Dual-Sided Pallet Puller Wedge Hooks for Misaligned Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simple and efficient device to safely reposition various types of pallets quickly, as existing solutions are inadequate for handling different pallet configurations and sizes.
Innovation Solution
A pallet puller device comprising bars with wedge-shaped hooks, a ring, and a line, allowing the bars to move relative to the ring and grip the pallet's center stringer or notch, enabling easy manipulation and repositioning of pallets using a forklift.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a forklift is used to remove pallets from the transport vehicle, then the pallets can be transported efficiently, but the forklift cannot access twisted or misaligned pallets
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet puller acts as an intermediary device between the forklift and the pallet. The forklift attaches to the pallet puller, which in turn engages with the pallet's center stringer or notch. This intermediary mechanism allows the forklift to safely manipulate twisted or misaligned pallets that would otherwise be inaccessible, resolving the contradiction between productivity and adaptability.
2Device complexity
If a simple device is used to reposition pallets, then the device can be quickly deployed, but existing simple devices cannot handle different pallet configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet puller is designed with universal engagement capabilities that allow it to work with different pallet types, configurations, and sizes. The bar and hook mechanism can engage with various pallet structures including center stringers and notches, making the device adaptable to diverse pallet formats while maintaining simplicity in its basic mechanical design.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet puller incorporates movable bars that can adjust their position and orientation dynamically. The bars are not fixed rigidly but can move relative to each other, allowing the device to adapt to different pallet geometries and configurations. This dynamic capability enables the simple device structure to handle varied pallet types effectively.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the bars are made long enough to reach the center stringer on all pallet types, then all pallets can be engaged, but the device becomes harder to maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The bars are designed to be movable relative to each other rather than fixed in a rigid configuration. This dynamic structure allows the bars to adjust their length and position dynamically during operation, enabling engagement with different pallet types while maintaining maneuverability. The bars can extend or retract as needed based on the specific pallet configuration being handled.
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 pallet puller allows for rapid and safe repositioning of pallets, including twisted or misaligned ones, without damaging the load, and can be used with different pallet types, including those without center stringers, by securely gripping the pallet with the hooks and line mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The first hook is a wedge connected to the distal end of the first bar. The second hook is a wedge connected to the distal end of the second bar.
Data Source
AI summary
A pallet puller comprising: a first bar having a first hook disposed on a distal end of the first bar, wherein the first hook is a wedge connected to the distal end of the first bar; a second bar having a second hook disposed on a distal end of the second bar, wherein the second hook is a wedge connected to the distal end of the second bar; a ring loosely coupled to a proximal end of the first bar and to a proximal end of the second bar such that the first and second bars are able to move with respect to the ring and such that pointed ends of the first and second hooks are pointed in opposite directions with respect to each other; and a line having a proximal end coupled to the ring and a distal end terminated in a connection point.