Half Pallet Sled Fork Receivers for Hand Truck Nesting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Direct store delivery systems face inefficiencies when drivers are reluctant to use specialized equipment due to crowded store conditions, leading to the need for secondary equipment like hand trucks to be brought inside, resulting in multiple trips and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Integration of receivers into the primary equipment's fork structure allows the secondary equipment, such as a hand truck, to be stored and transported with the primary piece, enabling all necessary equipment to be brought at once without multiple trips, with various configurations accommodating different delivery conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If drivers use specialized delivery equipment (electric lift/sled) in crowded stores, then delivery efficiency is improved, but drivers face reluctance and safety concerns due to crowded conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery system is segmented into two components: a primary piece of equipment (electric lift or sled) for transporting the pallet load, and a secondary hand truck for navigating crowded store areas. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, with the hand truck being more maneuverable in tight spaces while the electric lift handles the heavy lifting.
Solution Approach 2:
The hand truck is designed to nest within the fork structure of the electric lift or sled when not in use. The fork structure includes receivers that accommodate the hand truck, allowing the driver to transport both pieces of equipment together in a single trip from the trailer to the store, eliminating the need for multiple trips.
2Ease of operation
If drivers bring secondary equipment (hand truck) inside the store, then they can deliver product, but they must make multiple trips back to the trailer to retrieve equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The hand truck and electric lift/sled are merged into a single transport system through the nesting arrangement. The hand truck attaches to the fork structure of the electric lift, creating a combined equipment assembly that can be moved together as one unit. This merging eliminates the need for separate trips to retrieve the hand truck, as both pieces of equipment are transported simultaneously in a single trip to the store.
3Loss of time
If drivers transport all equipment at once, then delivery time is reduced, but equipment size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fork structure of the electric lift is designed with universal receivers that can accommodate the hand truck in multiple configurations. The hand truck can be positioned in different locations relative to the electric lift (front, side, or nested within the fork structure), providing versatility in how the equipment is transported and used. This multi-functionality allows the same basic structure to serve multiple purposes without increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A pallet sled includes a sled base having wheels. A fork tine assembly extends from the sled base and includes a pair of fork tines. At least one of the pair of fork tines is configured to be secured to a base of a hand cart, such as with a slot or recess. The hand cart can be carried by the fork tine while the fork tines are supporting a pallet loaded with goods thereon.