Universal pallet insert device and pallet with such a device

Abstract

Universal pallet insert device (1) for plastic pallets (78; 80) to be stored and / or transported thereon, at least comprising a flatly extending support section (2), which is delimited by a circumferential edge (4) and which has an upwardly directed support section surface (6), wherein the support section (2) has numerous depressions (8; 10) which are integrally formed on the support section (2) and which are formed as openings in the support section surface (6), wherein the depressions (8; 10) are spaced from one another by stabilizing webs (58) which are arranged running between the depressions (8; 10), wherein a first type of depression (8) and at least one further, second type of depression (10) are provided, which have different geometric configurations from one another.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a universal pallet insert device according to claim 1 and to a plastic pallet with a universal pallet insert device. background

[0002] In practice, various sized plastic transport pallets are used. In addition to full Euro pallets measuring 1200 mm x 800 mm, half pallets, so-called "half pallets" measuring 800 mm x 600 mm, are increasingly being used. These are primarily used for product presentation.

[0003] ¼ pallets, so-called "quarter pallets" with dimensions of 600 x 400 mm or so-called "eighth pallets" with dimensions of 400 x 300 mm are also frequently used.

[0004] In addition, industrial pallets with dimensions of 1200 x 1000 mm also find numerous practical applications.

[0005] It is difficult and costly to transport pallets of different sizes together when empty. Up to now, this has only been possible if full Euro pallets can only be stacked on top of each other, half pallets can only be stacked on top of each other, or even quarter pallets can only be stacked on top of each other. This means that a lot of space is wasted when empty pallets are transported by truck, as it is not always possible to form stacks with the respective pallet size in a space-efficient manner. Furthermore, it is not possible to transport smaller containers safely on Euro pallets or even industrial-sized pallets. It is therefore common for at least a quarter of the truck's loading volume to remain unused during a training transport because there are not enough pallets of the respective size to stack them accordingly. Task

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a universal pallet inserting device that can be used to transport Euro pallets of different sizes while empty. Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide a safe and non-slip universal pallet inserting device on which Euro pallets of different sizes can be arranged in a non-slip manner. Solution

[0007] The object is achieved by the technical features specified in patent claim 1.

[0008] The core of the present invention is to provide a universal pallet insert device for storing and / or transporting plastic pallets. This is particularly advantageous in the case of an insert device designed to accommodate pallets of different sizes.

[0009] It is therefore universally designed. This is particularly advantageous because it creates a particularly large amount of free space, allowing, for example, 1 / 2 and / or 1 / 4 and / or 1 / 8 pallets to be arranged on the universal pallet insert device according to a modular principle. This allows even small numbers of smaller pallets to be transported safely and without slipping when empty.

[0010] Due to the universal design of the universal pallet insert device, various arrangement options for empty pallets are possible. This is not to be understood as limiting; any size pallet can be transported safely and without slipping using the universal pallet insert device.

[0011] According to the invention, the universal pallet insert device described here comprises at least one flatly extending support section, which is delimited by a circumferential edge and which has an upwardly directed support section surface. The circumferential edge delimits the support section and serves to stabilize it.

[0012] The support section further comprises numerous recesses formed integrally with the support section and configured as openings in the support section surface. This is advantageous because, by providing numerous recesses, the empty pallets to be transported and / or stored can be inserted at least partially into the recesses with their feet, thus securing them against slipping.

[0013] The recesses are spaced apart by stabilizing bars arranged between them. These stabilizing bars are advantageous because they reduce torsional moments. The universal pallet inserter is thus stable when empty and easy to transport by personnel.

[0014] Furthermore, according to the invention, the universal pallet insert device has at least one first type of recess and at least one further, second type of recess, which have different geometric configurations. These at least two differently geometrically designed recess types prove advantageous in that they allow empty pallets of different sizes to be arranged in the respective recesses of the universal pallet insert device. Thus, a high degree of variability in the number of empty pallets to be accommodated can be provided in combination with their different sizes.

[0015] Advantageous further training can be found in the subclaims.

[0016] In a further advantageous embodiment, the peripheral edge is designed to be open downwards, extending to its free edge, and to allow for gripping behind it. This is advantageous because it allows for particularly easy handling by people. Furthermore, the peripheral edge with its downwardly extending free edge is advantageous for arranging the universal pallet insert device on an entire Euro pallet.

[0017] In a further advantageous embodiment, the extension of the edge closure, starting from the support section surface, is greater than or equal to the extension of the recesses. It has proven particularly advantageous if the extension of the edge closure, starting from the support section surface downwards, is at least equal to the extension of the recesses. For particularly high stability of the universal pallet insert device in use, i.e. when it is arranged on an entire Euro pallet, the edge closure and the base sections of the recesses form a common plane. This ensures that tipping or wobbling is prevented when smaller pallets are arranged on the universal pallet insert device.The common level, also the contact level, between the recesses and edge finish on the one hand and the pallet top of an entire Euro pallet arranged underneath is particularly advantageous.

[0018] In a further advantageous embodiment, the universal pallet insert device is designed to be mirror-symmetrical on at least one axis. This is advantageous because it allows for additional freedom in the arrangement of smaller pallets, for example half, eighth and / or quarter pallets. The mirror-symmetrical design is also advantageous because, when empty, the universal pallet insert device can be stacked as desired. It is therefore not necessary for people to pay particular attention to the arrangement of the recesses when stacking the universal pallet insert device on top of one another. As long as the top sides of the supports are oriented upwards, this enables particularly quick, simple and error-free stacking of the universal pallet insert devices when empty.Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the universal pallet insert device has two mutually perpendicular axes, each of which is designed as a mirror-symmetrical axes. This is particularly advantageous in the manufacture and production of the universal pallet insert device, as it allows manufacturing costs to be kept low.

[0019] In a further advantageous embodiment, this is designed as an insert plate. This is advantageous because it extends over a flat surface and is also flat. This makes it possible to provide an effective, space-saving insert plate in a special way, which is designed to accommodate Euro pallets of different sizes. Furthermore, thanks to its own flat design, which advantageously means a low vertical extension, no unnecessary space is wasted. The insert plate described here is thus space-saving and compact.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment, several universal insert devices are stackable or nestable. This is particularly relevant when empty, for example, when the universal insert device is being transported back or stored in a warehouse for further use. For stacking or nesting, it has proven advantageous if the device is mirror-symmetrical along at least one axis. Due to the compact design and low height of the individual universal pallet insert device, it can be stacked or nested particularly effectively, i.e., in a space-saving manner.

[0021] In a further advantageous embodiment, some of the stabilizing webs are perforated, at least in sections. "Perforated" advantageously means that at least some of the stabilizing webs have at least one through-hole. This is advantageous because it allows dripping water to drain away, for example, when cleaning the universal pallet insert device.

[0022] In a further advantageous embodiment, the universal pallet insert device has at least three or more different types of recesses. This is advantageous because it accommodates the different geometric arrangements of the individual feet of the smaller pallets that can be arranged on the universal pallet insert device, and it is always ensured that the smaller pallets can be arranged on the universal pallet insert device according to the modular principle, depending on their size. Advantageously, the feet of the smaller pallets interact at least partially with the recesses in the universal pallet insert device. Advantageously, the individual feet of the smaller pallets are arranged at least partially in the recesses of the universal pallet insert device in a non-slip manner.

[0023] It has proven particularly advantageous if the recesses are provided in different angular geometric extensions with and / or without rounded corners.

[0024] In a further advantageous embodiment, each recess has a partially closed base section. The base section is understood as the lower boundary of the respective recess and is arranged opposite the opening. For increased stability, it is advantageous if the base section is designed as a support surface. This serves as a support for the base, which is arranged in the respective recess when the universal pallet insert device is in use. This can provide additional stability and slip resistance.

[0025] Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a plastic pallet, also called a plastic pallet, which has a universal pallet insert device. A plastic pallet is advantageously understood to mean an entire pallet made of plastic. This pallet has a support surface defined by a peripheral edge. Furthermore, the plastic pallet has an upper surface on which goods to be stored and / or transported are usually arranged. The feet are usually arranged on the underside, which is arranged opposite the upper surface.

[0026] The entire pallet used here also advantageously has, at least in sections, a circumferential, upwardly extending projection. This can be understood as a positioning device. The universal pallet insert device is designed in its geometric, flat extension such that it can be placed securely on the top of the plastic pallet.

[0027] At the same time, the peripheral edge of the universal pallet insert device interacts with the positioning means of the plastic pallet, which is formed at least in sections. The positioning means of the plastic pallet advantageously holds the universal pallet insert device inserted between them in a stable position. It has proven advantageous if the positioning means are arranged at least in sections on both long sides and both short sides of the plastic pallet.

[0028] In a further advantageous embodiment, the universal pallet insert device is connected to the plastic pallet via positive locking and / or force locking and / or friction locking, wherein the universal insert device forms at least one common contact surface with a pallet top side.

[0029] In the simplest case, the universal pallet insert device is connected to the plastic pallet via a form-fit connection. If, for example, quarter, eighth, and / or half pallets are to be transported empty, a full Euro pallet, preferably made of plastic, is first prepared. This full Euro pallet has, at least in sections, the positioning means described above. The universal pallet insert device is then placed on the top side of the plastic pallet. Advantageously, at least the bottom sections of the recesses form common contact surfaces with the top side of the pallet. To prevent the universal pallet insert device from slipping relative to the plastic pallet arranged underneath, a form-fit connection is formed between the circumferential edge of the universal pallet insert device and the positioning means of the plastic pallet.This prevents the universal pallet insert device from shifting sideways when force is applied. The positioning devices can also be considered limiting devices. They prevent the universal pallet insert device from sliding sideways.

[0030] Of course, this is not to be understood as limiting; it is also conceivable that a frictional connection is formed between the universal pallet insert device and the plastic pallet. This can be achieved, for example, by having the free edge of the universal pallet insert device designed to be resilient.

[0031] For example, it is possible to insert the universal pallet insert device between the positioning means of the plastic pallet under pressure. The free edge of the universal pallet insert device is then stretched from its home position inward toward the recesses. The resulting spring force makes it possible to clamp the universal pallet insert device between the positioning means of the plastic pallet. A force connection is created, which positions the universal pallet insert device in a stable position on the top of the pallet. A frictional connection is also conceivable.

[0032] Particularly advantageous is the universal pallet insert device made of plastic, more advantageously manufactured by the injection molding process.

[0033] Further advantages, features and design options emerge from the following description of figures of non-limiting embodiments. Brief description of the drawings

[0034] In the drawings shows: Figure 1 shows a perspective top view of an embodiment of a universal pallet insert device; Figure 2 shows an enlarged section of Figure 1 ; Figure 3 shows a sectional view of several universal pallet insert devices in a stacked state; Figure 4 shows a perspective detailed view of a plastic pallet with a universal pallet insert device arranged thereon; and Figure 5 shows an overall perspective view of a plastic pallet with a universal pallet insert device arranged thereon and empty pallets to be transported.

[0035] In the drawings, elements provided with the same reference numerals essentially correspond to one another unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, components that are not essential to understanding the technical teaching disclosed herein are omitted. Reference numerals will not be repeated for all elements already introduced and illustrated, provided that the elements themselves and their function have already been described or are known to a person skilled in the art. Detailed description of implementation examples

[0036] In Figure 1 A perspective view of a universal pallet insert device 1 is shown. This device has a flat support section 2. The support section 2 can also be understood as plate-like. The support section 2 is delimited by a circumferential edge 4.

[0037] The support section surface 6 is interrupted by numerous recesses 8 to 30. Overall, this exemplary embodiment of a universal pallet insert device 1 features at least 9 types of recesses, which differ from one another in their geometry. For example, there are simple rectangular recesses 10, 12, 16, 18, and 22. Furthermore, smaller recesses 8 with rounded corners are provided for this purpose. Particularly advantageously, the recesses 8 are designed such that the feet of quarter pallets can be at least partially accommodated therein. Furthermore, recesses 14, 20, and 24 are also provided, which may have additional geometric extensions.

[0038] Furthermore, all recesses 8 to 24 each have a base section 32 to 48. The base sections 32 to 48 can be designed differently depending on the geometry of the recesses. Advantageously, all base sections 32 to 48 have the same feature in that they are at least partially formed and have at least one through-opening 56. The through-openings 56 are advantageous in that they allow dripping water to drain away. The through-openings 56 can also have different geometric configurations. Possible embodiments are, for example, round and / or rectangular.

[0039] Furthermore, Figure 1It is shown that the universal pallet insert device 1 shown here is mirror-symmetrical to the two mirror axes S1 and S2. This is advantageous because it allows for quick and easy stacking without requiring a closer look. The universal pallet insert device 1 therefore cannot be stacked incorrectly.

[0040] An example of such stacking is shown in Figure 3 shown.

[0041] In Figure 2 is still an excerpt from Figure 1 which shows the individual recesses 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 in an enlarged view. All recesses also show differently shaped base sections 32, 34, 36, 38, and 40 with also differently shaped through openings 56.

[0042] Also shown here are the stabilizing webs 58, which space the individual recesses apart. The stabilizing webs 58 can also be configured to vary in their width, which determines the distance between the individual recesses. Furthermore, it is also shown that the stabilizing webs 58 can have at least one through-opening 60.

[0043] Furthermore, as an example, it is shown here that the recesses 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 can have rounded side surfaces, at least in sections. This is advantageous because it facilitates the insertion of the feet arranged in the recesses 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16, and allows them to slide particularly quickly and easily into the recesses 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16.

[0044] In Figure 3A schematic sectional view of the stackability of the universal pallet insert device 1 is shown. In this example, three universal pallet insert devices 1 are stacked one above the other. It can be seen that the recesses 10 can be arranged at least partially inside each other when stacked. The upper edges of the recesses 10, which adjoin the support section surface 6, are rounded here.

[0045] In this exemplary embodiment, stackability is limited by the surrounding edge 4. It is also evident here that the surrounding edge 4 is not formed as a solid material, but rather has a free edge finish 62. This free edge finish 62 is inclined downwards and can be gripped behind. This means that a free space 64 is required between the free edge finish 62 and the nearest recess 10.

[0046] A spring mechanism is formed by this free space 64 and the free edge closure 62 extending diagonally downwards. Particularly advantageously, the free end 66 is designed to extend vertically downwards. The free end 66 shown here can later be used to form at least one positive connection with a plastic pallet. Furthermore, when a horizontal force is applied to the free end 66, it can also be deflected horizontally from its original position shown here inwards, toward the recess 10. This tensions the edge closure 62, and a spring element is formed.

[0047] Finally, in this embodiment, Figure 3It is also shown that the recess 10, which is to be understood here merely as an example, is formed in its extension vertically downwards up to the base section 34, equal to the extension of the free edge closure 62. Both the base section 34 and the free end 66 of the edge closure 62 lie on a common plane E.

[0048] Figure 4 now shows an enlarged section of a plastic pallet 70 with a pallet top 72.

[0049] The plastic pallet 70 is to be understood as a sub-carrier, on whose pallet top side 72 the universal pallet insert device 1 is positioned via positive locking and / or force locking and / or friction locking. For this purpose, the plastic pallet 70 has positioning means 74, which are arranged directly flush with the peripheral edge of the plastic pallet 70. At the same time, the positioning means 70 extend vertically upward and thus limit the pallet top side 72.

[0050] In the simplest case, as shown here for example, the positioning means 74 can be designed as rectangular elevations.

[0051] The universal pallet insert device 1 is arranged with its free edge closure 62 and its free end 66 on the pallet top side 72 in such a way that at least a positive connection and / or a frictional connection is formed between the positioning means 74 and the free end 66. The positioning means 74 hold the universal pallet insert device 1 in position. Furthermore, a base 76 of an empty pallet to be transported is shown here as an example. This base is at least partially inserted into a recess 8. This recess 8 also has a rounded geometry at its upper edge. The appropriate design of the recesses 8 makes it possible for the base 76 to be held in a non-slip manner.

[0052] Finally, Figure 5a state of use of the universal pallet insert device 1. The length and width of the universal pallet insert device 1 are designed such that it can be placed on an entire plastic Euro pallet 70. The plastic pallet 70 is to be understood as a carrier.

[0053] If, for example, empty quarter and / or half pallets are to be transported in a space-saving and effective manner, the universal pallet insert device 1 is arranged in a positionally stable manner, at least via positive locking and / or friction locking, on the top side 72 of the plastic pallet 70. Subsequently, the empty quarter pallets 78 and the empty half pallets 80 can then be arranged as desired on the universal pallet insert device 1, more precisely, at least partially in the recesses provided for this purpose. The arrangement of the empty pallets shown here is to be understood as an example, so it is also conceivable that the positions of the half pallets 80 and the quarter pallets 78 can be interchanged.

[0054] Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail by the advantageous embodiments, the invention is not limited to the disclosed examples. Other variations can be derived therefrom by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the invention is not limited to the feature combinations specified below; rather, other combinations and subcombinations that are obvious to those skilled in the art can also be formed from the disclosed features. List of reference symbols

[0055] 1 Universal pallet insert device 2 Support section 4 Circumferential edge 6 Support section surface 8 First recess type 10 Second recess type 12 Third recess type 14 Fourth recess type 16 Fifth recess type 18 Sixth recess type 20 Seventh recess type 22 Eighth recess type 24 Ninth recess type 32 Bottom section of the first recess type 34 Bottom section of the second recess type 36 Bottom section of the third recess type 38 Bottom section of the fourth recess type 40 Bottom section of the fifth recess type 42 Bottom section of the sixth recess type 44 Bottom section of the seventh recess type 46 Bottom section of the eighth recess type 48 Bottom section of the ninth recess type 56 Through opening 58 Stabilizing web 60 Further through opening 62 Free edge finish 64 Free space 66free end 70Plastic pallet as support 72Pallet top 74Positioning devices 76Stand ELevel 51first mirror axis S2second mirror axis

Claims

1. Universal pallet insert device (1) for plastic pallets (78; 80) to be stored and / or transported thereon, at least comprising a. a flatly extending support section (2) which is delimited by a circumferential edge (4) and which has an upwardly directed support section surface (6), b. wherein the support section (2) has numerous depressions (8; 10) which are integrally formed on the support section (2) and which are formed as openings in the support section surface (6), c. wherein the depressions (8; 10) are spaced from one another by stabilizing webs (58) which are arranged running between the depressions (8; 10), d. wherein a first type of depression (8) and at least one further, second type of depression (10) are provided, which have different geometric configurations from one another.

2. Universal pallet insert device according to claim 1, characterized in thatthe peripheral edge (4) is open downwards towards its free edge end (62) and can be gripped behind.

3. Universal insert device according to claim 2, characterized in that an extension of the edge closure (66) starting from the support section surface (6) is greater than or equal to the extensions of the depressions (8; 10).

4. Universal pallet insert device at least according to claim 1, characterized in that this is mirror-symmetrical on at least one axis (S1; S2).

5. Universal pallet insert device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that this is designed as a plate.

6. Universal pallet insert device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that several universal insert devices (1) are stackable or nestable.

7. Universal pallet insert device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a part of the stabilizing webs (58) is perforated at least in sections.

8. Universal pallet insert device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that which has at least three or more different types of recesses (8 to 24).

9. A pallet (70) made of plastic with a universal pallet insert device (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims.

10. Plastic pallet (70) according to claim 9, characterized in that the universal pallet insert device (1) is connected to the plastic pallet via positive locking and / or force locking and / or friction locking, wherein the universal insert device forms at least one common contact surface with a pallet upper side (72).

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