Pallet base, intermediate bulk container, method for assembling an intermediate bulk container, skid and deck structure

Abstract

Pallet base (8), in particular a pallet base (8) of an Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) (1), preferably an IBC container with cage, comprising: - a deck structure (20, 20', 20"). with a top (28) and a bottom (29), wherein the top defines a loading platform (27) adapted to support an IBC container (3); - at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21") extending from the underside (29); wherein at least one skid structure (10) is provided, wherein the at least one skid structure (10) is configured to engage with the at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21"), preferably using a snap mechanism (13), characterized in that the at least one skid structure (10) has a tapered shape over its entire length with a skid top (15) and a skid bottom (16), wherein the skid top (15) is narrower than the skid bottom (16) and wherein the engagement area (11) is arranged on the skid top (15), wherein the engagement area (11) projects beyond an edge of the skid top (15) and is narrower than a width (W2) of the skid bottom (16).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a pallet base, an intermediate bulk container, a method for assembling an intermediate bulk container, a skid structure and a deck structure.

[0002] Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are reusable, multi-purpose containers configured for the transport and storage of liquids, semi-solids, pastes, or solids. There are many different types of IBCs. One of the most commonly used IBCs is the caged IBC.

[0003] An IBC container with a cage comprises a pallet base, a cage, and the container itself. The container is typically positioned on the pallet base and surrounded by the cage to hold it in place and provide structural support. The container is often manufactured from high-density polyethylene using thermoplastic blow molding. It usually has a top inlet opening used for filling and a bottom outlet opening for emptying. The use of a rigid cage allows for stacking containers. Furthermore, the cage is firmly attached to the base, ensuring the container remains securely in place. The cage can be constructed from a steel frame, such as galvanized steel, or another rigid material.

[0004] The pallet base is usually made from various materials, such as wood, plastic, steel, or any other material strong enough to support the filled container as well as other containers stacked on top of it.

[0005] The pallet base and cage are designed so that the bottom of the pallet base engages with the cage, preventing lateral movement of two stacked IBCs. The pallet base is typically designed to allow a forklift to lift the IBC.

[0006] One problem with IBCs is the transport of unused IBCs. Before using an IBC, the individual parts must be transported and assembled. The transport of the pallet base, in particular, requires a lot of space.

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to make the transport of IBC container components more efficient. In particular, it is an object of the invention to reduce the space required for transporting multiple pallet bases. Furthermore, it is a particular object of the invention to reduce transport costs and to enable the simple assembly of an IBC container.

[0008] The problem is solved by a pallet base according to claim 1, an intermediate bulk container according to claim 17, a method for assembling an intermediate bulk container according to claim 18, a skid structure according to claim 19 and a deck structure according to claim 20.

[0009] The problem is solved in particular by a pallet base, especially a pallet base of an Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC), preferably an IBC container with a cage, comprising: - a deck structure with a top and a bottom, the top defining a loading platform adapted to support an IBC container; - at least one foot structure extending from the underside; wherein at least one skid structure is provided which is configured to engage with the at least one foot structure, preferably using a snap mechanism.

[0010] A key aspect of the invention is that the at least one runner structure is located away from the pallet base. This allows the deck structures to be stacked on top of each other, simplifying transport. The at least one runner structure is thus separated from the deck structure and does not impede efficient stacking. Furthermore, this facilitates a later decision regarding the precise pallet base to be assembled, as runner structures of different types and / or thicknesses can be attached to the deck / base structure. Once the pallet base reaches its destination, the at least one runner structure can be mounted and connected to the deck structure. The connection between the at least one runner structure and the deck structure can be either detachable or fixed.

[0011] Furthermore, the modular design of the pallet base allows the use of skid structures of varying sizes, widths, and / or thicknesses. For example, in one embodiment, at least one skid structure can be provided with a first width and / or a first height / thickness. This first skid structure can thus be associated with a pallet base for low loads. At least one second skid structure can be provided with a second width and / or a second height / thickness. This second skid structure can thus be associated with a pallet base for high loads. The first width and / or height / thickness can be smaller than the second width and / or height.

[0012] In one embodiment, the at least one foot structure can be designed as an at least substantially hollow structure, so that a second foot structure of a second pallet base can be stacked on the pallet base and can engage with the at least one foot structure, wherein the at least one foot structure can in particular be shaped to taper away from the bottom surface.

[0013] In one embodiment, the at least one foot structure defines an opening in the top structure, so that a second foot structure of a second pallet base can be inserted into the at least one foot structure.

[0014] Highly efficient stacking can be achieved if at least one base structure interlocks with different top structures. Such a design significantly reduces the space required for transport.

[0015] In one embodiment, the at least one foot structure and the deck structure are manufactured in an integral construction.

[0016] It is possible to manufacture the base and deck structures as a single, integral unit, for example, using plastic, particularly polyethylene. This allows for an efficient manufacturing process and also provides the necessary stability. For highly demanding applications, an integral metal construction is also conceivable. Furthermore, an integral construction offers very high durability and has the advantage of requiring no further assembly.

[0017] In one embodiment, the at least one skid structure can define at least one engagement area on the upper surface of the skid, wherein the at least one engagement area can be designed to at least partially touch the at least one foot structure.

[0018] By creating at least one engagement area, the connection between the at least one foot structure and the deck structure can be centralized in a specific area. This simplifies the connection between the at least one runner structure and the deck structure.

[0019] In one embodiment, the at least one skid structure can have at least one hook that protrudes from the upper surface of the skid, in particular in the at least one engagement area, wherein the hook is designed to engage with a projection on the at least one foot structure, in particular on the inside of the at least one foot structure.

[0020] The use of a hook enables a snap-fit ​​connection between the at least one runner structure and the deck structure. This type of connection is secure and easy to assemble. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the connection can be released after assembly, allowing for easy disassembly of the pallet base. Should the at least one runner structure or the deck structure break, the corresponding parts can also be easily replaced. The hook can, of course, also be used in an embodiment with a fixed connection between the at least one runner structure and the deck structure.

[0021] In one embodiment, the at least one engagement area comprises at least one retaining wall designed to prevent lateral movement of the at least one skid structure relative to the at least one foot structure.

[0022] The at least one retaining wall ensures a better fit and facilitates easy assembly. In particular, in one embodiment, the at least one retaining wall can serve as a guide, ensuring that the at least one skid structure engages with the deck structure as intended. Furthermore, the retaining wall provides lateral stability by preventing lateral movement.

[0023] In one embodiment, the pallet base can have a drainage hole arranged in the engagement area, in particular a through hole through the at least one skid structure.

[0024] Particularly when the at least one base structure consists of a hollow structure, it is advantageous to have a drainage hole. Since the at least one skid structure, and especially its engagement area, can lock / seal the base of the at least one foot structure, a drainage hole provides a way to drain rainwater.

[0025] In one embodiment, the at least one skid structure can have a tapered shape with a skid top and a skid bottom, wherein the skid top can be narrower than the skid bottom.

[0026] A tapered shape on the at least one skid structure allows for improved handling of the pallet base, for example, with a forklift. The tapered structure enables the forklift forks to lift the pallet base without the risk of it tipping over. For this purpose, the at least one skid structure preferably has a thickness greater than 5 cm. Standard forklift forks can have a thickness of 5 cm. Consequently, the greater thickness of the at least one skid structure, combined with the tapered shape, ensures that the forklift forks are "enclosed" by the skid structure when lifting the pallet base.

[0027] In one embodiment, the engagement area can be arranged on the upper surface of the runner, wherein the engagement area can extend beyond an edge of the upper surface of the runner and is designed to be narrower than the width of the underside of the runner.

[0028] The aforementioned embodiment has the advantage that the engagement area can serve as a guide for the forks of a forklift truck, thus preventing lateral movement.

[0029] In one embodiment, the pallet base may comprise at least one reinforcement structure arranged on, in and / or under the deck structure, preferably extending over at least 60% of the width of the deck structure.

[0030] A reinforcement structure allows the pallet base to be prepared for heavy loads. In this way, it becomes possible to convert a pallet base from one designed for low or normal loads into one capable of bearing significant weight.

[0031] In one embodiment, the deck structure can have at least one, preferably two, reinforcement recesses formed within the deck structure, which are designed to accommodate one or more of the reinforcement structures.

[0032] In one embodiment, the reinforcing structure can be a metal rod. In another embodiment, the cover structure can have an opening on one side surface, allowing the reinforcing structure to be inserted into the opening.

[0033] In one embodiment, the deck structure comprises a plurality of ribs forming a grid along the top and bottom surfaces, the grid comprising a plurality of through holes from the top to the bottom surface.

[0034] Using a grid for the deck structure has the advantage of making the entire structure lightweight. Furthermore, the structure is very stable and allows liquid to flow through it.

[0035] In one embodiment, the deck structure can have a plurality of cage connection areas designed for attachment to a cage, in particular a plurality of threads for screws arranged on an outer edge of the deck structure.

[0036] A cage capable of holding a container capable of holding liquids or any other goods to be transported can be attached to the top of the deck structure. The cage thus provides a way to secure the container to the deck structure. Furthermore, the cage allows for the stacking of multiple containers on top of each other.

[0037] In one embodiment, the at least one skid structure can run essentially straight and parallel to the underside of the deck structure when it engages with the at least one foot structure.

[0038] In one embodiment, a plurality of foot structures together with the respective skid structures can form at least three rows of skids on the underside of the deck structure, the rows being spaced apart in such a way that a fork, e.g. of a forklift or a pallet truck, can be inserted between the rows and lift the pallet base.

[0039] With three rows, a forklift can easily lift the pallet base. Further embodiments of the invention allow for more or fewer rows.

[0040] The object of the invention is further achieved in particular by an intermediate bulk container, especially an IBC container with a cage, comprising: - a pallet base as defined in one of the preceding embodiments; - a cage; - a container, wherein the container is arranged inside the cage and the cage is connected to the pallet base.

[0041] The object of the invention is further achieved in particular by a method for assembling an intermediate bulk container, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - Attaching at least one skid structure of a pallet base to a deck structure, in particular a skid structure and / or a deck structure of a pallet base of one of the preceding embodiments; - Arranging a cage on the deck structure; - Connecting the cage to the deck structure; - Placing a container on a loading platform of the deck structure inside the container.

[0042] The steps of the above procedure can be carried out in any order. In particular, it is intended that the attachment of the at least one skid structure can be carried out as the first or as the last step of the procedure.

[0043] In one embodiment, the connection can be made by inserting screws into threads in the deck structure.

[0044] The object of the invention is furthermore achieved in particular by a skid structure of the pallet base according to one of the preceding embodiments.

[0045] The object of the invention is furthermore achieved in particular by a deck structure of the pallet base according to one of the preceding embodiments.

[0046] Further embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0047] In the following, embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the figures of which show: Fig. 1a: an oblique view of an IBC container with cage; Fig. 1b: a side view of an IBC container with cage; Fig. 2: a diagonal view of a skid structure; Fig. 3: Cross-section through a skid structure; Fig. 4: Side view of a deck structure; Fig. 5: Diagonal view of a deck structure; Fig. 6: an example of stacking a variety of deck structures; Fig. 7: a flowchart of an assembly process; and Fig. 8: Exploded view of an IBC container with cage.

[0048] In the following, the same reference numbers refer to corresponding parts.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1 shows an oblique view of an IBC container with cage 1, wherein the IBC container with cage comprises a cage 2, a container 3, a deck structure 20 and a plurality of skid structures 10.

[0050] The container 3 is arranged within the cage 2 and includes an upper port 4 through which liquid or powder can be poured into the container 3. Furthermore, the container 3 includes a lower port 5 which can be used to drain the contents of the container 3. The lower port 5 is located at least substantially midway between two side walls of the container and is accessible through the cage 2. The lower port 5 may also include a handle for opening a valve to drain the contents of the container 3. In the present embodiment, the container 3 is made of plastic, in particular polyethylene.

[0051] Cage 2 is made of metal and is designed to support the structure of container 2. In particular, cage 2 prevents container 3 from extending beyond cage 2. Furthermore, cage 2 allows multiple IBC containers 1 to be stacked on top of each other by ensuring the necessary rigidity and stability, even when container 3 is empty. In the area of ​​the lower connection 5 of container 3, cage 2 has a recess in its metal frame to allow the passage and, if necessary, the attachment of a hose to the lower connection 5. This means that cage 2 is oriented and fits container 3 only in a predefined manner. Specifically, if the lower connection 5 protrudes beyond the perimeter of cage 2, container 3 must be placed on a deck structure 20 before cage 2 is installed.

[0052] The IBC container 1 further comprises the deck structure 20 with a top that defines a loading area 27 (see Fig. 5) Container 3 is positioned so that it rests on the loading platform 27. A plurality of skid structures 10 are arranged below the deck structure 20. The skid structures 10 are therefore the structures on which the IBC container 1 rests when it is placed on the ground.

[0053] Fig. Figure 1b shows a side view of IBC container 1 as shown in Fig. 1a shown. Fig. Figure 1b shows that a pallet base 8 comprises a deck structure 20 and at least one skid structure 10. As shown in Figure 1b, Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1b, the deck structure 20 comprises a plurality of foot structures 21 that extend from an underside of the deck structure 20 and are connected to the skid structures 10. The skid structures 10 are detachably connected to the foot structure 21.

[0054] Fig. Figure 2 shows a detailed view of an embodiment of a skid structure 10. The skid structure 10 comprises three engagement areas 11, each engagement area 11 including a plurality of retaining walls 12, 12'. The retaining walls 12, 12' are arranged around the outer edges of the engagement area 11. Each engagement area 11 is configured to engage with a foot structure 21 of the deck structure 20. As a result, the retaining walls 12, 12' prevent lateral movement of the skid structure 10 relative to the deck structure 20.

[0055] Fig. Figure 3 shows a cross-section of a skid structure 10 and details of the proposed engagement mechanism. The skid structure 10 of the Fig. 3 has a generally tapered shape with a bottom surface 16 and a top surface 15. The bottom surface 16 has a lower width W2, and the top surface 15 has a width W1. The lower width W2 is greater than the upper width W1, so the shape tapers. Preferably, the ratio between the upper width W1 and the lower width W2 is 2 / 3. The top surface 15 and the bottom surface 16 are spaced apart by a height H, which can vary depending on the load requirements. However, the height H can be chosen to be greater than the height of a forklift fork, e.g., greater than 5 cm. This ensures that the fork engages above the bottom surface; for example, two parallel skid structures 10 enclose the fork.

[0056] The tapered shape of the skid structure 10 has the advantage that the forks of a forklift can engage in the skid structure 10, thus securely holding the IBC container 1. To achieve this secure fit, the skid structure 10 further comprises two retaining walls 12, 12', each having an outer guide surface 17 against which the forks of a forklift can make contact. In one embodiment, the height of the retaining wall 12, 12' can be greater than 5 cm, i.e., greater than the height of a forklift fork. Thus, the tapered shape of the skid structure 10 prevents the IBC container 1 from tipping over when lifted by a forklift. This effectively prevents the IBC container 1 from falling off the forklift.

[0057] To detachably connect the runner structure 10 to a foot structure 21 of the deck structure 20, the runner structure 10 comprises at least two hooks 13 extending from the top 15 of the runner structure 10. Each hook 13 is designed to engage in a corresponding projection of the foot structure 21. Thus, the at least one runner structure 10 is connected to the corresponding at least one foot structure 21 of the deck structure 20 by a snap mechanism.

[0058] Furthermore, the skid structure 10 includes a drainage hole 14, which is designed as a through-hole along the height of the skid structure 10. The drainage hole 14 is advantageous because the upper surface 15 of the skid structure 10 seals the underside of a corresponding foot structure 21 when the two are connected. Without the drainage hole 15, rainwater could fill the foot structure 21 of the deck structure 20, leading to material deterioration in the long term.

[0059] Fig. Figure 4 illustrates a side view of a deck structure 20. The deck structure 20 comprises a plurality of threads 23 on its top surface 28, arranged around the outer circumference of the top surface 28 of the deck structure 20. These threads 23 can be used to connect a cage 2 to the deck structure 20. In this way, the cage 2 is firmly connected to the deck structure 20.

[0060] To securely fasten a container 3 to the deck structure 20, the deck structure 20 includes a boundary wall 22 around the perimeter of the top surface 28 of the deck structure 20. The boundary wall 22 can be shaped with an increasing slope from the center of the top surface 28 to an edge of the top surface 28 of the deck structure 20. In particular, the boundary wall 22 can be shaped to match the shape of a container 3 that can be stacked on the top surface 28 of the deck structure 20. This holds the container in place and prevents lateral movement of the container when no cage 2 is attached to the deck structure 20.

[0061] Fig. Figure 4 further illustrates that the deck structure 20 can comprise three foot structures 21, 21', 21" which extend from a bottom surface 29 and can engage with a skid structure 10. Consequently, the food structures 21, 21', 21" form a row. For the deck structure 20 shown, it is provided that a total of three rows of food structures 21, 21', 21" are part of the deck structure 20.

[0062] Each foot structure 21, 21', 21" is designed to engage with a skid structure 10. For this purpose, a foot structure 21" comprises at least one guide area 24, 24' on an outer surface of the foot structure, wherein the outer surface is arranged, in particular, at least substantially perpendicular to a floor plane. In the example shown, a foot structure 21" comprises two guide areas 24, 24". The guide areas 24, 24' are designed to engage with a corresponding skid structure 10. Preferably, the guide areas 24, 24' are designed as recesses whose shape corresponds to the retaining walls 12, 12' of a skid structure 10. Thus, the retaining walls 12, 12' can fit into the guide areas 24, 24' and thereby guide the skid structure 10 when it is attached to the deck structure 20.

[0063] The deck structure 20 of the Fig. 4 further comprises a reinforcing structure 40, which is arranged within the deck structure 20. For this purpose, the deck structure 20 has a reinforcing opening 42 through which the reinforcing structure 40 can be inserted. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing structure 40 is designed as a metal rod.

[0064] Fig. Figure 5 shows a deck structure 20 in a diagonal view. As seen from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the deck structure 20 comprises three rows of foot structures 21 – the rows are indicated by the arrows shown, with each row comprising three foot structures 21. A skid structure 10 is attached to the deck structure 20 above each row of foot structures 21.

[0065] The deck structure 20 further defines a loading area 27, which is defined on the upper surface 28 of the deck structure 20. In the embodiment shown, the loading area 27 is a solid surface that covers the upper surface of the deck structure 20. In other embodiments, however, the loading area 27 can also consist of a grid structure. As can be seen, the loading area 27 defines openings 25 in respective foot structures 21. In addition, the loading area 27 has a recess in the engagement area of ​​the lower connection 26. The engagement area of ​​the lower connection 26 is designed to receive a lower connection 5 of a container 3. Furthermore, a foot structure 21 is arranged below the engagement area of ​​the lower connection 26.

[0066] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 5 Two reinforcing structures 40, 40', each reinforcing structure 40, 40' being arranged in a corresponding reinforcing recess 41, 41' within the deck structure 20. The reinforcing structure 40, 40' is used to further stiffen the deck structure 20. Therefore, by incorporating reinforcing structures 40, 40', the deck structure 20 can be modified to bear a higher load of goods. A reinforcing structure 40, 40' can be designed as a metal or steel rod. In particular, a reinforcing structure 40, 40' can be manufactured as an elongated rod. To easily integrate the reinforcement structure 40, 40' into the deck structure 20, a reinforcement opening 42, 42' can be provided in the deck structure 20 through which the reinforcement structure 41, 41' can be inserted into a reinforcement recess 41, 41' of the deck structure 20.Various reinforcement structures 40, 40' can be used, differing in thickness and / or material to meet different stiffness requirements.

[0067] Fig. Figure 6 shows how multiple deck structures 20, 20', 20" can be stacked on top of each other. Fig. Figure 6 shows a total of three deck structures 20, 20', 20". The first deck structure 20 is already stacked on top of the second deck structure 20'. In the embodiment shown, the first and the second deck structures 20, 20' are stacked directly onto a third deck structure 20".

[0068] Due to the fact that no skid structures 10 need to be attached to the deck structures 20, 20', 20" before assembly, the foot structures 21 of the deck structure can be inserted into openings 25 of the deck structure 20" to rest in the foot structure 21' of the deck structure 20" below.

[0069] In this way, the described 20, 20', 20" deck structures require only a minimum of space during transport. This simplifies transport and enables cost savings as well as a reduction in the storage space required before assembling an IBC container 1.

[0070] Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a method for assembling 30 an IBC container 1. In a first assembly step 31, at least one skid structure 10 is attached to a deck structure 20 of a pallet base 8. Preferably, three skid structures 10 are attached to a total of nine foot structures 21, defining three rows and two channels for receiving the forks of a forklift.

[0071] After the skid structures 10 have been attached, a cage 2 is arranged on the deck structure 20 in an arrangement step 33. This can be done by drilling screws through the cage 2 into corresponding threads 23 of the deck structure 20.

[0072] In the next placement step 34, a container 3 is placed on the deck structure 20 of the pallet base 8 inside the cage 2. The placement is carried out such that each lower connection 5 of the container 3 is inserted into a corresponding recess in the deck structure 20 of the pallet base 8.

[0073] Fig. Figure 8 shows an exploded view of an ICB container 1, comprising a container 3, a cage 2 and a pallet base 8 consisting of a deck structure 20 and three skid structures 10.

[0074] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the cage 2 comprises an upper opening 6 and a lower opening 7. The lower opening 7 is used to lift the cage 2 over the container 3 if the latter has a lower connection 5. Of course, in one embodiment, the upper opening 6 is omitted, and the cage 2 can thus be a closed cage 2 without an upper opening 6.

[0075] It should be noted here that all parts described above that are individually identifiable—even without additional features described in the respective context, even if these are not explicitly marked as optional features in the respective context, e.g., by: in particular, preferably, e.g., if applicable, parentheses, etc.—and in combination or any sub-combination, are to be regarded as independent features or further developments of the invention, as defined in particular in the introduction to the description and in the claims. Deviations from this are possible. It should be noted in particular that the word "in particular" or parentheses do not denote features that are mandatory in the respective context. Reference numbers: 1 IBC container with cage 2 cages 3 containers 4 upper connection 5 lower connection 6 upper cage opening 7 lower cage opening 8 pallet base 10 runner structure 11 Intervention area 12, 12' retaining wall 13 hooks 14 Drainage hole 15 Top of runner 16. Underside of runners 17 Outer guide surface 18 Inner guide surface 20, 20', 20" deck structure 21, 21', 21" Foot structure 22 Boundary wall 23 threads 24, 24' Management area 25 Opening 26 Intervention area of ​​the lower connection 27 loading area 28 Top 29 Underside 40, 40' Reinforcement structure / rod 41, 41' Reinforcement recess 42, 42' Reinforcement opening 30 assembly methods 31. Installation step 34 Placement step 32nd step in the arrangement 33 Connection step W1, W2 width H height

Claims

[1] Pallet base (8), in particular a pallet base (8) of an Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) (1), preferably an IBC container with cage, comprising: - a deck structure (20, 20', 20"). with a top (28) and a bottom (29), wherein the top defines a loading platform (27) adapted to support an IBC container (3); - at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21") extending from the underside (29); wherein at least one skid structure (10) is provided, wherein the at least one skid structure (10) is configured to engage with the at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21"), preferably using a snap mechanism (13) characterized by, that the at least one skid structure (10) has a tapered shape over its entire length with a skid top (15) and a skid bottom (16), wherein the skid top (15) is narrower than the skid bottom (16) and wherein the engagement area (11) is arranged on the skid top (15), wherein the engagement area (11) extends beyond an edge of the skid top (15) and is narrower than a width (W2) of the skid bottom (16). [2] Pallet base (8) according to claim 1 characterized by , that the at least one foot structure (21') is designed as an at least substantially hollow structure, so that a second foot structure (21) can engage in the at least one foot structure (21') from a second pallet base (20') stacked on the pallet base (20"), wherein the at least one foot structure (21') is shaped in a tapered manner, in particular from the underside (29). [3] Pallet base (8) according to any of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 2, characterized by , that the at least one foot structure (21') defines an opening (25) in the top structure (20, 20', 20"), so that a second foot structure (21) can be inserted from a second pallet base (20') into the at least one foot structure (21'). [4] Pallet base (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21") and the deck structure (20, 20', 20") are manufactured in an integral construction. [5] Pallet base (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the at least one runner structure (10) defines at least one engagement area (11) on a runner top surface (15), wherein the at least one engagement area (11) is designed to at least partially touch the at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21"). [6] Pallet base (8) according to any of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 5, . characterized by , that the at least one skid structure (10) has at least one hook (13) which protrudes from a / the skid top surface (15), in particular in the at least one engagement area (11), wherein the hook (13) is designed to engage with a projection on the at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21"), in particular on the inside of the at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21"). [7] Pallet base (8) according to any of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 5, characterized by , that the at least one engagement area (11) has at least one retaining wall (12, 12') designed to prevent lateral movement of the at least one skid structure (10) relative to the at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21"). [8] Pallet base (8) according to any of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 5, characterized by a drainage hole (14) arranged in the intervention area (11), in particular a through hole through the at least one skid structure (10). [9] Pallet base (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one reinforcing structure (40, 40') arranged on, in or below the deck structure (20, 20', 20'') and preferably extending over at least 60% of the width of the deck structure (20, 20', 20''). [10] Pallet base (8) according to any of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 9, characterized by , that the deck structure (20, 20', 20'') has at least one, preferably two, reinforcement recesses (41, 41') formed within the deck structure (20, 20', 20'') which are designed to accommodate a reinforcement structure (40, 40'). [11] Pallet base (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the deck structure (20, 20', 20'') comprises a plurality of ribs forming a grid along the top (28) and bottom (29), the grid comprising a plurality of through holes from the top (28) to the bottom (29). [12] Pallet base (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the deck structure (20, 20', 20'') has a plurality of cage connection areas designed for attachment to a cage, in particular a plurality of threads (23) for screws arranged on an outer edge of the deck structure (20, 20', 20''). [13] Pallet base (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the at least one skid structure (10) runs substantially straight and parallel to the underside (29) of the deck structure (20, 20', 20'') when it engages with the at least one foot structure (21, 21', 21''). [14] Pallet base (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a plurality of foot structures (21, 21', 21'') together with corresponding skid structures (10) form at least three skid rows on the underside (29) of the deck structure (20, 20', 20''), the rows being spaced apart in such a way that a fork, for example of a forklift or pallet truck, can be inserted between the rows and lift the pallet base (8). [15] Intermediate Bulk Container (1) comprising: - a pallet base (8) according to one of the preceding claims; - a cage (2); - a container (3); wherein the container (3) is arranged inside the cage (2) and the cage (2) is connected to the pallet base (8). [16] Method for assembling (30) an intermediate bulk container (1), the method comprising the following steps: - Attaching (31) at least one skid structure (10) of a pallet base (8) to a deck structure (20, 20', 20'') of a pallet base (8) according to one of claims 1 to 15; - Arranging a cage (2) on the deck structure (20, 20', 20''); - Connecting (33) the cage (2) to the deck structure (20, 20', 20''); - Placing (34) a container (3) on a loading platform (27) of the deck structure (20, 20', 20'') inside the container (3). [17] Skid structure (10) of the pallet base (8) according to one of claims 1 to 14. [18] Deck structure (20, 20', 20'') of the pallet base (8) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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