Nesting Half-Size Pallets in Support Base for Rack Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Half-size pallets require twice the handling as standard-size pallets in warehouses due to their unwieldy nature and inability to be stored on pallet racks, leading to inefficiencies in handling and storage.
Innovation Solution
A pallet assembly comprising a support base with openings to nest and support multiple smaller pallets, allowing them to be handled and stored as a single standard-size pallet, with the support base enabling forklift lifting and rack storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If half-size pallets are used to improve maneuverability in tight spaces, then ease of operation is improved, but handling efficiency deteriorates because twice as many pallets must be handled separately
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple half-size pallets with a support base into a single integrated assembly that can be handled as one unit by forklifts, eliminating the need to handle each half-pallet separately while maintaining the maneuverability benefits of smaller pallet sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The support base is designed with openings that receive the feet of multiple half-size pallets, nesting them together in a coordinated arrangement that allows simultaneous handling of multiple pallets as a single assembly
2Area of stationary object
If half-size pallets are used to reduce storage space requirements, then area of stationary object is reduced, but storage capability deteriorates because half-pallets cannot be stored on pallet racks
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple half-size pallets with a support base into a single assembly unit, the invention enables the combined structure to be stored on standard pallet racks, thereby gaining rack storage capability while maintaining compact footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The support base serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for nesting pallets, enables rack storage capability, and maintains the compact dimensions needed for space-efficient storage, making the assembly adaptable to various storage configurations
Data Source
AI summary
A pallet assembly includes a support base including a support deck having a plurality of openings. A plurality of pallets each include a pallet deck having a plurality of feet extending downward therefrom. The plurality of pallets are arranged such that the plurality of feet are received in the plurality of openings in the support deck of the support base. In this manner, a plurality of smaller pallets can be handled as a single standard size pallet, including being stacked in a pallet rack.