Driven Loadable Construct for Damage-Free Pallet Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing material transport mechanisms are often expensive and bulky, causing damage to pallets during lifting and failing to prevent cross-contamination in manufacturing and warehouse operations.
Innovation Solution
A driven loadable construct with an upper and lower surface, equipped with drive wheels, motors, and a controller for controlled movement, which can be wirelessly directed to prevent damage and minimize contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional lifting mechanisms (fork-lifting trucks) are used to transport pallets, then material transport capability is achieved, but damage to pallets occurs during lifting and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical lifting system of traditional fork-lifting trucks with a driven pallet system that uses electric motors and drive wheels integrated into the pallet structure itself. This substitution eliminates the need for external lifting mechanisms that cause damage during alignment, while maintaining transport capability through self-propelled movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the transport function with the pallet structure by integrating drive wheels, motors, and power sources directly into the pallet. This combination creates a unified system where the pallet becomes self-propelled, eliminating the need for separate lifting equipment and preventing damage during the lifting process.
2Productivity
If traditional transport devices are used to move pallets, then material transport is achieved, but cross-contamination occurs in manufacturing and warehouse operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical transport devices that have direct contact with materials with a driven pallet system that maintains separation between the transport mechanism and the cargo. The integrated drive system allows the pallet to move autonomously without requiring contact from external equipment, thereby preventing cross-contamination while maintaining transport efficiency.
3Productivity
If expensive and bulky transport mechanisms are used, then material transport capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (support, storage, and transport) into a single integrated pallet structure with built-in drive components. This merging eliminates the need for bulky external transport equipment, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full transport capability. The pallet itself becomes the transport device, eliminating redundant structural elements.
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
The solution enables efficient, damage-free transportation of loads while preventing cross-contamination by using a rechargeable power source and remote control functionality, enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one motor operatively coupled to each of the at least one drive wheel
Implementation Method 2
The power source may be rechargeable
Data Source
AI summary
A device for supporting and moving a load within an area may include a motive construct configured to support the load and move the load to a ground location within the area; a lift mechanism coupled to the motive construct, the lift mechanism being configured to effect movement of the motive construct to a height relative to the ground location; and a remote controller operatively coupled to the device via at least one of a cable connection and a wireless connection, the remote controller being configured to steer the motive construct and/or to control the lift mechanism. The device may further include at least one sensor to detect a characteristic of the load. The device may further include a braking system.