Collapsible Pallet Attachment Frame with Nested Folding Walls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachment frames for transport pallets are complex to assemble and disassemble, prone to part loss during return transport, and do not efficiently minimize volume after use, with known solutions either requiring assembly of individual parts or forming bulky elements upon folding.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible attachment frame consisting of a rigid base frame with hinged side walls and connecting elements, allowing multiple frames to be stacked and connected via bolts in grooves for adjustable height, with receptacles and engagement elements for positive centering and easy assembly/disassembly, enabling flexible configuration and minimal volume reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If attachment frames are made from individual parts that are assembled, then the frames can be disassembled for return transport, but the parts are at risk of being lost during return transport and the handling becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates all frame parts (side walls, base frame, connecting elements) into a single unitary structure. The side walls are permanently connected to the base frame, and connecting elements are fixed to the side walls, eliminating the risk of parts being lost during return transport while maintaining ease of assembly through the integrated design.
2Ease of operation
If attachment frames are made from articulated parts that are folded together, then the frames can be compacted after use, but they form long bulky elements that do not minimize volume effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The side walls are designed to fold down onto the base frame in a nested configuration. When folded, the side walls lie flat against the base frame, creating a compact package that minimizes volume. The connecting elements are positioned to allow this nested folding arrangement, transforming the frame from an extended three-dimensional structure to a compressed two-dimensional configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment frames are stacked to produce variable height load carriers, then the height can be adjusted, but the assembly and disassembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The load carrier system is segmented into standardized modular attachment frames that can be stacked in various combinations to achieve different heights. Each frame is a self-contained unit with standardized connecting elements, allowing frames to be assembled and disassembled independently. This segmentation enables flexible configuration without proportionally increasing assembly complexity, as each module follows the same design pattern.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient assembly of pallets into load carriers of varying heights with minimal volume reduction after use, allowing for flexible configuration and easy handling, reducing the risk of part loss and simplifying the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
two opposite side walls folding down against the pallet surface and the two other opposite side walls are designed to be folded down onto the side walls that have already been folded down
Implementation Method 2
The receptacles on the underside of the stacking frame and the gripping elements on the top of the transport pallet or on the upper edge of the collapsible side walls of the stacking frame are designed in such a way that they are centered positively when they are put down
Implementation Method 3
The connecting elements are, for example, bolts that can be moved in grooves that are aligned with one another in the side walls or the base frame. After the first attachment frame has been placed on the other, the bolts are moved in the aligned grooves in such a way that the two attachment frames are fixed to one another
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an attachment frame (2) for transport pallets (1), comprising receiving portions which are provided on the lower face and which interact with corresponding engaging elements in the upper face of the transport pallets. The attachment frame consists of a rigid base frame (3) and lateral walls (5) that are hinged to said base frame so as to be foldable, wherein two opposing lateral walls are designed such that said walls can be folded down against the pallet surface and the two other opposing lateral walls are designed such that said walls can be folded onto the already folded-down lateral walls. Engaging elements (8) for corresponding receiving portions in the base frame lower edges are provided in the upper edges of the lateral walls.