Pallet Replacement Sliding Mechanism for Low-Force, Jam-Free Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallet replacement devices are complex, expensive, bulky, require multiple-sided operational access, and struggle with pallet deviation, jamming, and high force requirements, while not allowing superimposed loading or use in hazardous environments.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a sliding element, translating member, and actuator system that guides pallet translation without sliding the original pallet, using pneumatic actuators to facilitate smooth replacement with minimal effort, accommodating different sizes and types, and ensuring jam-free operation in environments with fire or explosion risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known devices are used to separate the load from the original pallet by lifting and rotating, then the pallet replacement function is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of lifting the load off the pallet and replacing it from above, the invention inverts the approach by having the replacement pallet slide underneath the load from below, pushing the original pallet out from the other side. This inverted sequence simplifies the device structure while maintaining the pallet replacement function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of pallet replacement by removing unnecessary complex mechanisms. Only the critical sliding and pushing elements are retained, eliminating the need for lifting, rotating, and complex positioning systems found in prior art.
2Extent of automation
If known devices are used for pallet replacement, then the replacement operation is automated, but the device becomes very bulky and requires large maneuvering areas
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces complex mechanical lifting and rotating systems with a simple sliding mechanism. The replacement pallet is moved horizontally underneath the load using minimal mechanical components, dramatically reducing the device volume and maneuvering space requirements while maintaining automation.
3Device complexity
If push devices are used to slide the replacement pallet under the load, then the replacement operation is simplified, but considerable push force is required causing pallet deviation and jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces guide elements as intermediaries between the replacement pallet and the sliding surface. These guides ensure the pallet moves along a precise path, distributing the pushing force evenly and preventing deviation and jamming that would occur with direct pushing alone.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of pushing the replacement pallet from the front, the invention has the replacement pallet approach from behind the load, slide underneath it, and push the original pallet out from the front. This inverted sequence reduces the required push force by leveraging the load's position as a guide and barrier.
4Ease of manufacture
If manual box-by-box transfer is used, then equipment cost is minimized, but time consumption and safety risks increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables the load to serve itself during pallet replacement. The load remains in place while the replacement pallet slides underneath and pushes out the original pallet automatically. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual box handling while keeping equipment costs low.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3~5
AI summary
An efficient device, for replacing a pallet to be replaced (P) supporting a load with a replacement pallet (S) for said load, comprises: a slide element (3) connected to at least one frame element (5) and assigned, in an operating condition of the device (1), to be fixed or placed on an almost horizontal floor or plane (B), said slide element (3) defines a sliding plane parallel and adjacent to the floor or plane (B) and has a predetermined slide length; a vertical bulkhead element (9), placed transversally to the middle portion of the slide element (3) and raised with respect to the latter, forming a lower window (11) between the front and rear portions of the slide element (3). Said device (1) includes at least one translating member (2) provided with: a support element (4) assigned to support at least one pallet to be replaced (P) and movable along the slide element (3) to translate this pallet (P) from the front to the rear portion of the slide element (3) through the window (11) whose upper edge is at a predetermined height; at least one actuator element (6) interconnected between the slide element (3) or the at least one frame element (5) and the support element (4) to translate the latter (4), alone or together with the pallet to be replaced (P), along the slide element (3); a detection and actuation member (8) connected to the support element (4) and assigned to detect the proximity of the replacement pallet (S) to the front part of the support element (4) and to actuate the at least one actuator element (6) when said proximity is detected.