Stackable Pallet Column Height Variation for Self-Aligning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallet stacking systems require multiple two-dimensional distance meters for accurate alignment, leading to increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A pallet design with at least one column of higher height than others, featuring a guide portion and a slidable cup, allows for accurate stacking without the need for multiple detection units, using a self-propelled moving body and detection unit to align and stack the pallets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple two-dimensional distance meters are used to detect pallet inclination and center position for accurate stacking, then stacking accuracy is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential alignment function from complex multi-sensor detection systems. By using only a single detection unit to detect the upper end portion of one column, the system achieves accurate stacking without requiring multiple two-dimensional distance meters, thereby reducing system cost while maintaining stacking accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet structure itself provides alignment guidance through its geometric features. The upper end portion of the column acts as a natural reference point that guides the insertion into the inserted portion, eliminating the need for complex active alignment systems. The structure serves its own alignment function.
2Measurement precision
If multiple detection units are deployed to achieve high-accuracy stacking, then stacking precision is improved, but the number of components and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential detection function needed for accurate stacking. Instead of deploying multiple detection units to measure various parameters, a single detection unit detecting the upper end portion of one column provides sufficient information for precise alignment and stacking.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple pallet configuration is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but stacking accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet structure provides its own alignment guidance through geometric features. The upper end portion of the column and the corresponding inserted portion form a self-aligning mechanism that ensures accurate stacking without requiring complex additional components, thus maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and stacking accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment systems with a simple geometric insertion mechanism. The column upper end portion fits into the inserted portion through basic mechanical guidance, eliminating the need for complex alignment mechanisms while maintaining stacking accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A pallet that is stackable in an up-down direction in which upper end portions of a plurality of columns of a pallet disposed in a lower stage are inserted into inserted portions provided in lower end portions of columns of a pallet disposed in an upper stage. A height of at least one column is higher than heights of other columns.