Tugger cart system with automated lifting and steering
US12221181B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 19, 2022 |
| Grant date | Feb 11, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 3, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62B5/0069
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tugger cart system used in an industrial setting, including a tugger cart and a controller. The tugger cart includes a tugger frame, a bay that is dimensioned to receive a rider cart, a platform configured to secure a rider cart within the bay, and at least one motor that pivots a plurality of wheels from side to side to steer the plurality of wheels. The tugger frame further includes a connector bracket that pivots from side to side along a vertical axis. The connector bracket is configured to attach the tugger frame to an adjacent tugger cart or tugger truck. A sensor system senses a degree that the connector bracket is pivoted relative to the tugger frame and generates an electronic signal. The controller receives the electronic signal from the sensor system and controls the motor to steer the plurality of wheels based on the electronic signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.