Modular System Pallet with Corner Coupling Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard pallets in logistics facilities lack flexibility in handling various vehicle types, are limited in transporting oversized loads, and require labor-intensive manual fixing methods, leading to instability and potential damage during automated transport.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional system pallet with a rectangular frame, corner blocks, and coupling interfaces that allows for secure attachment of loads and flexible vehicle interaction, enabling the combination of multiple pallets for increased stability and adaptability to different load sizes and vehicle types, with features like centering devices, attachment interfaces, and skid elements for conveyor system compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard pallets are used for transport, then cost-effective production and easy handling are achieved, but flexibility in handling various vehicle types and transporting oversized loads is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet is divided into a modular structure consisting of a base frame, corner blocks, and detachable support elements. This segmentation allows different configurations to be assembled for different vehicle types and load sizes, achieving versatility without requiring entirely different pallet designs for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet design incorporates universal interfaces and attachment points that can accommodate multiple vehicle types (conveyor systems, industrial trucks, mobile robots) and various load configurations. The corner blocks with coupling interfaces and adjustable support elements enable a single pallet design to serve multiple functions across different automated logistics systems.
2Quantity of substance
If loads extend beyond pallet edges to accommodate oversized items, then transport capacity increases, but tipping stability decreases and sensor detection issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention addresses the stability problem by adding vertical support elements and coupling interfaces that extend the support structure in the vertical dimension. This allows loads to extend horizontally beyond the base pallet edges while maintaining stability through additional vertical support points and anchoring mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Coupling interfaces and intermediate support structures are introduced between the base pallet and extended loads. These intermediaries provide stable attachment points for oversized loads, distributing weight and preventing tipping while maintaining proper sensor detection ranges by keeping critical interfaces within detectable zones.
3Reliability
If manual securing methods like film wrapping or straps are used, then load securing is achieved, but manual effort and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet incorporates integrated securing mechanisms such as built-in straps, clips, or locking features that automatically engage with the load or container. This self-service approach eliminates or reduces the need for manual film wrapping and strap application, while maintaining reliable load securing throughout transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing functions are merged into the pallet structure itself rather than being separate operations. Attachment interfaces, integrated straps, and locking mechanisms are combined with the pallet frame and corner blocks, allowing securing to occur as part of the loading process rather than as a separate manual step.
4Adaptability or versatility
If standardized pallet dimensions are used, then system integration and automated handling are improved, but adaptability to different load sizes and vehicle types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements such as movable support plates, adjustable corner blocks, and flexible coupling interfaces. These dynamic features allow the pallet to adapt its configuration to different load sizes and vehicle types while maintaining precise positioning through controlled adjustment mechanisms that ensure consistent centering and alignment.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a multifunctional system pallet (10) comprising a rectangular frame (12) in plan view, with two longitudinal sides (14) and two transverse sides (16), at least four outer blocks (18) arranged in the respective corners of the frame (12), and at least two receiving plates (24) extending between the longitudinal sides (14) of the frame (12), wherein the frame (12) is provided with mounting interfaces (28) for attaching a support element and/or loads to be transported; and the receiving plates (24) are provided with centering devices (26) for receiving the system pallet (10) by an undercarriage vehicle. The invention further relates to a system consisting of at least one such system pallet (10) and a transfer station (40).