Handling Device for Foldable Pallet Collars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handling devices for foldable pallet collars are inflexible, require precise positioning, and are costly due to complex automation, while they do not support hourglass-shaped collars and cannot easily remove installed collars.
Innovation Solution
A handling device with a lifting connector, support frame, and pivotable gripper members that can grip any two opposing side walls of the pallet collar, allowing for flexible unfolding and folding, and featuring a primary actuator to assist in movement, play couplings for alignment compensation, and gripper actuators for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a complex automated system with actuators and sensors is used to handle pallet collars, then automation extent is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows manual operation where the user directly manipulates the pallet collar through the handle and gripping members without requiring automated actuators or sensors. The system serves itself by using the user's manual input to accomplish the folding and positioning tasks, eliminating the need for complex automation systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise positioning of the pallet and gripping tools is required, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates movable gripping members that can dynamically adjust their position along the pallet collar sides through the play coupling mechanism. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the gripping members to adapt to slight variations in pallet collar dimensions and positioning, maintaining effective operation without requiring precise pre-positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The play coupling acts as an intermediary element between the fixed support frame and the movable gripping members. It provides alignment compensation that mediates between the rigid structure and the variable positioning requirements, allowing the gripping members to self-align with the pallet collar sides without requiring precise external positioning.
3Device complexity
If the gripping members are fixed at specific positions, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping members are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to dynamically adjust their position along the pallet collar sides. This is achieved through the play coupling mechanism that enables limited movement while maintaining connection to the support frame, providing adaptability without significant structural complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a handling device(1) for assisting a user(2) in manipulating a foldable pallet collar(3), the handling device comprising a support frame(11) defining a first axis(12); a first movable member(13) associated with a first gripper member(14) for gripping a first side wall(15) of the pallet collar; a second movable member(17) associated with a second gripper member(18) for gripping a second side wall(19) of the pallet collar; at least one primary actuator(22) connected to at least one of the movable members and configured for exerting a force on at least one of the movable members in the direction of the first axis, wherein the first and second gripper member are configured to engage and grip any two opposing side walls of the pallet collar, wherein the handling device is configured to facilitate the folding of the pallet collar from the unfolded state to the folded state(8) or unfolding of the pallet collar from the folded state to the unfolded state.