Device for securing loads and method for securing loads

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (10) for securing cargo. This device comprises a securing device (12) by means of which a cargo (14) to be secured can be at least partially enclosed. This securing device (12) has at least two receiving devices (16) which are arranged spaced apart from one another in a predetermined clamping direction (18). Furthermore, the device for securing cargo has a clamping device (20) which is received in the at least two receiving devices (16). The securing device (12) can be subjected to a clamping force by reducing a distance (22) existing between the at least two receiving devices (16) in the clamping direction (18).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for securing a load and a method for securing a load.

[0002] Strapping has established itself as an efficient and cost-effective method for securing cargo. A strap is used to bundle and / or lash a load. To do this, the load is first completely encased in the strapping. The strapping is then tensioned using an external tool and secured in this state with clips, sleeves, or seals, or alternatively, by welding. This type of load securing has proven particularly effective for securing palletized goods. However, such strapping is intended for single use only. Therefore, its use generates a significant amount of packaging waste. In addition to the purchase costs, the disposal costs associated with using strapping are not insignificant.Furthermore, single-use strapping consumes resources and burdens the environment with additional plastic waste. Ratchet straps, on the other hand, offer a reusable alternative. Conventional ratchet straps typically consist of a webbing strap and an attached mechanical tensioning device that applies tension to the webbing. These tensioning devices are usually ratchets, such as long-lever or short-lever ratchets. Since these tensioning devices are generally permanently attached to the webbing, they must be carried along when transporting the secured load. This reduces the efficiency of transporting the secured load, both due to the weight of the tensioning devices, which are usually made of metal, and their space requirements.For example, if a load on a pallet is to be secured using a conventional ratchet strap, the tensioning device often extends beyond the base of the pallet, which is completely covered by the load. This creates the risk of the palletized load being damaged by parts of the conventional tensioning device. To avoid such damage, pallets are often spaced apart. While this reduces the risk of damage to the load, it also means that the available loading space is usually limited and therefore incompletely utilized. Furthermore, the lack of a positive fit between the pallets can impair load securing. For these reasons alone, the aforementioned single-use strapping bands are preferred over ratchet straps designed for multiple uses.

[0003] The present invention is based on the objective of providing a load securing system.

[0004] This problem is solved by a device for securing cargo with the features of claim 1. Furthermore, this problem is solved by a method for securing a cargo with the features of the dependent method claim.

[0005] The load securing device according to the invention comprises a securing device by means of which a load to be secured can be at least partially enclosed. Preferably, the securing device can encompass at least 50%, and more preferably at least 75%, of the circumference of the load to be secured. Advantageously, the securing device can encompass a load arranged on a pallet. This securing device comprises at least two receiving devices. The at least two receiving devices are arranged apart from each other in a predetermined clamping direction. Advantageously, the two receiving devices are arranged apart from each other in the predetermined clamping direction when the load to be secured is at least partially enclosed. Further advantages are the at least two receiving devices arranged at a distance from each other that can be varied in the clamping direction.This allows the distance to be easily reduced. Furthermore, the at least two receiving devices are preferably arranged so as not to overlap. In the context of the present invention, "not overlapping" means that projections of the at least two receiving devices, viewed in a state intended for use and in a plane extending substantially parallel to the intended clamping direction, do not overlap. The state intended for use includes both a state in which the distance between the at least two receiving devices is reduced and a state in which said distance is already reduced. An overlap of the at least two receiving devices results in a distance that can only be varied to a limited extent and thus potentially a limited clamping force.This can be avoided by using a non-overlapping arrangement.

[0006] Furthermore, the device according to the invention comprises a clamping device. This clamping device is received in at least two receiving devices. The locking device can also be subjected to a clamping force by reducing the distance between the at least two receiving devices in the clamping direction. Preferably, the clamping device can be subjected to the clamping force by means of the clamping device. Particularly preferably, the clamping device can at least temporarily reduce the distance between the at least two receiving devices of the locking device in the clamping direction. Advantageously, the said distance can first be reduced by means of the clamping device and then maintained in this reduced state. In this way, the locking device can be reliably subjected to a clamping force by means of the clamping device and / or a clamping force can be maintained.Preferably, the clamping device and the locking device are each designed separately. Furthermore, it is proposed that the clamping device and the at least two receiving devices are designed to be coordinated such that the clamping device can be received into each of the at least two receiving devices.

[0007] The device enables a simple and cost-effective way to secure a load. Furthermore, it provides robust and reliable load securing. Depending on requirements, various tensioning devices can be combined with different types of securing devices.

[0008] In a preferred application, the clamping device is designed for single use. This allows for easy handling of the device. The locking device, on the other hand, can be designed for multiple uses. In a suitable combination, this makes it possible to combine the advantages of a single-use clamping device with those of a multi-use locking device, thereby overcoming the disadvantages that arise when using each separately. For example, this can minimize the need for consumables. Furthermore, resources can be conserved and disposal costs reduced. Additionally, locking devices with a long service life and high stability can be used with easy-to-handle and space-saving clamping devices.

[0009] Preferably, the securing device is made of a plastic material. Alternatively or additionally, the securing device can be made of a textile material. Advantageously, a textile-based plastic material is used. This allows for a lightweight and space-saving securing device. Furthermore, the securing device can be easily handled. In addition, this allows the securing device to be flexibly adapted to the external geometry of the load to be secured.

[0010] Preferably, at least one webbing strap is provided as a securing device. This allows for the easy use of already classified and / or certified webbing straps for load securing. In particular, webbing straps already used in conventional ratchet straps can be used.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally, pallet packaging can be used as a securing device. For example, the pallet packaging could be a pallet strap or a pallet cover. Preferably, the pallet packaging is designed for multiple uses. Particularly preferably, the pallet packaging is of the type described in more detail in patent specification DE 10 2022 103 834 B3. This makes it possible to combine easy-to-use load securing with protection for a load arranged on a pallet. In particular, the at least two receiving devices of the securing device can be integrated into the pallet packaging. This allows the pallet packaging to be used as a securing device. As a result, additional load securing elements, such as straps, can be dispensed with.Furthermore, this allows pallet packaging intended for multiple uses to be used efficiently and safely. It can also speed up the load securing process.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the at least two receiving devices is provided with an opening that is usually partially enclosed by the securing device. This allows the tensioning device to be easily and securely received. Furthermore, this enables the tensioning device to be engaged with the securing device in a cost-effective manner. In specific applications, this allows for effective load securing through a simple modification of a webbing strap.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the at least two receiving devices can be a loop, a tab, or a ring. This allows for a wide range of applications for the device.

[0014] Furthermore, at least one of the at least two receiving devices is advantageously reinforced. Preferably, an edge of said opening is reinforced. This makes it possible to subject the receiving device to high clamping forces. High load-bearing capacity can thus be provided in a simple manner. Particularly preferably, the edge of said opening is reinforced against a material of the securing device surrounding the receiving device. This edge can be reinforced with a plastic or a metal.

[0015] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one of the at least two receiving devices is reinforced by means of an eyelet. In particular, the edge of the opening is reinforced by means of an eyelet. This prevents tearing and / or fraying of a receiving device of the locking device. As a result, the locking device can be depreciated further, leading to an increased service life and potentially saving costs and resources.

[0016] In a further advantageous embodiment, a strap is provided as the tensioning device. Preferably, the strap is a separate strap, designed to be separate from the securing device. Advantageously, the securing device can be subjected to a tensioning force by means of the strap. External tools can be used for this purpose. This eliminates the need to carry tensioning devices during transport of the load to be secured. In particular, it eliminates the need to carry long-lever or short-lever ratchets as used with conventional tensioning straps. This allows for lightweight and space-saving load securing. In the preferred application, this method frees up a loading area of ​​a size at least equivalent to a standard pallet.This allows the best possible use of a vehicle's inherently limited cargo space.

[0017] Preferably, the band is made of plastic. Alternatively or additionally, the band can be made of textile. The textile band can be at least partially made of a plastic material. Such bands offer high holding power at a low weight.

[0018] Preferably, strapping or cable ties are used. Both strapping and cable ties are inexpensive and available in a variety of designs. Furthermore, the necessary materials and tools for using strapping are often readily available. Additionally, this method allows the strapping to be used only for relatively short sections, eliminating the need for a strap that completely encircles the load. This minimizes packaging waste and associated costs. Despite this, the familiar handling of strapping and / or cable ties provides a simple and efficient method for securing cargo, ensuring a high level of reliability.Furthermore, the space required by the clamping device can be minimized.

[0019] Furthermore, an advantageous embodiment provides that different sections of the tensioning device are connected in a tensioned state of the securing device by means of a snap-fit ​​connection, a clamping connection, or a material-fit connection. Preferably, the two different sections are joined by welding. A tensioned state of the securing device generated by the tensioning device can thus be easily maintained. This enables robust and reliable load securing. In the case of strapping bands, welding, a common connection method, can be used. In preferred applications, additional clamping or snap-fit ​​connections can be omitted. This makes it possible to provide a weight- and space-saving device.

[0020] The inventive method can be carried out using the device according to the invention.

[0021] The method according to the invention provides that a tensioning device, designed as a separate strap, is received in at least two receiving devices of the securing device, which are arranged spaced apart from one another in a predetermined tensioning direction. The separate strap is, in particular, a strap of the type described in connection with the device. Preferably, the strap is designed for single use. The separate strap is, in particular, designed separately from the securing device. The securing device is preferably a securing device of the type described above in connection with the device. Advantageously, the load to be secured is at least partially enclosed by the securing device. Advantageously, the at least two receiving devices are arranged at a distance from one another that can be varied in the tensioning direction.Furthermore, it is proposed that the at least two recording devices be arranged without overlap.

[0022] Furthermore, the method according to the invention provides that the securing device is subjected to a tension force by means of a separate band for the purpose of securing the load. It is particularly preferred that the securing device is subjected to the tension force by means of a band that is separate from the securing device. The tension force can be generated manually or with the aid of external tools acting on the band.

[0023] This method enables a rapid securing process. Furthermore, it allows for stable and reliable load securing. Lashing and / or tensioning devices, such as ratchets or buckles, that remain on the securing device are unnecessary. This allows for space-saving load securing, increasing load density in a cargo space. Additionally, load securing via positive locking is achieved reliably. The risk of local damage to the load being secured or to adjacent loads, caused by conventional tensioning devices, is eliminated. Moreover, the need for the securing device to become obsolete due to damaged or worn mechanics is avoided.

[0024] Preferably, a strapping band or cable tie is used to apply tension to the securing device. Strapping bands and cable ties are easy to handle. Strapping bands and the necessary tools, often already available for packaging or load securing, can be used cost-effectively. Furthermore, a familiar and established workflow can be maintained and accelerated. Therefore, this method allows for quick and uncomplicated load securing.

[0025] Particularly preferably, the securing device for load securing is subjected to a clamping force by reducing the distance between the at least two receiving devices through the joining of two sections of the strap. A clamping force can thus be provided by an external tool or manually. Carrying the external tool is therefore unnecessary.

[0026] In a preferred further development, the strap is fixed in a state that applies tension to the securing device. By fixing this state, a stable and reliable load securing system can be created quickly and cost-effectively.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the band is fixed by joining two different sections of the band together. This provides a space-saving connection for the band.

[0028] Preferably, the two aforementioned different sections are joined together by means of a snap-fit ​​connection, a clamping connection, or a material-bonded connection. Particularly preferably, the two aforementioned different sections are joined together by means of a welded connection. This allows the joining of the two aforementioned different sections of the strap to be carried out in a manner already familiar to the user. Existing operational processes can thus be maintained. The method described here can therefore be easily and flexibly integrated into existing operational processes. Existing tools and / or materials for the purpose of producing clamping and / or welded connections in connection with strapping bands can be used without additional effort. Restructuring of operational processes can be avoided.Furthermore, workers can secure cargo for transport in the usual way. This provides a cost-effective and time-efficient method for securing cargo.

[0029] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the figures. Where expedient, elements with the same effect are designated with the same reference numerals. The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the figures – not even with regard to functional features. The preceding description, as well as the subsequent description of the figures, contains numerous features, some of which are summarized in the dependent claims. However, those skilled in the art will also consider these features, as well as all other features disclosed above and in the subsequent description of the figures, individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations. In particular, all the aforementioned features can be combined individually and in any suitable combination with the method, the use, and the apparatus according to the invention.

[0030] They show: Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a load arranged on a pallet, which is secured by means of an embodiment of the device according to the invention; Figure 2 is a schematic front view of the embodiment of the device according to the invention for securing the load; Figure 3 is a schematic side view of the embodiment of the device according to the invention for securing the load in a sectional view; Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of an example of the method according to the invention for securing the load.

[0031] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a load 14 arranged on a pallet 28, which is secured by means of several devices 10 for the purpose of transport.

[0032] In the embodiment described here, the load 14 arranged on the pallet 28 is protected from external influences by a pallet cover 30. This pallet cover 30 is, for example, a pallet cover designed for multiple uses. Preferably, the pallet cover 30 is a pallet cover of the type described in patent DE 10 2022 103 834 B3 or a reusable pallet cover.

[0033] The pallet packaging 30 and the load 14 are secured by several devices 10. Each of the devices 10 has, for example, a securing device 12 designed as a webbing strap 12, which encompasses the load 14 arranged on the pallet 28 in one circumferential direction. Advantageously, the webbing strap 12 is designed for multiple uses. For example, the webbing straps 12 each encompass at least 75% of the circumference of the load 14. These webbing straps 12 can have different widths according to a specified requirement. The webbing straps 12 are made of a textile plastic material, such as those used in conventional ratchet straps. Furthermore, the webbing straps 12 are each made in one piece.

[0034] In an alternative embodiment, the pallet packaging 30 can be provided as a securing device 12 instead of or in addition to the straps 12. Preferably, a reusable pallet packaging 30 made of textile material is used. This makes it possible to at least partially dispense with the straps 12 provided as an example.

[0035] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows a section of the device 10 for securing the load 14 in a schematic front view. Two free end sections of a webbing 12 of the several in are shown. Figure 1 The devices shown in example 10 are illustrated.

[0036] At each of the two free ends of the webbing 12, one of two receiving devices 16 is arranged. In this way, the two receiving devices 16 are spaced apart from each other in a defined tensioning direction 18. These two receiving devices 16 are arranged without overlap. This allows the webbing 12 to be subjected to a high tension force without being limited by a distance 22 between the receiving devices 16. Such a receiving device 16 can, for example, be a loop, a tab, or an opening bounded by the webbing 12. In the present embodiment, the two receiving devices 16 are each designed as an opening bounded by the webbing 12. The webbing 12 therefore forms an edge 24 of each of the aforementioned receiving devices 16. Moreover, in the embodiment described here, this edge 24 is reinforced by means of an eyelet 26.This makes it easy to increase the service life of device 10.

[0037] Furthermore, the device 10 has a tensioning device 20. By means of the tensioning device 20, the webbing 12 can be subjected to a tensioning force in the tensioning direction 18. For this purpose, the tensioning device 20 and the two receiving devices 16 are coordinated such that the tensioning device 20 can be received into the two receiving devices 16.

[0038] In Figure 3 Is this related to Figure 1 and 2 The described embodiment of the device 10 is shown schematically in a side view cut through the receiving devices 16.

[0039] Furthermore, it illustrates Figure 3The tensioning device 20 allows the distance 22 between the two receiving devices 16 in the tensioning direction 18 to be reduced. By way of example, the tensioning device 20 is designed as a separate, single-use band. This band is received in the two receiving devices 16 such that the band passes through them. Preferably, the band is a strapping band or a cable tie. In the present embodiment, the distance 22 between the two receiving devices 16 in the tensioning direction 18 can be reduced by means of the band provided as the tensioning device 20. In this way, the webbing 12 is subjected to a tensioning force in the tensioning direction 18.To maintain this tension, the present embodiment provides that different sections of the band, designated as the tensioning device 20, are connected to each other when the webbing 12 is under tension. If a cable tie is used as the tensioning device 20, the two different sections are connected to each other by means of a snap-fit ​​connection typically found on cable ties. Alternatively, if a strapping band is used as the tensioning device 20, the different sections can be connected to each other either by a clamping connection or by welding.

[0040] Figure 4 illustrates an example of a procedure 100 for securing the exemplary in Figure 1 The charge shown is 14. For the purpose of simplified illustration, the example of procedure 100 described herein is exemplified by means of the charge shown in connection with the Figures 1 to 3The described embodiment of the device 10 was carried out.

[0041] The example of method 100 initially provides that the load 14 to be secured is at least partially enclosed by means of the strap 12 provided as a securing device 12 102. Furthermore, the securing device 12 is subjected to the tensioning force in the tensioning direction 18 by means of the separate strap provided as a tensioning device 20 104. Alternatively or additionally, a pallet packaging 30 of the type associated with can be used as a securing device 12. Figure 1 The described type is intended.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the example of method 100, a strapping band or a cable tie is provided as the separate band by means of which the securing device 12 is subjected to the tensioning force 104. The said tensioning force is generated by reducing the distance 22 between the two receiving devices 16 in the tensioning direction 18 106. In the present case, this is achieved by first receiving the strapping band or cable tie, which is provided as a tensioning device 20, into the receiving devices 16 of the securing device 12, which are spaced apart from each other in the tensioning direction 18 112. Then, two sections of the tensioning device 20, i.e., two sections of a cable tie or a strapping band, are brought together. The tensioning force can be provided either by an external tool or manually.Furthermore, it is provided that the tensioning device 20, designed as a strapping band or cable tie, is fixed in a state 108 in which the securing device 12 is subjected to the tensioning force. This maintains the reduced distance 22 between the two receiving devices 16 by means of the tensioning device 20. To fix the cable tie 108, a snap-fit ​​connection typical of cable ties is provided. To fix the strapping band 108, two different sections of the strapping band are joined together in a manner known to those skilled in the art by means of a clamping connection or a welded connection 110. In this way, packaging waste caused by the cable ties or the strapping band, and the associated costs, can be kept to a minimum. Furthermore, this method provides an easy-to-use and space-saving load securing system. In particular, it eliminates the need to carry tensioning devices.Available cargo space for transport can be used efficiently and in a form-fitting manner. This allows for the optimization of both load securing and logistics processes.

[0043] Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in connection with the figures, it is not limited by the disclosed examples and other variations can be derived from them by a person skilled in the art without leaving the scope of protection of the invention. Reference symbol list

[0044] 10 Device 12 Securing device / strap 14 Load 16 Receiving device 18 Tensioning direction 20 Tensioning device 22 Spacing 24 Edge 26 Eyelet 28 Pallet 30 Pallet packaging 100 process 102 encompass 104 apply 106 reduce 108 fix 110 connect 112 absorb

Claims

1. Device (10) for load securing - comprising a securing device (12) by means of which a load (14) to be secured can be at least partially encompassed; - wherein the securing device (12) has at least two receiving devices (16) which are arranged at a distance from one another in an intended tensioning direction (18); - wherein the device for load securing has a tensioning device (20) which is received in the at least two receiving devices (16); - the securing device (12) can be subjected to a tensioning force by reducing a distance (22) existing between the at least two receiving devices (16) in the tensioning direction (18).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by that the securing device (12) is formed from a plastic material or a textile material, preferably a textile plastic material.

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that at least one belt strap is provided as a securing device (12).

4. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that as at least one of the at least two receiving devices (16) an opening is provided which is at least partially delimited by the securing device (12).

5. Device (10) according to claim 4, characterized by that an edge (24) of the opening is reinforced.

6. Device (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by that an edge (24) of the opening is reinforced by means of an eyelet (26).

7. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a band, in particular a separate band, is provided as the tensioning device (20), which is preferably designed as a plastic band or a textile band.

8. Device (10) according to claim 7, characterized by that as the tape a strapping tape or a cable tie is intended.

9. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that different sections of the tensioning device (20) are connected to one another in a tensioned state of the securing device (12) by means of a snap-in connection, a clamping connection or a material connection, in particular by welding.

10. A method (100) for securing a load (14), in which - a tensioning device (20) designed as a separate strap is received (112) in at least two receiving devices (16) of the securing device (12) arranged spaced apart from one another in a predetermined tensioning direction (18); - the securing device (12) is subjected to a tensioning force by means of the separate strap for the purpose of securing the load (104).

11. Method (100) according to claim 10, wherein a strapping band or a cable tie is provided as the band, by means of which the securing device (12) is subjected to the tensioning force (104).

12. Method (100) according to one of claims 10 to 11, in which the securing device (12) is subjected to a tensioning force for the purpose of securing the load (104) by reducing (106) a distance (22) between the at least two receiving devices (16) by bringing two sections of the band together.

13. Method (100) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the band is fixed (108) in a state in which the securing device (12) is subjected to the tensioning force.

14. The method (100) of claim 13, wherein the band is fixed (108) by joining two different sections of the band together (110).

15. Method (100) according to claim 14, wherein the two different sections are connected to one another by means of a snap-in connection, a clamping connection or a material connection, in particular a welded connection (110).

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