Pallet Support Structure with C-Beam Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for securing hazardous materials during road transport are inefficient and unsafe due to the need for lengthy and often poorly executed strap tightening procedures, leading to potential accidents and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A support structure with a rigid platform and fixing system that includes C-shaped side beams and cross beams with a head plate and stem, allowing for secure anchoring of pallets or baskets directly to the vehicle frame, simplifying loading and unloading while ensuring safety standards are met.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional straps and ratchets are used to secure baskets to the vehicle, then the baskets can be anchored to the floor and sides of the truck, but the tightening operations are lengthy and prone to human error, compromising safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional strap-and-ratchet mechanical system with a locking mechanism that uses a movable locking element engaging with positioning elements. This substitution eliminates the need for manual tightening operations while maintaining secure anchoring, directly resolving the contradiction between securing reliability and time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-securing through the engagement of the movable locking element with the positioning elements. Once the basket is positioned, the locking element automatically engages with the positioning elements, eliminating the need for operator intervention in the tightening process and preventing human error.
2Reliability
If traditional straps are used to secure baskets, then baskets can be anchored, but the straps wear out quickly and can be cut, creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the strap-based mechanical system with a rigid locking mechanism consisting of a movable locking element and positioning elements. This eliminates the wear and cutting issues inherent in fabric straps while maintaining the anchoring function, thereby extending the service life of the securing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed with curved engagement surfaces that distribute stress evenly during locking and unloading operations. This curved geometry reduces stress concentration and wear on the locking mechanism components, extending their operational life compared to rigid angular connections.
3Reliability
If baskets are securely anchored with multiple straps, then safety is improved, but the complexity of the fixing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple securing functions into a single integrated locking mechanism. The movable locking element works together with the positioning elements to provide both lateral and longitudinal securing, replacing the need for multiple separate straps and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: anchoring the basket laterally, preventing longitudinal movement, and providing a quick-release capability. This multi-functionality in a single system reduces complexity compared to using separate dedicated straps for each function.
4Productivity
If traditional anchoring methods are used, then baskets can be secured, but unloading operations require unfastening multiple straps which is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the multi-step strap unfastening process with a single-action release mechanism. The movable locking element can be quickly disengaged from the positioning elements, enabling rapid unloading operations without the need to manipulate multiple straps and ratchets.
Data Source
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AI summary
A support structure that can be mounted on vehicles suitable for the safe transport of goods placed on a pallet or basket with a pallet base, may be installed on the frame of a truck or vehicle container and includes: a rigid platform defining a supporting surface for pallets or baskets with a pallet base; a rigid footboard fixed longitudinally to the platform in a substantially central position which divides the supporting surface into two lanes, in which the footboard is shaped so as to define two substantially specular grooves with respect to a longitudinal plane of the center line of the supporting surface, each groove being raised with respect to a respective lane of the platform; two longitudinal beams fixed longitudinally on the outer sides of the platform, each having: - a substantially C-shaped section suitable for coupling to a vehicle frame. - holes arranged in a row on the back of the C-section which remain exposed on the sides of the vehicle when the beam is hooked to the frame. Also disclosed are: a fixing system comprising the support structure of this disclosure and at least one cross beam; a vehicle having the support structure and a relative method of fastening pallets or baskets with a pallet base on the vehicle.