Pallet Fork Visibility via Segmented Frame and Offset Tines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallet fork designs often compromise visibility, particularly when fork tines are adjustable, leading to reduced productivity and operator comfort due to obstructed views of the tines and loads, especially when used as attachments on machinery like wheel loaders.
Innovation Solution
A pallet fork attachment with a structural frame that includes angled outer ribs and offset fork tines, providing enhanced visibility through strategically positioned ribs and tine design, allowing for both fixed and swinging tine operations with improved visibility windows and adjustable tine spreads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable fork tines are used to accommodate different pallet spreads, then versatility is improved, but visibility of the fork tines and loads is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The structural frame is segmented into multiple components including vertical ribs, horizontal ribs, and spaced-apart structural members that create distinct visibility windows. These segmented structures allow operators to see through the frame to the fork tines and loads while maintaining structural integrity and adjustable tine spread functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates spaced-apart structural members and ribs that create three-dimensional visibility corridors and windows through the frame structure. By strategically positioning these members in different spatial dimensions, the design allows operators to see through the frame to the fork tines while maintaining full adjustability of the tine spread mechanism.
2Strength
If the structural frame includes ribs for strength and mounting, then structural integrity is improved, but visibility through the frame is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The structural frame employs local quality by concentrating ribs and structural members in specific locations where strength is most needed, while maintaining open spaces and visibility windows in areas critical for operator viewing. The vertical and horizontal ribs are strategically positioned to provide structural support without obstructing the line of sight to the fork tines and loads.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fork tines are positioned centrally for stability, then operational stability is improved, but visibility to the tines is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The design creates visibility corridors and windows in the structural frame that allow operators to see the centrally positioned fork tines from multiple angular perspectives. By designing the visibility paths in three-dimensional space rather than requiring direct lateral visibility, the system maintains both central tine positioning for stability and adequate visibility for operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A pallet fork includes a structural frame, a fork bar, a swing bar, and a pair of fork tines. The fork tines can be fixed or swinging through the removal of the swing bar. The swing bar can be conveniently stored onboard the pallet fork when it is inoperative. The structural frame is arranged for enhanced visibility by an operator to the fork tines to improve productivity and operator comfort.