JP2004099308A - Shelf equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a shelf equipment with a simple constitution, which is easily operated and secures safety for an operator. <P>SOLUTION: An operating button 41 of a passage S for works which is opened for handling of articles is selected, operated and reserved. While the button 41 corresponding to the passage S presently opened is being operated, an mobile shelf is moved to form the reserved passage S. By this constitution, the process in which the passage S is being closed from a presently opened state is visually inspected by the operator, thereby preventing other operators from entering the passage S being closed and securing safety. The required passage S is formed only by operating the button 41 twice, so that the operation is more facilitated than ever. Furthermore, the constitution is simplified and the costs are reduced. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a shelf facility including a plurality of moving shelves.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, as this kind of shelf equipment, a fixed traveling route (track, etc.) is set in a space in a warehouse or an office, and a plurality of electric movable vehicles that can reciprocate while leaving a work passage space on the fixed traveling route. 2. Description of the Related Art A shelf facility is known in which shelves are provided, and articles are handled on a moving shelf facing the working passage by using a working passage opened between the moving shelves.
[0003]
In such a shelf facility, in order to open the work passages, an opening / interlock release push button for each passage that opens and closes the interlock enabling opening and closing of the passage. A switch and a selection push button switch corresponding to each of the other passages are provided side by side, and when opening a work passage required for handling articles, even if the user goes to an already open passage and the passage in the open state is closed. After confirming whether or not it is safe, operate the opening / interlock release pushbutton switch corresponding to the path in the open state, and subsequently operate the selection pushbutton switch corresponding to the required working path. By doing so, the necessary working passage at a remote position is opened (for example, see Patent Document 1).
[0004]
In another shelf equipment, when a work passage is required between the movable shelves, an open command switch and a reset switch for designating the necessary work passage are provided on each of the movable shelves facing the work passage. When opening the work passage required for handling the work, go to the already opened passage and check whether it is safe to close the open passage, and then open the work passage that is already open. By operating again the opening command switch of the moving shelf facing the passage, and subsequently operating the reset switch of the moving shelf adjacent to the moving shelf whose opening command switch has been operated again, the currently opened working passage is opened. Can be closed, and then the necessary work passage is opened by operating an open command switch for designating the necessary work passage (for example, see Patent Document 2).
[0005]
Then, a worker or a cargo handling vehicle (for example, a forklift) enters the work passage opened between the movable shelves, and the articles are handled on the movable shelf facing the work passage.
[0006]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent Publication No. 3-29402
[0007]
[Patent Document 2]
JP-A-11-178651
[0008]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, according to the configuration of the shelf facility disclosed in the above-mentioned conventional Patent Document 1, it is necessary to provide a selection push button switch corresponding to each of the other passages for each work passage, so that the number of passages increases. Then, the number of selection push-button switches provided in each work passage increases, and the circuit configuration becomes complicated.
[0009]
Further, according to the configuration of the shelf facility disclosed in the above-mentioned conventional Patent Document 2, the worker goes to the already opened passage and checks whether it is safe to close the open passage. Above, it is necessary to operate the open command switch and the reset switch on the shelf on both sides of the open path, and then to operate the open command switch for specifying the required work passage, so that the number of operations increases. Even if it is confirmed that no one is in the currently opened work passage, there is a risk that another worker may enter while operating the open command switch.
[0010]
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a shelf facility that has a simple configuration, is easy to operate, and can ensure worker safety.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, according to the first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of movable shelves that can reciprocate on a traveling route via a traveling support device are arranged and opened between the movable shelves. A shelf facility for handling articles on the moving shelf using a work passage,
Operating means for operating the traveling of the moving shelf are selected, and operating means required for handling the articles are selected by selecting the working paths to be opened, respectively, corresponding to the working paths. When operated, the selection information of the operation means is stored, and then, when the operation means corresponding to the currently opened work passage is operated, or when the operation means is operated, the selection information is stored. The moving shelf is moved so as to open a selected work passage.
[0012]
According to the above configuration, the operating means of the work passage required for handling the article is operated, and the operating means corresponding to the currently opened work passage is operated, or if this operating means is operated, The movable shelf is moved to form the necessary work passage. At this time, the worker is observing the process of closing the currently opened work passage, and other workers are prevented from entering the closed work passage, and safety is reduced. Secured. Further, according to this configuration, a necessary work passage is formed only by operating the operation means twice, so that the operation is simplified as compared with the related art.
[0013]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the moving shelf is moved so as to open a work passage selected by the selection information, or is moving. Then, when the movement of the moving shelf is stopped, the operation means required for handling the article is again selected and the operation means is operated, and then the operation means corresponding to the currently opened work path is operated. By doing so, a work passage required for handling the article is opened.
[0014]
According to the above configuration, when the moving shelf being moved is stopped halfway, the work path necessary for handling the article is again selected and the operating means is operated, and then the currently opened work path is opened. By operating the operation means corresponding to (1), a work passage required for handling the article is formed. As described above, even if the movable shelf is stopped at a halfway position where the necessary work path is not formed, the necessary work path can be formed by operating the operation means again.
[0015]
The invention according to claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the movable shelves drives the traveling support device to travel the movable shelf. Drive control means for providing a group consisting of a plurality of the moving shelves or all the moving shelves, and moving the moving shelves in each group by driving the traveling driving means of the moving shelves in the group in a forward / reverse direction. Is provided.
[0016]
According to the above configuration, the drive control means of each group is driven in accordance with the work passage to be opened, whereby the traveling drive means of the movable shelves in each group are driven forward and reverse to move the movable shelves. Further, according to this configuration, only one drive control unit is required for each group, and cost reduction is achieved.
[0017]
The invention according to claim 4 is the invention according to claim 3, wherein each of the movable shelves is provided with switching means for switching the drive control means and the traveling drive means between a connected state and a disconnected state. Determining the moving shelf to be moved in accordance with the work path selected by the selection information and the moving direction thereof, controlling the drive control means based on the determined moving direction, and further determining the moving shelf of the determined moving shelf. The moving shelf is moved by controlling a switching means to bring the drive control means and the traveling drive means into a connected state.
[0018]
According to the above configuration, the moving shelf to be moved in accordance with the work path selected by the selection information and the moving direction thereof are determined, the drive control means is controlled by the determined moving direction, and the determined moving shelf switching means is further determined. Is controlled so that the drive control means and the traveling drive means are connected to each other, whereby the movable shelf is moved in accordance with the work path to be opened.
[0019]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[Embodiment 1]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shelf facility according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a plan view of the shelf facility.
[0020]
In FIGS. 1 and 2, reference numeral 1 denotes a plurality of (five in the figure) traveling rails 3 which are laid in parallel to a floor 2 along a traveling path i via a traveling support device (described later). This is a rail-type movable shelf that can be freely moved back and forth, and a plurality of movable shelves 1 (three shelves in the figure) are arranged on a traveling rail 3. A fixed shelf 5 is provided on both sides of the traveling shelf i in the direction (hereinafter referred to as the front-rear direction) A of the movable shelf group 1 so as to secure a work passage S.
[0021]
Each of the movable shelves 1 and the fixed shelves 5 has a plurality of struts 11, a plurality of front and rear frames 12 erected and connected at predetermined intervals in the up and down direction over the respective struts 11, and a plurality of struts 11 respectively. A plurality of left and right frames 13 which are erected and connected in a direction B (hereinafter, referred to as a left / right direction) perpendicular to the traveling route i and support a pallet P on which articles are placed, are provided with a plurality of article storage sections 14 in the up / down and left / right directions B. Is formed between the movable shelves 1 or between the movable shelves 1 and the front and rear fixed shelves 5, and the movable shelves 1 or the fixed shelves 5 facing the work passages S are used. The pallet P loaded with the articles or the articles is handled by the cargo handling vehicle in the article storage unit 14.
[0022]
Now, the plurality of moving shelves 1 are sequentially numbered No. 1 in the front-rear direction A from rear to front. 1 moving shelf 1, No. 1 2 moving shelf 1, No. No. 3 moving shelf 1 and the fixed shelf 5 at the rear and No. 3 The work path S opened between the moving shelf 1 and the moving shelf 1 is denoted by S1, No. 1. 1 and No. The work passage S opened between the moving shelves 1 of No. 2 is denoted by S2, No. 2 and No. The work passage S opened between the movable shelves 1 of No. 3 is denoted by S3, No. 3. The work passage S opened between the movable shelf 1 of No. 3 and the fixed shelf 5 at the front is referred to as S4.
[0023]
Each of the movable shelves 1 is provided with a traveling portion (lower frame portion) 15 that travels while supporting the plurality of article storage portions 14. The traveling portion 15 includes a lower frame 18 and a lower frame 18. It is composed of a traveling support device supported by the vehicle.
[0024]
The traveling wheels 20 with flanges guided by the traveling rails 3 as the traveling support devices are provided at five locations (plural locations) in the left-right direction B and at two locations (plural locations) in the front-rear direction A along the traveling route i. Is provided. In addition, two (at least one) traveling wheels at both ends in the left-right direction B are coupled with traveling drive means 23 provided directly on the lower frame 18 via the interlocking shaft 21 on the wheel shaft of the traveling wheels. Thus, the driving type traveling wheel 20A is configured. Each of the traveling drive means 23 is formed of an induction motor 24 (FIG. 3) and a speed reducer (not shown) linked to the motor shaft.
[0025]
Also, the movable shelf 1 is provided on the leftmost (front side) column 11 of the columns 11 forming the article storage section 14 and on a surface thereof (hereinafter referred to as a side surface) facing the work passage S. An approach detector (approach) comprising a reflection type photoelectric switch for detecting approach of the moving shelf 1 or the fixed shelf 5 facing the moving shelf 1 and preventing the moving shelf 1 or the fixed shelf 5 facing the moving shelf 1 from moving toward each other. (Detection means) 31 is provided. This approach detector 31 has the No. No. 1 is provided at two positions in the front-rear direction A on the moving shelf 1. A few moving shelves 1 are provided at one location in front.
[0026]
As shown in FIG. 1, a control panel is provided on a surface (hereinafter referred to as a front surface) formed by the plurality of leftmost columns 11 among the columns 11 forming the article storage section 14 of the rear fixed shelf 5. A breaker case 34 is provided in which a breaker 32 (FIG. 3) for turning on and off the power supply of the shelf equipment 32 is provided.
[0027]
As shown in FIG. 1, an operation panel 35 is provided on the front of each moving shelf 1 for each work passage S.
On these operation panels 35, operation buttons (momentary push button switches) for selecting a work passage S to be opened and operating the moving shelf 1 are provided, respectively, in opposition to the work passages S. One example) 41 is provided. Now, the operation buttons 41 corresponding to the work passages S1, S2, S3, and S4 are referred to as S1 operation buttons 41, S2 operation buttons 41, S3 operation buttons 41, and S4 operation buttons 41. When the S1 operation button 41 and the S2 operation button 41 are No. No. 1 is provided at an end position of the moving shelf 1 in the front-rear direction A, and the S3 operation button 41 No. 2 is provided at the front end position of the moving shelf 1 and the S4 operation button 41 is No. 3 is provided at the front end position of the moving shelf 1.
[0028]
FIG. 3 shows a circuit configuration diagram of the shelf equipment.
As shown in FIG. 3, the control panel 32 is provided with a controller 43 composed of a microcomputer and an inverter (an example of a drive control unit) 44 for driving the motor 24 of the traveling drive unit 23 of each movable shelf 1. Drive power is supplied to the inverter 44 and control power is supplied to the controller 43 via a breaker 33 provided on the fixed shelf 5. Further, an inverter 44 is provided with all the moving shelves 1 as one group.
[0029]
In the operation panel 35 of each moving shelf 1, there is provided an electromagnetic switch (an example of a switching unit) for switching between the inverter 44 and the motor 24 of the traveling drive unit 23 of each moving shelf 1 between a connected state (ON) and a disconnected state (OFF). ) 45, and an excitation coil 46 for exciting (turning on / off) the electromagnetic switch 45.
[0030]
The approach detector 31 of each moving shelf 1, the operation button 41, and the exciting coil 46 are connected to the controller 43 of the control panel 32. The inverter 44 of the control panel 32 and the two motors 24 of each moving shelf 1 are connected. Are connected via an electromagnetic switch 45. In addition, the controller 43 of the control panel 32 has No. The approach detectors 31 before and after the one moving shelf 1, the S1 operation button 41, and the S2 operation button 41 are connected. In addition, a control signal (forward signal or reverse signal) is output from the controller 43 to the inverter 44, and the motor 24 in which the electromagnetic switch 45 is turned on is driven by the inverter 44 in the forward / reverse direction according to the control signal. , The moving shelf 1 is run.
[0031]
As shown in FIG. 1, in order to exchange signals between the inverter 44 and the controller 43 of the control panel 32 and each mobile shelf 1, power is supplied between the fixed shelf 5 and the mobile shelf 1 and between the mobile shelf 1. A cable 49 is provided.
[0032]
The operation of the controller 43 will be described with reference to the control block diagrams of FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 4, the controller 43 includes a passage opening command unit 50, a general control unit 51, a moving shelf control unit 52 corresponding to each moving shelf 1, and a passage state detecting unit 53.
[0033]
An operation button 41 corresponding to each work passage S is connected to the passage open command unit 50, and the passage open command unit 50 determines a work passage S to be opened according to an operation signal of these operation buttons 41. The passage opening command is output to the overall control unit 51 (details will be described later).
[0034]
An inverter 44 is connected to the general control unit 51 to determine the moving shelf 1 to be moved in accordance with a passage opening command from the passage opening command unit 50 to specify a work passage S to be opened, and the moving direction thereof. The inverter 44 is controlled based on the determined moving direction, and a forward or backward command is output to the moving shelf control unit 52 corresponding to the determined moving shelf 1 (the details will be described later).
[0035]
The approach state detector 53 is connected to the approach detectors 31 of the respective moving shelves 1 corresponding to the respective work paths S, and the work paths S formed based on the detection signals of the approach detectors 31. Alternatively, the work path S formed while the movable shelf 1 is moving is detected (details will be described later).
[0036]
In addition, each moving shelf control unit 52 is connected to the approach detector 31 of each moving shelf 1 and the excitation coil 46, and further connected to the approaching detector 31 of the moving shelf 1 adjacent to the rear. In addition, No. In the moving shelf control unit 52 of the moving shelf 1 of No. 1, instead of the approach detector 31 of the moving shelf 1 adjacent to the rear, No. A rear approach detector 31 installed on one moving shelf 1 is connected. FIG. 5 shows a control block diagram of each moving shelf control unit 52.
[0037]
As shown in FIG. 5, when the reverse command is input from the overall control unit 51, the moving shelf control unit 52 confirms whether or not the approach detector 31 of the moving shelf 1 adjacent to the rear is operating, and operates. When the forward command is input from the overall control unit 51 when the moving shelf 1 is not operating or when the approach detector 31 of the moving shelf 1 itself is not operating, the signal for driving the exciting coil 46 is output. Output. As a result, the electromagnetic switch 45 is turned on, and the inverter 44 and the motor 24 are connected. Therefore, when the motor 24 is driven forward and reverse by the inverter 44, the movable shelf 1 moves backward or forward.
[0038]
Then, when the approaching detector 31 of the moving shelf 1 adjacent to the rear is operated by starting the backward movement according to the backward command, the driving signal to the exciting coil 46 is turned off and the moving shelf 1 is stopped. Further, when the approach detector 31 of the movable shelf 1 adjacent to the rear side operates, after a predetermined time set in the timer 54, a reverse end (signal) is output to the overall control unit 51.
[0039]
Further, when the forward movement is started by the forward movement command and the approach detector 31 of the movable shelf 1 itself operates, the drive signal to the exciting coil 46 is turned off, and the movable shelf 1 is stopped. When the approach detector 31 of the movable shelf 1 operates, after a predetermined time set in the timer 55, it outputs a forward end (signal) to the overall control unit 51.
[0040]
In addition, No. When a backward command is input, the movable shelf controller 52 of the first movable shelf 1 turns off the drive signal to the excitation coil 46 and stops the backward movement of the movable shelf 1 when the rear approach detector 31 operates. I do. Further, after a predetermined time set in the timer 54, the control unit 51 outputs an end of reverse to the general control unit 51.
[0041]
FIG. 6 shows a control block diagram of the overall control unit 51.
When a command to open the work passages S2, S3, and S4 is input from the passage open command unit 50, in order to form the worker's passage S of these open commands, all of the rear of the designated worker's passage S are required. It is necessary to move the moving shelves 1 backward, and to move all the moving shelves 1 on the front side of the worker passage S forward. Further, when a command to open the work passage S1 is input from the passage opening command unit 50, all the movable shelves 1 need to be advanced.
[0042]
Further, since there is only one inverter 44, there is a restriction that the movable shelf 1 can be moved only in one direction at the same time.
Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, when a command to open the work passage S1 is input, when a command to move each moving shelf 1 is output while the opening command is input, each moving shelf control unit 52 outputs the command. No. under the condition that advance end is not input. 1 and No. 2 and No. A forward command to the moving shelf control unit 52 (of the moving shelf 1) is formed. When the open command is turned off, all the forward commands are turned off.
[0043]
When the command to open the work passage S2 is input, while the open command is being input, the No. No. 1 moving shelf 1 is moved backward, 2 and No. When the command to move the moving shelf 1 of No. 3 forward is output, 2 and No. No. 3 on the condition that the forward end is not input from the moving shelf control unit 52 of No. 3 respectively. 2 and No. No. 3 (moving shelf 1), a forward command to the moving shelf control unit 52 is formed. 2 and No. No. 3 has been input from the moving shelf control unit 52 (No. 2 and No. 3 have both finished moving forward). No. 1 on the condition that no backward end is input from the moving shelf control unit 52 of No. 1. A backward command is issued to the moving shelf control unit 52 of the first moving shelf 1. When the open command is turned off, the forward command and the reverse command are all turned off.
[0044]
When an open command for the work passage S3 is input, while the open command is input, No. 1 and No. The moving shelf 1 of No. 2 is moved backward, When outputting a command to move the movable shelf 1 of No. 1 forward, No. 3 on the condition that the forward end is not input from the moving shelf control unit 52 of No. 3. No. 3 (moving shelf 1), a forward command to the moving shelf control unit 52 is formed. No. 3 is input from the moving shelf control unit 52 (the moving shelf 1 of No. 3 has finished moving), and 1 and No. No. 2 on the condition that the backward end is not input from the moving shelf control unit 52 of No. 2. 1 and No. A reverse command is formed for the second moving shelf control unit 52. When the open command is turned off, the forward command and the reverse command are all turned off.
[0045]
When the command to open the work passage S4 is input, when the command to move all the moving shelves 1 backward is output while the opening command is input, the end of the backward movement is not input from each of the moving shelf controllers 52. No. on condition that 1 and No. 2 and No. A backward command is issued to the third moving shelf control unit 52 (of the moving shelf 1). When the open command is turned off, all the reverse commands are turned off.
[0046]
The forward or backward command of each of the movable shelves 1 formed by the open command of each of the work passages S is combined into a forward or backward command for each of the movable shelves 1 and {ORed}, and each of the movable shelves 1 is obtained. This is output to the first moving shelf control unit 52. When the forward command is output to the moving shelf control unit 52 of each moving shelf 1, the forward command is output to the inverter 44 at the same time, and when the backward command is output to the moving shelf control unit 52 of each moving shelf 1. At the same time, a reverse command is output to inverter 44.
[0047]
FIG. 7 shows a control block diagram of the passage state detecting section 53.
The fact that the work passage S1 has been fully opened is detected by the fact that all of the approach detectors 31 in front of the respective moving shelves 1 have been operated. The approach detector 31 behind the moving shelf 1 of No. 1 operates, 2 and No. No. 3 indicates that the proximity detector 31 in front of the movable shelf 1 of the third work was operated, and that the work passage S3 was fully opened. The approach detector 31 behind the moving shelf 1 of No. 1 operates, 1 and No. No. 3 indicates that the approach detector 31 in front of the moving shelf 1 of No. 3 was operated and that the work passage S4 was fully opened. The approach detector 31 behind the moving shelf 1 of No. 1 operates, 1 and No. It is detected when the proximity detector 31 in front of the second movable shelf 1 operates. Further, while the moving shelf 1 is moving, the approach detector 31 is turned off, and thus the work path S that has been fully opened before the moving shelf 1 is moved may become unknown.
[0048]
Therefore, the fact that each work path S is fully opened is set and stored by the logical product (AND) of the detection signals of the approach detector 31, and the other work paths S are fully opened. Has been reset. The full open detection signal of each of these work passages S is output to the passage open command unit 50.
[0049]
FIG. 8 shows a control block diagram of the passage opening command section 50.
When the operation button 41 is operated by selecting a work path S necessary for handling the article, the selection information of the operation button 41 is stored, and subsequently, the operation path S corresponding to the currently opened work path S which is currently fully opened is stored. While the operation button 41 is operated, a command to open the work passage S is output to the overall control unit 51 so as to open the work passage S selected by the selection information.
[0050]
That is, when the operation path S to be opened which is necessary for the handling of articles is first selected and the operation button 41 is operated, the operation path S to be opened is not fully opened, that is, the path S is obtained by the path state detecting section 53. The RS flip-flop 58 is set and the operation signal is stored under the AND condition that the full open detection signal is OFF (the selection information is stored).
[0051]
Subsequently, when the operation button 41 corresponding to the currently opened fully opened work passage S is operated, the work passage S corresponding to the operation button 41 is opened. The output condition of the RS flip-flop 58 is output to the overall control unit 51 as an open command for the work path S to be opened, and the output signal of the RS flip-flop 58 is output to the general control unit 51. The RS flip-flop 58 forming the command to open the passage S is reset. When the working passage S to be opened is fully opened, that is, when the fully opened detection signal obtained by the passage state detecting section 53 is turned on, the RS flip-flop 58 is reset.
[0052]
For example, when the work passage S1 is opened, when the S1 operation button 41 of the work passage S1 is first operated, the work passage S1 to be opened is not fully opened, that is, the work passage S1 is obtained by the passage state detection unit 53. Under the AND condition that the S1 full-open detection signal is OFF, the RS flip-flop 58 is set, and the operation signal of the S1 operation button 41 is stored (the selection information is stored). Subsequently, assuming that the currently opened fully opened work passage S is a work passage S3, while the operation button 41 of the work passage S3 is being operated, the work passage S3 corresponding to the S3 operation button 41 is not operated. The output condition of the RS flip-flop 58 is output as an open command of the work passage S1 to be opened, assuming that the open state, that is, the S3 full-open detection signal obtained by the passage state detecting section 53 is on, as an AND condition. Is done. At this time, the RS flip-flop 58 that forms the command to open the work paths S2, S3, and S4 is reset. Further, when the work passage S1 is fully opened, the RS flip-flop 58 that forms the command to open the work passage S1 is reset.
[0053]
The operation of the above shelf equipment will be described.
Now, as shown in FIG. 1 and No. The two work shelves 1 are formed between the two movable shelves 1, and work is performed by opening the work passage S3. At this time, as shown in FIG. When the approach detector 31 behind the moving shelf 1 operates, 2 and No. When the (front) approach detector 31 of the movable shelf 1 is operated, it is detected and stored that the work passage S2 has been fully opened, and a full open detection signal of the work passage S2 is sent to the passage open command. It is output to the unit 50.
[0054]
First, the operator operates the operation button 41 of the work passage S3 to be opened to make a reservation. Then, the RS flip-flop 58 that forms the command to open the work path S3 of the path open command section 50 shown in FIG. 8 is set.
[0055]
Subsequently, the worker confirms that no one is in the work passage S2, The S2 operation button 41 of the first moving shelf 1 is operated. Then, in the passage opening command section 50 of the controller 43, since the full opening detection signal of the work passage S2 is ON, while the S2 operation button 41 is operated, the operation signal generates an opening command of the work passage S3. Is output to the overall control unit 51.
[0056]
As shown in FIG. 6, in response to the command to open the work passage S3, the overall control unit 51 first sets the front No. A forward command is output to the moving shelf control unit 52 of the third moving shelf 1 and, at the same time, a forward command is output to the inverter 44. The inverter 44 outputs (supplies power) to the motor 24 so that the motor 24 is driven forward.
[0057]
No. The moving shelf control unit 52 of No. 3 outputs a drive signal to the exciting coil 46 until the proximity detector 31 operates in response to the forward command, turns on the electromagnetic switch 45, connects the inverter 44 and the motor 24, and connects the inverter 44 and the motor 24. 3 is moved forward. When the proximity detector 31 operates, the drive signal to the exciting coil 46 is turned off, the electromagnetic switch 45 is turned off, and the inverter 44 and the motor 24 are cut off. 3 is stopped, and the end of forward movement is output to the general control algae 51. In the case of the arrangement shown in FIG. The moving shelf 1 of No. 3 does not move, and only the end of the forward movement is output to the overall control unit 51.
[0058]
The overall control unit 51 turns off the forward command when the forward is completed, thereby turning off the forward command output to the inverter 44 and stopping the output from the inverter 44.
[0059]
Subsequently, the overall control unit 51 checks the rear No. 1 and No. A backward command is output to the moving shelf control unit 52 of the second moving shelf 1, and at the same time, a backward command is output to the inverter 44. The inverter 44 outputs (supplies power) to the motor 24 so that the motor 24 is driven in the reverse direction.
[0060]
No. The first moving shelf control unit 52 outputs a drive signal to the exciting coil 46 until the rear approach detector 31 operates in response to the reverse command, turns on the electromagnetic switch 45 and connects the inverter 44 and the motor 24. No. The first moving shelf 1 is moved backward. When the rear approach detector 31 operates, the drive signal to the exciting coil 46 is turned off, the electromagnetic switch 45 is turned off, and the inverter 44 and the motor 24 are cut off. In addition to stopping the moving shelf 1, the end of reverse travel is output to the overall control unit 51. In the case of the arrangement of FIG. Since the approach detector 31 behind the moving shelf 1 of No. 1 is operating, The moving shelf 1 of No. 1 does not move, and only the end of reverse travel is output to the overall control unit 51.
[0061]
No. The moving shelf control unit 52 outputs a drive signal to the exciting coil 46 until the approach detector 31 (the approach detector 31 in front of the No. 1 moving shelf 1) operates according to the reverse command, and outputs the electromagnetic switch. No. 45 is turned on and the inverter 44 and the motor 24 are connected to each other. The second moving shelf 1 is moved backward. When the proximity detector 31 operates, the drive signal to the exciting coil 46 is turned off, the electromagnetic switch 45 is turned off, and the inverter 44 and the motor 24 are cut off. The second moving shelf 1 is stopped, and the end of reverse travel is output to the overall control unit 51.
[0062]
The overall control unit 51 turns off the respective reverse commands at the end of the reverse, thereby turning off the reverse commands output to the inverter 44 and stopping the output from the inverter 44.
[0063]
By the above-described operation, when the S2 operation button 41 is operated, the movable shelf 1 starts to move for the first time. The moving shelf 1 of No. 3 is advanced (moved to one side). No. 1 moving shelf 1 and No. 1 The two movable shelves 1 are moved backward and moved to the other side to form a work passage S3. In this manner, the one group of movable shelves is moved, and after the movement of the one group of movable shelves is completed, the one group of movable shelves in the other direction is moved to form the work passage S.
[0064]
Only while the operation button 41 of the currently opened work path S is being operated, the moving shelf 1 forming the work path S in which the target selection information is stored and the moving direction thereof are determined. When the forward command or the reverse command for moving the movable shelf 1 according to the moved movable shelf 1 and its moving direction is output, and the operation of the operation button 41 of the work path S that is currently open is stopped, at that time, The forward command or the reverse command is turned off, and the movement of each movable shelf 1 is stopped. Therefore, for example, the S2 operation button 41 is operated as described above, and If the operation of the S2 operation button 41 is stopped while the moving shelf 1 of No. 2 is moving backward (moving), the No. 2 is moved. The movement of the moving shelf 1 of No. 2 is stopped, and as shown in FIG. Passages S2 'and S3' are formed in front and rear of the two movable shelves 1, respectively (two passages are formed).
[0065]
Further, when the moving shelf 1 being moved is stopped halfway, the work path S necessary for handling the article is selected again, for example, the work path S3 is selected, and the operation button 41 of the work path S3 is pressed. When the operation button 41 of the work passage S that has been fully opened the last time, for example, the work passage S2 is operated, the work passage S3 necessary for handling articles is formed. At this time, in the passage state detecting unit 53 of the controller 43, the RS flip-flop 57 indicating that the work passage S2 has been fully opened is not reset while the movable shelf 1 is moving, so that the work passage S2 is fully opened. This fact is stored as it is, and a full opening detection signal of the work passage S2 is output to the passage opening command unit 50.
[0066]
As described above, according to the first embodiment, first, the operation button 41 of the work passage S to be opened for handling articles is selected and operated, that is, selection information is formed and reserved, and then When the operation button 41 corresponding to the currently opened work path S is operated, the movable shelf 1 starts to open the work path S reserved in the selection information only after the operation button 41 is operated. While the operation button 41 (the operation button 41 corresponding to the currently opened work passage S) is operated, the movable shelf 1 is moved so as to open the work passage S reserved in the selection information. At this time, the worker is observing the process in which the currently opened work passage S is closed, so that another worker is prevented from entering the closed work passage S. Safety can be ensured. In addition, since the necessary work passage S is formed only by operating the operation button 41 twice, the operation is simplified as compared with the related art, and one operation button 41 is provided for each work passage S. The configuration can be simplified and the cost can be reduced as compared with the related art.
[0067]
Further, according to the first embodiment, when the moving shelf 1 that is being moved is stopped halfway, the work path S required for handling the article is selected again, and the operation button 41 is operated. When the operation button 41 corresponding to the opened work passage S is operated, the work passage S required for handling the article is formed, and the work shelf S required for the movable shelf 1 is formed. Even if the operation is stopped at an incomplete position, the necessary operation path S can be formed by operating the operation button 41 again.
[0068]
Further, according to the first embodiment, when one inverter 44 is driven, the motor 24 of each movable shelf 1 is driven forward / reverse to move the movable shelf 1, so that the number of movable shelves 1 is reduced. Even if the number increases, only one inverter 44 and one controller 43 are required, and the cost can be reduced.
[0069]
Further, according to the first embodiment, the moving shelf 1 to be moved according to the work path S to be opened and the moving direction thereof are determined, the inverter 44 is controlled by the determined moving direction, and the moving shelf 1 is further determined. By controlling the electromagnetic switch 45 to establish a connection between the inverter 44 and the motor 24, the movable shelf 1 can be selected and moved according to the work path S to be opened.
[0070]
Further, according to the first embodiment, the moving shelf 1 is moved only while the operating button 41 is operated, so that the operation of the operating button 41 is stopped halfway to stop the movement of the moving shelf 1. Thus, two or three passages (for example, passages S2 'and S3' shown in FIG. 9B) into which an operator can enter arbitrarily can be formed. [Embodiment 2]
FIG. 10 is a front view of shelf equipment according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
[0071]
In the first embodiment, the movable shelf 1 is manually moved only while the operation button 41 corresponding to the currently opened work passage S is operated, but in the second embodiment, the operation button 41 is When operated, the movable shelf 1 is automatically moved without operating the operation button 41.
[0072]
At this time, as shown in FIG. 10, a stop button 61 composed of a momentary stop push button switch is provided as stop operation means to be operated when stopping movement of the movable shelf 1 in combination with each operation button 41. An intrusion sensor 65 composed of a transmissive photoelectric switch having an optical axis k arranged at the entrance side along each work passage S facing the fixed shelf 5 of the above. The movement of the shelves 1 can be stopped, the moving shelves 1 can be stopped arbitrarily, and when the intrusion sensor 65 operates, the movements 1 of the moving shelves are stopped, so that safety can be achieved (for other moving shelves 1). The configuration is the same as in the first embodiment).
[0073]
At this time, as shown in FIG. 11, a second RS flip-flop 62 which is set by an output signal of an RS flip-flop 58 for forming an opening command of each passage is provided in the passage opening command unit 50, and the second RS flip-flop 62 is provided. The output signal of the RS flip-flop 62 is output as an open command. The second RS flip-flop 62 is reset when the operation signal of the stop button 61, the detection signal of the intrusion sensor 65, or the work path S for the opening command is fully opened. Thereby, when the operation button 41 corresponding to the currently opened work passage S is operated, the second RS flip-flop 62 is set, and even if the operation signal of the operation button 41 is lost (the operation is continuously performed). However, the command to open the passage is output continuously, and the movable shelf 1 moves automatically. Further, when the stop button 61 is operated, or when the intrusion sensor 65 is operated, or when the intrusion sensor 65 is fully opened, the second RS flip-flop 62 is reset, the open command is turned off, and the movable shelf 1 stops. Each moving shelf 1 is provided with a passage hole for passing the optical axis k. Further, when the operation button 11 and the stop button 61 are simultaneously operated, the moving shelf 1 can be automatically moved.
[0074]
Thus, also in the second embodiment, when the movable shelf 1 is moved so as to automatically open the work path S for which the selection information is reserved, the currently opened work path S is closed. This means that the worker is observing the process, and it is possible to prevent other workers from entering the closed work passage S, thereby ensuring safety. In addition, since the necessary work passage S is formed only by operating the operation button 41 twice, the operation is simplified as compared with the related art, and one operation button 41 is provided for each work passage S. The configuration can be simplified and the cost can be reduced as compared with the related art.
[0075]
In the first and second embodiments, all the movable shelves 1 are set as one group, and only one inverter 44 is installed in the entire movable shelves 1. However, when the number of the movable shelves 1 increases, 1 It is difficult to move one group of movable shelves on one side by one inverter 44 at the same time. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, a group may be formed for each of a plurality of (two shelves in the figure) moving shelves 1, and the inverter 44 may be provided on one of the moving shelves 1 in each group. At this time, AC power is supplied from the control panel 32 to the movable shelf 1 provided with the inverter 44 via the breaker 33, so that the inverter 44 can supply power to the motor 24 of the movable shelf 1 in the group. 1 is provided with an electromagnetic switch 45 for switching the connection between the inverter 44 and the motor 24 between a connected state and a disconnected state, and an exciting coil 46 of the electromagnetic switch 45, and the movable shelf 1 for moving in accordance with the work path S opened by the controller 43. The moving direction is determined, the inverter 44 of each group is controlled based on the determined moving shelf 1 and the moving direction, the excitation coil 46 of the determined moving shelf 1 is driven and the electromagnetic switch 45 is driven, and the inverter 44 and the motor are controlled. The movable shelf 1 is moved by setting the connection between the 24 units. Even with this configuration, even if the number of movable shelves 1 increases, only one inverter 44 is required for each group, so that the number of inverters 44 can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced.
[0076]
In the first and second embodiments, the rail type moving shelf 1 is shown. However, as shown in FIG. 13, a guide / railless type rail guided by a guide rail 71 laid on the floor surface 2. The moving shelf 1 may be used. In the shelf equipment provided with the guide / railless type movable shelf 1, an article storage section 14 is formed on each of the movable shelf 1 and the fixed shelf 5 by a column 11 and a shelf plate 12, respectively. An outer panel 72 that covers the front surface and a ceiling panel 73 that covers the ceiling of the plurality of article storage units 14 are provided. In the rear fixed shelf 5, the control panel 32 is disposed on the ceiling plate 73. In place of the power supply / signal cable 49, a horizontal cable arm 74 is provided between the fixed shelf 5 and the movable shelf 1, and between the movable shelf 1.
[0077]
In the first and second embodiments, assuming that the article storage unit 14 is installed in a warehouse where articles are handled by a cargo handling vehicle such as a forklift, the loading and storage of pallets and box containers on which articles are placed is performed. As shown in FIG. 13, it is also possible to adopt a form in which articles are directly placed and stored, assuming that the articles are installed in an office, as shown in FIG.
[0078]
Further, in the first and second embodiments, the article storage unit 14 is formed vertically and horizontally by the pillar 11 and the shelf 12, but the article storage unit 14 may be of a type other than the above type. For example, a form having only one-stage article storage section 14 or a form having an open top may be used.
[0079]
In the first and second embodiments, the photoelectric switch is used as the approach detector 31. However, the approach detector 31 is not limited to the photoelectric switch, and any device that can detect the approach of the movable shelf 1 or the fixed shelf 5 may be used. For example, a magnetic sensor or the like may be used. When a magnetic sensor is used, a magnet or the like that generates a magnetic force is mounted on the surface of the movable shelf 1 or the fixed shelf 5 facing the magnetic sensor.
[0080]
In the first and second embodiments, the operation button 41 is provided as an operation means. However, a reception device of a remote transmission device (remote control, radio control, or the like) is provided together with the operation button 41, and a transmission signal from the remote transmission device is transmitted. Is received by the receiving device, the same operation signal as that of the operation button 41 can be input. At this time, the work path S to be opened is set and reserved by the remote transmission device, and when closing the currently opened work path S, the operation button 41 is operated to ensure safety. In addition, infrared, ultrasonic, and radio waves can be used as a medium for transmitting a signal from the remote transmission device.
[0081]
In the first and second embodiments, the mounting position on the movable shelf 1 is shifted toward the work path S so that the work path S for operating and selecting the operation button 41 can be recognized. However, if the operation button 41 for forming which work passage is formed is displayed so as to be understood, for example, if a plate or the like is attached, it may be provided at the center of the movable shelf 1.
[0082]
Further, in the first and second embodiments, the type of the traveling wheel 20 is shown as the traveling support device, but this may be a caterpillar type (roller chain type) or the like.
[0083]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, the operating means of the work passage required for handling articles is operated, and the operating means corresponding to the currently opened work passage is operated, or the operating means is operated. When the movable shelf is moved to form the necessary work passage, the worker is visually observing the process of closing the currently open work passage, Can be prevented from entering the closed work passage and safety can be ensured.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of shelf equipment according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a plan view of the shelf equipment.
FIG. 3 is a circuit configuration diagram of the shelf equipment.
FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of a controller of the shelf equipment.
FIG. 5 is a control block diagram of a moving shelf control unit of a controller of the shelf equipment.
FIG. 6 is a control block diagram of an integrated control unit of a controller of the shelf equipment.
FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a passage state detector of a controller of the shelf equipment.
FIG. 8 is a control block diagram of a passage opening command unit of a controller of the shelf equipment.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory view of the shelf facility when a work passage is opened.
FIG. 10 is a front view of shelf equipment according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a control block diagram of a passage opening command section of a controller of the shelf equipment.
FIG. 12 is a circuit configuration diagram of shelf equipment according to another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of shelf equipment according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Moving shelf
2 floor
3 running rail
5 fixed shelves
13 goods storage
18 Lower frame
20 running wheels
24 motor
31 Approach detector
32 control panel
41 Operation buttons
43 Controller
44 Inverter
45 electromagnetic switch
46 Excitation coil
61 Stop button
65 Intrusion sensor
A Front-back direction
B left and right direction
i travel route

Claims (4)

A plurality of movable shelves that can reciprocate on a traveling route via a traveling support device are provided, and a shelf facility for handling articles on the movable shelves using a work passage opened between the movable shelves. So,
Operating means for selecting the working passage to be opened corresponding to the working passage, and operating the traveling of the movable shelf,
When the operation means is operated by selecting a work path required for handling the article, the selection information of the operation means is stored, and then the operation means corresponding to the currently opened work path is operated. Alternatively, when the operating means is operated, the moving shelf is moved so as to open a work passage selected by the selection information. When moving the moving shelf so as to open the work passage selected by the selection information, or while moving, when the movement of the moving shelf is stopped,
Once again, the operating path required for handling the article is selected and the operating means is operated, and subsequently the operating means corresponding to the currently opened working path is operated, so that the operating path required for handling the article is operated. The shelf facility according to claim 1, wherein a work passage is opened. Each of the movable shelves is provided with a traveling drive unit that drives the traveling support device to travel the movable shelf,
A group consisting of a plurality of the moving shelves or all the moving shelves is provided, and each group is provided with a drive control means for moving the moving shelves by driving the traveling driving means of each moving shelves in the group in the forward and reverse directions. The shelf facility according to claim 1 or 2, wherein Each of the moving shelves is provided with switching means for switching between the drive control means and the traveling drive means between a connected state and a disconnected state,
Determining the moving shelf to be moved according to the work path selected by the selection information and the moving direction thereof, controlling the drive control means based on the determined moving direction, and further determining the switching means of the moving shelf determined The shelf equipment according to claim 3, wherein the movable shelf is moved by controlling the drive control means and the traveling drive means to establish a connection state.

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