EP3274276A1 - Cart for temporary storage of products - Google Patents

Cart for temporary storage of products

Info

Publication number
EP3274276A1
EP3274276A1 EP16767813.5A EP16767813A EP3274276A1 EP 3274276 A1 EP3274276 A1 EP 3274276A1 EP 16767813 A EP16767813 A EP 16767813A EP 3274276 A1 EP3274276 A1 EP 3274276A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cart
displacer
repository
products
picking
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP16767813.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3274276A4 (en
Inventor
Tapio Saviranta
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Pickdelso Oy
Original Assignee
Pickdelso Oy
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Pickdelso Oy filed Critical Pickdelso Oy
Publication of EP3274276A1 publication Critical patent/EP3274276A1/en
Publication of EP3274276A4 publication Critical patent/EP3274276A4/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65GTRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G1/00Storing articles, individually or in orderly arrangement, in warehouses or magazines
    • B65G1/02Storage devices
    • B65G1/04Storage devices mechanical
    • B65G1/10Storage devices mechanical with relatively movable racks to facilitate insertion or removal of articles
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60PVEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
    • B60P1/00Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading
    • B60P1/02Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading with parallel up-and-down movement of load supporting or containing element
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62BHAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B3/00Hand carts having more than one axis carrying transport wheels; Steering devices therefor; Equipment therefor
    • B62B3/002Hand carts having more than one axis carrying transport wheels; Steering devices therefor; Equipment therefor characterised by a rectangular shape, involving sidewalls or racks
    • B62B3/005Details of storage means, e.g. drawers, bins or racks
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62BHAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B3/00Hand carts having more than one axis carrying transport wheels; Steering devices therefor; Equipment therefor
    • B62B3/02Hand carts having more than one axis carrying transport wheels; Steering devices therefor; Equipment therefor involving parts being adjustable, collapsible, attachable, detachable or convertible
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62BHAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B3/00Hand carts having more than one axis carrying transport wheels; Steering devices therefor; Equipment therefor
    • B62B3/04Hand carts having more than one axis carrying transport wheels; Steering devices therefor; Equipment therefor involving means for grappling or securing in place objects to be carried; Loading or unloading equipment
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65GTRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G1/00Storing articles, individually or in orderly arrangement, in warehouses or magazines
    • B65G1/02Storage devices
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65GTRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G1/00Storing articles, individually or in orderly arrangement, in warehouses or magazines
    • B65G1/16Special arrangements of articles in storage spaces
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62BHAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B2202/00Indexing codes relating to type or characteristics of transported articles
    • B62B2202/12Boxes, Crates
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62BHAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B2203/00Grasping, holding, supporting the objects
    • B62B2203/07Comprising a moving platform or the like, e.g. for unloading
    • B62B2203/073Comprising a moving platform or the like, e.g. for unloading sliding in a horizontal plane
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62BHAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
    • B62B2203/00Grasping, holding, supporting the objects
    • B62B2203/70Comprising means for facilitating loading or unloading

Definitions

  • an invention relates to picking of products and a delivery of the products; the invention especially relates to manners to reduce manual work.
  • Foodstuff and other grocery products can be ordered from internet. Later on these ordered products are delivered to desired addresses, for example, to the home address of a subscriber.
  • This kind of service contains an ordering stage, a picking stage and a delivery stage.
  • a collector i.e. the person who performs the picking stage, collects the products to totes and/or containers.
  • the containers are, for example, boxes made of plastic with a height of 30 cm and an opening of 60 x 40 cm.
  • Each tote includes handles for carrying.
  • a plastic bag and a paper bag are typical totes.
  • a delivery stage may be considered to begin when loading the delivery vehicle.
  • a distributor i.e. the person performing the delivery work, transports the totes with collected products to delivery addresses.
  • FIG. 1 shows a cart 101 viewed from the long side as well as from the short side.
  • Cart 101 contains six repositories, i.e. spaces for the same amount of boxes. The dimensions of one box are, for example, 60 x 40 x 30 cm.
  • the six boxes 102 - 107 are placed in three layers. During the picking stage it is easy to place a collected product to either the two topmost boxes 102, 105. In contrast, four boxes are placed under some other box. For example, box 103 must be slid outwards on drawer slides to place a collected product in it.
  • Cart 101 has such a drawback that boxes 103, 104, 106, 107 has to be opened and closed repeatedly during the picking and this increases the picking time.
  • a cart described in FI83497 represents the closest prior art for the invention. Boxes are placed in relation to each other in a similar manner in the invention and in FI83497, but the cart described in FI83497 is not intended for picking of products and is not appropriate for that purpose.
  • the prior art carts have the following drawbacks. Opening and closing of boxes with drawer slides take unnecessarily time at the picking stage, and between the picking stage and the delivery stage the boxes are unnecessarily lifted and moved. Summary of the invention
  • An object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned drawbacks. Another objective is to make picking and delivery of products more efficient by reducing manual work. This applies, for example, to a sortation stage in which boxes are lifted and moved so that their relative order in box piles fits the requirements of the delivery. The sortation stage can be omitted and the other stages can be performed using less time.
  • the invention concerns a cart for temporary storage of products, the cart comprising a frame with repositories, wheels for moving the cart, and a displacer comprising nested slides for moving a first repository with respect to a second repository, the first repository and the second repository locating at least partly one on the other.
  • the cart is configured to a picking usage so that the displacer has an open position for the picking usage and the displacer is configured to remain in the open position when the cart is moved for picking the products, the displacer and the first repository disclosing in the open position at least partly the second repository and allowing placing of the products into the first repository from a side of the cart and into the second repository from the opposite side.
  • the same cart is further configured to a delivery usage so that the displacer has a closed position for the delivery usage and a fastener is configured to keep the displacer in the closed position in a delivery vehicle when a centrifugal force effects on the displacer and aims to move the displacer away from the closed position, the first repository locating in the closed position on top of the second repository in order to narrow a space between the side and the opposite side.
  • the loading stage (which precedes the delivery stage) can be performed fast by pushing the cart on its wheel into the delivery vehicle.
  • the displacer comprises a stopper to remain in the open position.
  • the stopper prevents, until a predetermined force limit, sliding of a nested slide inside the displacer.
  • the predetermined force limit is such that a collector or a distributor can easily push the displacer to the closed position.
  • the predetermined force limit is, however, so high that a normal centrifugal force, which effects on the displacer during the picking stage, cannot move the nested slide.
  • a stopper is also used in the prior art carts but in them the stopper holds a box in a closed position, i.e. it prevents an unintentional opening of the box in the picking stage.
  • the displacer is configured to remain in the open position so that a projection is pushed through holes formed in said nested slides when the displacer is in the open position.
  • the fastener comprises a pipe formed in the frame and a projection which can be pushed through the pipe so that an end of the projection keeps the displacer in the closed position.
  • the fastener comprises a projection which can be pushed through holes formed in said nested slides to keep the displacer in the closed position.
  • the cart comprises a holder for holding a container in the first repository, the holder being moveable so that the container can be removed from the first repository.
  • the projection or the holder is one of the following parts: a lock pin, a cotter pin.
  • the cart comprises an immovable shelf and a shelf moveable by the displacer, the immovable shelf strengthening the frame.
  • the cart comprises a container whose one side is omitted and inner space is divided with at least two dividing walls into sections so that each of the sections is configured to receive one tote.
  • the container comprises at least one closable door for closing said one side.
  • FIGURE 1 shows a cart according to the prior art
  • FIGURE 2 shows containers and totes
  • FIGURE 3 A shows a cart in picking usage
  • FIGURE 3B shows the same cart in delivery usage
  • FIGURE 4 shows a delivery vehicle's trunk from a bird's eye view
  • FIGURE 5 A shows a second cart in picking usage
  • FIGURE 5B shows the second cart in delivery usage
  • FIGURE 6A shows pulling out a box from a cart
  • FIGURE 6B shows a box for picking and delivery of products
  • FIGURE 7A shows two carts in a picking stage
  • FIGURE 7B shows the two carts in a delivery stage
  • FIGURE 8 shows parts to be used as a fastener or a holder
  • FIGURE 9 shows binding of carts in a delivery vehicle's trunk.
  • a cart is described with details but the details, such as the measurements or dimensions of the cart, or a number of the repositories, are examples.
  • FIG. 2 A shows containers and totes for the cart, wherein the containers and totes are viewed from their side.
  • a container 201 is a new type of box for the cart. The applicant has developed box 201 during the priority year of the present application. Box 201 has, for example, the following dimensions: opening 60 x 40 cm, height 30 cm and volume 70 1. One long side of box 201 is intentionally omitted. When box 201 is viewed from the omitted side (as in the figure) two dividing walls 202 are visible. Dividing walls 202 divide the inner space of box 201 into three sections so that each section is configured to receive one tote.
  • a container 203 is a box that includes four paper bags 204-207 for picking of products.
  • each paper bag 204-207 is 17 litre of size.
  • a paper bag supports itself and its mouth stays open. This facilitates the placing of products in the paper bag.
  • a container 208 is a bucket whose dimensions are: an opening 19 x 40 cm, a height 30 cm and a volume 23 1.
  • Bucket 208 is usually made of plastic and may include a carrying handle.
  • a plastic bag can be placed inside bucket 208.
  • the height of the plastic bag should be greater than bucket 208 for folding its edge around the edge of bucket 208 so that bucket 208 supports the plastic bag and keeps its mouth open.
  • handles or projections can be formed in it.
  • a container 209 is made of cardboard and is thus called as a cardboard bag.
  • Cardboard bag 209 can be used a couple of times, but it cannot be washed.
  • Box 201, 203 and bucket 208 are long-lasting and washable. As a paper bag, the mouth of cardboard bag remains open during picking of products.
  • a container 210 is a cage that is suitable for light products, such as toilet paper.
  • the dimensions of cage 210 are, for example, bottom 60 x 40 cm and a height 50 cm.
  • Cage 210 can be opened from the side with double doors 211, 212.
  • Double doors 211, 212 can be closed, for example, with a hook.
  • a container 213 is a cooler box whose dimensions are, for example, the height 40 cm and the bottom 60 x 40 cm. Cooler box 213 is thermally insulated and it includes a lid covered opening 214 through which the products can be placed in it. Cooler box 213 contains a reusable gel cooler that maintains an appropriate temperature, for example, for frozen food.
  • FIG. 3A shows a cart 301 in the picking usage.
  • Cart 301 is viewed from its short side and it comprises wheels 302 for moving the cart.
  • a cart frame 303 includes repositories 304, 305, i.e. empty spaces inside it.
  • cart 301 comprises a displacer 306 for moving a first repository 304 horizontally 307 with respect to a second repository 305.
  • the first repository is located immediately above the second repository, i.e. there is no other repository between repositories 304 and 305.
  • a container intended for cart 301 is box 203 with paper bags 204-207.
  • the container is a bucket 208, as such, or with a plastic bag.
  • the container is cardboard bag 209.
  • the outer dimensions of cart 301 should be as small as possible to save space, for example, in a delivery vehicle. If the repository size is 70 litres, the container to be received into the repository should be less than 70 1. If box 203 to be used as a container has dimensions 60 x 40 x 30 cm, repository 304 should have dimensions somewhat higher, for example, 62 x 40 x 31 cm. Then there is enough space between box 203 and repository 304 for receiving box 203 into repository 304.
  • Cart 301 is configured to the picking usage so that displacer 306 has an open position.
  • displacer 306 is configured to remain in the open position while moving cart 301 for picking products.
  • Drawer slides or telescopic drawers are suitable means to be used as displacer 306.
  • Displacer 306 and first repository 304 reveal in the open position at least partially second repository 305, which allows placement of the products from a side 308 to first repository 304 and to second repository 305 through the opposite side 309 of cart 301.
  • first repository 304 is movable relative to second repository 305, a distance between cart side 308 and the opposite side 309 can be changed.
  • said distance is relatively large and thus it is easy to place products into containers without moving any repository.
  • In the delivery usage said distance is smaller in order that cart 301 requires a minimum space in a delivery vehicle.
  • the cart 301 is intended to be moved during the picking stage so that containers are half open as in FIG. 3 A. Unlike the containers in the prior art cart 101, the containers in cart 301 are not repeatedly opened and closed because their mouth is continuously open for the products to be picked. This saves time in the picking stage.
  • repository 304 for example, a 20 cm wide portion of a container is open. If a product does not fit in, i.e. the open portion is too small, the collector can catch the container and pull it outwards from the cart so that a greater proportion of the container is revealed and the product can be placed in the container.
  • a fastener 310 comprises, for example, the following components: a lock pin that is attached to cart frame 303 with a short chain, and a pipe welded to frame 303.
  • the lock pin can be pushed in the horizontal direction through the pipe to prevent opening of displacer 306.
  • FIG. 3B shows cart 301 in the delivery usage, wherein cart 301 is viewed from its short side.
  • Displacer 306 is in the closed position and fastener 310 prevents the opening of displacer 306.
  • Fastener 310 is needed in the delivery stage, because curves at a road cause centrifugal forces. Generally speaking, when a delivery vehicle is moving, relatively great forces may affect to cart 301 and open displacer 306.
  • displacer 306 is in the closed position, repositories 304 and 305 are placed one over another and thus the distance between side 308 and opposite side 309 is as short as possible, for example, 40 cm. Long sides 321, 322 of repositories 304, 305 are situated against an inner wall of the trunk or close to it.
  • the cart 301 should be as narrow as possible.
  • the trunk comprises enough space for a corridor so that a distributor can fetch through the corridor containers or totes from the trunk.
  • cart 301 is used in the following manner. When the distributor enters to a place where the picking is performed, the distributor takes cart 301 and moves it to a delivery vehicle.
  • displacer 306 not until in the delivery vehicle the distributor pushes displacer 306 from the open position to the closed position.
  • cart 301 is narrowed at its short side, for example, from the width of 60 cm to the width of 40 cm.
  • Wheels 302 are attached to a beam 323 which is attached to cart frame 303 and is, for example, 50 cm long. The length of beam 323 (50 cm) does not
  • Cart 301 comprises holders 324, 325 to hold the containers in repositories 304, 305.
  • the holders prevent the containers from falling to the trunk floor.
  • Cart 301 further includes handles 326, 327 for pushing the cart and controlling it. The distance between the handles is adjustable. Handles 326, 327 can be locked, for example, by a lock pin 328 that penetrates a handle arm and cart frame 303.
  • displacer 306 There are at least two different arrangements usable for displacer 306.
  • first arrangement two or more drawer slides are attached to cart frame 303 and a shelf 329.
  • Each drawer slide comprises two nested slides.
  • second arrangement telescopic drawers are attached to cart frame 303 and shelf 329.
  • Each telescopic drawer includes at least three nested slides.
  • FIG. 4 shows the trunk of a delivery vehicle from a bird's eye view.
  • the delivery vehicle is a van whose trunk has the following dimensions: the height 190 cm and a floor 401 of size 160 x 350 cm.
  • Passageway 407 is about 60 cm wide in proximity of trunk floor 401 because the beam for mounting the cart wheels and the corresponding beams in the other carts narrow passageway 407. The beams and the wheels are not shown in FIG. 4. Above the beams passageway 407 is almost 80 cm wide.
  • Housings 408, 409 for rear wheels are located about 140 cm from each other. Each of the housings has enough space under cart 402, 404 because carts 402, 404 are constructed so that their lowest repositories locate high enough in the cart frame.
  • FIG. 5A shows a cart 501 in the picking usage.
  • Cart 501 has greater capacity than cart 301, because cart 501 includes four shelves 502-505. Every second shelf 502, 504 is movable with a pair of telescopic drawers, which are used as displacer 306, and every second shelf 503, 505 is unmovable, i.e. a fixed shelf.
  • FIG. 5B shows cart 501 in the delivery usage.
  • Moveable shelves 502, 504 are pushed to the closed position by means of displacers 306 after which displacers 306 are locked by fasteners 310.
  • Each fastener 310 comprises a lock pin and a pipe that is formed in the frame of cart 501.
  • Cart 501 includes a set of holders 521, 324, 325 to keep the containers on the shelves 503, 504, 505. Holders 521, 324, 325 comprise lock pins.
  • a holder 522 is a steel chain (not shown). This steel chain comprises hooks or carabiner hooks at its ends for attaching the steel chain to the cart frame.
  • fastener 310 is implemented by using holes which the nested slides of displacer 306 include.
  • fastener 310 comprises a telescopic drawer. Let us assume that the holes in the nested slides are placed on top of each other when the telescopic drawer is in the closed position. Then a lock pin can be pushed through those holes to prevent moving of the nested slides.
  • a bucket 208 or cardboard bag 209 (containing products) is easier to pull out from cart 501 than larger, and usually heavier, box 203.
  • the following figure shows an arrangement for handling of box 203.
  • FIG. 6 A shows pulling out box 203 from repository 304.
  • Repository 304 is located on movable shelf 504.
  • Fastener 310 intentionally prevents moving of shelf 504 when box 203 is pulled out.
  • box 203 locates inside its repository 304.
  • the distributor pulls box 203 by utilizing an extended edge 603 of shelf 504.
  • the distributor pulls box 203 from handle 604 which is situated on a long side of box 203.
  • box 203 rests only on extended edge 603 of shelf 504.
  • the distributor can grasp with other hand from handle 605 on the opposite long side of box 203.
  • the distributor can lift box 203 by holding the both handles 604, 605. Because another shelf is located below shelf 504 it is necessary to have a recess 606 to extended edge 603 of shelf 504. Due to recess 606 the distributor is able to grasp a box that is set below shelf 504, on shelf 505.
  • FIG. 6B shows advantageous features of box 201.
  • box 201 comprises a closable door 611 for closing a side 612 that is omitted from box 201.
  • Door 611 is attached with a hinge mechanism 613 to box 201 and is closable with a closing mechanism (not shown) so that door 611 covers the omitted side 612. Therefore, door 611 prevents dropping of totes during transportation.
  • Door 611 is fast to use when a tote need to be taken out from box 201.
  • Dividing walls 202 divide the inner space of box 201 into three sections so that each section can receive one tote.
  • box 201 includes pairs of notches at an upper edge of one side of box 201.
  • FIG. 7 A shows two carts 501, 402 in the picking stage.
  • Cart 501 has eight repositories of which six contain a box 203, 701-705.
  • Repository 304 is situated on movable shelf 504 and correspondingly other movable shelves 502, 706, 707 provide a single repository.
  • Repository 305 and other repository are situated on a fixed shelf 505.
  • Upper shelves 502, 706 and repositories provided by them are free in FIG. 7A.
  • Cart 402 can be situated over a wheel housing 721 and thus a recess 708 is formed in the frame of cart 402.
  • a rubber band acts as a holder 711 on an upper shelf 503.
  • Holder 711 is attached to the frame of cart 402 and it prevents boxes 712, 713 from falling. At least one end of holder 711 is detachable.
  • Picking can be performed as batch picking which speeds up the operation. After the batch picking the collector may arrive to a picking area where are placed in toilet papers, kitchen towels, diapers and other light-weight and large-size products as well as cages for these products. If the orders dealt by the collector contain said light-weight and/or large size products the collector to puts a cage 210 on upper shelf 706 of cart 501 and collects products into cage 210. Then the collector may arrive to another picking area where frozen food is placed.
  • the collector puts a cooler box 213 on upper shelf 502 of cart 501 and collects the frozen foods into it.
  • these containers 203, 210, 213 can be changed, as required by the orders, and place on upper shelves 502, 706 of cart 501. For example, if a lot of frozen food is ordered, two cooler boxes 213 can be placed on upper shelves 502, 706.
  • the movable shelves are located side by side.
  • a movable shelf and a fixed shelf can, however, be placed side by side and yet picking is efficient assuming that none container does not fully cover a mouth of another container.
  • FIG. 7B shows the two carts 501, 402 in the delivery stage.
  • the all four wheels of cart 402 turn so that cart 402 can be pushed over the wheel housing 721.
  • the following operations are carried out to change the usage of the cart 501 from the picking usage to the delivery usage. Let us assume that the distributor has pushed the movable shelves and the boxes resting on them against the inner wall of the delivery vehicle and locked the displacers with fasteners 310. Then the distributor puts lock pins 324, 724 in the holes to keep the boxes on their shelves when the delivery vehicle is in motion. In addition, lock pins 325, 722, 723, 725 need to be put in their holes. Finally, the distributor attaches chain holder 522 to prevent cage 210 and cooler box 213 from falling from the upper shelves. The following operations are carried out to change the usage of cart 402 from the picking usage to the delivery usage. Lock pins 324, 325, 726, 727 are put in the holes to keep the boxes on the shelves. In addition, rubber band 711 is attached to the cart frame.
  • FIG. 8 shows parts to be used as a fastener or a holder.
  • a lock pin 801 can act as fastener 310 keeping displacer 306 in the closed position.
  • lock pin 801 can serve as holder 324 keeping the container in repository 304.
  • Lock pin 801 includes a projection 802 and a pipe 803 into which projection 802 can be pushed.
  • projection 802 includes a ring 804 which prevents projection 802 from falling through pipe 803. Ring 804 can be attached to the chain whose opposite end is welded to cart frame 303.
  • An end 805 of projection 802 should extend far enough from pipe 803 so that the end 805 prevents movements of a displacer, a shelf, or a container.
  • a lock pin 811 can act as fastener 310 keeping displacer 306 in the closed position. In addition, or alternatively, lock pin 811 can serve as holder 324 keeping a container in its repository.
  • Lock pin 811 includes a pipe 812 and a projection 813 with a movable ball 814. Ball 814 moves inside projection 813 when projection 813 is pushed into pipe 812 and ball 814 pops out when it exits on the opposite end of pipe 812.
  • Projection 813 includes a ring 815 which prevents a movement of projection 813 to one direction. Because ball 814 prevents a movement of projection 813 to the opposite direction, projection 813 cannot drop from pipe 812 in any position.
  • An end 816 of lock pin 811 prevents movements of a displacer, a shelf, or a container.
  • pipe 812 is omitted and another hole is used instead of it. For example, a hole can be drilled in cart frame 303 and lock pin 811 can be put in the hole.
  • a cotter pin 821 is an alternative to lock pin 801, 811. Its two ends 822 can be considered as projection 802, 813 and its grip part 823 can be considered as an end 805, 816 which effect to a displacer, a shelf, or a container.
  • FIG. 9 shows binding of carts in the trunk of a delivery vehicle, where trunk floor 401 and the carts are viewed from a bird's eye view.
  • a set 901 of carts includes in this example four carts 301, 402-404.
  • Cart 403 is a mirror image of cart 301, because the displacers of it open in the opposite direction as the displacers of cart 301.
  • cart 404 is a mirror image of cart 402.
  • set 901 includes at least one cart 301, 402-404. The size of set 901 varies according to the delivery needs. If more than four carts are needed then a larger delivery vehicle should be used.
  • the carts can be bound to the trunk with eight loading straps 902. Less than 0.5 m long loading straps 902 can be used to bind a cart to a rail load, a loop, or some other attachment point in the trunk.
  • Cart 301 is attached with a loading strap 902 from its handle 327 to the long side 405 of the trunk.
  • Cart 301 is further attached from a corner, which is opposite to handle 327, to the short side of the trunk.
  • cart 402 is attached from its handle to the long side of the trunk and cart 402 is further attached from a corner, which is opposite to handle 326, to cart 301.
  • carts 403, 404 are attached to the opposite long side (side 406), to the short side, and to each other.
  • box 203 represents a prior art container which can be send to a laundry station to be washed.
  • Box 201 represents a new type of box. It may be a separated part that can be sent to the laundry station. Alternatively, box 201 may be integrated into cart 301, 402, 501. This kind of integration may cause a need for such laundry station that is intended for carts. When box 201 or another type of container is integrated into cart 301, 402, 501 the cart frame is strengthen.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Handcart (AREA)
  • Warehouses Or Storage Devices (AREA)

Abstract

An invention relates to picking and delivery of products and it especially relates to manners to reduce manual work. The invention concerns a cart (301) for temporary storage of products, the cart comprising a frame (303) with repositories, wheels (302), and a displacer (306) comprising nested slides for moving a first repository (304) with respect to a second repository (305). The cart (301) is configured to a picking usage so that the displacer (306) has an open position in which products can be placed into the first repository (304) from one side of the cart (301) and into the second repository (305) from the opposite side. The same cart (301) is further configured to a delivery usage so that the displacer (306) has a closed position for the delivery usage and a fastener is configured to keep the displacer (306) in the closed position in a delivery vehicle when a centrifugal force effects on the displacer and aims to move the displacer away from the closed position. In the delivery vehicle the first repository (304) locates on top of the second repository (305) in order to narrow a space between the side (308) and the opposite side (309).

Description

Cart for temporary storage of products
Area of technology: an invention relates to picking of products and a delivery of the products; the invention especially relates to manners to reduce manual work.
Background of the technology
Foodstuff and other grocery products can be ordered from internet. Later on these ordered products are delivered to desired addresses, for example, to the home address of a subscriber. This kind of service contains an ordering stage, a picking stage and a delivery stage. A collector, i.e. the person who performs the picking stage, collects the products to totes and/or containers. The containers are, for example, boxes made of plastic with a height of 30 cm and an opening of 60 x 40 cm. Each tote includes handles for carrying. A plastic bag and a paper bag are typical totes.
After the picking stage the containers and the totes with collected products are moved to a delivery vehicle. A delivery stage may be considered to begin when loading the delivery vehicle. At the delivery stage a distributor, i.e. the person performing the delivery work, transports the totes with collected products to delivery addresses.
FIG. 1 shows a cart 101 viewed from the long side as well as from the short side. Cart 101 contains six repositories, i.e. spaces for the same amount of boxes. The dimensions of one box are, for example, 60 x 40 x 30 cm. The six boxes 102 - 107 are placed in three layers. During the picking stage it is easy to place a collected product to either the two topmost boxes 102, 105. In contrast, four boxes are placed under some other box. For example, box 103 must be slid outwards on drawer slides to place a collected product in it. Cart 101 has such a drawback that boxes 103, 104, 106, 107 has to be opened and closed repeatedly during the picking and this increases the picking time.
In addition to cart 101, a cart described in FI83497 represents the closest prior art for the invention. Boxes are placed in relation to each other in a similar manner in the invention and in FI83497, but the cart described in FI83497 is not intended for picking of products and is not appropriate for that purpose.
The prior art carts have the following drawbacks. Opening and closing of boxes with drawer slides take unnecessarily time at the picking stage, and between the picking stage and the delivery stage the boxes are unnecessarily lifted and moved. Summary of the invention
An object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned drawbacks. Another objective is to make picking and delivery of products more efficient by reducing manual work. This applies, for example, to a sortation stage in which boxes are lifted and moved so that their relative order in box piles fits the requirements of the delivery. The sortation stage can be omitted and the other stages can be performed using less time.
The invention concerns a cart for temporary storage of products, the cart comprising a frame with repositories, wheels for moving the cart, and a displacer comprising nested slides for moving a first repository with respect to a second repository, the first repository and the second repository locating at least partly one on the other.
The cart is configured to a picking usage so that the displacer has an open position for the picking usage and the displacer is configured to remain in the open position when the cart is moved for picking the products, the displacer and the first repository disclosing in the open position at least partly the second repository and allowing placing of the products into the first repository from a side of the cart and into the second repository from the opposite side.
The same cart is further configured to a delivery usage so that the displacer has a closed position for the delivery usage and a fastener is configured to keep the displacer in the closed position in a delivery vehicle when a centrifugal force effects on the displacer and aims to move the displacer away from the closed position, the first repository locating in the closed position on top of the second repository in order to narrow a space between the side and the opposite side.
Because the same cart is also used in the delivery stage, the loading stage (which precedes the delivery stage) can be performed fast by pushing the cart on its wheel into the delivery vehicle. In one embodiment the displacer comprises a stopper to remain in the open position. The stopper prevents, until a predetermined force limit, sliding of a nested slide inside the displacer. The predetermined force limit is such that a collector or a distributor can easily push the displacer to the closed position. The predetermined force limit is, however, so high that a normal centrifugal force, which effects on the displacer during the picking stage, cannot move the nested slide. A stopper is also used in the prior art carts but in them the stopper holds a box in a closed position, i.e. it prevents an unintentional opening of the box in the picking stage.
In one embodiment the displacer is configured to remain in the open position so that a projection is pushed through holes formed in said nested slides when the displacer is in the open position.
In one embodiment the fastener comprises a pipe formed in the frame and a projection which can be pushed through the pipe so that an end of the projection keeps the displacer in the closed position.
In one embodiment the fastener comprises a projection which can be pushed through holes formed in said nested slides to keep the displacer in the closed position.
In one embodiment the cart comprises a holder for holding a container in the first repository, the holder being moveable so that the container can be removed from the first repository.
In one embodiment the projection or the holder is one of the following parts: a lock pin, a cotter pin.
In one embodiment the cart comprises an immovable shelf and a shelf moveable by the displacer, the immovable shelf strengthening the frame.
In one embodiment the cart comprises a container whose one side is omitted and inner space is divided with at least two dividing walls into sections so that each of the sections is configured to receive one tote.
In one embodiment the container comprises at least one closable door for closing said one side. Brief description of the drawings
For a more complete understanding of examples and embodiments of the present invention, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIGURE 1 shows a cart according to the prior art,
FIGURE 2 shows containers and totes,
FIGURE 3 A shows a cart in picking usage,
FIGURE 3B shows the same cart in delivery usage,
FIGURE 4 shows a delivery vehicle's trunk from a bird's eye view,
FIGURE 5 A shows a second cart in picking usage,
FIGURE 5B shows the second cart in delivery usage,
FIGURE 6A shows pulling out a box from a cart,
FIGURE 6B shows a box for picking and delivery of products,
FIGURE 7A shows two carts in a picking stage,
FIGURE 7B shows the two carts in a delivery stage,
FIGURE 8 shows parts to be used as a fastener or a holder,
FIGURE 9 shows binding of carts in a delivery vehicle's trunk.
Detailed description of the invention
A cart is described with details but the details, such as the measurements or dimensions of the cart, or a number of the repositories, are examples.
FIG. 2 A shows containers and totes for the cart, wherein the containers and totes are viewed from their side. A container 201 is a new type of box for the cart. The applicant has developed box 201 during the priority year of the present application. Box 201 has, for example, the following dimensions: opening 60 x 40 cm, height 30 cm and volume 70 1. One long side of box 201 is intentionally omitted. When box 201 is viewed from the omitted side (as in the figure) two dividing walls 202 are visible. Dividing walls 202 divide the inner space of box 201 into three sections so that each section is configured to receive one tote.
A container 203 is a box that includes four paper bags 204-207 for picking of products. In this example, each paper bag 204-207 is 17 litre of size. Unlike a plastic bag, a paper bag supports itself and its mouth stays open. This facilitates the placing of products in the paper bag.
A container 208 is a bucket whose dimensions are: an opening 19 x 40 cm, a height 30 cm and a volume 23 1. Bucket 208 is usually made of plastic and may include a carrying handle. A plastic bag can be placed inside bucket 208. The height of the plastic bag should be greater than bucket 208 for folding its edge around the edge of bucket 208 so that bucket 208 supports the plastic bag and keeps its mouth open. In order to facilitate the handling of bucket 208 handles or projections can be formed in it.
A container 209 is made of cardboard and is thus called as a cardboard bag.
Cardboard bag 209 can be used a couple of times, but it cannot be washed. Box 201, 203 and bucket 208 are long-lasting and washable. As a paper bag, the mouth of cardboard bag remains open during picking of products.
A container 210 is a cage that is suitable for light products, such as toilet paper. The dimensions of cage 210 are, for example, bottom 60 x 40 cm and a height 50 cm. Cage 210 can be opened from the side with double doors 211, 212. Double doors 211, 212 can be closed, for example, with a hook. A container 213 is a cooler box whose dimensions are, for example, the height 40 cm and the bottom 60 x 40 cm. Cooler box 213 is thermally insulated and it includes a lid covered opening 214 through which the products can be placed in it. Cooler box 213 contains a reusable gel cooler that maintains an appropriate temperature, for example, for frozen food. FIG. 3A shows a cart 301 in the picking usage. The same cart 301 is used within the delivery stage. Cart 301 is viewed from its short side and it comprises wheels 302 for moving the cart. A cart frame 303 includes repositories 304, 305, i.e. empty spaces inside it. In addition, cart 301 comprises a displacer 306 for moving a first repository 304 horizontally 307 with respect to a second repository 305. The first repository is located immediately above the second repository, i.e. there is no other repository between repositories 304 and 305. In one embodiment, a container intended for cart 301 is box 203 with paper bags 204-207. In another embodiment, the container is a bucket 208, as such, or with a plastic bag. In another embodiment the container is cardboard bag 209.
The outer dimensions of cart 301 should be as small as possible to save space, for example, in a delivery vehicle. If the repository size is 70 litres, the container to be received into the repository should be less than 70 1. If box 203 to be used as a container has dimensions 60 x 40 x 30 cm, repository 304 should have dimensions somewhat higher, for example, 62 x 40 x 31 cm. Then there is enough space between box 203 and repository 304 for receiving box 203 into repository 304.
Cart 301 is configured to the picking usage so that displacer 306 has an open position. In addition, displacer 306 is configured to remain in the open position while moving cart 301 for picking products. Drawer slides or telescopic drawers are suitable means to be used as displacer 306. Displacer 306 and first repository 304 reveal in the open position at least partially second repository 305, which allows placement of the products from a side 308 to first repository 304 and to second repository 305 through the opposite side 309 of cart 301. As first repository 304 is movable relative to second repository 305, a distance between cart side 308 and the opposite side 309 can be changed. In the picking usage said distance is relatively large and thus it is easy to place products into containers without moving any repository. In the delivery usage said distance is smaller in order that cart 301 requires a minimum space in a delivery vehicle.
The cart 301 is intended to be moved during the picking stage so that containers are half open as in FIG. 3 A. Unlike the containers in the prior art cart 101, the containers in cart 301 are not repeatedly opened and closed because their mouth is continuously open for the products to be picked. This saves time in the picking stage. In repository 304, for example, a 20 cm wide portion of a container is open. If a product does not fit in, i.e. the open portion is too small, the collector can catch the container and pull it outwards from the cart so that a greater proportion of the container is revealed and the product can be placed in the container. A fastener 310 comprises, for example, the following components: a lock pin that is attached to cart frame 303 with a short chain, and a pipe welded to frame 303. The lock pin can be pushed in the horizontal direction through the pipe to prevent opening of displacer 306.
FIG. 3B shows cart 301 in the delivery usage, wherein cart 301 is viewed from its short side. Displacer 306 is in the closed position and fastener 310 prevents the opening of displacer 306. Fastener 310 is needed in the delivery stage, because curves at a road cause centrifugal forces. Generally speaking, when a delivery vehicle is moving, relatively great forces may affect to cart 301 and open displacer 306.
Because displacer 306 is in the closed position, repositories 304 and 305 are placed one over another and thus the distance between side 308 and opposite side 309 is as short as possible, for example, 40 cm. Long sides 321, 322 of repositories 304, 305 are situated against an inner wall of the trunk or close to it. During the delivery stage the cart 301 should be as narrow as possible. Then the trunk comprises enough space for a corridor so that a distributor can fetch through the corridor containers or totes from the trunk. In one embodiment cart 301 is used in the following manner. When the distributor enters to a place where the picking is performed, the distributor takes cart 301 and moves it to a delivery vehicle. Not until in the delivery vehicle the distributor pushes displacer 306 from the open position to the closed position. By moving displacer 306 (and other displacers) cart 301 is narrowed at its short side, for example, from the width of 60 cm to the width of 40 cm. Wheels 302 are attached to a beam 323 which is attached to cart frame 303 and is, for example, 50 cm long. The length of beam 323 (50 cm) does not
significantly harm the distributor's work because a space is needed not so much in proximity of the trunk floor than at the height of a human body.
Cart 301 comprises holders 324, 325 to hold the containers in repositories 304, 305. The holders prevent the containers from falling to the trunk floor. Cart 301 further includes handles 326, 327 for pushing the cart and controlling it. The distance between the handles is adjustable. Handles 326, 327 can be locked, for example, by a lock pin 328 that penetrates a handle arm and cart frame 303.
There are at least two different arrangements usable for displacer 306. In the first arrangement two or more drawer slides are attached to cart frame 303 and a shelf 329. Each drawer slide comprises two nested slides. In the second arrangement telescopic drawers are attached to cart frame 303 and shelf 329. Each telescopic drawer includes at least three nested slides.
FIG. 4 shows the trunk of a delivery vehicle from a bird's eye view. The delivery vehicle is a van whose trunk has the following dimensions: the height 190 cm and a floor 401 of size 160 x 350 cm. There are four carts, 301 402-404 in the trunk at the both long sides 405, 406 so that carts 301 and 402 are placed against side 405 and the other two carts 403, 404 are placed against the other long side 406. There is a passageway (a corridor) 407 on trunk floor 401 along which the distributor can fetch any container or tote in any order. Passageway 407 is about 60 cm wide in proximity of trunk floor 401 because the beam for mounting the cart wheels and the corresponding beams in the other carts narrow passageway 407. The beams and the wheels are not shown in FIG. 4. Above the beams passageway 407 is almost 80 cm wide.
Housings 408, 409 for rear wheels are located about 140 cm from each other. Each of the housings has enough space under cart 402, 404 because carts 402, 404 are constructed so that their lowest repositories locate high enough in the cart frame.
In carts 301, 402-404 the longest sides of repositories 304, 305 are parallel to the longest side 410 of cart 301. This is feature important because of the usability of passageway 407, if the trunk is narrow and boxes 203 are used as containers.
Carts 301, 402-404 can be moved through the delivery vehicle's back doors 412, 413 into the delivery vehicle. A loading dock 414 and a light loading ramp 415 are useful when loading the carts into the trunk. The loading is easy and safe when dock 414 locates at the same height from the ground as trunk floor 401. FIG. 5A shows a cart 501 in the picking usage. Cart 501 has greater capacity than cart 301, because cart 501 includes four shelves 502-505. Every second shelf 502, 504 is movable with a pair of telescopic drawers, which are used as displacer 306, and every second shelf 503, 505 is unmovable, i.e. a fixed shelf. For example, repository 304 is located on the movable shelf and repository 305 is located on the fixed shelf. Fixed shelves 503, 505 reinforce the structure of cart 501. Cart 501 and its shelves can be constructed, for example, steel or aluminium. A thin- walled steel or aluminium pipe is an appropriate material for the construction of cart 501. Also plastic or plywood can be used in the shelves. FIG. 5B shows cart 501 in the delivery usage. Moveable shelves 502, 504 are pushed to the closed position by means of displacers 306 after which displacers 306 are locked by fasteners 310. Each fastener 310 comprises a lock pin and a pipe that is formed in the frame of cart 501. When the lock pin is pushed into the pipe, the lock pin prevents the opening of displacer 306. Cart 501 includes a set of holders 521, 324, 325 to keep the containers on the shelves 503, 504, 505. Holders 521, 324, 325 comprise lock pins. Conversely, at the top shelf 502 a holder 522 is a steel chain (not shown). This steel chain comprises hooks or carabiner hooks at its ends for attaching the steel chain to the cart frame.
In one embodiment fastener 310 is implemented by using holes which the nested slides of displacer 306 include. In cart 501, fastener 310 comprises a telescopic drawer. Let us assume that the holes in the nested slides are placed on top of each other when the telescopic drawer is in the closed position. Then a lock pin can be pushed through those holes to prevent moving of the nested slides.
A bucket 208 or cardboard bag 209 (containing products) is easier to pull out from cart 501 than larger, and usually heavier, box 203. The following figure shows an arrangement for handling of box 203.
FIG. 6 A shows pulling out box 203 from repository 304. Repository 304 is located on movable shelf 504. Fastener 310, however, intentionally prevents moving of shelf 504 when box 203 is pulled out. In the first step 601, box 203 locates inside its repository 304. In the second step 602 the distributor pulls box 203 by utilizing an extended edge 603 of shelf 504. The distributor pulls box 203 from handle 604 which is situated on a long side of box 203. In the end of the second step 602 box 203 rests only on extended edge 603 of shelf 504. Now the distributor can grasp with other hand from handle 605 on the opposite long side of box 203. After this, the distributor can lift box 203 by holding the both handles 604, 605. Because another shelf is located below shelf 504 it is necessary to have a recess 606 to extended edge 603 of shelf 504. Due to recess 606 the distributor is able to grasp a box that is set below shelf 504, on shelf 505.
FIG. 6B shows advantageous features of box 201. In one embodiment box 201 comprises a closable door 611 for closing a side 612 that is omitted from box 201. Door 611 is attached with a hinge mechanism 613 to box 201 and is closable with a closing mechanism (not shown) so that door 611 covers the omitted side 612. Therefore, door 611 prevents dropping of totes during transportation. Door 611 is fast to use when a tote need to be taken out from box 201. Dividing walls 202 divide the inner space of box 201 into three sections so that each section can receive one tote. In one embodiment box 201 includes pairs of notches at an upper edge of one side of box 201. Each pair of notches, for example a pair 614, is intended for a handle of a plastic bag. When the handle of the plastic bag is set through pair 614 of notches, the plastic bag is supported and its mouth is at least partly open for products to be picked. FIG. 7 A shows two carts 501, 402 in the picking stage. Cart 501 has eight repositories of which six contain a box 203, 701-705. Repository 304 is situated on movable shelf 504 and correspondingly other movable shelves 502, 706, 707 provide a single repository. Repository 305 and other repository are situated on a fixed shelf 505. Upper shelves 502, 706 and repositories provided by them are free in FIG. 7A. Cart 402 can be situated over a wheel housing 721 and thus a recess 708 is formed in the frame of cart 402.
A rubber band acts as a holder 711 on an upper shelf 503. Holder 711 is attached to the frame of cart 402 and it prevents boxes 712, 713 from falling. At least one end of holder 711 is detachable. Picking can be performed as batch picking which speeds up the operation. After the batch picking the collector may arrive to a picking area where are placed in toilet papers, kitchen towels, diapers and other light-weight and large-size products as well as cages for these products. If the orders dealt by the collector contain said light-weight and/or large size products the collector to puts a cage 210 on upper shelf 706 of cart 501 and collects products into cage 210. Then the collector may arrive to another picking area where frozen food is placed. If the orders include frozen food, the collector puts a cooler box 213 on upper shelf 502 of cart 501 and collects the frozen foods into it. When the bottoms of box 203, cage 210, and cooler box 213 are of equal size, these containers 203, 210, 213 can be changed, as required by the orders, and place on upper shelves 502, 706 of cart 501. For example, if a lot of frozen food is ordered, two cooler boxes 213 can be placed on upper shelves 502, 706.
In the above examples the movable shelves are located side by side. A movable shelf and a fixed shelf can, however, be placed side by side and yet picking is efficient assuming that none container does not fully cover a mouth of another container.
FIG. 7B shows the two carts 501, 402 in the delivery stage. The all four wheels of cart 402 turn so that cart 402 can be pushed over the wheel housing 721. In cart 501, it is sufficient that the front wheels or rear wheels can turn.
Let us assume that a box to be received in repository 304 of cart 501 is 30 cm high and that there is a one cm space between the box and the shelf situated above the box. Then holder 324, which limits the space two cm, is high enough. In other words, the box cannot "jump" over holder 324.
The following operations are carried out to change the usage of the cart 501 from the picking usage to the delivery usage. Let us assume that the distributor has pushed the movable shelves and the boxes resting on them against the inner wall of the delivery vehicle and locked the displacers with fasteners 310. Then the distributor puts lock pins 324, 724 in the holes to keep the boxes on their shelves when the delivery vehicle is in motion. In addition, lock pins 325, 722, 723, 725 need to be put in their holes. Finally, the distributor attaches chain holder 522 to prevent cage 210 and cooler box 213 from falling from the upper shelves. The following operations are carried out to change the usage of cart 402 from the picking usage to the delivery usage. Lock pins 324, 325, 726, 727 are put in the holes to keep the boxes on the shelves. In addition, rubber band 711 is attached to the cart frame.
FIG. 8 shows parts to be used as a fastener or a holder. A lock pin 801 can act as fastener 310 keeping displacer 306 in the closed position. In addition, or alternatively, lock pin 801 can serve as holder 324 keeping the container in repository 304. Lock pin 801 includes a projection 802 and a pipe 803 into which projection 802 can be pushed. In one embodiment projection 802 includes a ring 804 which prevents projection 802 from falling through pipe 803. Ring 804 can be attached to the chain whose opposite end is welded to cart frame 303. An end 805 of projection 802 should extend far enough from pipe 803 so that the end 805 prevents movements of a displacer, a shelf, or a container.
A lock pin 811 can act as fastener 310 keeping displacer 306 in the closed position. In addition, or alternatively, lock pin 811 can serve as holder 324 keeping a container in its repository. Lock pin 811 includes a pipe 812 and a projection 813 with a movable ball 814. Ball 814 moves inside projection 813 when projection 813 is pushed into pipe 812 and ball 814 pops out when it exits on the opposite end of pipe 812.
Projection 813 includes a ring 815 which prevents a movement of projection 813 to one direction. Because ball 814 prevents a movement of projection 813 to the opposite direction, projection 813 cannot drop from pipe 812 in any position. An end 816 of lock pin 811 prevents movements of a displacer, a shelf, or a container. In one embodiment, pipe 812 is omitted and another hole is used instead of it. For example, a hole can be drilled in cart frame 303 and lock pin 811 can be put in the hole.
A cotter pin 821 is an alternative to lock pin 801, 811. Its two ends 822 can be considered as projection 802, 813 and its grip part 823 can be considered as an end 805, 816 which effect to a displacer, a shelf, or a container.
FIG. 9 shows binding of carts in the trunk of a delivery vehicle, where trunk floor 401 and the carts are viewed from a bird's eye view. A set 901 of carts includes in this example four carts 301, 402-404. Cart 403 is a mirror image of cart 301, because the displacers of it open in the opposite direction as the displacers of cart 301. Similarly, cart 404 is a mirror image of cart 402. In general, set 901 includes at least one cart 301, 402-404. The size of set 901 varies according to the delivery needs. If more than four carts are needed then a larger delivery vehicle should be used.
The carts can be bound to the trunk with eight loading straps 902. Less than 0.5 m long loading straps 902 can be used to bind a cart to a rail load, a loop, or some other attachment point in the trunk. Cart 301 is attached with a loading strap 902 from its handle 327 to the long side 405 of the trunk. Cart 301 is further attached from a corner, which is opposite to handle 327, to the short side of the trunk. Then, cart 402 is attached from its handle to the long side of the trunk and cart 402 is further attached from a corner, which is opposite to handle 326, to cart 301. In a corresponding manner carts 403, 404 are attached to the opposite long side (side 406), to the short side, and to each other.
Regarding to FIG. 2 is mentioned that box 203 represents a prior art container which can be send to a laundry station to be washed. Box 201 represents a new type of box. It may be a separated part that can be sent to the laundry station. Alternatively, box 201 may be integrated into cart 301, 402, 501. This kind of integration may cause a need for such laundry station that is intended for carts. When box 201 or another type of container is integrated into cart 301, 402, 501 the cart frame is strengthen.
The present invention covers various modifications and equivalent arrangements which fall within the purview of prospective claims.

Claims

Claims
1. A cart (301, 402, 501) for temporary storage of products, the cart comprising a frame (303) with repositories (304, 305), wheels (302) for moving the cart, and a displacer (306) comprising nested slides for moving a first repository (304) with respect to a second repository (305), the first repository and the second repository locating at least partly one on the other, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the cart is configured to a picking usage so that the displacer has an open position for the picking usage and the displacer is configured to remain in the open position when the cart is moved for picking the products, the displacer and the first repository disclosing in the open position at least partly the second repository and allowing placing of the products into the first repository from a side (308) of the cart and into the second repository from the opposite side (309); and the cart is configured to a delivery usage so that the displacer has a closed position for the delivery usage and a fastener (310) is configured to keep the displacer in the closed position in a delivery vehicle when a centrifugal force effects on the displacer and aims to move the displacer away from the closed position, the first repository locating in the closed position on top of the second repository in order to narrow a space between the side and the opposite side.
2. The cart as claimed in claim 1, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the displacer comprises a stopper to remain in the open position, the stopper preventing, until a predetermined force limit, sliding of a nested slide.
3. The cart as claimed in claim 1, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the displacer is configured to remain in the open position so that a projection (802, 813, 822) is pushed through holes formed in said nested slides when the displacer is in the open position.
4. The cart as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the fastener comprises a pipe (803, 812) formed in the frame and a projection (802, 813, 822) which can be pushed through the pipe so that an end (805, 816, 823) of the projection keeps the displacer in the closed position.
5. The cart as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the fastener comprises a projection (802, 813, 822) which can be pushed through holes formed in said nested slides to keep the displacer in the closed position.
6. The cart as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the cart comprises a holder (324) for holding a container (201, 203, 208, 209, 210, 213) in the first repository, the holder being moveable so that the container can be removed from the first repository.
7. The cart as claimed in claims 3-6, characterized in that the projection or the holder is one of the following parts: a lock pin (801, 811), a cotter pin (821).
8. The cart as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the cart comprises an immovable shelf (503, 505) and a shelf (502, 504) moveable by the displacer, the immovable shelf strengthening the frame.
9. The cart as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the cart comprises a container (201) whose one side (612) is omitted and inner space is divided with at least two dividing walls (202) into sections so that each of the sections is configured to receive one tote.
10. The cart as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that the container comprises at least one closable door (611) for closing said one side.
EP16767813.5A 2015-03-24 2016-03-23 Cart for temporary storage of products Withdrawn EP3274276A4 (en)

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FI83497C (en) * 1989-01-26 1991-07-25 Mikko System Ky Trolley
NL1007563C2 (en) * 1997-04-21 1999-08-25 Egmond Tech Handelsonderneming Mobile container and method for transporting and distributing personal items.
DE10119312A1 (en) * 2001-04-19 2002-10-24 Schumacher Carlos Shopping trolley with one or more lower resting surfaces has these surfaces able to move relative to rest of trolley
US6669213B2 (en) * 2001-07-31 2003-12-30 Hafele America Co. Industrial transportation and storage cart
CN101468654B (en) * 2007-12-29 2011-07-27 鸿富锦精密工业(深圳)有限公司 Logistics trolley
DE102012205812A1 (en) * 2012-04-10 2013-10-10 Krones Ag Warehouse system for transport vehicle, particularly delivery truck or pickup truck, comprises shelves arranged on support structure in height-adjustable manner, where position of shelf is changed relative to support structure
US8919896B1 (en) * 2012-11-16 2014-12-30 Lee-Ann Shewchuck Portable tool chest

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