초록 ▼

An automated latching and release system is adapted for use with carts of the type configured for materials handling and a vehicle such as a semi-truck trailer used to transport such carts. A latching mechanism includes a latch member which physically engages with a cart so as to retain the cart in

An automated latching and release system is adapted for use with carts of the type configured for materials handling and a vehicle such as a semi-truck trailer used to transport such carts. A latching mechanism includes a latch member which physically engages with a cart so as to retain the cart in a transport position, and one or more switches physically remote from the latching mechanism, enabling an operator to release a cart without having to manipulate the latch member directly. The latching mechanism is preferably located within the forward section of the transport vehicle to make a coupling engagement with the forwardmost cart of a joined train of carts. With at least one of the switches positioned proximate to the rearward section of the transport vehicle, a user may disengage the set of carts from the latching mechanism and remove the set of carts through the rearward section of the vehicle without having to visit the forward section of the transport vehicle. In alternative embodiments, the latching mechanism may be electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically controlled by the switch.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] An automated latching and release system adapted for use with a train of interconnected wheeled carts of the type configured for materials handling and a vehicle having a cart-carrying area with a fore section and an aft section for cart loading and unloading, the vehicle further ha

[ I claim:] [1.] An automated latching and release system adapted for use with a train of interconnected wheeled carts of the type configured for materials handling and a vehicle having a cart-carrying area with a fore section and an aft section for cart loading and unloading, the vehicle further having a floor and a front wall, the system comprising:a latching mechanism mounted in the fore section of the vehicle adjacent the front wall, said mechanism including a latch member which has a first position in wherein the member physically engages with a forwardmost cart so as to retain them forwardmost cart in a transport position and a second position wherein the member physically disengages from the forwardmost cart so as to release the forwardmost cart from the transport position, the latching mechanism operable to move the member between the first and second positions; anda switch operable to control said latching mechanism to move the latch member from the first position to the second position to release the forwardmost cart from the transport position so that it may be unloaded from the vehicle,the switch being disposed in the aft section of the vehicle, physically remote from the latching mechanism, thereby enabling a user to release the forwardmost cart without having to manipulate the latch member directly.