (vertical) position.
Step 5. Lifting Pillar I is lowered into the initial lower position, and their Lug Supports 2 are compulsively turned into their operational (horizontal) position. This operation ends platform upward relocation within the section and their installation upon the tier one level up. Fig. 1 Cxb shows the Steps and the interaction of all units and details during the process of relocating platforms downwards within a Section to a tier one level below.
Fig.lcxb.
Step 0. The initial position: Platform 5 is installed at Tier 2 of Lug Supports 4 of Vr__._ z ._ Stationary Pillars 3, and Lug Supports 2 of the lifting pillars are pin-hinged below Lug Supports 4 of the stationary pillars at a height allowing to tum. Lug Supports 2 into a non-operational (vertical) position. Platforms 5 are rigidly fixed upon Lug Supports 4 with the hrlp of Fingers entering Holes 8 of the platforms.
Step 1. Lug Supports 2 of Lifting Pillars 1 are compulsively turned into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 2. Lifting Pillar 1 is raised above Lug Supports 4of Stationary Pillars 3 to a height allowing to turn Lug Supports 2.
Step 3. Lug Supports 2 of Lifting Pillars 1 are compulsively returned (or turn on their own because of their weight) into the operational (horizontal) position.
Step 4. Lifting Pillars 1 are raised into the upper position, where Lug Supports 2 take the platforms off Lug Supports 4 of Stationary Pillar 4 and raise them, while Fingers 6 of Lug Supports 4 leave Holes 8 of the platforms, and Fingers 7 of Lug Supports 2 enter Holes 9 of the platforms, fixing them rigidly upon Lug Supports 2.
Step 5. Lug Supports 4 of Stationary Pillars 3 are compulsively turned into a non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 6. Lug Supports 2 of Lifting Pillars 1 are lowered to a distance which allows Lug Supports 4 to be returned (either compulsively, or under teir own weight) into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 7. Lug Supports 4 of the stationary pillars are returned into their operational (horizontal) position, and Lug Supports 2 lower Platforms 5 upon Lug Supports 4, while Fingers 6 enter Holes 8 of the platforms, rigidly fixing them upon these Lug Supports one tier below..
Fig. 1 Cxc shows Platform 5 and Stationary Pillars 3, as well as Lug Supports 2 and 4 with Fingers 6 and 7 insude. Platform 5 has Holes 8 and 9 which, while contacting Fingers 6 and 7 of Stationary Pillars 2 and 4, rigidly fix the platform upon the Lug Supports, which guarantees any occasional relocation of the platforms or their falling down.
Fig.1 Cxd Pos. l Illustrates crossection,consising of stationary frame 3 with swiveling paws4 and belonging to them fmgers 6,lifting frame 1 with attached to it swiveling paws 7.Cylinders 11 work as activators which are attached by their shaft 13 to the frame 12.Platform 5 has openings 8 and 9 which interact with fingers 6 and 7.When paws 2 of the elevator move down and platform being delayed on paws 4,the platform is getting tilted within the clearance bitween openings 8,9 and fingers 6,7 up to the point of stopping of the .~---lifter and creation of additional resistance on the actuator which can be used in control system to halt the motion.
Pos.2 Illustrate the tilting of the platform 5 which can be caused by asynchronous movement of different sides of elevator 1 and corresponding paws 2.Platform 5 is being fixated by its openings 9 with fmgers 7 belonging to the paws 2 in case of the difference of the levels of two sides of the elevater.After clearanses between fingers 7 and openings 9 being illuminated,both sides of the elevator econtinnuue movement synchronously oterwwise the movement will stop whch can be used for timely correction of the operation.
Interaction of fingers 6,7 of the paws and openings of 8,9 of the platform insures synchronous movement of the platforms and prevent their fall.
This method is offered as the basis for car storage on platforms.
At present, there are several types of structures for multi-level car storage.
Mainly, storage is done on platforms attached to sections, with platforms being lifted and lowered with the help of hydraulic cylinders which assist in lowering a platform to Zero level, for car entrance, after which the platform with the car is to be raised to the top level. The next car is to be loaded in the same manner, the platform is to be raised to the level below the previous one, and so on, until a car is loaded upon a platform at the Zero level. The major drawback of this kind of structure is the necessity to use an operator in order to install a car upon a platform and in order to take the car off the platform, which results in utilizung more storage space. Besides, in order to get a car at the top level ready for a take-out, platdorms of the lower levels should be temporaily emptied of the cars they store at the moment.
The invention we offer, because of its ability to relocate individual platforms up and down within each section, and the possibility of their relocation from one section to another, both with the upper cart and with the transporter at Zero Level, allows any platform loaded with a car to be relocated to Zero level. Platforms relocation from one section to another at the lowest or the top levels of the same line allows delivering any required platform into the take-out section without interfering with the storage of other cars, which excludes the drawbacks of the method and of the structures which are used at present.
A description of the invention - the storage method and a storage structure implementing the method - is presented below.
. - ~ ~
Fig. 1, 2, and 3, respectively, show the longitudinal cross-section, a transverse cross-section and an overhead view of the device. They show GuideRollers 1, Ramp 2, Platform 3, Framework 4, Platform Storage Section 5, Car Storage Section 6, Floor-level Transporter 7, Top Carriage 8, and Inspection Sensors of safe car clearance: in height( No10), in lenhth (No 9) and in width, (No 1) in Fig. l , 2, 3..
Fig. 4- Ramp consisting of Frame 4.2, Frame Rotation Cylinder 4.1, with the frame in Pivot Joint 4.4. Guide Rollers 4.3 are attached to the framework. Fig.4a showa a ramp with a car-loaded platform on it, in the tilted position for car entering and exiting the platform, as well as n the horizontal position which allows connecting the platform with Pulling Finger 8.5 of the transporter, with the help of Ratchet Stops 5.9 of Platform 5.1.
Fig. 5: A platform consisting of Base Frame 5.1 and Support Feet 5.2 guaranteeing the required clearance between platforms when they are stacked for storage in the storage section. The front part of the base frame has a netlike recess, Recess 5.4, which is used to lock up either one of the left wheels, or the two front wheels of a car. A special locklift driven by Cylinder 5.3 is used to raise a wheel before the car is going to exit the platform. When a car enters the platform, its front left wheel is guided by Rollers 5.6 of MovableCarriage 5.8, which guarantees the car movement along the preset track-gauge. The movable carriage is to be returned into its initial position with the help of Wire shaft 5.5 which is connected with a tension roll driven by a spiral spring. The platform is locked with Pulling Finger 8.5 with the help of Ratchet Stops 5.9 fixed on Axis Pins 5.10 of Holes 8 and 9 for gripping lug support fmgers. Fixator 5.11 is used to get the command to stop the platform, and Clutches 5.12 are used to get the signal to lower the platform speed before it is going to stop.
Fig. 6 illustrates a platform storage section consisting of Stationary Pillars 6.5 rigidly attached to Frame 4 of Framework 4, Lifting Frames 6.4 driven by Cylinder 6.2.
Lug Supports 6.7 with Fingers 6 are gimbal-mounted to the lower level stationary pillars. Tey are simultaneously turned into the non-operational position and are returned into the initial position with the help of leverage (See Fig. 6a View D). Lifting Frames 6.4 have Lug Supports 6.3 with attached Fingers 7. The Lug Supports are rigidly attached to the Lifting Frames below Rollers 8.1 of the Zero level transporter. Chains 6.8 serve for synchronizing the movement of movable frames. The chains ~r-^
are linked by Sprockets 6.9, each pair of which is rigidly attached to Frame 4, with Shafts 6.11.
Sprockets 6.10 are rigidly attached to Framework 4. As the lifting frames at the opposite ends are connected by Chains 6.8., when a lifting frame at one end is moving, the lifting frame at the other side is moving simultaneously with the first one.
Fig. 6a. shows a cross-section of the section with the View B-B of the leverage of the synchronous turning movement of stationary pillars lug supports. The leverage system consists of Drive 6a1, for example, a cylinder, of Drag bars pivoted to Pillars 6a3 connexted to Shafts 6a4 installed on bearings 6a5. Clutch Pinns 6a6 contacting with Fingers 6a7 upon Link Rods 6a8 are rigidly ttached to Shafts 6a4. Fig. 6a,(Posl,2-3) Position 1, shows the initial position with Lug Supports 6.7 are in the horizontal position. When Cylinder 6.al is switched on, Pillars 6a3 move from Position 1 to Position 2, reaching Turn Restrain Device 6a7. While Pillars 6a3 are being turned, Shafts 6a4 rigidly attached to them are turning, too. Rotation of Lug Supports 6.7 from the initial position is done by rotating Clutch Pin 6a6 contacting Finger 6a11 attached to the link-rod, which provides raising Lifting Rod 6a8. With the help of Fingers 6al0 attached to lifting rods under each lug support, the Lug Supports are turned into the non-operational position (Position 2). Lug Supports 6.7 are brought back into the operationalposition while Cylinder 6a1 is returned to its initial position. Fingers 6a9 control the return of the lug supports into the operational (horizontal) position while Lifting Rod is being lowered, Position 3.
The lug supports are turprogrammd to be turned both at the take-in and the take-out.
Note: Lug Supports 6.7 can be turned into the non-operational position during their contact with a raising platform as well as with the platforms being lowered under their own weight.
Fig. 7 illustrates a car storage section. This section is designed similarly to a platform storage section. It differs from the latter in a larger number of Lug Supports 7.15 of Stationary Pillars 7.8, as well as of Lug Supports 7.4 of Lifting Frames 7.13. The number of lug supports vertically installed at the same distance from each other corresponds to the number of tiers within a section.
Both the stationary pillar lug supports and the lifting frame lug supports are attached on pin hinges with Fingers 6 and 7. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting frames are located at a certain distance below the level of Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars, and the lowest Lug Supports 7.4 are located below the level of Rollers 8.1 and form the lowest, Zero level.
Cross-bar 7.6 connects Lug Supports 7.15 of Stationary Pillars 7.8.
Simultaneous turning movement of stationary pillars lug supports is conducted compulsively, either during the contact with the lug supports of a rising platform, or with the help of a leverage with a drive similar to the drive turning lug supports in the platform storage section shown in Fig. 6a. Lifting Frames 7.13 are driven by _ 6__--Hydrocylinder 7.16. In order to prevent any frame damage in case of misalignment, Cylinders 7.16 can be attached to he section frame only by a slide-bar. Simultaneous relocation of the lifting frames at both ends is achieved by attaching them to Chains 7.2 which go around Sprockets 7.9 attached to the chaft and Sprockets 7.10 attached to Framework 4.
Lug Supports 7.4 are turned into the non-operational position and back simultaneously, with the help of leverage with compulsory drive; the leverage system is shown in Fig.
7b,(Pos.1-5) It operates in the following way. In its initial position the leverage system has Pillars 6a3 in Position 1 (see Pos.1). Clutch pins 7a1 are fixed to Lifting Pillars 7.13 with the help of Fingers 7a2. The clutch pins contact Fingers 7a5 via Link Bar 7a9; Fingers 7a7 and 7a6 are used to turn Lug Supports 7a8 when Link Bar 7a9 is raised. Templet 7a4 is in the non-operational (vertical) position.
Tge leverage operates in the following way: When Cylinder 6a1 is switched on, Motion Rod 6a2 moves Pillars 6a3 into Position 2; meanwhile, Shafts 6a4 attached to Pillars 6a3 turn and move Templet 7a4 into a position in which it can contact Roller 7a3 (see Fig. 7b, Pos. 2, 3). When the lifting pillars move upward, Templer 7a4 contacts Roller 7a3, turning Clutch Pins 7a5 to a certain angle. Clutch Pin 7al contacts Finger 7a55 and lifts Link Rod 7a9. Link Rod 7a9 turns Lug Support 7a8 into the non-operational position with the help of Finger 7a7.
While it continues to move, Roller 7a3 continues sliding along the templet (see Fig. 7c Pos.4). It keeps Cutch Pin 7al in the operational position and Lug Support 7a8 - in the non-operational position, until the roller does not leave the templet (Pos.5). At this moment the clutch pin is set in its non-operational position, and Lug Support 7a8 goes down into the operatiobal position under the influence of its own weight and the weight of the link rod. Interaction of Templet 7a4, Lifting Pillar 7a9 and Clutch Pin 7al is preprogrammed to assure turning Lug Support 7a8 into operational and into the non-operational positions.
Fig. 8 illustrates the design of the lowest, (Zero) level transporter which serves for relocating car loaded and empty platforms between sections at the lowest level and onto the ramp and consists of the following units: Rollers 8.1 attached to Base 8.2, Pulling Fingers 8.5 supported by Bearings 8.3.
The motion is performed with Roller Chain 8.4 (the drive sprocket and the tension sprocket are not shown). Bearings 8.3 roll upon Plates 8.7 and 8.6. Fig.8 shows how Platform 5.1 and its Ratchet Dogs 5.9 are contacted by Finger 8.5 of the transporter. Each section uses Roller 8.9 attached to Rod 8.19 to stop a platform; the roller is connected to Lever 8.11 and Drive 8.10, for example, by an electromagnet. (See Cross-section A-A).
,_.- 7_.---Fig.9 illustrates the design of the top carriage which consists of U-type Frame 9.2 with Rollers 9.1 attached to it and supported by double-T iron 9.6. Pillars 9.8 are attached to Frame 9.2 base, and have Lug Supports 9.5 in their bottom area, which are pin-hinged to the pillars. The lug supports are to be compulsorily rotated by two Shafts 9.9. They turn simultaneously with the lug supports of Stationary Pillars 7.6 of the car storage section, which is to be provided by means of Special Interlock 9.7 ("dovetail" joint).
Relocation of the top carriage is provided for by means of a roller chain transporter not exhibited in Fig.9. The top carriage is to be used for relocation of platforms between sections at the top level.
Relocation of platforms at the top level with the help of the top carriage is designed to be generally used if the line has a small number of car storage sections, i,g, no more than three, If the number of car storage sections exceeds three, it is more ffective to to relocate the section platforms with the help of the lower level transporter; this alows for a lower height of the device as well as for a smaller period of time required for relocating a platform from one section to another.
The offered car storage method and the device for car storage function in the following way and consist of the following stages:
A. CAR TAKE-IN FOR STORAGE
In order to accept a car for storage, it is necessary to take a platform from a platform storage section and to place it on a ramp, after which a car would enter the platform.
While approaching the ramp, the car is to go through a control system checking the car measurements which is to be installed at the ramp entrance; if the garage has several lines, the car measurements control system may be located ib front of the garage entrance, to serve several lines at once. After the car passes the car size mesurement system, the driver is to stop his car in front of the "Stop" sign. Next comes a conunand for the ramp to be lifted into the horizontal position (Fig.4).
With this purpose Cylinder 4.1 is to be switched on, and Frame 4.2 with its Rollers 4.3 turns on its Hinge 4.4 into its horizontal position. At the same time a command is issued to switch on Hydraulic Cylinder 6.2 of the lifting drive in the car storage section.
Lifting Frames 6.4 are raised into their upper, final position (see Fig.6). At the same time Lug Supports 6.3 of Lifting Frames 6.4 raise the platform from Lug Supports 6.7.
At this moment Fingers 7 of Lug Supports 6.3 enter Holes 9 of the platform. Fingers 6 of Lug Supports 6.7 Stationary Pillars 6.5 leave Holes 8 while the platform is being raised. Fig, Cxc shows a platform with its Holes 8 and 9, as wll Fingers 6 aqnd 7, respectively, upon the stationary lug supportsand the lifting lug supports. The height to which platforms are to be raised should be enough to allow the possibility of rotating Lug Supports 6.7 of Stationary pillars into the non-operational (vertical) position).
Lug Supports s 6.7 are turned simultaneously, with the help of leverage (Fig.
6a, Pos. 1,2,3). When Cylinder 6a1 is switched on, Drag Bar 6a2 turns Pillars6a3, and they move from Iinitial Position 1 to Position 2 restricted by Block Stops 6a7. As Pillars 6a3 are rigidly fixed to Shaft 6a4, ro which Levers 6a6 are attached, when Shaft 6a4 is rotated, Levers 6a6 turn at a certain angle; by contacting Fingers 6a11 attached to Link Rods 6a8, they raise the link rods which use Fingers 6a10 to turn Lug Supports 6a7 from their operational (horizontal) position into the non-operatopnal Position 2, which allows free passage of platforms between the pillars. When Cylinder 6a1 returns into its initial position (Position 1), Levers 6a6 go down, and Lug Supports 6.7 are placed into the operational (horizontal) position with the help of Finger 6a9 and under their own weight and the weight of Link Rod 6a8.
The lowest one of the stack of platforms platform is supplied to the take-out, which is illustrated by Fig. 6b (Pos. 0-5).
After the stack of platforms is raised, Lug Supports 6.7 of Stationary pillars are turned into the non-operational position, and the whole stack resting on Lug Supports 6.3 goes down to a distance allowing clearance between the bottom platform resting on the lifting lug supports and the next platform of the stack resting on the bottom platform feet Then Lug Supports 6.7 are compulsively returned into the initial horizontal position (either by a drive or under their own weight). When Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifting device continue moving downwards, the lowest platform in the stack is placed upon Lug Supports 6.7, with Fingers 6 entering Holes 8 of the platform, which provides the connxtionj of the stack with Lug Supports 6.7 of Stationary Pillars 6.5, with the lowest platform going down on Rollers 8.1 of the tansporter.
The lifting device of thesection consists of twp Lifting Frames 6.4 facing each other, each with Driving Cylinder 6.2. (In order to avoid probable overloading of the lifting frames if a platform slants, it isrecommended to fix Cylinders 6.2 to the section frame only with the help of guide bars).
In order to synchronize the movement of the lifting frames, the frames on the opposite sides are attached to Chains 6.8 which go around Chain Sprockets 6.9 sitting on Shafts 6.11 joint for each couple of the frames.
After Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars are returned into their horizontal position, there is a command to go on with moving the lifter downwards, until it reaches its initial lower position. The platforms earlier raised by the lifter lug supports go down, but the platform package or one platform 9r above the lowest one are lowered on Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars, and the lowest platform resting upon Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifter is lowered upon Transporter Rollers 8.1.
Fig.6b shows the steps and the interaction of Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifter and of Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars, necessary for separating the lowest platform from the platform stack installed upon the lug supports of the stationary pillars.
Step 0. Initial position: Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifter are rigidly attached to Frame 6.4 of the lifting device, at "h" distance below the surface where Transporter Rollers 8.1 operate. Platform Stack 5.1 or just one platform is sitting upon Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars. Fingers 6 enter Holes 8, thus fixing the platform upon Lug Supports 6.7.
Step 1. Lug Supports6.3 of Lifter 6.4, as a result of Cylinder 6.2 being activated, raise the platform stack or one Platform 5.1 to an "h" height above Stationary Lug Supports 6.7, enough to allow their turning into the non-operational position.
Step 2. Lug Supports 6.7 are turned into a non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 3. Lug Supports 6.3lower the platform stack to an h height, while Lug Supports 6.7 are positioned between the the platform resting upon Lug Supports 6.3 and Platform 5.1 of the platform stack. Clearance h between them shoul provide enough space for Lug Supports 6.7 into the horizontal position.
Step 4. Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 5. A command is given to turn on Cylinder 6.2 for downward movement of Lifter 6.4, with Lug Supports 6.3 placing Platform Sack 5.1 or one platform upon Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars. Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifter install the lowest platform separated from the stack upon Transporter Rollers 8.1. With the lifter continuing moving downwards, Lug Supports 6.3 are lowered into their initial position below Rollers 8.1.
After the frame of the lifter is moved into its lower initial position, a command arrives to switch on the transporter drag-out device to move in the ramp direction, see Fig. 4a.
Pulling Finger 6.1 of the transpoprter contacts Ratchet 5.9 of the platform, and it is placed into a preprogrammed position on the ramp.
. Then comes a command to tilt the ramp with the platform into a preset position allowing for a car to mount the platform. "Stop" signal is eplaced by the signal allowing the car to move. The driver _/ 0--approaches the ramp (Fig.4a) and the car front left wheel enters a space between two Rollers 1 angularly related to each other. Continuing to move, the wheel enters the angle between Rolls 5.6 of Carriage 5.8 installed on the platform.
Carriage 5.8 helps to keep the wheel in the platform track, and while the car continues to move, the wheel gets into Recess 5.4 of the platform Fig. 5.
After the car is installed upon the platform and is fixed in the "PARKING"
position, the driver leaves the car and presses the button on a control board; the control board sends a command to place the platform with the car for storage. The ramp goes upward into the horizontal position, the transporter driving device is switched on, and while its pulling fmger comes into contact with Ratchet 5.9 of the platform, it is relocated to a free layer of the nearest storage section along its way.
Considering the fact that for the device to function normally at least two sections are required, Section "n*" and section "n**+1", Fig. 7 illustrates the longitudinal and the cross-sectional overviews of these two section structures. Fig.7 illustrates longitudinal and transvers cross-sections of the structure of these to sections; one of them is marked with the sign *, and the other - with the sign **. Fig. 7a shows post-operational steps of the platform take-in for storage , with a car or without it. The transporter moves the platform to the nearest section which has a free tier available.
The transporter stop at theappointed place, after this Lifting Frames 7.13 of the section use their Lug Supports 7.4 to raise Platform 5.1 off the rolling transporter, as well as all the platforms stored upon Lug Supports 7.15 of Stationary Pillars 7.8 to a certain height above the lug supports, enough for their compulsory rotation; this is done either as a result of the raising platform contacting the lug supports, or by turning Lug Supports 7.15 into the non-operational ( vertical) position. When Lifting Device 7.4 arrives into its upper position, Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pills, together with Shafts 7.6, go back into their operational (horizontal) position under their own weight. Then a commands come to move the lifting device down. All the platforms resting on Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device are installed upon Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pills of their tiers, but one level up, and the platform raised from the transporter rollers is placed upon Lug Supports 7.15 of the lowest tier of the same section. After the platforms are replaced from Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device onto Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars, Fingers 6 and 7 of these lug supports enter Holes 8 and 9, one after the other, which provides safe fixation of the platform to the section pillars, which excludes their unrestricted relocation or fall.
This ends the cycle of car take-in.(see Fig.7 and 7a) --- / / ---Fig. 7a shows post-operational steps of the take in of a platform, loaded with a car or empty:
Step 0- Platform 5.1 meant for storage is installed upon Rollers 8.1 of the lower transporter.
Step 1. The lifting device uses its Lug Supports 7.4 to raise the platform from the transporter's rollers, as well as all the platforms, from Lug Supports 7.15 of Stationary Pillars to a certain h height allowing rotating Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars into the non operational (vertical) position. At the same time Fingers 7 enter Hles 9 of the platform, which providfes fixation of the platform on the LugSupports, and Fingers 6 of Lug Supports 7.15 leave Holes 8 of the platform.
Step 2. Lug Supports 7.15 are turned into the non-operational (vertical) position either by raising the shafts with the help of the leverage system used for lug supports rotation (see Fig. 6a, pos. 1-3) or during the pltforms contact with the lug supports while the platforms are being raised.
Step 3. Raising the lifting device Lug Supports 7.4 and of Platforms 5.1 up to their top position.
Step 4. Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position under the weight of the shafts and the lug supports.
Step 5. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device are lowered into the initial lower position and the platforms are installed upon Lug Supports of the stationary pills, but one level up, and the the platform raised by Lug Supports 7.4 from the transporter Rollers 8.1 is installed upon Lug asupports 7.15 of the lower tier of thesection. This ends the take-in of the platform for storage.
B. Take-out of a platform loaded with a car or without it from the car storage section.
A user who received information about the storage code during his car intake, feeds this information into the system of automated take-out. The following operations are to follow, depending on the tier where the platform with the stored car is located.
As an illustration, several versions of sequential operations and interaction of mechanism are offered below, which differ because of different tiers where the car loaded platform may be located.
1 The car loaded platform is located at the lower tier (see Fig. 7 and 7 b) All Lug Supports 7.4 of the section liffting device are driven into the non-operational (vertical) position, after which the lifting device starts moving upward. After it rises above Stationary Lug /Z ~
Supports 7.15, they are brought back into the operational (horizontal) position. If the liftind device continues rising, its Lug Supports raise all the platforms resting upon stationary pillars Lug Supports to "h" height enough to allow turning Lug Supports 7.15 into the non-operational (vertical) position.
The platform resting on the lower Lug Supports rises above the lug supports of the stationary pillars of the first tier. Then a command comes to turn Lug Supports 7.15 into their non-operational (vertical) position. After the lug supports have been turned, another command comes, to continue the movement of the lifting device downward. After the lifting device lug supports are lowered to a certain distance and brought below the level of Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars, they are returned into their operational (horizontal) position. After this one more command follows, to continue the movement of the lifting device downwards. This brings all the platforms from the lifting device lug supports to the lug supports of the stationary pillars, but one tier lower. The platform resting upon the lug supports of the lifting device Zero level is installed upon the transporter rollers, moves in the direction of the take-out point and is installed upon the ramp.
In the same way the platforms located at the first tier of any car storage section are given out.
Fig. 7b(Pos.O-2,3-5,5-8) illustrates the operational steps required for a platform take-out.
Step 0. The initial position: the platform is located at the first tier (marked with * sign). The platform located in the second tier is marked with ** sign.
In this position Supports 7.4 of the lifting Frame are in their operational (horizontal) position, below Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars and below the movement level of Roller 8.1 of the lower transporter.
Step 1. Supports 7.4 are brought into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 2. Lifting Frame 7.13 raises Lug Supports 7.4 to a certain height above the platforms installed upon Lug Supports 7.15.
Step 3. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting frame are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 4. Lifting Frame 7.13 uses Lug Supports 7.4 to raise the platforms aboveLug Supports 7.15 to a height enough to allow turning these supports into a non-operational position.
Step 5.Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars are turned into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 6. Lifting Frame 7.13 uses its Lug Supports 7.4 to lower Platforms 5.1 below the level of Lug Supports 7.15, to a distance allowing enough space for , / 3 1 returning Lug Supports 7.15 into their initial (horizontal) position.
Step 7. Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars are brought back into the initial (horizontal) position.
Step 8. Lifting frame 7.13 and Lug Supports 7.4 are lowered into the initial lower position. At the same time all the platforms are removed from these Lug Supports to Lug Supports 7.15, but one tier below. The lowest platform is taken off Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting frame and is placed upon Rllers 8.1 of the lower transporter. With the lifting frame continuing its downward movement, Lug Supports 7.4 are lowered below the rolling plane of Rollers 8.1, into their initial position. Then the platform is relocated in the direction of the take-out point and is installed upon the ramp.
Note: If the number of operating sections exceeds 3 and the platform installed upon the lower transporter is not meant for the take-out, it is relocated for storage to the nearest section whose upper tier is not occupied.
2. The platform to be relocated for the car take-out is not located not at the lowest tier, but at some other tier, for example, at the second tier while there is another platform installed for storage att the first tier.
See Fig. 7 and Fig.7 b (Steps 0-8) Fig. 7c* (n+l ) (Steps 8-13) Fig. *n* Steps 14-18 Fig. *n* Steps 19-23 Tier 1 to the transporter rollers by way of performing the step sequence indicated in Fig. 7 b.
But as the platform is to be kept in storage, it is to be transported to any other section (n+l), where it is to be installed upon the first tier of the section, but only if the upper tier is not occupied by another platform. If the higher Itier is occupied, the platform from the higher tier is to be relocated to the same section from which it was taken (*).
Below you will find a description of the interaction of the units and parts during the take-out process, this time from the second tier.
After the lifting device is brought into the lower initial position, a command is given to switch on the lower transporter in order to relocate a platform from "n" Section. But if a platform delivered for the take-out from this tier is transported in the direction of the take-out, i.e. in the __ /Z/ ---direction where the ramp is located, a platform meant for the take-out from the second level tier**, after the platform * is installed upon the transporter, the platform installed upon the transporter moves not in the direction of the ramp, but to the ajacent (n+1) section; at the same time the top level transporter isswitched on, for relocating the carriage into the same section.
As the design of the section is similar to that of the section from which the platform was taken out, all the details are marked with (*) sign.
After the platform and the top carriage both stop in this section, a command arrives to raise Li$ing Frame 7*.13 and Lug Supports 7.*4; then comes a command for Cylinder 7*.16 of the lifting frame, to raise the platform to an "h" height above Lug Supports 7* 15 of the stationry pillars, the space being enough to allow these lug supports to be turned into the non-operational (vertical) position. Then there comes a command to Shaft 7*.6 and Lug Supports 7. * 15 of the section, and Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage are turned into the non-operational position by Shaft 9.7 contacting with Shaft 7*6.
The lifting device continues to move upward until it arrives to its final top position, When this happens, all the platforms are relocated in the upward direction, to a certain height above Stationary Supports 7* 15 of the section and Supports 9.5 of the top carriage.
Then the stationary supports both of the section and of the top carriage are brought back into the operational (horizontal) position. Then a command arrives to move the lifting device down, and while yhis is happening, all the platforms are installed upon the lug supports of the stationary pillars, but one level up compared to their previous position, and the platform from the top tier is installed upon the lug sSupports of the top carriage.
Note: Relocation of platforms with the help of the top carriage is recommended if the number of storage sections does not exceed three sections/
The lifting device continues its downward movement until it reaches its bottom position.
When this happens, a command arrives to bring the top carriage and the platform installed upon its lug supports back into Section "n", from which the previous platform was earlier taken out. From this moment on, all the operations aimed at platform relocation described above are to be repeated. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device are turned into the non-operational (vertical) position and are raised to some height above the platforms installed at the lug supports of the stationary pillars. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device are brought back into the operational (horizontal) position. Then lifting Cylinders 7.16 raise Lifting device Pillars 7.13 and Lug Supports 7.4 into the final top position. At the same time Lug Supports 7.4 raise all the platforms from Lug Supports 7.15 and raise the platform from Lug Supports p_-._ 9.5 of the top carriage. Then Shafts 7.6 of the section come into interaction with Shafts 9.9 of the top carriage, bringing Lug Supports 7.15 and Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage into the non-operational (vertical) position. Then comes one more command, to move the lifting device down to a certain distance below Lug Supports 7.15 and Lug Supports 9.5, which are turned into the operational (horizontal) position. While the lifting device is moving downward, Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device place the platforms upon Lug Supports 7.15, but one tier below, and the platform earlier installed upon the top carriage is now moved to the top tier of the section. Platform ** from the section bottom tier is placed upon Rollers 8.1 of the lower transporter. After Lifting Device 7.13 arrives into the initial bottom position, there is one more command, to switch on the lower transporter to move in the direction of the take-out point, i.e.
in the direction of the ramp.
This is how Platform* * take-out from the second tier is performed.
Fig. 7.c.(n+l) shows post-operational steps required for the relocation of Platform* from Section "n+l" to Section "n".
Step 8, where Platform * is placed upon Rollers 8.1, with the lifting frame in the bottom initial position, serves as the initial starting point for further steps.
Step 9. Lifting Frame 7* 13 uses its Lug Supports 7*4 to to raise all the platforms from Lug Supports 7.* 15 to a certain "h" allowing enough space for turning Lug Supports 7* 15 into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 10. Lug Supports 7* 15 of the section and Lug Supports 9.5 are turned into the non-operational position.
Step l 1. Lifting frames 7.*13 use Lug Supports 7.*4 to raise the platforms to a certain height above Stationary Supports 7.* 15 of the section and above Supports 9.5 of the top carriage.
Step 12. Lug Supports 7. * 15 and Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage are turned into the operational (horizontal) position.
Step 13. Lifting Frames 7.* 13 are lowered into the bottom initial position, meanwhile Lug Supports 7.*4lower all the platforms of the section upon Lug Supports 7.* 15, but one tier up, and the top tier platform is installed upon Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage. After Lifting Frames 7. * 13 arrive into the bottom level position, the top carriage drive is switched on, and the top carriage is relocated to Section "n", together with the platform it is loaded with.
After Piatform (*) arrives into Section "n", the take-out of Platform (**) begins, starting from the initial position described below:
Step 14. The initial position, with Platform (**) located upon the bottom tier of Section "n".
Step 15. Lug Supports 7.4 of Lifting Pillars 7.13 are tumed into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 16. Lug Supports 7.4 are raised above Stationary Lug Supports 7.15 to a distance allowing nough space to turn Lug Supports 7.4 into the operational (horizontal) position.
Step 17. Lug Supports 7.4 are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 18. Pillars 7.13 use their Lug Supports 7.4 to raise the platforrns to a height allowing enough space for turning Lug Supports 7.15 into their non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 19. Lug Supports 7.15 and 9.5 are turned into their non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 20. Pillars 7.13 use their Lug Supports 7.4 to raise the platforms into their top position.
Step 21. Lug Supports 7.4 lower the platforms to a certain distance below Lug Supports 7.15 and 9.5, allowing enough space for bringing them back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 22. Lug Supports 7.15 and 9.5 are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 23. Pillars 7.13 are lowered into their initial bottom position, with Lug Supports of Pillars 7.4 lowering the platform from Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage to the top tier of the section, and lowering the other platforms to Lug Supports 7.15 one tier below. Lug Supports 7.4 of Stationary Pillar 7.13 install Platform (**) from the bottom tier upon Rollers 8.1 of the transporter, and then the platform is sent to the take-out point.
If a platform from a higher tier is demanded for take-out, all the operations relocating the platform from one section to another are repeated, until the platform demanded for the take-out is installed upon the lower transporter.
Then the transporter is switched on to move in the direction of the take-out point, and a command to raise the ramp by bringing Cylinder 4.1 into the horizontal position, and the car loaded platform is installed upon the ramp. The next command sends the ramp into its tilted position designed for car exit from the platform. At the same time a command is sent to Cylinder 5.3, to raise the wheel from the platform recess to the platform surface level. This makes the exit much easier, and requires less engine rotations, which, in its turn, lowers air pollution. This ends the cycle of car take-out, and after the car exit the ramp rises the platform into its horizontal position. When the transporter is switched on again, Ratches 5.9 of the platform hook Finger 6.1 of the transporter, and the platform is relocated into the platform storage section. See Fig.6.
When the platform arrives into the storage section, a command is given to Cylinder 6.2, and Lifting Frame 6.4 uses its Lug Supports 6.3 to raise the platform. It is being raised until its Feet 5.2 free Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars and raise the stored platforms to a height allowing enough space for turning Lug Supports 6.7 into the non-operational (vertical) position and a command follows to turn Lug Supports 6.7 into their operational position. After they are brought into the operational position, there comes a command to move the lifiing frame down, to its bottom, initial position. While this is happening, the whole platform stack is installed upon Lug Supports 6.7 of Stationary Pillars 6.5.
The above described operations for car storage take-in and take-out , as well as the interaction of all units and parts of the described device, fully provide for the required performance, i.e. take-in, storage and take-out of cars or any other goods placed on platforms in multi-level vertical sections linearly arranged.
Using the top carriage for relocation of platforms from one section to another at the top tier is reasonable when a line has a rfestricted number of sections for car storage, for examp,e, no more than three sections. If there are more than three sections, platforms that are brought down upon the transporter but are not meant for immediate take-out are to be transported into the nearest section with the vacant to.
The materials offered above, i.e. the Figures and their descriptions, answer the task of the invention offered by the authors..
/6)...-.
A facility for and a method of take-in, storage and take-out of containers or platforms, either loaded or unloaded, in multi-level vertical structures (sections) arranged as a line or as several parallel lines The invention pertains to the area of warehousing of goods with certain dimensions, such as, for example, containers or other units, such as automobiles, the storage being done in multi-level sections following each other in a line or in several parallel lines, with take-in of platforms at the entrance point of the line and take-out of the goods both at the entrance and the exit points of each line.
The major advantages of the invention are as follows:
A Much better utilization of storage space, due to multi-level storage of goods, i.e., more efficient utilization of the building height or of the ground storage space, at the expense of multi-level structures arrangement into parallel lines, which would not require lift-trucks between these lines for loading and unloading of the goods.
B Take-in and take-out of the platforms both at the entrance point and at some other point along the line, allows full mechanization and automatic performance of the take-in and the take-out processes.
At present goods are stored on platforms rigidly fixed and attached to structures that can relocate only vertically; as a result, platforms have no way of being relocated separately, either within a section, or betweed different sections.
This invention uses a method which allows not to fix platforms rigidly to movable elements of the structure.
In order to illustrate how this invention can be applied, we have chosen a method of vertical relocation of platforms from one tier to another up and down within a section, by way of of gripping the platforms with special lug supports pin-hinged to pillars opposing each other in pairs, with at least one of the pairs being able to move up and down according to a preset sequence. In order to fix the platforms upon lug-supports, the lug-suports have special fingers that enter special holes in the platforms, which provides firm support of the platforms, during .- / -their relocation by lug-supports from one tier to another as well as after they are installed upon the lug-supports. This method is illustrated in Fig. 1 cx.a, l cxb , l Cxc.and 1 Cxd Fig. 1 cxa presents a schedule of vertical upward relocation of platforms within a section:
Step 0. The initial position: Platform 5 is installed on Lug Supports 4 of Stationary Pipars 3 at the lowest (first) tierof the Section. Lifter 1 Lug Supports 2 are pin-hinged to Pillars 1 of the lifting device, below the upper surface of Lug Supports 4 of their stationary pillars. Fingers 6 are rigidly fixed , and Fingers 7 are rigidly fixed to Lug-supports 2 of the lifting device. At the same time Fingers 6 of Lug-supports 4 enter the respective holes 8 of the platform.
Step 1. Pillar 1 is to be moved upward, Lug Supports 21ift Platforms 5 off Lug Supports 4. At the same time Fingers 6 move out of Holes 8 of the platforms, and Fingers 7 of Lug-supports 2 of the lifting pillars enter respective holes of Platforms 9.
Step 2. During the elevation, Lug Supports 2 enter their ingers 7 into Holes 9 of the platforms, which provide firm support of the platforms upon Lug-Supports 2. While Lug-supports 2 are lifting the platforms, Fingers 6 leave Holes 8 of the platforms. The platfonns are raised above Lug-supports 4, to a height enough for turning Lug-supports 4 into a non-operational vertical position. Lug-supports 4 are turned compulsively by way of their contact with the contours of Platform 5 or with the help of a drive-gear.
Step 3. Lifting pillars 1 use their Lug -Supports 2 to raise Platforms 5 into the upper position, with Lug-supports 4 to be rturned into their operational (horizontal) position.
Then Lug Supports 2 continue lowering the platforms.
Step 4. Platforms 5 are installed upon Lug -supports 4, but one tier lower; at the same time, Fingers 6 of these Lug Supports enter Holes 8 of the platforms, providing for their firm fixing upon Lug Supports 4. Then Lug Supports 2 are compulsively turned into their non-operatonal (vertical) position.
Step 5. Lifting Pillar I is lowered into the initial lower position, and their Lug Supports 2 are compulsively turned into their operational (horizontal) position. This operation ends platform upward relocation within the section and their installation upon the tier one level up. Fig. 1 Cxb shows the Steps and the interaction of all units and details during the process of relocating platforms downwards within a Section to a tier one level below.
Fig.lcxb.
Step 0. The initial position: Platform 5 is installed at Tier 2 of Lug Supports 4 of Vr__._ z ._ Stationary Pillars 3, and Lug Supports 2 of the lifting pillars are pin-hinged below Lug Supports 4 of the stationary pillars at a height allowing to tum. Lug Supports 2 into a non-operational (vertical) position. Platforms 5 are rigidly fixed upon Lug Supports 4 with the hrlp of Fingers entering Holes 8 of the platforms.
Step 1. Lug Supports 2 of Lifting Pillars 1 are compulsively turned into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 2. Lifting Pillar 1 is raised above Lug Supports 4of Stationary Pillars 3 to a height allowing to turn Lug Supports 2.
Step 3. Lug Supports 2 of Lifting Pillars 1 are compulsively returned (or turn on their own because of their weight) into the operational (horizontal) position.
Step 4. Lifting Pillars 1 are raised into the upper position, where Lug Supports 2 take the platforms off Lug Supports 4 of Stationary Pillar 4 and raise them, while Fingers 6 of Lug Supports 4 leave Holes 8 of the platforms, and Fingers 7 of Lug Supports 2 enter Holes 9 of the platforms, fixing them rigidly upon Lug Supports 2.
Step 5. Lug Supports 4 of Stationary Pillars 3 are compulsively turned into a non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 6. Lug Supports 2 of Lifting Pillars 1 are lowered to a distance which allows Lug Supports 4 to be returned (either compulsively, or under teir own weight) into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 7. Lug Supports 4 of the stationary pillars are returned into their operational (horizontal) position, and Lug Supports 2 lower Platforms 5 upon Lug Supports 4, while Fingers 6 enter Holes 8 of the platforms, rigidly fixing them upon these Lug Supports one tier below..
Fig. 1 Cxc shows Platform 5 and Stationary Pillars 3, as well as Lug Supports 2 and 4 with Fingers 6 and 7 insude. Platform 5 has Holes 8 and 9 which, while contacting Fingers 6 and 7 of Stationary Pillars 2 and 4, rigidly fix the platform upon the Lug Supports, which guarantees any occasional relocation of the platforms or their falling down.
Fig.1 Cxd Pos. l Illustrates crossection,consising of stationary frame 3 with swiveling paws4 and belonging to them fmgers 6,lifting frame 1 with attached to it swiveling paws 7.Cylinders 11 work as activators which are attached by their shaft 13 to the frame 12.Platform 5 has openings 8 and 9 which interact with fingers 6 and 7.When paws 2 of the elevator move down and platform being delayed on paws 4,the platform is getting tilted within the clearance bitween openings 8,9 and fingers 6,7 up to the point of stopping of the .~---lifter and creation of additional resistance on the actuator which can be used in control system to halt the motion.
Pos.2 Illustrate the tilting of the platform 5 which can be caused by asynchronous movement of different sides of elevator 1 and corresponding paws 2.Platform 5 is being fixated by its openings 9 with fmgers 7 belonging to the paws 2 in case of the difference of the levels of two sides of the elevater.After clearanses between fingers 7 and openings 9 being illuminated,both sides of the elevator econtinnuue movement synchronously oterwwise the movement will stop whch can be used for timely correction of the operation.
Interaction of fingers 6,7 of the paws and openings of 8,9 of the platform insures synchronous movement of the platforms and prevent their fall.
This method is offered as the basis for car storage on platforms.
At present, there are several types of structures for multi-level car storage.
Mainly, storage is done on platforms attached to sections, with platforms being lifted and lowered with the help of hydraulic cylinders which assist in lowering a platform to Zero level, for car entrance, after which the platform with the car is to be raised to the top level. The next car is to be loaded in the same manner, the platform is to be raised to the level below the previous one, and so on, until a car is loaded upon a platform at the Zero level. The major drawback of this kind of structure is the necessity to use an operator in order to install a car upon a platform and in order to take the car off the platform, which results in utilizung more storage space. Besides, in order to get a car at the top level ready for a take-out, platdorms of the lower levels should be temporaily emptied of the cars they store at the moment.
The invention we offer, because of its ability to relocate individual platforms up and down within each section, and the possibility of their relocation from one section to another, both with the upper cart and with the transporter at Zero Level, allows any platform loaded with a car to be relocated to Zero level. Platforms relocation from one section to another at the lowest or the top levels of the same line allows delivering any required platform into the take-out section without interfering with the storage of other cars, which excludes the drawbacks of the method and of the structures which are used at present.
A description of the invention - the storage method and a storage structure implementing the method - is presented below.
. - ~ ~
Fig. 1, 2, and 3, respectively, show the longitudinal cross-section, a transverse cross-section and an overhead view of the device. They show GuideRollers 1, Ramp 2, Platform 3, Framework 4, Platform Storage Section 5, Car Storage Section 6, Floor-level Transporter 7, Top Carriage 8, and Inspection Sensors of safe car clearance: in height( No10), in lenhth (No 9) and in width, (No 1) in Fig. l , 2, 3..
Fig. 4- Ramp consisting of Frame 4.2, Frame Rotation Cylinder 4.1, with the frame in Pivot Joint 4.4. Guide Rollers 4.3 are attached to the framework. Fig.4a showa a ramp with a car-loaded platform on it, in the tilted position for car entering and exiting the platform, as well as n the horizontal position which allows connecting the platform with Pulling Finger 8.5 of the transporter, with the help of Ratchet Stops 5.9 of Platform 5.1.
Fig. 5: A platform consisting of Base Frame 5.1 and Support Feet 5.2 guaranteeing the required clearance between platforms when they are stacked for storage in the storage section. The front part of the base frame has a netlike recess, Recess 5.4, which is used to lock up either one of the left wheels, or the two front wheels of a car. A special locklift driven by Cylinder 5.3 is used to raise a wheel before the car is going to exit the platform. When a car enters the platform, its front left wheel is guided by Rollers 5.6 of MovableCarriage 5.8, which guarantees the car movement along the preset track-gauge. The movable carriage is to be returned into its initial position with the help of Wire shaft 5.5 which is connected with a tension roll driven by a spiral spring. The platform is locked with Pulling Finger 8.5 with the help of Ratchet Stops 5.9 fixed on Axis Pins 5.10 of Holes 8 and 9 for gripping lug support fmgers. Fixator 5.11 is used to get the command to stop the platform, and Clutches 5.12 are used to get the signal to lower the platform speed before it is going to stop.
Fig. 6 illustrates a platform storage section consisting of Stationary Pillars 6.5 rigidly attached to Frame 4 of Framework 4, Lifting Frames 6.4 driven by Cylinder 6.2.
Lug Supports 6.7 with Fingers 6 are gimbal-mounted to the lower level stationary pillars. Tey are simultaneously turned into the non-operational position and are returned into the initial position with the help of leverage (See Fig. 6a View D). Lifting Frames 6.4 have Lug Supports 6.3 with attached Fingers 7. The Lug Supports are rigidly attached to the Lifting Frames below Rollers 8.1 of the Zero level transporter. Chains 6.8 serve for synchronizing the movement of movable frames. The chains ~r-^
are linked by Sprockets 6.9, each pair of which is rigidly attached to Frame 4, with Shafts 6.11.
Sprockets 6.10 are rigidly attached to Framework 4. As the lifting frames at the opposite ends are connected by Chains 6.8., when a lifting frame at one end is moving, the lifting frame at the other side is moving simultaneously with the first one.
Fig. 6a. shows a cross-section of the section with the View B-B of the leverage of the synchronous turning movement of stationary pillars lug supports. The leverage system consists of Drive 6a1, for example, a cylinder, of Drag bars pivoted to Pillars 6a3 connexted to Shafts 6a4 installed on bearings 6a5. Clutch Pinns 6a6 contacting with Fingers 6a7 upon Link Rods 6a8 are rigidly ttached to Shafts 6a4. Fig. 6a,(Posl,2-3) Position 1, shows the initial position with Lug Supports 6.7 are in the horizontal position. When Cylinder 6.al is switched on, Pillars 6a3 move from Position 1 to Position 2, reaching Turn Restrain Device 6a7. While Pillars 6a3 are being turned, Shafts 6a4 rigidly attached to them are turning, too. Rotation of Lug Supports 6.7 from the initial position is done by rotating Clutch Pin 6a6 contacting Finger 6a11 attached to the link-rod, which provides raising Lifting Rod 6a8. With the help of Fingers 6al0 attached to lifting rods under each lug support, the Lug Supports are turned into the non-operational position (Position 2). Lug Supports 6.7 are brought back into the operationalposition while Cylinder 6a1 is returned to its initial position. Fingers 6a9 control the return of the lug supports into the operational (horizontal) position while Lifting Rod is being lowered, Position 3.
The lug supports are turprogrammd to be turned both at the take-in and the take-out.
Note: Lug Supports 6.7 can be turned into the non-operational position during their contact with a raising platform as well as with the platforms being lowered under their own weight.
Fig. 7 illustrates a car storage section. This section is designed similarly to a platform storage section. It differs from the latter in a larger number of Lug Supports 7.15 of Stationary Pillars 7.8, as well as of Lug Supports 7.4 of Lifting Frames 7.13. The number of lug supports vertically installed at the same distance from each other corresponds to the number of tiers within a section.
Both the stationary pillar lug supports and the lifting frame lug supports are attached on pin hinges with Fingers 6 and 7. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting frames are located at a certain distance below the level of Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars, and the lowest Lug Supports 7.4 are located below the level of Rollers 8.1 and form the lowest, Zero level.
Cross-bar 7.6 connects Lug Supports 7.15 of Stationary Pillars 7.8.
Simultaneous turning movement of stationary pillars lug supports is conducted compulsively, either during the contact with the lug supports of a rising platform, or with the help of a leverage with a drive similar to the drive turning lug supports in the platform storage section shown in Fig. 6a. Lifting Frames 7.13 are driven by _ 6__--Hydrocylinder 7.16. In order to prevent any frame damage in case of misalignment, Cylinders 7.16 can be attached to he section frame only by a slide-bar. Simultaneous relocation of the lifting frames at both ends is achieved by attaching them to Chains 7.2 which go around Sprockets 7.9 attached to the chaft and Sprockets 7.10 attached to Framework 4.
Lug Supports 7.4 are turned into the non-operational position and back simultaneously, with the help of leverage with compulsory drive; the leverage system is shown in Fig.
7b,(Pos.1-5) It operates in the following way. In its initial position the leverage system has Pillars 6a3 in Position 1 (see Pos.1). Clutch pins 7a1 are fixed to Lifting Pillars 7.13 with the help of Fingers 7a2. The clutch pins contact Fingers 7a5 via Link Bar 7a9; Fingers 7a7 and 7a6 are used to turn Lug Supports 7a8 when Link Bar 7a9 is raised. Templet 7a4 is in the non-operational (vertical) position.
Tge leverage operates in the following way: When Cylinder 6a1 is switched on, Motion Rod 6a2 moves Pillars 6a3 into Position 2; meanwhile, Shafts 6a4 attached to Pillars 6a3 turn and move Templet 7a4 into a position in which it can contact Roller 7a3 (see Fig. 7b, Pos. 2, 3). When the lifting pillars move upward, Templer 7a4 contacts Roller 7a3, turning Clutch Pins 7a5 to a certain angle. Clutch Pin 7al contacts Finger 7a55 and lifts Link Rod 7a9. Link Rod 7a9 turns Lug Support 7a8 into the non-operational position with the help of Finger 7a7.
While it continues to move, Roller 7a3 continues sliding along the templet (see Fig. 7c Pos.4). It keeps Cutch Pin 7al in the operational position and Lug Support 7a8 - in the non-operational position, until the roller does not leave the templet (Pos.5). At this moment the clutch pin is set in its non-operational position, and Lug Support 7a8 goes down into the operatiobal position under the influence of its own weight and the weight of the link rod. Interaction of Templet 7a4, Lifting Pillar 7a9 and Clutch Pin 7al is preprogrammed to assure turning Lug Support 7a8 into operational and into the non-operational positions.
Fig. 8 illustrates the design of the lowest, (Zero) level transporter which serves for relocating car loaded and empty platforms between sections at the lowest level and onto the ramp and consists of the following units: Rollers 8.1 attached to Base 8.2, Pulling Fingers 8.5 supported by Bearings 8.3.
The motion is performed with Roller Chain 8.4 (the drive sprocket and the tension sprocket are not shown). Bearings 8.3 roll upon Plates 8.7 and 8.6. Fig.8 shows how Platform 5.1 and its Ratchet Dogs 5.9 are contacted by Finger 8.5 of the transporter. Each section uses Roller 8.9 attached to Rod 8.19 to stop a platform; the roller is connected to Lever 8.11 and Drive 8.10, for example, by an electromagnet. (See Cross-section A-A).
,_.- 7_.---Fig.9 illustrates the design of the top carriage which consists of U-type Frame 9.2 with Rollers 9.1 attached to it and supported by double-T iron 9.6. Pillars 9.8 are attached to Frame 9.2 base, and have Lug Supports 9.5 in their bottom area, which are pin-hinged to the pillars. The lug supports are to be compulsorily rotated by two Shafts 9.9. They turn simultaneously with the lug supports of Stationary Pillars 7.6 of the car storage section, which is to be provided by means of Special Interlock 9.7 ("dovetail" joint).
Relocation of the top carriage is provided for by means of a roller chain transporter not exhibited in Fig.9. The top carriage is to be used for relocation of platforms between sections at the top level.
Relocation of platforms at the top level with the help of the top carriage is designed to be generally used if the line has a small number of car storage sections, i,g, no more than three, If the number of car storage sections exceeds three, it is more ffective to to relocate the section platforms with the help of the lower level transporter; this alows for a lower height of the device as well as for a smaller period of time required for relocating a platform from one section to another.
The offered car storage method and the device for car storage function in the following way and consist of the following stages:
A. CAR TAKE-IN FOR STORAGE
In order to accept a car for storage, it is necessary to take a platform from a platform storage section and to place it on a ramp, after which a car would enter the platform.
While approaching the ramp, the car is to go through a control system checking the car measurements which is to be installed at the ramp entrance; if the garage has several lines, the car measurements control system may be located ib front of the garage entrance, to serve several lines at once. After the car passes the car size mesurement system, the driver is to stop his car in front of the "Stop" sign. Next comes a conunand for the ramp to be lifted into the horizontal position (Fig.4).
With this purpose Cylinder 4.1 is to be switched on, and Frame 4.2 with its Rollers 4.3 turns on its Hinge 4.4 into its horizontal position. At the same time a command is issued to switch on Hydraulic Cylinder 6.2 of the lifting drive in the car storage section.
Lifting Frames 6.4 are raised into their upper, final position (see Fig.6). At the same time Lug Supports 6.3 of Lifting Frames 6.4 raise the platform from Lug Supports 6.7.
At this moment Fingers 7 of Lug Supports 6.3 enter Holes 9 of the platform. Fingers 6 of Lug Supports 6.7 Stationary Pillars 6.5 leave Holes 8 while the platform is being raised. Fig, Cxc shows a platform with its Holes 8 and 9, as wll Fingers 6 aqnd 7, respectively, upon the stationary lug supportsand the lifting lug supports. The height to which platforms are to be raised should be enough to allow the possibility of rotating Lug Supports 6.7 of Stationary pillars into the non-operational (vertical) position).
Lug Supports s 6.7 are turned simultaneously, with the help of leverage (Fig.
6a, Pos. 1,2,3). When Cylinder 6a1 is switched on, Drag Bar 6a2 turns Pillars6a3, and they move from Iinitial Position 1 to Position 2 restricted by Block Stops 6a7. As Pillars 6a3 are rigidly fixed to Shaft 6a4, ro which Levers 6a6 are attached, when Shaft 6a4 is rotated, Levers 6a6 turn at a certain angle; by contacting Fingers 6a11 attached to Link Rods 6a8, they raise the link rods which use Fingers 6a10 to turn Lug Supports 6a7 from their operational (horizontal) position into the non-operatopnal Position 2, which allows free passage of platforms between the pillars. When Cylinder 6a1 returns into its initial position (Position 1), Levers 6a6 go down, and Lug Supports 6.7 are placed into the operational (horizontal) position with the help of Finger 6a9 and under their own weight and the weight of Link Rod 6a8.
The lowest one of the stack of platforms platform is supplied to the take-out, which is illustrated by Fig. 6b (Pos. 0-5).
After the stack of platforms is raised, Lug Supports 6.7 of Stationary pillars are turned into the non-operational position, and the whole stack resting on Lug Supports 6.3 goes down to a distance allowing clearance between the bottom platform resting on the lifting lug supports and the next platform of the stack resting on the bottom platform feet Then Lug Supports 6.7 are compulsively returned into the initial horizontal position (either by a drive or under their own weight). When Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifting device continue moving downwards, the lowest platform in the stack is placed upon Lug Supports 6.7, with Fingers 6 entering Holes 8 of the platform, which provides the connxtionj of the stack with Lug Supports 6.7 of Stationary Pillars 6.5, with the lowest platform going down on Rollers 8.1 of the tansporter.
The lifting device of thesection consists of twp Lifting Frames 6.4 facing each other, each with Driving Cylinder 6.2. (In order to avoid probable overloading of the lifting frames if a platform slants, it isrecommended to fix Cylinders 6.2 to the section frame only with the help of guide bars).
In order to synchronize the movement of the lifting frames, the frames on the opposite sides are attached to Chains 6.8 which go around Chain Sprockets 6.9 sitting on Shafts 6.11 joint for each couple of the frames.
After Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars are returned into their horizontal position, there is a command to go on with moving the lifter downwards, until it reaches its initial lower position. The platforms earlier raised by the lifter lug supports go down, but the platform package or one platform 9r above the lowest one are lowered on Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars, and the lowest platform resting upon Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifter is lowered upon Transporter Rollers 8.1.
Fig.6b shows the steps and the interaction of Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifter and of Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars, necessary for separating the lowest platform from the platform stack installed upon the lug supports of the stationary pillars.
Step 0. Initial position: Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifter are rigidly attached to Frame 6.4 of the lifting device, at "h" distance below the surface where Transporter Rollers 8.1 operate. Platform Stack 5.1 or just one platform is sitting upon Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars. Fingers 6 enter Holes 8, thus fixing the platform upon Lug Supports 6.7.
Step 1. Lug Supports6.3 of Lifter 6.4, as a result of Cylinder 6.2 being activated, raise the platform stack or one Platform 5.1 to an "h" height above Stationary Lug Supports 6.7, enough to allow their turning into the non-operational position.
Step 2. Lug Supports 6.7 are turned into a non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 3. Lug Supports 6.3lower the platform stack to an h height, while Lug Supports 6.7 are positioned between the the platform resting upon Lug Supports 6.3 and Platform 5.1 of the platform stack. Clearance h between them shoul provide enough space for Lug Supports 6.7 into the horizontal position.
Step 4. Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 5. A command is given to turn on Cylinder 6.2 for downward movement of Lifter 6.4, with Lug Supports 6.3 placing Platform Sack 5.1 or one platform upon Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars. Lug Supports 6.3 of the lifter install the lowest platform separated from the stack upon Transporter Rollers 8.1. With the lifter continuing moving downwards, Lug Supports 6.3 are lowered into their initial position below Rollers 8.1.
After the frame of the lifter is moved into its lower initial position, a command arrives to switch on the transporter drag-out device to move in the ramp direction, see Fig. 4a.
Pulling Finger 6.1 of the transpoprter contacts Ratchet 5.9 of the platform, and it is placed into a preprogrammed position on the ramp.
. Then comes a command to tilt the ramp with the platform into a preset position allowing for a car to mount the platform. "Stop" signal is eplaced by the signal allowing the car to move. The driver _/ 0--approaches the ramp (Fig.4a) and the car front left wheel enters a space between two Rollers 1 angularly related to each other. Continuing to move, the wheel enters the angle between Rolls 5.6 of Carriage 5.8 installed on the platform.
Carriage 5.8 helps to keep the wheel in the platform track, and while the car continues to move, the wheel gets into Recess 5.4 of the platform Fig. 5.
After the car is installed upon the platform and is fixed in the "PARKING"
position, the driver leaves the car and presses the button on a control board; the control board sends a command to place the platform with the car for storage. The ramp goes upward into the horizontal position, the transporter driving device is switched on, and while its pulling fmger comes into contact with Ratchet 5.9 of the platform, it is relocated to a free layer of the nearest storage section along its way.
Considering the fact that for the device to function normally at least two sections are required, Section "n*" and section "n**+1", Fig. 7 illustrates the longitudinal and the cross-sectional overviews of these two section structures. Fig.7 illustrates longitudinal and transvers cross-sections of the structure of these to sections; one of them is marked with the sign *, and the other - with the sign **. Fig. 7a shows post-operational steps of the platform take-in for storage , with a car or without it. The transporter moves the platform to the nearest section which has a free tier available.
The transporter stop at theappointed place, after this Lifting Frames 7.13 of the section use their Lug Supports 7.4 to raise Platform 5.1 off the rolling transporter, as well as all the platforms stored upon Lug Supports 7.15 of Stationary Pillars 7.8 to a certain height above the lug supports, enough for their compulsory rotation; this is done either as a result of the raising platform contacting the lug supports, or by turning Lug Supports 7.15 into the non-operational ( vertical) position. When Lifting Device 7.4 arrives into its upper position, Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pills, together with Shafts 7.6, go back into their operational (horizontal) position under their own weight. Then a commands come to move the lifting device down. All the platforms resting on Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device are installed upon Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pills of their tiers, but one level up, and the platform raised from the transporter rollers is placed upon Lug Supports 7.15 of the lowest tier of the same section. After the platforms are replaced from Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device onto Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars, Fingers 6 and 7 of these lug supports enter Holes 8 and 9, one after the other, which provides safe fixation of the platform to the section pillars, which excludes their unrestricted relocation or fall.
This ends the cycle of car take-in.(see Fig.7 and 7a) --- / / ---Fig. 7a shows post-operational steps of the take in of a platform, loaded with a car or empty:
Step 0- Platform 5.1 meant for storage is installed upon Rollers 8.1 of the lower transporter.
Step 1. The lifting device uses its Lug Supports 7.4 to raise the platform from the transporter's rollers, as well as all the platforms, from Lug Supports 7.15 of Stationary Pillars to a certain h height allowing rotating Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars into the non operational (vertical) position. At the same time Fingers 7 enter Hles 9 of the platform, which providfes fixation of the platform on the LugSupports, and Fingers 6 of Lug Supports 7.15 leave Holes 8 of the platform.
Step 2. Lug Supports 7.15 are turned into the non-operational (vertical) position either by raising the shafts with the help of the leverage system used for lug supports rotation (see Fig. 6a, pos. 1-3) or during the pltforms contact with the lug supports while the platforms are being raised.
Step 3. Raising the lifting device Lug Supports 7.4 and of Platforms 5.1 up to their top position.
Step 4. Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position under the weight of the shafts and the lug supports.
Step 5. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device are lowered into the initial lower position and the platforms are installed upon Lug Supports of the stationary pills, but one level up, and the the platform raised by Lug Supports 7.4 from the transporter Rollers 8.1 is installed upon Lug asupports 7.15 of the lower tier of thesection. This ends the take-in of the platform for storage.
B. Take-out of a platform loaded with a car or without it from the car storage section.
A user who received information about the storage code during his car intake, feeds this information into the system of automated take-out. The following operations are to follow, depending on the tier where the platform with the stored car is located.
As an illustration, several versions of sequential operations and interaction of mechanism are offered below, which differ because of different tiers where the car loaded platform may be located.
1 The car loaded platform is located at the lower tier (see Fig. 7 and 7 b) All Lug Supports 7.4 of the section liffting device are driven into the non-operational (vertical) position, after which the lifting device starts moving upward. After it rises above Stationary Lug /Z ~
Supports 7.15, they are brought back into the operational (horizontal) position. If the liftind device continues rising, its Lug Supports raise all the platforms resting upon stationary pillars Lug Supports to "h" height enough to allow turning Lug Supports 7.15 into the non-operational (vertical) position.
The platform resting on the lower Lug Supports rises above the lug supports of the stationary pillars of the first tier. Then a command comes to turn Lug Supports 7.15 into their non-operational (vertical) position. After the lug supports have been turned, another command comes, to continue the movement of the lifting device downward. After the lifting device lug supports are lowered to a certain distance and brought below the level of Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars, they are returned into their operational (horizontal) position. After this one more command follows, to continue the movement of the lifting device downwards. This brings all the platforms from the lifting device lug supports to the lug supports of the stationary pillars, but one tier lower. The platform resting upon the lug supports of the lifting device Zero level is installed upon the transporter rollers, moves in the direction of the take-out point and is installed upon the ramp.
In the same way the platforms located at the first tier of any car storage section are given out.
Fig. 7b(Pos.O-2,3-5,5-8) illustrates the operational steps required for a platform take-out.
Step 0. The initial position: the platform is located at the first tier (marked with * sign). The platform located in the second tier is marked with ** sign.
In this position Supports 7.4 of the lifting Frame are in their operational (horizontal) position, below Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars and below the movement level of Roller 8.1 of the lower transporter.
Step 1. Supports 7.4 are brought into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 2. Lifting Frame 7.13 raises Lug Supports 7.4 to a certain height above the platforms installed upon Lug Supports 7.15.
Step 3. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting frame are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 4. Lifting Frame 7.13 uses Lug Supports 7.4 to raise the platforms aboveLug Supports 7.15 to a height enough to allow turning these supports into a non-operational position.
Step 5.Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars are turned into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 6. Lifting Frame 7.13 uses its Lug Supports 7.4 to lower Platforms 5.1 below the level of Lug Supports 7.15, to a distance allowing enough space for , / 3 1 returning Lug Supports 7.15 into their initial (horizontal) position.
Step 7. Lug Supports 7.15 of the stationary pillars are brought back into the initial (horizontal) position.
Step 8. Lifting frame 7.13 and Lug Supports 7.4 are lowered into the initial lower position. At the same time all the platforms are removed from these Lug Supports to Lug Supports 7.15, but one tier below. The lowest platform is taken off Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting frame and is placed upon Rllers 8.1 of the lower transporter. With the lifting frame continuing its downward movement, Lug Supports 7.4 are lowered below the rolling plane of Rollers 8.1, into their initial position. Then the platform is relocated in the direction of the take-out point and is installed upon the ramp.
Note: If the number of operating sections exceeds 3 and the platform installed upon the lower transporter is not meant for the take-out, it is relocated for storage to the nearest section whose upper tier is not occupied.
2. The platform to be relocated for the car take-out is not located not at the lowest tier, but at some other tier, for example, at the second tier while there is another platform installed for storage att the first tier.
See Fig. 7 and Fig.7 b (Steps 0-8) Fig. 7c* (n+l ) (Steps 8-13) Fig. *n* Steps 14-18 Fig. *n* Steps 19-23 Tier 1 to the transporter rollers by way of performing the step sequence indicated in Fig. 7 b.
But as the platform is to be kept in storage, it is to be transported to any other section (n+l), where it is to be installed upon the first tier of the section, but only if the upper tier is not occupied by another platform. If the higher Itier is occupied, the platform from the higher tier is to be relocated to the same section from which it was taken (*).
Below you will find a description of the interaction of the units and parts during the take-out process, this time from the second tier.
After the lifting device is brought into the lower initial position, a command is given to switch on the lower transporter in order to relocate a platform from "n" Section. But if a platform delivered for the take-out from this tier is transported in the direction of the take-out, i.e. in the __ /Z/ ---direction where the ramp is located, a platform meant for the take-out from the second level tier**, after the platform * is installed upon the transporter, the platform installed upon the transporter moves not in the direction of the ramp, but to the ajacent (n+1) section; at the same time the top level transporter isswitched on, for relocating the carriage into the same section.
As the design of the section is similar to that of the section from which the platform was taken out, all the details are marked with (*) sign.
After the platform and the top carriage both stop in this section, a command arrives to raise Li$ing Frame 7*.13 and Lug Supports 7.*4; then comes a command for Cylinder 7*.16 of the lifting frame, to raise the platform to an "h" height above Lug Supports 7* 15 of the stationry pillars, the space being enough to allow these lug supports to be turned into the non-operational (vertical) position. Then there comes a command to Shaft 7*.6 and Lug Supports 7. * 15 of the section, and Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage are turned into the non-operational position by Shaft 9.7 contacting with Shaft 7*6.
The lifting device continues to move upward until it arrives to its final top position, When this happens, all the platforms are relocated in the upward direction, to a certain height above Stationary Supports 7* 15 of the section and Supports 9.5 of the top carriage.
Then the stationary supports both of the section and of the top carriage are brought back into the operational (horizontal) position. Then a command arrives to move the lifting device down, and while yhis is happening, all the platforms are installed upon the lug supports of the stationary pillars, but one level up compared to their previous position, and the platform from the top tier is installed upon the lug sSupports of the top carriage.
Note: Relocation of platforms with the help of the top carriage is recommended if the number of storage sections does not exceed three sections/
The lifting device continues its downward movement until it reaches its bottom position.
When this happens, a command arrives to bring the top carriage and the platform installed upon its lug supports back into Section "n", from which the previous platform was earlier taken out. From this moment on, all the operations aimed at platform relocation described above are to be repeated. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device are turned into the non-operational (vertical) position and are raised to some height above the platforms installed at the lug supports of the stationary pillars. Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device are brought back into the operational (horizontal) position. Then lifting Cylinders 7.16 raise Lifting device Pillars 7.13 and Lug Supports 7.4 into the final top position. At the same time Lug Supports 7.4 raise all the platforms from Lug Supports 7.15 and raise the platform from Lug Supports p_-._ 9.5 of the top carriage. Then Shafts 7.6 of the section come into interaction with Shafts 9.9 of the top carriage, bringing Lug Supports 7.15 and Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage into the non-operational (vertical) position. Then comes one more command, to move the lifting device down to a certain distance below Lug Supports 7.15 and Lug Supports 9.5, which are turned into the operational (horizontal) position. While the lifting device is moving downward, Lug Supports 7.4 of the lifting device place the platforms upon Lug Supports 7.15, but one tier below, and the platform earlier installed upon the top carriage is now moved to the top tier of the section. Platform ** from the section bottom tier is placed upon Rollers 8.1 of the lower transporter. After Lifting Device 7.13 arrives into the initial bottom position, there is one more command, to switch on the lower transporter to move in the direction of the take-out point, i.e.
in the direction of the ramp.
This is how Platform* * take-out from the second tier is performed.
Fig. 7.c.(n+l) shows post-operational steps required for the relocation of Platform* from Section "n+l" to Section "n".
Step 8, where Platform * is placed upon Rollers 8.1, with the lifting frame in the bottom initial position, serves as the initial starting point for further steps.
Step 9. Lifting Frame 7* 13 uses its Lug Supports 7*4 to to raise all the platforms from Lug Supports 7.* 15 to a certain "h" allowing enough space for turning Lug Supports 7* 15 into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 10. Lug Supports 7* 15 of the section and Lug Supports 9.5 are turned into the non-operational position.
Step l 1. Lifting frames 7.*13 use Lug Supports 7.*4 to raise the platforms to a certain height above Stationary Supports 7.* 15 of the section and above Supports 9.5 of the top carriage.
Step 12. Lug Supports 7. * 15 and Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage are turned into the operational (horizontal) position.
Step 13. Lifting Frames 7.* 13 are lowered into the bottom initial position, meanwhile Lug Supports 7.*4lower all the platforms of the section upon Lug Supports 7.* 15, but one tier up, and the top tier platform is installed upon Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage. After Lifting Frames 7. * 13 arrive into the bottom level position, the top carriage drive is switched on, and the top carriage is relocated to Section "n", together with the platform it is loaded with.
After Piatform (*) arrives into Section "n", the take-out of Platform (**) begins, starting from the initial position described below:
Step 14. The initial position, with Platform (**) located upon the bottom tier of Section "n".
Step 15. Lug Supports 7.4 of Lifting Pillars 7.13 are tumed into the non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 16. Lug Supports 7.4 are raised above Stationary Lug Supports 7.15 to a distance allowing nough space to turn Lug Supports 7.4 into the operational (horizontal) position.
Step 17. Lug Supports 7.4 are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 18. Pillars 7.13 use their Lug Supports 7.4 to raise the platforrns to a height allowing enough space for turning Lug Supports 7.15 into their non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 19. Lug Supports 7.15 and 9.5 are turned into their non-operational (vertical) position.
Step 20. Pillars 7.13 use their Lug Supports 7.4 to raise the platforms into their top position.
Step 21. Lug Supports 7.4 lower the platforms to a certain distance below Lug Supports 7.15 and 9.5, allowing enough space for bringing them back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 22. Lug Supports 7.15 and 9.5 are brought back into their operational (horizontal) position.
Step 23. Pillars 7.13 are lowered into their initial bottom position, with Lug Supports of Pillars 7.4 lowering the platform from Lug Supports 9.5 of the top carriage to the top tier of the section, and lowering the other platforms to Lug Supports 7.15 one tier below. Lug Supports 7.4 of Stationary Pillar 7.13 install Platform (**) from the bottom tier upon Rollers 8.1 of the transporter, and then the platform is sent to the take-out point.
If a platform from a higher tier is demanded for take-out, all the operations relocating the platform from one section to another are repeated, until the platform demanded for the take-out is installed upon the lower transporter.
Then the transporter is switched on to move in the direction of the take-out point, and a command to raise the ramp by bringing Cylinder 4.1 into the horizontal position, and the car loaded platform is installed upon the ramp. The next command sends the ramp into its tilted position designed for car exit from the platform. At the same time a command is sent to Cylinder 5.3, to raise the wheel from the platform recess to the platform surface level. This makes the exit much easier, and requires less engine rotations, which, in its turn, lowers air pollution. This ends the cycle of car take-out, and after the car exit the ramp rises the platform into its horizontal position. When the transporter is switched on again, Ratches 5.9 of the platform hook Finger 6.1 of the transporter, and the platform is relocated into the platform storage section. See Fig.6.
When the platform arrives into the storage section, a command is given to Cylinder 6.2, and Lifting Frame 6.4 uses its Lug Supports 6.3 to raise the platform. It is being raised until its Feet 5.2 free Lug Supports 6.7 of the stationary pillars and raise the stored platforms to a height allowing enough space for turning Lug Supports 6.7 into the non-operational (vertical) position and a command follows to turn Lug Supports 6.7 into their operational position. After they are brought into the operational position, there comes a command to move the lifiing frame down, to its bottom, initial position. While this is happening, the whole platform stack is installed upon Lug Supports 6.7 of Stationary Pillars 6.5.
The above described operations for car storage take-in and take-out , as well as the interaction of all units and parts of the described device, fully provide for the required performance, i.e. take-in, storage and take-out of cars or any other goods placed on platforms in multi-level vertical sections linearly arranged.
Using the top carriage for relocation of platforms from one section to another at the top tier is reasonable when a line has a rfestricted number of sections for car storage, for examp,e, no more than three sections. If there are more than three sections, platforms that are brought down upon the transporter but are not meant for immediate take-out are to be transported into the nearest section with the vacant to.
The materials offered above, i.e. the Figures and their descriptions, answer the task of the invention offered by the authors..
/6)...-.
Claims (14)
1. We claim this is a method of, and a device for take-in, storage, and take-out of containers or platforms, either loaded with goods or empty, utilizing multi-level vertical sections linearly arranged into one or several parallel lines.
The method STANDS OUT because of the following features: in order to relocate one platform or all the platforms installed upon lug supports of stationary pillars in different section tiers, lug supports of the lifting device can move a platform or all the platforms both upward and downward by way of successive interception of the platforms by the lug supports of the lifting device and by the lug supports of stationary pillars, according to a preset program.
The method STANDS OUT because of the following features: in order to relocate one platform or all the platforms installed upon lug supports of stationary pillars in different section tiers, lug supports of the lifting device can move a platform or all the platforms both upward and downward by way of successive interception of the platforms by the lug supports of the lifting device and by the lug supports of stationary pillars, according to a preset program.
2. This method repeats the one described in 1., but t DIFFERS in the following points: in a multi-level section lug supports of the lifting device, as well as of the stationary pillars, are turned simultaneously at all the levels, for which purpose the lug supports both of the lifting device and those of the stationary pillars are connected with individually driven shafts.
3. The method repeats the one described in 1., but DIFFERS in the following points: in order to relocate platforms from one section into another, a platform located at the bottom tier is to be relocated to the Zero level and then moved with the help of the Zero Level transporter, while a platform located at the top tier is to be relocated with the help of a top carriage.
4. The device repeats the one described in 1., but t DIFFERS in the following points: in order to relocate a car loaded platform in a rigidly determined direction, a carriage is installed upon the platform , equipped with rollers placed at an angle to each other.
The car front wheel is rigidly fixed between the rollers, thus providing straight line motion of the car on the platform.
The car front wheel is rigidly fixed between the rollers, thus providing straight line motion of the car on the platform.
5. The device repeats the one described in 1., but DIFFERS in the following points: in order to fix the car after it is placed upon a platform, there is a grid recess in the platform surface in which the front wheel of the car, or both its front wheels, are placed.
6. The device repeats the one described in 1., but DIFFERS in the following points: in order to provide for easier exit of the car from the ramp, the ramp is tilted in the direction of the exit, and the car wheel is pushed out of the recess by a special pusher driven by a hydro-cylinder.
7. The device repeats the one described in 6., but DIFFERS in the following points: to provide for proper functioning of the bottom level transporter at the moment a car enters or exits the tilted ramp, the platform on the ramp takes out its ratches (locking teeth) out of contact with the pulling finger of the transporter
8. The device repeats the one described in 5., but DIFFERS in the following points: In order to stop the platform in the appointed area of the section, special clutch pins are attached to the platform, for the purpose of receiving the stop signal and preliminary lowering the platform speed before the stop.
9. The device repeats the one described in 1., but DIFFERS in the following points:
To save the time for the platform take-out or its take-in for its installation upon the ramp or taking it off the ramp, at least one of the sections is meant for platform storage.
To save the time for the platform take-out or its take-in for its installation upon the ramp or taking it off the ramp, at least one of the sections is meant for platform storage.
10. The device repeats the one described in 2., but DIFFERS in the following points: in order to simultaneously relocate the shafts of the top carriage and the shafts of the stationary pills, both upward and downward, they are connected with each other by a special streamline tool joint ( of dovetail type)
11.The device repeats the one described in 1., but DIFFERS in the following points: in order to prevent free relocation of platforms along lug supports, each of them has special fingers, and the platforms have holes into which these fingers enter, which provides rigid fixation of the platforms both in the motionless position and while the platforms move upward or downward.
12. The device repeats the one described in 1., but DIFFERS in the following points: if the number of the sections exceeds three, when platforms are relocated with the purpose of one of them to be sent for the take-out, platforms not appointed for the take-out are relocated by the Zero level transporter to the nearest platform storage section which has the top tier unoccupied.
13. The device repeats the one described in 1., but DIFFERS in the following points: in order to synchronize the movement of the lifting device pillars, they are mechanically connected with each other.
14. The device repeats the one described in 1., but DIFFERS in the following points: relocation of platforms within one line is possible both parallel to the longitudinal axis of the platform and orthogonally to its axis.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2652635 CA2652635A1 (en) | 2009-01-23 | 2009-01-23 | A facility for and method of take-in, storage and take-out containers or platforms, either loaded or unloaded, in multi-level vertical structures (sections) arranged as a line or as several parallel lines |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2652635 CA2652635A1 (en) | 2009-01-23 | 2009-01-23 | A facility for and method of take-in, storage and take-out containers or platforms, either loaded or unloaded, in multi-level vertical structures (sections) arranged as a line or as several parallel lines |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2652635A1 true CA2652635A1 (en) | 2010-07-23 |
Family
ID=42352550
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2652635 Abandoned CA2652635A1 (en) | 2009-01-23 | 2009-01-23 | A facility for and method of take-in, storage and take-out containers or platforms, either loaded or unloaded, in multi-level vertical structures (sections) arranged as a line or as several parallel lines |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2652635A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN114852575A (en) * | 2022-05-31 | 2022-08-05 | 三一汽车制造有限公司 | Vertical warehouse and material delivery method and device for vertical warehouse |
-
2009
- 2009-01-23 CA CA 2652635 patent/CA2652635A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN114852575A (en) * | 2022-05-31 | 2022-08-05 | 三一汽车制造有限公司 | Vertical warehouse and material delivery method and device for vertical warehouse |
| CN114852575B (en) * | 2022-05-31 | 2023-10-17 | 三一汽车制造有限公司 | Vertical warehouse, and material warehouse-out method and device for vertical warehouse |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| FZDE | Dead |