Modular Pallet Coupling for Tool-Free Skid Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallets are often difficult to handle and convert between storage, display, and transport modes, and they lack user-friendly coupling mechanisms that allow for easy assembly and disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A pallet design featuring a symmetrical support assembly with identical runner arrangements and coupling devices that allow for secure, resilient connections between the support and skid assemblies, enabling easy conversion between configurations using dovetail and bayonet-like connections without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pallets are designed with detachable skid assemblies for easy handling and storage, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet is divided into modular components: a support assembly and detachable skid assemblies. This segmentation allows the skid assemblies to be easily attached and detached while maintaining structural integrity during use, resolving the contradiction between ease of handling and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling devices incorporate resilient elements that allow dynamic adjustment during attachment and detachment. The resilient coupling mechanism adapts to minor misalignments and facilitates easier connection without requiring precise manual positioning, reducing operational complexity.
2Reliability
If resilient coupling devices are used for secure connections in automated systems, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional coupling components
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple coupling functions are merged into a single integrated coupling device. The resilient coupling mechanism simultaneously provides mechanical connection, positional alignment, and shock absorption, achieving high reliability without requiring multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient coupling devices are designed to self-align and self-adjust during attachment. The resilient elements automatically compensate for tolerance variations and maintain optimal connection without requiring external adjustment mechanisms, simplifying the overall device structure while ensuring reliable connections.
3Ease of operation
If the pallet is designed without skid assemblies for manual handling, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability decreases for automated warehouse systems
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet configuration is made dynamic through detachable skid assemblies that can be added or removed based on operational requirements. For manual handling, the pallet operates without skids for maximum ease of operation. For automated warehouse systems, skid assemblies are attached to provide the necessary adaptability for conveyor and rack integration.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a pallet. The pallet comprises a support arrangement (1) having at least one base (6) for carrying at least one item and at least two skid assemblies (2), as well as at least two coupling arrangements (3) for coupling each skid assembly (1) to the support arrangement (2) as required. The support arrangement (1) and the skid assemblies (2) can be decoupled from each other by means of the respective coupling arrangement (3). The at least one second coupling device (18, 19, 32, 33) comprises at least one arcuate second coupling means (18, 19) on the support arrangement (1) and at least one arcuate second counter-coupling means (32, 33) on the respective skid assembly (2), complementary to the at least one second coupling means (18, 19).The at least one second coupling means (18, 19) and at least one second counter-coupling means (32, 33) extend in the assembled state of the respective skid arrangement (2) in a region around the first coupling device (13, 48).