Push Depalletizer Wedge Lifting for Retaining-Rim Pallets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push depalletizers are ineffective for pallets with retaining projections around the circumference, as these projections prevent loads from sliding off the pallet surface, rendering conventional depalletization methods infeasible.
Innovation Solution
Equipping the support surface with movable wedges that are inserted between the pallet and load to lift the load above the retaining edge, using vertically adjustable mechanisms to ensure precise insertion, and employing support units to stabilize the pallet and load during the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a push depalletizer is used to free pallets from their load, then the load can be moved horizontally onto a support surface, but the retaining projections on the pallet circumference prevent the load from sliding off the pallet surface
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces vertical movement dimension by raising the loading surface above the retaining projections level. The loading surface is made vertically adjustable to position itself higher than the retaining edges, allowing the load to be lifted over the projections and then moved horizontally. This dimensional change from purely horizontal movement to combined vertical-horizontal movement resolves the blocking issue created by the retaining projections.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading surface is made dynamically adjustable in vertical position to adapt to different pallet heights and retaining projection heights. The system can dynamically raise the loading surface above the retaining projections and then lower it for horizontal movement. This dynamic adjustment allows the same device to handle various pallet configurations with retaining edges of different heights.
2Ease of operation
If the loading surface is raised above the retaining edge height, then the load can be lifted over the retaining rim, but the conveying means must be vertically adjustable by more than the height difference between pallet models
Solution Approach 1:
The vertically adjustable loading surface serves multiple functions: it raises the load above retaining projections for lifting, positions the load for horizontal movement, and can be adjusted to different heights to accommodate various pallet models. This multi-functional capability allows a single adjustment mechanism to handle diverse pallet configurations without requiring separate systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the vertical position parameter of the loading surface to adapt to different operating conditions. By adjusting the vertical parameter within a sufficient range, the system can accommodate pallets of different heights and retaining projection heights. This parameter change approach allows flexible adaptation to various pallet models using the same hardware platform.
3Ease of operation
If wedges are inserted between the pallet and load to lift the load, then the load can be moved above the retaining edge, but the wedges may damage the pallet or load if not positioned correctly
Solution Approach 1:
Before inserting the wedges, the system performs preliminary positioning of the loading surface at the correct height above the retaining projections. The vertically adjustable loading surface is positioned in advance to ensure that when wedges are inserted, they will engage correctly between the pallet and load without causing damage. This preliminary positioning action prevents misalignment and potential damage during the wedge insertion and load lifting process.
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 the successful depalletization of pallets with retaining rims by lifting the load above the edge, ensuring safe and efficient transfer of the load without damaging the pallet or load.
Implementation Method 1
movable wedges (7a) which are inserted against the direction of push in the areas free from the retaining edge, between the pallet's loading surface and the base of the load, in order to raise the load above the height of the retaining edge
Implementation Method 2
the conveying means provided on the loading surface of the positioning device, or the entire loading and positioning surface, with or without conveying means, must be vertically adjustable by more than the height of the retaining edge
Data Source
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AI summary
A push depalletizer for pallets (P) comprising: - a frame (1b) which supports a positioning device (A) with a loading platform (3) and with transfer means (4), - a lifting device (B) arranged downstream of the positioning device (A) comprising a support surface (7), a push device (C) comprising a push frame (6) with push beams (6a) and a support frame (6b) which is moved (6h) over the positioning device (A) by means of a motor (6m) via guides attached laterally to the frame (1b) of the depalletizer, and - a support device (D) comprising two support units (9) which are each moved (9h) by a motor (9n) via transmission means along guides (9e) on the frame (1c) of a transfer means (8) arranged downstream of the support surface (7), wherein - the loading platform (3) together with the corresponding transfer means (4) of the positioning device (A), with respect to the frame (1b) of the depalletizer,is vertically adjustable (4v) and is equipped on the side opposite the feed side with vertically movable (5v) stops (5), wherein - the support surface (7) of the lifting device (B) connected to the frame (1b) is equipped with at least two wedges (7a) which are movably (7h) mounted in guide grooves (7c) such that their upper surface is coplanar with the support surface (7) and which are moved against the depalletizing direction (6h), and wherein - the guide rails (9e) for the support units (9) of the support device (D) extend over the entire length in the direction of the transfer (6h, 8h) of the load (L, L1-L4), the support surface (7) and the subsequent transfer means (8).