Lateral Force Pallet Testing for Riveted Joint Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing pallet stability, particularly those with riveted connections like the Düsseldorf pallet, fail to accurately determine horizontal and vertical stability and connection quality due to limitations in detecting minor instabilities and loose connections, which can lead to significant stability issues during loading and transportation.
Innovation Solution
Applying lateral test forces to the pallet, parallel to the deck boards, to measure horizontal mobility and deflection, which serves as an indicator of both horizontal and vertical stability and connection quality, allowing for precise detection of minor quality losses without loading the pallet to its stability limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vertical test forces are applied to pallets as in conventional testing methods, then the pallets can be tested under actual usage conditions, but minor instabilities and loose connections cannot be reliably detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the direction parameter of the test force from vertical to lateral (horizontal), and introduces a new measurement parameter (lateral deflection) to detect minor instabilities and loose connections that vertical testing cannot reliably identify
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of applying test forces vertically as in conventional methods, the patent applies lateral test forces perpendicular to the vertical axis, inverting the traditional testing approach to achieve better detection of connection quality
2Reliability
If high test forces are applied to detect stability issues, then defective pallets can be identified, but the pallet connections are loaded to their stability limits causing severe deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using only the necessary lateral component of force for testing, avoiding the excessive vertical loading that would push connections to their stability limits, thereby detecting defects without causing severe deformation
3Measurement precision
If lateral test forces are applied to detect horizontal mobility, then minor quality losses can be detected early, but the test setup becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The test device is designed with multi-functionality, where the lateral test force application mechanism also serves as the measurement system, and the same device can test different pallet types and connection points, reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced testing capability
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
This method enables early detection of minor quality losses and improved stability assessment by measuring lateral deflections and rotations, effectively identifying defective pallets with low test forces, especially beneficial for pallets with riveted joints.
Implementation Method 1
the lateral deflection of the pallet base is recorded, based on which the pallet condition is determined
Implementation Method 2
the deformation that occurs is monitored
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and a device for testing pallets, wherein a test force is applied to the pallet by means of at least one test head and the resulting deformation is monitored. According to the invention, the test force and/or a resistance force opposing the test force of the test head is applied laterally from a longitudinal or narrow side of the pallet against a pallet base, and the lateral deflection of the pallet base is detected, based on which the condition of the pallet is determined.