Multi Tier Transfer Car

The machine has two roller beds for carrying two batteries whilst operating its battery changing functions. The batteries are moved East-West by attaching a magnet and pulling or pushing. The machine moves in a dedicated aisle, which is a pedestrian “No Go” area. The machine raises to a second, or third (for three tier car) level for the top row of batteries. The machine accesses batteries on both sides of the aisle on all levels. This machine has a lifting capacity of 3000 kilogram’s.

Power

The power supply is through a power rail system and is 440/380 volts three phase, this part of the supply is protected with an R. C. D. (residual current detector) and a circuit breaker. The supply feeds the main hydraulic pump motor, which is 5 kilowatts. The various speeds of the car are controlled by an inverter, which in turn controls the speed of the hydraulic pump. This is housed in an enclosure at the opposite end of the machine to the operator. The power supply at the operating end of the machine is all 24 volts, which is transformed from the above supply.

Machine Operation

The machine is operated by depressing a selection of buttons to select which movement is required and then moving a joystick which proportionally actions the selected mode. All controls from the dashboard are routed through a P. L. C. (Programmable Logic Controller), which sends a signal to the selected hydraulic valve. All movements are proportional. The operator must have both hands on the selected controls to make the machine function at all times, which is an important safety feature.

Hydraulic Functions

The hydraulic pump runs at 60 bar and feeds hydraulic motors, which are the method of movement via sprockets and chains. The lift is by four rams, which the oil distributed to them, is by a four-way flow divider. The lifting platform is kept level during movement “Up and Down”, by a system of rack and pinions. When the platform is at rest, it is locked off by hydraulic valves. The platform raises to a maximum height of 1,400mm (2,900mm for three tier car).

Aisle Guidance

The machine is guided in the aisle by guide wheels located on the side of the machine, which locate over a guide rail, which is bolted to the floor and has “Stops” fitted at each end of the rail.

Battery Extraction

The batteries are extracted by attaching a magnet and pulling, i.e. battery onto the machine with photo cells ensuring that the batteries are correctly placed over the braking system. The magnet head can be circumnavigated around the battery to discharge either side of the aisle.