Half Pallet Recessed End Supports and Resilient Grommets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional half pallets face challenges in being efficiently lifted and moved using standard fork tines due to their design, which often results in either being unable to fit or being difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces and into coolers.
Innovation Solution
A half pallet design with end supports recessed from the deck edges and cantilevered portions that prevent fork tine entry, combined with resilient grommets for increased friction, allowing for efficient lifting and movement using both fork lifts and hand pallet trucks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional half pallet design is used, then the pallet can fit in narrow spaces and coolers, but it cannot be efficiently lifted and moved using standard fork tines
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet design segments the deck structure into distinct regions: end supports with recessed edges that prevent fork tine entry, and central portions with sufficient clearance for hand pallet truck insertion. This segmentation allows the pallet to maintain its narrow width for space efficiency while providing dedicated access zones for material handling equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces resilient grommets as an intermediary element between the deck and fork tines. These grommets increase friction to prevent accidental lifting from ends while allowing hand pallet truck tines to pass through. The grommets act as a mediator that selectively permits or prevents equipment interaction based on equipment type and insertion location.
2Reliability
If end supports are recessed from deck edges, then accidental lifting from ends is prevented, but fork tine entry becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet implements local quality by providing different edge characteristics at different locations: end supports have recessed edges to prevent accidental lifting, while the central deck portions maintain sufficient clearance for hand pallet truck access. This localized differentiation allows simultaneous achievement of safety and operational accessibility.
3Reliability
If resilient grommets are added to increase friction, then accidental lifting is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient grommets are simple, inexpensive components that can be easily replaced if needed. Their low cost and simplicity mean that even though they add to device complexity, the overall impact is minimal. The grommets are basic friction-enhancing elements without complex mechanisms, providing reliable accident prevention at minimal complexity cost.
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 effective lifting and movement of half pallets from either end or front, accommodating various tine configurations and preventing accidental lifting from ends, thus improving operational efficiency and space utilization.
Implementation Method 1
at least one resilient grommet secured to a lower surface of the deck to increase friction between the pallet and the tines
Data Source
AI summary
A half pallet includes a deck having opposite front and rear edges and opposite end edges. The end edges are shorter than the front and rear edges. End supports below the deck are adjacent end edges of the deck. The deck extends forward and rearward of the end supports. Each of the end supports includes a front edge recessed from the front edge of the deck and a rear edge recessed from the rear edge of the deck. Each end support prevents entry of a fork tine between the front edge of the end support and the rear edge of the end support.