Deployable Bail Arm Pallet Expanding Support Area
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallets and dollies have a fixed planar surface area, which can lead to loads tipping or falling when the load area exceeds the footprint, as they cannot accommodate loads of varying sizes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A deployable bail arm mechanism connected to the pallet or dolly that moves from a stowed to a deployed position, creating an overhang area adjacent to the deck, thereby increasing the total support area and preventing loads from tipping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed planar surface area is used on pallets and dollies, then the structure is simple and stable, but the load area is limited and cannot accommodate loads of varying sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed planar surface into a deployable structure. The bail arm mechanism can be moved between a retracted position (maintaining simplicity) and a deployed position (increasing load area). This dynamic transformation allows the pallet to adapt to different load sizes while maintaining structural simplicity when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the support surface into two parts: the fixed deck area and the deployable bail arm area. This segmentation allows the load-bearing surface to be extended without redesigning the entire pallet structure, thus increasing adaptability while controlling overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the load area exceeds the footprint of the dolly, then larger loads can be accommodated, but the load is subject to tipping or falling
Solution Approach 1:
The deployable bail arm provides dynamic stability adjustment. When the load area exceeds the original footprint, the bail arm can be deployed to create an extended support surface, redistributing the load and preventing tipping. This dynamic adjustment maintains stability while accommodating larger loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The bail arm mechanism extends the support surface into a third dimension by creating an overhang area adjacent to the deck. This dimensional extension increases the effective load area without compromising stability, as the bail arm provides additional support points that prevent tipping.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a deployable bail arm mechanism is added to increase support area, then larger loads can be supported, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bail arm mechanism is designed to be dynamically deployable rather than permanently extended. This allows the support area to be increased only when needed, minimizing the impact on overall device complexity. The mechanism can be quickly deployed and retracted based on load requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The bail arm mechanism is designed to nest within or alongside the existing pallet structure when retracted, minimizing additional space requirements. This nesting approach reduces the visual and spatial complexity of the mechanism while maintaining the ability to extend the support area when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A pallet having a deck with a generally planar upper surface with a peripheral edge defining a first area, and a ground engaging structure connected to the deck is provided. A mechanism is connected to the pallet and is moveable from a stowed position to a deployed position. When in the deployed position, a portion of the mechanism defines an overhang area adjacent the first area to increase a total support area of the pallet.