Pallet Tracking Device Integration in Structural Cavities
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallet tracking systems face challenges such as device damage from forklift maneuvering and exposure to environmental conditions, particularly with battery-powered tracking devices which can lead to explosions or ignition.
Innovation Solution
The integration of tracking devices within the structural components of pallets, such as blocks, struts, and beams, provides protection from external damage and environmental factors, while also ensuring secure attachment to prevent movement during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tracking devices are attached to the exterior of pallets, then tracking functionality is achieved, but the devices are vulnerable to damage from forklift maneuvering and environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is nested within a cavity in the pallet block, with the antenna extending through an opening in the block. This nesting approach protects the electronic components from external damage while maintaining tracking functionality, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and exposure to harmful factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet block acts as an intermediary structure that houses and protects the tracking device. The block's cavity provides physical protection from forklift damage, while the antenna opening maintains communication capability, mediating between protection needs and functional requirements.
2Duration of action of moving object
If battery-powered tracking devices are used on pallets, then continuous tracking is enabled, but there is risk of explosions or ignition from battery damage
Solution Approach 1:
The battery-containing tracking device is nested within the protected cavity of the pallet block, shielding it from external impacts that could cause battery damage. This maintains continuous tracking operation while reducing the risk of harmful effects from battery failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet block structure provides beforehand protection (cushioning) to the tracking device battery, preventing damage before it can occur during forklift maneuvering or handling, thus eliminating the explosion or ignition risk while maintaining continuous operation.
3Reliability
If tracking devices are integrated within pallet structural components, then protection from damage is improved, but the complexity of pallet manufacturing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet is segmented into functional components including blocks with integrated cavities and openings. This segmentation allows the tracking device to be integrated into the pallet structure during manufacturing, providing protection while maintaining ease of assembly through modular block construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet block serves multiple functions: structural support, handling interface, and housing for the tracking device. This multi-functionality integrates tracking protection into the existing pallet manufacturing process without requiring separate protective structures, maintaining ease of manufacture while improving reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Various approaches for attaching tracking devices to pallets allow pallets to be remotely tracked through any phase of a transportation lifecycle. In a first approach, one or more electronic components of a tracking device may be disposed within a cavity of a block of a pallet. In a second approach, one or more electronic components of a tracking device may be disposed within a strut that interfaces between two beams of a pallet. In a third approach, one or more electronic components of a tracking device may be disposed within a cavity of a beam.