Pallet Stacking Device Gear Mechanism Manual Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stacking empty pallets is a strenuous task that poses a risk of injury and existing solutions often require complex mechanisms or electrical/hydraulic systems, which may not be readily available or practical in all settings.
Innovation Solution
A pallet stacking device with two side parts that delimit a stacking space, featuring rotatable shafts and a gear mechanism to convert torque into rotational movement of carrying elements, allowing them to switch between carrying and release positions, with optional spring or gravity-assisted return, and lever mechanisms for manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual stacking of pallets is performed by employees, then the task can be completed with simple equipment, but the operation becomes strenuous and carries injury risk
Solution Approach 1:
The carrying elements are designed to automatically engage with pallets through their own weight and geometry. When a pallet is placed on the base area, the carrying elements with downward-pointing edges automatically insert into the pallet structure and pivot to the carrying position without requiring external actuation, making the system self-serve the stacking operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical actuation systems (such as hydraulic cylinders, electric motors, or pneumatic devices found in prior art) with a simple manual lever mechanism. The lever applies torque to shafts that rotate the carrying elements between carrying and release positions, substituting complex automated mechanical systems with a simple manual operation that eliminates injury risk while maintaining functionality
2Extent of automation
If complex electromagnetic or hydraulic systems are used to move carrying elements, then automation is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electromagnetic devices, hydraulic systems, or complex mechanical actuation mechanisms with a simple lever-based manual system. The lever connects to shafts that directly rotate the carrying elements, eliminating the need for motors, cylinders, or complex transmission systems while achieving the same functional result of moving carrying elements between positions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes complex actuation systems (electromagnetic, hydraulic, or complicated mechanical devices) from the pallet stacking device, retaining only the essential functional components. The carrying elements and their support structures are kept, but the complex means for moving them are completely removed and replaced with a simple manual lever mechanism
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 simple, reliable, and efficient stacking and unstacking of pallets without manual labor, using a lift truck for transport, and can be operated without electrical or hydraulic components, reducing the risk of injury and improving safety.
Implementation Method 1
a gear for converting a torque acting on one of the shafts into a rotational movement of the other shaft
Implementation Method 2
The carrying elements are pushed into their carrying position by spring force
Implementation Method 3
the carrying elements can be brought from the release position into the carrying position by an auxiliary force (e.g. a spring force or gravity)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A pallet stacking device (10) is described. The stacking device (10) comprises two side parts (12, 14) which bound a stacking space (16) between one another. Each side part (12, 14) holds a shaft (24, 26) which is coupled to a supporting element (32, 34) in each case for conjoint rotation. The supporting elements (32, 34) are movable, by rotation of the shafts (24, 26), between a supporting position, projecting into the stacking space (16), for the stacking of pallets above a base area, and a releasing position away from the stacking space (16). Furthermore, a transmission (36) for converting a torque acting on one of the shafts (24, 26) into a rotary movement of the other shafts (24, 26) is provided such that the supporting elements (32, 34) are jointly transferable from the supporting position into the releasing position.