Interlocking Pallet Containers for Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current container systems for pallets are inefficient due to non-uniform shapes and sizes, leading to wasted space, labor-intensive loading, and instability during transport, particularly in military environments with uneven surfaces.
Innovation Solution
Design of interlocking containers with enlarged wheels and a handle assembly that fit neatly on pallets, maximizing space, and featuring interlocking members to prevent movement and collapse, including reinforced construction for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional non-uniform containers are used for pallet loading, then flexibility in container design is maintained, but space utilization on the pallet deteriorates with excessive wasted space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by designing all containers with uniform dimensions (e.g., 20 inches by 20 inches by 20 inches) and standardized features including interlocking members, wheels of identical size, and handles in consistent positions. This uniformity enables optimal pallet space utilization while maintaining design flexibility through the standardized modular approach.
2Device complexity
If traditional containers without interlocking mechanisms are used, then container simplicity is maintained, but stacking stability deteriorates causing collapse during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the container body with integrated interlocking members (protrusions and recesses) that are cast as part of the container structure. This combination provides stacking stability while maintaining relative simplicity, as the interlocking mechanism is built-in rather than added as separate complex components.
3Weight of moving object
If traditional containers without enlarged wheels are used, then container weight is reduced, but ease of transportation over uneven surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by increasing the wheel size (e.g., 10 inches in diameter) to improve transportation ease over uneven surfaces. The enlarged wheels accommodate rough terrain while the container weight is managed through efficient material selection and structural design, balancing the two parameters.
4Productivity
If containers are loaded without intuitive stacking features, then loading flexibility is maintained, but loading time increases due to guesswork and trial-and-error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual differentiation through color coding or contrasting colors on interlocking members (protrusions and recesses) to make stacking orientation intuitive. This allows operators to quickly identify correct stacking directions without guesswork, improving both loading speed and ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An interlocking or mating container and container system are presented herein. In particular, the system includes a plurality of adjacently disposed (side-by-side, end-to-end and stacked) containers that are dimensioned to maximize the available space on a pallet, for example, a 463-L Pallet, HCU-6/E Pallet or other pallet. The containers include enlarged wheels, one or more support feet, and a handle assembly. The containers are configured to include a plurality of interlocking or mating portions such as one or more wheel assembly receiving portions, one or more foot receiving portions, outer extensions or engaging portions, and a handle engaging portion. The Interlocking or mating portions are configured to matingly engage or abut corresponding portions of an adjacent container and at least partially restrict movement there between.