Top Frame for Pallet Systems with Snap-Together Ribbed Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pallet systems face instability due to thin divider panels that lack resistance to lateral deformation when strapped, risking product topple-over during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A top frame with enhanced lateral rigidity, comprising two identical rectangular frame members with snap-together mechanical connections and ribbing for added strength, which can be stacked and secured with straps to enhance stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If thin divider panels are used in pallet systems, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the lateral rigidity and stability are insufficient when strapped
Solution Approach 1:
The top frame is divided into multiple separate frame members (first top frame member, second top frame member, etc.) that can be manufactured independently and then assembled together using mechanical connection units. This segmentation allows each member to be optimized for lateral rigidity while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members are constructed using composite structures combining rigid materials with internal ribbing or strengthening features. This creates a composite element that provides enhanced lateral rigidity and strength while managing the complexity through integrated design of the frame members.
2Reliability
If a top frame with enhanced lateral rigidity is introduced, then the stability of stacked products is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The top frame is segmented into multiple standardized frame members with identical or similar construction, each featuring mechanical connection units. This allows for simplified manufacturing of individual members while achieving high reliability through their assembled configuration that provides enhanced lateral rigidity for stabilizing stacked products.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members are designed with universal mechanical connection units that can be used across all members, allowing standardized manufacturing processes. Each member serves multiple functions: providing structural support, enabling assembly through standardized connections, and contributing to the overall stability system when assembled into the complete top frame.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical connection units are used to assemble frame members, then the ease of assembly and disassembly is improved, but the connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection units are designed to be self-aligning and self-securing, where the frame members automatically guide themselves into proper alignment during assembly and the connection units engage through their own mechanical action without requiring additional fastening operations. This provides ease of assembly while maintaining connection strength through the inherent design of the mechanical engagement.
Data Source
AI summary
A top frame used to stabilize articles supported on a pallet allows the stabilized articles to have greater lateral stability. The top frame is formed by two frame members that can be snapped together to form the top frame. The top frame members can have the identical construction for ease of manufacturing.