Multi-Component Pallet Base Structure for Secure Device Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Freestanding devices, such as vending machines, face challenges in secure and efficient packaging for transport that protects the delicate equipment while allowing easy setup and minimal effort in removal, as existing solutions do not adequately support the devices during movement and provide sufficient protection against bumps or damage.
Innovation Solution
A multi-component packaging system featuring a center deck with lugs and base side members that form a planar pallet surface, secured by straps and a cover member, allowing the device to be supported and protected during transport, with the center deck being easily removable without lifting the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device is secured tightly in packaging to protect against damage during transport, then protection reliability is improved, but removal difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system is divided into multiple independent components: a base structure with center deck, side members, and a separate cover member. These segmented parts can be easily assembled and disassembled while providing secure protection when combined, resolving the contradiction between tight security and easy removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging system transitions from a static secured state to a dynamic easily removable state through the use of removable straps and separable components. The cover member can be lifted off and the center deck removed without tools, allowing the system to adapt between protection and ease of operation modes.
2Ease of operation
If the packaging structure is simplified for easy transport, then ease of operation is improved, but protection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging is segmented into a lightweight base structure and a separate cover member, allowing easy transport of individual components while providing comprehensive protection when assembled. The segmented design reduces overall complexity and transport difficulty while maintaining protection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device nests within the packaging structure, with the cover member enclosing the top portion and the base structure supporting the bottom. This nested arrangement provides robust protection while keeping the overall packaging compact and easy to transport.
3Reliability
If the packaging provides comprehensive protection against bumps and damage, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging complexity is segmented into simple, standardized components: a base with center deck, side members with slots, and a cover member. Each component has a simple geometry and function, reducing individual part complexity while achieving comprehensive protection when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure and cover member serve multiple functions: they protect against bumps and damage, provide a planar surface for positioning, and enable easy assembly and disassembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A pallet base structure including a center deck defining a support surface extending between opposed sides and having at least two lugs extending from each of the opposed sides. A pair of base side members are positioned along respective sides of the center deck. Each base side member has first and second spaced apart base legs and a support member extending between the base legs with at least two corresponding lug receiving slots defined in the support member. The respective lugs are received in the respective lug receiving slots such that the center deck support surface is aligned with an upper surface of each support member to define a planar pallet surface. A packaging system incorporating the pallet base structure is also described.