Pallet Connecting Mechanism for Tool-Free Synchronous Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pallet connection systems are complicated, requiring lifting and partial overlapping for connection and can only be disconnected after unloading, which is inconvenient and reduces efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A pallet design with a first and second connecting device, featuring a movable first connecting member and a transmission assembly with operating members to facilitate easy connection and disconnection without unloading, using a U-shaped structure and springs for secure locking and easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the pallet connection system uses lifting and partial overlapping for connection, then the connection can be achieved, but the operation becomes complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidoperation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is divided into separate components: a connection member on one pallet and a connection structure on another pallet. The connection member includes a connection arm that can rotate and extend, allowing it to engage with the connection structure without requiring lifting or overlapping of the entire pallets. This segmentation enables simplified, tool-free connection and disconnection operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the pallets are connected using the existing system, then multiple pallets can be connected, but they cannot be disconnected after goods are loaded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepallet connection capabilityVSAvoiddisconnection convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection arm is designed as a dynamic component that can rotate around a rotation axis and extend or retract. During connection, the connection arm rotates and extends to engage with the connection structure. During disconnection, the connection arm rotates back and retracts, allowing the pallets to be separated without unloading goods. This dynamic mechanism enables both connection and disconnection operations to be performed easily at any stage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the connection system requires lifting and overlapping, then the pallets can be connected, but the turnover efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidturnover efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection member is pre-configured with a rotation axis and connection arm that can be quickly deployed. The connection arm is designed to automatically align with the connection structure when pallets are brought together, eliminating the need for preliminary lifting or positioning adjustments. This preliminary configuration enables rapid connection and disconnection operations, significantly improving turnover efficiency while maintaining connection stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables easy and efficient connection and disconnection of multiple pallets, allowing for synchronous movement without unloading, improving operational convenience and reducing manpower requirements.

Implementation Method 1

the first connecting member is movably connected to the base via the first returning spring, and the locking member is connected to the locking spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3766795B1pallet
Publication Date: 2024.08.07 SHANGHAI HONGYAN RETURNABLE TRANSIT PACKAGINGS CO LTD
  • EP3766795B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3766795B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5
  • EP3766795B1 patent drawingFigure 6

AI summary

This application discloses a pallet. The pallet has a base. The base has two pairs of opposing side edges. The base further has a first connecting device and a second connecting device respectively arranged at a pair of opposing side edges of the base. When two pallets are connected to each other, the first connecting device of one pallet and the second connecting device of the other pallet are connected to each other. If the two pallets are to be disconnected, it is only necessary to conduct an operation on the side edge of the pallet. The connection and disconnection of the pallet of this application are easy to operate.