Cargo Transport Unit with Vertical Tension Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport units for cylindrical cargo items are inefficient in terms of space utilization, as they leave unused space at the edges of layers, leading to an unfavorable transport volume ratio and require multiple pallets with different cut-outs for varying roll diameters, causing instability and increased storage needs.
Innovation Solution
The center axes of cargo items are aligned in the same vertical plane, with tension devices extending between layers and stop elements at the edges to secure the cargo items, allowing for flexible and compact stacking without the need for different pallets or complex configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cargo items are stacked in multiple layers with upper layers positioned in free spaces of lower layers, then the transport unit can accommodate varying roll diameters, but the gross/net volume ratio becomes unfavorable and unused space is left at edges
Solution Approach 1:
The transport unit is divided into a base layer and superimposed layers with different numbers of cargo items. The base layer contains more cargo items, while upper layers contain fewer items positioned in the free spaces between lower layer items, creating a segmented stacking pattern that optimizes space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
Upper layers of cargo items are nested within the free spaces created by the base layer arrangement. This nesting approach allows cargo items in upper layers to be supported by two cargo items of the layer below while minimizing the overall footprint and improving the gross/net volume ratio.
2Volume of moving object
If layers are laterally offset to include identical numbers of cargo items, then the gross/net ratio improves, but the width of the transport unit increases beyond the lowest layer
Solution Approach 1:
The transport unit employs an asymmetric stacking configuration where the base layer has a different number of cargo items than the superimposed layers. This asymmetric arrangement allows upper layers to be narrower and positioned centrally over the base layer, improving the gross/net ratio while maintaining a compact width suitable for standard transport devices.
3Manufacturing precision
If pallets with rounded cut-outs or concave indentations are used to position cargo items, then cargo items can be arranged precisely, but differently configured pallets are required for different roll diameters, increasing storage space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
A universal pallet design without rounded cut-outs or concave indentations is used as the base layer. This universal pallet can accommodate cargo items of different diameters through the tension device securing mechanism, eliminating the need for multiple specialized pallet types while maintaining positioning precision.
4Manufacturing precision
If cargo items are placed in concave indentations of pallets, then positioning is achieved, but cargo items have clearance and can rock, reducing stability
Solution Approach 1:
Tension devices are pre-installed on the base layer cargo items before stacking upper layers. These tension devices extend through free spaces to engage with upper layer cargo items, creating preliminary securing connections that prevent rocking and enhance stability before the cargo items are even placed in their final positions.
Solution Approach 2:
Tension devices serve as intermediary elements between cargo items of different layers. These tension devices transmit forces and secure cargo items of superimposed layers to the base layer, preventing relative movement and rocking while maintaining precise positioning without requiring concave indentations.
5Stability of the object's composition
If tension devices connect cargo items of superimposed layers to the base layer, then stability is improved, but the width of the transport unit increases due to lateral protrusion
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using lateral tension devices that extend horizontally beyond the cargo items, the invention uses tension devices that extend vertically through free spaces between cargo items. This dimensional change from horizontal to vertical tension device orientation maintains stability while minimizing the lateral footprint of the transport unit.
Data Source
AI summary
A transport unit is provided for cylindrical cargo items supported on a support surface and arranged in parallel in at least two layers. The center axes of cargo items are arranged on top of one another and extend essentially in the same vertical plane. At least one tension device extends between two layers. The tension device extends from an outside edge of a cargo item to an outside edge of an opposing cargo item in the layer. At least two stop elements are positioned on respective ends of the tension device. The stop elements are formed for engaging the cargo items and at least one of the stop elements being adjustably positionable on one end of the tension device. The stop elements being connectable by the tension device in a force transferring manner relative to the cargo items.