Pallet Shuttle Interface with Split Supports for Stable Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for receiving pallets on undercarriage shuttles are inadequate as they make it difficult to handle and position pallets during operation, and do not provide reliable support against slipping or tipping, posing a risk of accidents.
Innovation Solution
An interface unit with upwardly extending support sections and a central recess, featuring adjustable height and anti-slip features, along with detection units for correct positioning, ensures secure support and easy handling of pallets by providing a large contact area and access points for external trucks in case of defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If flat adapter plates are attached to the top of undercarriage shuttles to provide large-area support for pallets, then the support area is increased, but the pallets become difficult to transfer and position during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The interface unit is divided into two separate support sections instead of a single flat plate. This segmentation creates a modular structure with gaps between sections, allowing pallet forklifts to access and manipulate pallets more easily while still providing adequate support area through the combined surface of both sections
Solution Approach 2:
The support sections are designed with specific geometric features that act as intermediaries between the shuttle and the pallet. The recesses and protrusions created by the segmented structure facilitate the insertion of pallet forklifts, enabling easy transfer and positioning operations while maintaining secure support
2Strength
If pins are used for coupling the undercarriage shuttle to racks, then the coupling strength is increased, but the correct positioning of pallets during operation becomes difficult to check
Solution Approach 1:
The interface unit incorporates detection units that provide feedback on pallet positioning. These sensors monitor whether pallets are correctly positioned on the support sections, enabling real-time verification of pallet placement and alerting the system to any positioning errors
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system utilizes optical or sensor-based methods that can detect the presence and position of pallets through changes in reflected signals or electromagnetic properties, allowing non-contact verification of correct pallet positioning without compromising coupling strength
3Ease of manufacture
If the interface unit uses a fixed structure with support sections, then the manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability to different pallet types and sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support sections are designed with universal geometric features including recesses and protrusions that can accommodate multiple pallet types and sizes. The standardized interface geometry allows the same structure to work with various pallet configurations, achieving multi-functionality without complex manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The interface unit utilizes geometric parameter variations in the support sections, such as adjustable recess depths and protrusion heights, to adapt to different pallet types. These parameter changes allow the fixed structure to accommodate varying pallet dimensions while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an interface unit (10) for receiving a pallet (200) on an undercarriage shuttle (100), comprising a mounting unit (12) for attaching the interface unit (10) to an upper surface (100a) of the undercarriage shuttle (100) and two support sections (14, 16) extending upwards parallel to each other in a longitudinal direction (L), the respective upper surfaces of which form a single support area for a pallet (200) to be carried; wherein, with respect to a lateral direction (B), a central recess (18) extending also in the longitudinal direction (L) is provided between the support sections (14, 16). The invention further relates to a system formed by such an interface unit (10) and a pallet, and to an undercarriage shuttle (100) which has such an interface unit (10) mounted on its upper surface.