Palletizer Lifting Column Segmentation for Compact Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional palletizing and intermediate layer inserting devices require complex and time-consuming dismantling and reassembly for transport, necessitating heavy equipment and increasing the risk of errors and damage due to their heavy weight and intricate assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A palletizing and/or intermediate layer inserting device with a lifting mechanism column that can be separated into two column sections, allowing the upper section to be pivoted or folded over relative to the lower section, enabling easier transport by maintaining the counterweight and handling device in a lower position, thus reducing the device's size and weight for transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the palletizing device is transported in individual parts or modules, then the device can be moved to its place of use, but the transport process becomes time-consuming and requires heavy equipment such as cranes or forklifts
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting mechanism column is divided into a lower column section and an upper column section that can be separated from each other. The separation point allows the upper section to be detached and folded over, enabling the device to be transported in a compact configuration without complete disassembly. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing transport without requiring full dismantling into individual parts.
2Volume of moving object
If the lifting mechanism column is folded down for transport, then the device size is reduced, but the counterweight must be secured and the handling device dismantled beforehand
Solution Approach 1:
The cable guide is designed with a flexible cable arrangement that automatically adapts to the folded configuration of the column sections. The flexible design anticipates the folding action, allowing the cable to be routed through guides attached to both column sections without requiring pre-dismantling or special securing of the counterweight. This preliminary design consideration eliminates the need for complex preparatory steps.
3Ease of operation
If the handling device is separated from the lifting mechanism column, then the column can be folded for transport, but the cable connections must be disconnected and reconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The cable guide integrates the cable routing function directly into the column structure, with guides attached to both the lower and upper column sections. This merging of the cable guide with the column segments allows the cable to remain connected throughout the folding and transport process, eliminating the need to disconnect and reconnect cable connections. The integrated design maintains reliability while enabling easy folding.
4Weight of moving object
If heavy equipment such as cranes or forklifts is used to move the lifting mechanism column, then the column can be transported, but the risk of damage during handling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting mechanism column is segmented into lower and upper sections that can be separated and folded over. This segmentation reduces the weight and dimensions of individual components that need to be handled during transport, allowing manual or lighter equipment to be used instead of heavy cranes or forklifts. The folded configuration further reduces the overall size, minimizing the risk of damage during handling and transport.
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
Facilitates quick and easy handling, setup, and relocation of the device with reduced need for disassembly and reassembly, allowing for compact transport and simplified commissioning by keeping cable connections intact during transport, thereby minimizing the risk of errors and damage.
Implementation Method 1
A separation point located between the two joints of the column sections enables the upper column section to be separated from the stationary lower column section
Implementation Method 2
enabling easier transport by maintaining the counterweight and handling device in a lower position
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
The palletizer (10) has lifting gear (14) and handling device (16) that is adjustable in vertical direction. A gripping apparatus provided for transition of goods is extended vertically along lifting gear column (18) in longitudinal extension. The lifting gear column is joined and aligned with fixed lower and upper column sections (20,22). The lower column section is anchored on base portion (26) of palletizer mounted on firm surface (28). A separating distance (34) between the column sections is less than the height of lifting gear column. An independent claim is included for a method for transferring and changing palletizer between operating position and transportation layer.