System and Method

Abstract

Systems and techniques have been developed for printing graphics onto pallets. In one form, the graphics are printed onto one of the decks of the pallet. In one variation, the graphics are printed onto the deck in the form of a flat, uninterrupted surface via a flatbed printer. The flatbed printer has a printer head that forms a gap that can accommodate the deck of the pallet. After printing, the deck is assembled with the rest of the pallet. The graphics can include text and images, and in one form, the graphics include a packing template that indicates how at least one layer of packing should be packed onto the pallet.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Pallets are generally used for storing and transporting various items. If the items are not properly packed, they are likely to fall off the pallet, which may pose a danger. The environment in factories and warehouses does not provide an aesthetically pleasing situation, which tends to damage the morale and motivation of workers. Pallets, when empty and / or unused, are obtrusive and further lower the morale of workers.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0002] Therefore, there is a need for improvement in this field.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] An exclusive system and technology have been developed for printing images, texts, decorations, or other designs on functional pallets. Various designs such as flag patterns have been hand-drawn on conventional wooden slat pallets, but these pallets were essentially functional rather than merely decorative. Moreover, the quality of the images was quite poor and unsuitable for commercial use. The paint on these pallets led to fairly easy wear and color fading, and thus the images would not remain in a typical pallet usage pattern. The exclusive printing technology and pallet design target these and other problems.

[0004] The upper and / or lower decks of the pallet, using this unique system and technology, are not formed from spaced-out slats, but are generally continuous to form a continuous surface for printing images. In one example, only the upper deck is continuous, while the lower deck is discontinuous (e.g., has pallet jack openings). In one version, the image is printed via a flatbed printer onto a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) type surface forming the upper and / or lower decks of the pallet. In one specific example, the printing is applied to a composite upper board with a polyurea coating (a light sanded finish with an overall bright white color). In this example, the polyurea is applied to 3mm MDF, which is the “sandwich” substrate of the upper board. In one embodiment, the finish on the MDF is a sanded finish. The deck typically has a sanded finish or a flat matte finish, though not always. The image is usually printed on a white background, but other background colors may be used in other examples.

[0005] The printer is configured to adapt to the depth or height of the pallet during printing. In one example, an ultraviolet (UV) printer is used to print an image on the deck of the pallet. The chemical bonding and abrasion properties of UV ink with the pallet make it suitable for use with pallets used commercially for storing and transporting items. In one particular example, a UV flatbed printer with a depth capability to handle top boards of at least 25.4 mm (1 inch) is used. In another version, a latex-type printer is used to print an image on the top deck of the pallet. In one form, a latex or vinyl matte finish is printed. The image may include, for example, advertising material, art images (e.g., paintings), realistic images, quotes, and / or instructions on how to handle the pallet. In one variation, the image provides instructions for handles on the pallet. In one particular example, the image includes a shadow box image of where boxes or other items should be placed when constructing the pallet layer.

[0006] The systems and technologies involve several unique progressive aspects, as described and illustrated herein. Some, but not all, of these unique aspects are summarized below.

[0007] Embodiment 1 generally relates to a system including a palette having one or more printed images.

[0008] Embodiment 2 generally relates to a system of any of the preceding embodiments in which an image is printed on at least one deck of a palette.

[0009] Embodiment 3 generally relates to a system of any of the preceding embodiments in which the deck has adjacent flat surfaces.

[0010] Embodiment 4 generally relates to any of the preceding embodiments' systems in which the deck comprises medium-density fiberboard (MDF).

[0011] Embodiment 5 generally relates to any of the preceding embodiments of a system in which the deck has a sanded finish.

[0012] Embodiment 6 generally relates to any of the preceding embodiments of a system in which the deck has a matte finish.

[0013] Embodiment 7 generally relates to the system of any of the preceding embodiments, and the deck has a vinyl finish.

[0014] Embodiment 8 generally relates to a system of any of the preceding embodiments in which the deck includes a cargo deck.

[0015] Embodiment 9 generally relates to a system of any of the preceding embodiments in which the image is printed on a flatbed printer.

[0016] Embodiment 10 generally relates to a system of any of the preceding embodiments in which the printer has a printer head spaced apart to accommodate the thickness of the deck.

[0017] Aspect 11 generally relates to a system of any previous aspect in which an image is printed via a latex printer.

[0018] Aspect 12 generally relates to a system of any previous aspect in which an image is printed via an ultraviolet (UV) printer.

[0019] Aspect 13 generally relates to a system of any previous aspect in which an image includes an advertisement.

[0020] Aspect 14 generally relates to a system of any previous aspect in which an image includes text.

[0021] Aspect 15 generally relates to a system of any previous aspect in which text includes a citation.

[0022] Aspect 16 generally relates to a system of any previous aspect in which text includes an instruction.

[0023] Aspect 17 generally relates to a system of any previous aspect in which an image includes a decoration.

[0024] Aspect 18 generally relates to a system of any previous aspect in which an image includes a packing template for at least one packing layer of a pallet.

[0025] Aspect 19 generally relates to a system that includes a deck and is assembled with a spacer structure of a pallet after printing.

[0026] Aspect 20 generally relates to being involved in a method of operating a system of any previous aspect. ]>

[0027] Further forms, objects, features, aspects, benefits, advantages, and embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description and drawings presented herein.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] [Figure 1]A perspective view of a palette with an image according to one example. [Figure 2] A side view of the palette of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] A top view of the palette of FIG. 1 with different images. [Figure 4] A bottom view of the palette of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] A side view of the load deck of the palette of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] A partial cross-sectional view of a system in which one or more images are printed on the load deck of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] A top view of the system of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] A flowchart diagram of a method for manufacturing the palette of FIG. 1. <00时0109> [Figure 9] [[ID=时4]]A top view of a palette according to another example. [Figure 10] A top view of a palette according to a further example. [Figure 11] A top view of the palette of FIG. 10 with a graphic section partially packed on the load deck. [[ID=时2]]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] For the purpose of facilitating understanding of the principles of the present invention, reference is made herein to the embodiments illustrated in the figures, and specific language is used to describe the same matter. Nevertheless, it is to be understood that no limitation of the scope of the present invention is intended hereby. Any changes and further modifications in the described embodiments, as well as any further applications of the principles of the present invention described herein, are considered to occur normally to those skilled in the art related to the present invention. Although one embodiment of the present invention is shown in more detail, it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that some features not relevant to the present invention may possibly not be shown for the purpose of clarity.

[0030] The reference numbers in the following description are organized to help the reader quickly identify the drawings in which various components are first shown. In particular, the drawings indicate the first appearance of an element, typically indicated by the leftmost digit in its corresponding reference number. For example, elements identified by reference numbers in the "100" series are thought to first appear in Figure 1, elements identified by reference numbers in the "200" series are thought to first appear in Figure 2, and so on.

[0031] The proprietary pallet and pallet printing system is developed for printing graphics such as images and text onto pallets. These graphics can be used, for example, to provide instructions to people packing, handling, and / or unpacking pallets, and to provide advertising space that can be used to offset some of the costs associated with the pallets. Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example pallet 100. Figure 2 is a side view of the pallet 100 in Figure 1.

[0032] Pallet 100 is a portable platform or other structure on which goods or other items can be stacked, stored, and / or transported. Pallet 100 includes a loading deck 105, a support deck 110, and a spacer structure 115 that connects the loading deck 105 and the support deck 110 together. In the illustrated example, the loading deck 105 has a flat surface on which items are packed. Typically, but not always, the support deck 110 is placed on the floor and / or ground. The spacer structure 115 provides a gap between the loading deck 105 and the support deck 110. The spacer structure 115 includes one or more spacer blocks 120 that attach the loading deck 105 to the support deck 110 by fasteners, adhesives, and / or other means. The spacer blocks 120 define one or more fork openings 125 that receive forks from a forklift or pallet jack to lift the pallet 100. All or part of the pallet 100 is made of composite material. In one embodiment, at least the loading deck 105 and the support deck 110 are made of engineered cement composite (ECC) material. In other examples, all or part of the pallet 100 may be made of other materials such as metal, plastic, and / or wood.

[0033] As illustrated, one or more images 130 are printed on the loading deck 105. In other variations, the images 130 are printed on the support deck 110, or on both the loading deck 105 and the support deck 110. Unlike conventional slatted pallets (which have boards forming discontinuous decks), the loading deck 105 of the illustrated pallet 100 forms a continuous, flat surface. In the case of this single, flat loading deck 105, the images 130 printed on the loading deck 105 can have high quality or even photorealistic quality. This ability to have high-quality images 130 allows the pallet 100 to be utilized for use in other scenarios in addition to its normal function as a pallet for handling materials. For example, the images 130 on the pallet 100 can be used for advertising both inside and outside the business. One or more of the pallets 100 can be flipped on their sides to form a virtual billboard for advertising when not in use. For example, Pallet 100 can be used to transport equipment for entertainers (e.g., orchestras) or sports teams, and when the equipment is away from Pallet 100 during events or games, Pallet 100 can be used to provide advertising space, such as along the perimeter of a playfield or concert venue.

[0034] Image 130 on pallet 100 can also be used to improve the working environment for workers handling and working near pallet 100. For example, image 130 on pallet 100 can provide instructions and safety information related to packing, unpacking, and / or handling of pallet 100 or items packed on pallet 100. Image 130 may further include quotes or slogans to boost worker morale. As anyone who has worked in a manufacturing or warehouse environment knows, such places have a rigid, industrial atmosphere. In some examples, image 130 on pallet 100 may include aesthetically pleasing photographs, designs, pictures, and / or other works of art to improve the aesthetic setting of the work environment. In the illustrated example, image 130 includes at least one color image 135, more specifically, color image 135 includes a realistic image or photograph of a paint bucket with splashes of various shimmering paint colors. Still, it should be recognized that image 130 may include other types of images. As explained below, Image 130 is printed on Pallet 100 to handle the harsh working environments that Pallet 100 typically experiences.

[0035] One specific use case example is shown in Figure 3. As illustrated, Image 130 includes an image section 305 and a text section 310, although Image 130 can be constructed differently in other examples. Image section 305 includes images such as realistic images, paintings, and / or photographs. In the example shown, image section 305 includes a color image of a parrot, but other types of images can be used in other examples. Text section 310 includes human-readable text. Text section 310 can include, for example, phrases, quotes, and / or slogans. In other examples, text section 310 may include other types of text, such as providing instructions on how to pack, handle, and / or unpack the pallet 100.

[0036] Furthermore, unlike pallets that utilize slats or boards to form the deck, the loading deck 105 of the pallet 100 generally provides a continuous (or uninterrupted) surface on which the image 130 is printed. It should be recognized that only the area of ​​the deck on which the image 130 is printed needs to be continuous in order to provide a smooth and uniform surface for providing a high-quality image 130. For example, the loading deck 105 may optionally further include one or more hand openings 315 where an individual can grasp the pallet 100 located outside the desired printing area.

[0037] As shown in Figure 4, the support deck 110 has one or more pallet jack openings 405 where pallet jacks can engage with the floor for the purpose of lifting pallets 100. In other examples, the support deck 110 does not include pallet jack openings 405. In other modifications, such as the loading deck 105, the support deck 110 has a continuous surface on which the image 130 is printed.

[0038] The loading deck 105 and support deck 110 are made of composite material in one example. In one version, the loading deck 105 and support deck 110 include medium-density fiberboard (MDF) material coated with various materials, such as composite material with polyurea coating. In one embodiment, the MDF has a thickness of 3 mm and forms a sandwich array structure within the loading deck 105. As illustrated in Figure 5, the loading deck 105 has an outer surface 505 and an inner surface 510 located opposite the outer surface 505. Image 130 is printed on the outer surface 505, and when the pallet 100 is assembled, the inner surface 510 faces the fork opening 125. In one embodiment, at least the outer surface 505 of the loading deck 105 has a sanded finish to improve grip. In other modifications, the outer surface 505 may have a sanded or matte finish. At least the outer surface 505 has a color and / or shade suitable for printing so that the image 130 is visible. For example, in one example, the outer surface 505 is white so as to provide a white background for the image 130. In other examples, the outer surface 505 may have a light shade / color and / or a contrasting shade / color in comparison to the image 130. Alternatively or additionally, the inner surface 510 may be constructed in a similar manner so that the image 130 is printed on the inner surface 510 of the loading deck 105 (and / or support deck 110). In such a case, the image 130 is visible when viewed through the pallet jack opening 405 of the support deck 110.

[0039] The loading deck 105 has a thickness 515 when measured from the outer surface 505 to the inner surface 510. In one embodiment, the thickness 515 of the loading deck 105 (and support deck 110) is a maximum of 2.54 cm (1 inch). The thickness 515 of the loading deck 105 is sized so that the loading deck 105 of the pallet 100 can support the most common loads. At the same time, the thickness 515 of the loading deck 105 allows the image 130 to be easily printed onto the loading deck 105 using a flatbed printer.

[0040] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the system 600 for printing the image 130 on the outer surface 505 of the loading deck 105 includes a flatbed printer 605. It should be noted that the flatbed printer 605 can also be used to print the image 130 on the inner surface 510 of the loading deck 105 or on both sides of the support deck 110. In one embodiment, the flatbed printer 605 includes an ultraviolet (UV) flatbed printer, and in another embodiment, the flatbed printer 605 includes a latex flatbed printer.

[0041] The flatbed printer 605 includes a bed 610, a printer head gantry 615, and a printer head 620 that moves along the printer head gantry 615. The printer head 620 is configured to print an image 130 on the outer surface 505 of the loading deck 105. The bed 610 has a bed surface 625 on which the loading deck 105 rests during printing. In the illustrated example, the bed surface 625 is generally flat.

[0042] The printer head 620 is positioned to provide sufficient clearance to adapt to the loading deck 105, so that the printer head 620 can move and print the image 130 onto the loading deck 105. As shown, the printer head 620 has a printer head surface 630 facing the bed surface 625. The printer head surface 630 defines a printer head gap 635 above the bed surface 625. The printer head gap 635 is greater than the thickness 515 of the loading deck 105, so that the flatbed printer 605 can print the image 130 onto the outer surface 505 of the loading deck 105. In one embodiment, the printer head gap 635 is greater than 2.54 cm (1 inch).

[0043] With a printer head gap of 635, the flatbed printer 605 can move to print across the entire desired print area of ​​the loading deck 105. For example, the printer head gantry 615 is configured to move longitudinally 640 along the bed 610. The printer head 620 is configured to move laterally 705 along the printer head gantry 615 to print the image 130 on the outer surface 505 of the loading deck 105.

[0044] The technique for printing the image 130 onto the pallet 100 and assembling the pallet 100 is described here with reference to the flowchart 800 in Figure 8. This technique is described with reference to printing the image 130 onto the loading deck 105, but it should be recognized that this technique can be used to print the image only on the support deck 110, or on both the loading deck 105 and the support deck 110. In stage 805, the loading deck 105 is manufactured. In one embodiment, the loading deck 105 is produced from a composite material. In one modification, 3mm MDF is applied to both the outer surface 505 and the inner surface 510 of the loading deck 105 to form a sandwich relationship. The MDF helps to provide a smooth, flat background or substrate on which the image 130 is printed. Simultaneously or successively, the support deck 110 can be produced in a similar manner.

[0045] In stage 810, the background for image 130 is generated on the loading deck 105. Furthermore, the background for image 130 is selected to generally improve contrast and / or image quality. For example, at least an area of ​​the loading deck 105 where image 130 is printed is in one form white or light color. A polyurea coating is applied to MDF in one example. Sand can be applied to the outer surface 505 of the loading deck 105 to improve grip. Alternatively, the loading deck 105 can have a matte finish.

[0046] Referring to Figures 6, 7, and 8, the loading deck 105 of stage 815 is loaded onto the bed 610 of the flatbed printer 605, with the outer surface 505 of the loading deck 105 facing the printer head 620. As previously mentioned, the printer head gap 635 of the flatbed printer 605 provides sufficient clearance to accommodate the thickness 515 of the loading deck 105. In one embodiment, the flatbed printer 605 is a UV flatbed printer. It was found that the image 130 produced by the UV flatbed printer provided excellent wear characteristics, and therefore the image 130 survived the typical wear pattern experienced during normal commercial use of the pallet 100. Alternatively or additionally, a latex or vinyl matte finish may be printed. Image 130 can be cured or dried during the printing process of the flatbed printer 605, or the loading deck 105 can be removed from the flatbed printer 605 for curing or drying of the image 130 printed on the loading deck 105.

[0047] Having an image 130 printed on the loading deck 105, separated from the remainder of the pallet 100, allows the image 130 to be printed using a flatbed printer 605. Once the image 130 is printed and properly cured or dried, the loading deck 105 of stage 820 is then assembled with the remainder of the pallet 100. In one example, the spacer block 120 of the spacer structure 115 is attached to the loading deck 105, for example, via fasteners and / or adhesives, and then the spacer structure 115 is attached to the support deck 110. In another variation, the spacer block 120 of the spacer structure 115 is first attached to or integrally formed with the support deck 110, and then the loading deck 105 is attached to the spacer block 120. This variation allows the assembly of the support deck 110 and the spacer structure to be done while stage 815 is printing, which in turn reduces production time. It should be noted that pallet 100 can be assembled on stage 820 in other ways.

[0048] It should be recognized that the image 130 of pallet 100 may include other graphic types and / or information. For example, pallet 900 by another example, as illustrated in Figure 9, includes a loading deck 905. Pallet 900 in Figure 9 is constructed in a similar manner to pallet 100 in the figure. For brevity and clarity, these common features will not be discussed in more detail, so please refer to the previous discussion. The loading deck 905 includes one or more graphics 910. As illustrated, the graphics 910 include one or more advertisements 915, one or more quotes 920, one or more graphics 925, and one or more decorations 930. Through the advertisements 915, the pallet owner can advertise any number of goods or services. Furthermore, pallet 900 may be tilted to the side to function like a sign or billboard when not in use. The entire graphic image may span multiple pallets to form a larger image when the pallets 900 are placed very close to each other. Quote 920 can be used for motivational or purely educational purposes. Graphics 925 and decorations 930 can be used to enhance the aesthetic situation for people viewing the palette 900. For example, graphic 925 may include a work of art.

[0049] Figure 10 shows a top view of pallet 1000 in another example. Pallet 1000 in Figure 10 is constructed in a similar manner to pallet 100 in Figure 1 and pallet 900 in Figure 9. As an example, pallet 1000 has a loading deck 105 with image 130. For brevity and clarity, these common features will not be discussed in more detail; please refer to the previous discussion.

[0050] Figure 130 includes a graphic section 1005 and a text section 1010 in an illustrated example. The graphic section 1005 includes a packing template 1015 (or shadow box) in an illustrated variant. In the illustrated example, the packing template 1015 has one or more first package shape markers 1020 and one or more second package shape markers 1025, showing how differently sized (and / or shaped) boxes and / or other items should be packed onto the pallet 1000. In the illustrated example, the first package shape marker 1020 is larger than the second package shape marker 1025. In another example, the first package shape marker 1020 is shaped differently from the second package shape marker 1025. While packing template 1015 will be described below as providing a template for packing boxes on pallet 1000, it should be recognized that packing template 1015 can be used to provide instructions for packing items with other shapes, such as barrels, bags, sacks, and drums, to name just a few examples. Packing template 1015 can be used to provide a packing layout of items on a first packing layer or for multiple packing layers. Packing template 1015 may have more or fewer package shape markers than shown in other examples, and the package shape markers may be constructed differently than shown. For example, packing template 1015 may have a uniform pattern, and the items may have the same dimensions and shape to form a uniform packing structure. In other examples, packing template 1015 may include two or more package shape markers arranged in a non-uniform pattern.

[0051] As mentioned above, the packing template 1015 helps guide workers when properly packing the pallet 1000. The instructions provided by the text section 1010, in conjunction with the packing template 1015, can further assist in packing, unpacking, and / or transporting the pallet 1000. Turning to Figure 11, the packing layer 1105 is formed by matching the pattern of the packing template 1015. In the illustrated example, the packing layer 1105 includes one or more first boxes 1110 and one or more second boxes 1115. The first boxes 1110 are placed on the first package type marker 1020. The second boxes 1115 are placed on the second package type marker 1025. It should be recognized that the same pattern can be used to pack other layers. Alternatively or additionally, image 130 may include other packing templates superimposed (e.g., in different colors) on packing template 1015 showing packing patterns for other packing levels and / or irregularly shaped objects (e.g., drums). Glossary The words used in the claims and specification have only their plain and ordinary meanings, and are excluded where expressly provided below. The words in these definitions have only their plain and ordinary meanings. Such plain and ordinary meanings encompass all consistent dictionary definitions from the most recently published Webster's Dictionary and Random House Dictionary. Where used herein and in the claims, the following definitions apply to those terms and their ordinary variations identified below.

[0052] "Contiguous" means adjacent or next to each other.

[0053] "Continuous" generally refers to something that is marked by an uninterrupted extension in space, time, and / or order. For example, a continuous line or surface has no gaps and / or holes in it. In other words, something continuous is not broken.

[0054] Engineered cement composites (ECC), also known as flexible concrete or engineered cement-based concrete, generally refer to a type of concrete composite reinforced with short, random polymer fibers such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers. These polymer fibers are sometimes used in low volume fractions, such as 2-3 vol%, of the concrete mixture to produce a concrete matrix with a larger tensile strain capacity than conventional concrete mixtures. In other words, ECC is a specific type of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) that uses polymer fibers to provide superior quality. Unlike ordinary concrete, ECC has a strain capacity ranging from 3-7% compared to 0.1% for ordinary Portland cement (OPC). ECC therefore behaves more like ductile metal than brittle concrete (like OPC). Tests performed on ECC materials have shown higher relative tensile strength, greater resistance to catastrophic fatigue cracking, increased durability under reverse loading, and greater dynamic tensile load capacity under projectile impact. More specifically, in some cases, the tensile strain capacity can be approximately 500 times greater than that of a standard concrete aggregate mixture. In one example, polymer fibers in the concrete mixture are selected to optimize the concrete matrix for the highest tensile strain capacity. PVA fibers are often selected due to the high chemical bonding between the PVA fibers and the concrete, and / or the appropriate frictional stress at this interface. If the interaction between the fibers and the concrete mixture is too strong, the fibers will not stretch properly, and the supporting concrete matrix may rupture. In one embodiment, the strength of the interaction between the fibers and the concrete mixture is within a selected range, and therefore, when microcracks are formed, they will propagate to other locations in the concrete matrix, thus causing macroscopic strain hardening of the ECC material. Several different types of ECC exist.

[0055] A "fastener" generally refers to a hardware device that mechanically joins, or otherwise secures, two or more objects together. In a limited number of examples, fasteners may include bolts, dowels, nails, nuts, pegs, pins, rivets, screws, and snap fasteners.

[0056] "Flat" generally refers to an object that has a wide, horizontal surface with little height.

[0057] The term "flatbed printer" generally refers to a machine used to transfer text and / or images onto a relatively flat surface and / or substrate. Flatbed printers can include flatbed screen printers, flatbed laser printers, and flatbed inkjet printers. Flatbed inkjet printers can be subdivided based on the type of printing ink, and / or how the printing ink is cured and / or dried. For example, flatbed inkjet printers can be subdivided into flatbed ultraviolet (UV) printers and flatbed eco-solvent printers. Flatbed UV printers use inks that cure rapidly on the printing surface using UV light. In the case of eco-solvent flatbed inkjet printers, the ink is typically dried on the printing surface through the evaporation of the solvent in the ink. Examples of such eco-solvent printers include flatbed latex printers that use water-solvent latex inks. Typically, but not always, a flatbed printer includes a bed that provides a relatively flat surface on which a printing substrate rests. A flatbed printer further includes an arm or gantry that can move along the bed during printing. A gantry supports one or more print heads that spray ink onto a printing surface or, otherwise, deposit ink onto the printing surface. UV printers typically further include a UV light source, such as a UV light-emitting diode (LED), which cures the UV ink printed on the printing surface or substrate.

[0058] "Graphics" generally refers to visual representations produced on a surface. These visual representations may include, for example, objects, scenes, people, and / or abstract concepts.

[0059] "Image" generally refers to one or more visual displays and / or designs on any surface. Images can be functional and / or artistic in their very nature. Some non-definite examples of images include photographs, drawings, line drawings, graphs, charts, typography, numbers, text, symbols, geometric designs, maps, mechanical drawings, and / or other graphics. Images often (but not always) combine text, illustrations, and colors. The design of an image may include, for example, the deliberate selection, generation, and / or arrangement of typography without any other elements, such as in brochures, flyers, posters, websites, and / or books.

[0060] "Integrated" in this specification means being formed as a single piece or fused together in a single piece without requiring any form of connection or attachment.

[0061] "Yoko" generally refers to being located on the side, being directed toward it, or coming from that direction.

[0062] The term "loading deck" generally refers to one or more panels and / or assemblies of boards that form the pallet surface on which goods and / or other items are supported. For example, when boxes are stacked on a pallet, the first layer of boxes typically rests on the loading deck of the pallet. Typically, but not always, the loading deck is located on the side of the pallet opposite the supporting deck.

[0063] "Long side" generally refers to the length or long dimension of an object, rather than simply its length across it.

[0064] "Medium-density fiberboard" or "MDF" generally refers to a material made from small pieces of wood that are pressed together to form a board.

[0065] A "packing template" generally refers to a surface pattern that guides where one or more items should be placed on a surface in order to form one or more layers of packed items.

[0066] The term "pallet" generally refers to a portable platform or other structure on which goods or items can be assembled, stacked, stored, packed, handled, transported, and / or moved as a unit load, often with the help of forklifts or pallet jacks. Typically, but not always, a pallet forms a rigid, horizontal base on which items rest. Goods, shipping containers, and other items are often placed on pallets secured with straps, stretch wraps, and / or shrink wraps. Often, but not always, pallets are equipped with a superstructure. In one form, a pallet includes a structure that supports goods in a stable manner and is lifted by a forklift, pallet jack, front loader, and / or other lifting device. In particular, a pallet typically includes a top, a loading deck on which items are stacked; a bottom, a support deck resting on the ground; and spacer structures positioned between the loading deck and the support deck to receive the forks of a forklift or pallet jack. However, pallets can be configured differently. For example, the term “pallet” is used in a broader sense to include skids that do not have a support deck. One or more components of a pallet, or even the entire pallet, can be molded together to form a single unit. Non-exclusive examples of these pallets may include stringer, block, perimeter, skid, solid deck, multi-deck board, panel deck, slave, double deck (or face), single-way entry, two-way entry, four-way entry, flush, single-wing, double-wing, expandable, limited-use, multiple-use, returnable, recyclable, heat-treated, reversible, non-reversible, and / or warehouse-type pallets.

[0067] A “spacer structure” generally refers to any component, part, object, device, and / or assembly that separates the load deck of a pallet from the object on which it rests, such as the ground, floor, other pallets, and / or other unit loads. In non-limiting examples, a spacer structure may include one or more blocks, stringers, and / or other spacers. Typically, but not always, a spacer structure defines one or more fork entries, each forming an entry for one or more forks of a forklift or pallet jack. Fork entries can be formed, to name just a few, by the space created between the load deck and the support deck by, for example, stringers and / or blocks, and one or more notches in the stringers or other parts of the pallet. In one embodiment, fork entries may be located at opposite ends of a pallet to create a two-way entry pallet, and in another embodiment, fork entries may be located at both opposite ends and opposite sides of a pallet to create a four-way entry pallet. In other examples, a spacer structure may include some fork entries, or none at all.

[0068] A “stock retention unit” (SKU) or “item” generally refers to an individual article or thing. An SKU can be in any form and can be packed or unpacked. For example, an SKU can be packed in cases, cartons, bags, drums, containers, bottles, cans, pallets, and / or sacks, to name just a few. An SKU is not limited to the specific state of a thing, as an item can typically be in the form of a solid, liquid, and / or gas.

[0069] The term "support deck" generally refers to one or more panels and / or assemblies of boards that form a pallet surface, typically (but not always) resting on another object such as a floor, ground, another pallet, and / or other unit load, to support the weight of the pallet or any load packed on the pallet. Typically, but not always, the support deck is located on the side of the pallet facing the load deck. The support deck typically includes one or more jacking openings, which allow pallet jack wheels to engage with the floor and / or ground on which the support deck rests.

[0070] The term "template" generally refers to a gauge, pattern, and / or mold (e.g., a sheet) used as a guide to the form of the piece and / or structure to be made.

[0071] "Text" generally refers to one or more letters or similar symbols that form words to provide information.

[0072] "Thickness" generally refers to a measure of the distance between opposing sides of an object. As used herein, the thickness of an object located between two surfaces is measured from between the two sides of an object that has no discontinuity on its surface. It should be noted that the singular forms "one," "one," "it," and similar forms include the plural form as used herein and / or in the claims, unless otherwise explicitly stated. For example, where herein and / or in the claims refers to "one device" or "its device," it includes one or more such devices.

[0073] It should be noted that directional terms such as “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” “radial,” “circumferential,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” etc., are used herein on their own for the convenience of the reader, and their purpose is to aid the reader’s understanding of the illustrated embodiments, and the use of these directional terms is not intended to limit, in any way, the descriptions, illustrations, and / or claimed features to any particular direction and / or orientation.

[0074] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, it should be considered as an illustration and not limiting to the features, and it should be understood that only preferred embodiments have been shown and described, and moreover, all variations, equivalents, and modifications are to be expected to fall within the spirit of the invention as defined by the following claims and be protected. All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein are incorporated herein by reference as each individual publication, patent, or patent application is incorporated herein by reference and described herein in whole. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0075] 100 pallets 105 Cargo deck 110 Support Deck 115 Spacer structure 120 Spacer Blocks 125 Fork opening 130 images 135 color images 305 Image Section 310 Text section 315 Hand opening 405 Pallet jack opening 505 Outer surface 510 Inner surface 515 Thickness 600 System 605 Flatbed Printer 610 beds 615 Printer head gantry 620 Printer Head 625 Bed surface 630 Printer head surface 635 Printer head gap 640 Longitudinal direction 705 Horizontal 800 Flowcharts 805 Stages 810 Stages 815 Stages 820 stages 900 pallets 905 Cargo deck 910 Graphics 915 Advertisement 920 quotes 925 Graphics 930 Decoration 1000 pallets 1005 Graphics Section 1010 Text section 1015 Packing Template 1020 First package-type marker 1025 Second package-type marker 1105 Packing Layer 1110 First Box 1115 Second Box

Claims

1. Includes a palette with one or more printed images, The aforementioned image is printed on at least one deck of the pallet, The aforementioned deck is a loading deck that forms a surface for supporting items, The aforementioned loading deck has a continuous, flat surface, on which the image is located, A spacer structure connected to the aforementioned cargo deck and defining one or more fork openings, It includes a support deck attached to the spacer structure, located on the opposite side of the loading deck, and defining one or more jack openings, The aforementioned image is formed by ink directly applied to the cargo deck. system.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the deck includes medium-density fiberboard (MDF).

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the deck has a sandblasted finish.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the deck has a matte finish.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the deck has a vinyl finish.

6. It also includes a flatbed printer, The above image is printed by the flatbed printer. The system according to claim 1.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the flatbed printer has a printer head spaced apart to accommodate the thickness of the deck.

8. It also includes a latex printer, The aforementioned image is printed via the latex printer. The system according to claim 1.

9. Further including ultraviolet (UV) printers, The aforementioned image is printed via the UV printer. The system according to claim 1.

10. The aforementioned image is the system according to claim 1, including an advertisement.

11. The aforementioned image includes text, relating to the system according to claim 1.

12. The aforementioned text includes a quotation, relating to the system according to claim 11.

13. The system according to claim 11, wherein the text includes instructions.

14. The aforementioned image shows the system according to claim 1, including decoration.

15. The system according to claim 1, wherein the image includes a packing template for at least one packing layer of the pallet.

16. The loading deck has a thickness that can be received by a flatbed printer, the image is printed directly on it, and after the image has been printed by the flatbed printer it is attached to the spacer structure. The system according to claim 1.

17. The image is a realistic image. The system according to claim 1.

18. The step includes printing one or more images onto a palette, The printing step includes printing the image with a flatbed printer and printing the ink directly onto the loading deck of the pallet. The aforementioned loading deck has a continuous, flat surface for supporting items, The printing step includes printing the ink onto the continuous, flat surface, The flatbed printer has a printer head spaced apart to accommodate the thickness of the cargo deck, The process includes, after the printing step, attaching the cargo deck to the spacer structure, method.

19. The further step includes spacing the print heads of the flatbed printer to accommodate the thickness of the deck, The method according to claim 18.

20. The step of assembling the spacer structure and the loading deck of the pallet, after the printing step, The method according to claim 18.

21. The method according to claim 18, wherein the printing step includes printing the image via a latex printer.

22. The method according to claim 18, wherein the printing step includes printing the image via an ultraviolet (UV) printer.

23. The flatbed printer is an ultraviolet (UV) printer, The support deck is attached to the spacer structure on the opposite side of the cargo deck. The method according to claim 18.

Images