Quick Connect Logistics Trailer Fork Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In warehouses, the process of retrieving loads from shelves and moving them to logistics trailers requires two vehicles and operators, leading to inefficiencies and increased time due to the need for a separate tugger vehicle and operator, especially when multiple stops are involved.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect mechanism for a logistics trailer that allows a forklift or pallet jack to securely attach to the trailer, enabling the forklift to pull not only a single trailer but also a train of trailers, eliminating the need for a separate tugger vehicle by using adjustable fork guides, magnets, and linear latches for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a separate tugger vehicle and operator are used to move trailers, then trailers can be moved within the warehouse, but operational time increases and efficiency decreases due to requiring two vehicles and operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of the forklift and tugger vehicle into a single integrated system. The forklift is equipped with a quick connect mechanism that allows it to directly attach to and tow trailers, eliminating the need for a separate tugger vehicle. This merging of functions enables one operator to perform both lifting and towing operations, thereby improving productivity and reducing operational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The forklift is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a lifting vehicle and a towing vehicle. The quick connect mechanism enables the forklift to universally attach to different trailers, allowing it to perform multiple tasks (lifting goods and towing trailers) with a single vehicle, thus eliminating the need for specialized tugger vehicles and improving overall operational efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If a forklift is used to both retrieve loads and move trailers, then the need for a second operator is eliminated, but the forklift requires an attachment mechanism to securely connect to trailers
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into modular components: a quick connect coupling device, a towing hitch, and securing straps. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function (connection, towing, securing) while maintaining overall simplicity. The modular design enables easy attachment and detachment of trailers, improving ease of operation without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick connect mechanism acts as an intermediary between the forklift and the trailer. This intermediary device provides a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process, allowing the forklift to securely attach to different trailer types without complex custom fittings, thereby balancing ease of operation with manageable device complexity.
3Productivity
If multiple trailers are towed in a train configuration, then logistics efficiency is enhanced, but the attachment mechanism must securely handle increased weight and force
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connect mechanism is pre-configured with reinforced coupling points and locking mechanisms designed to handle the cumulative weight and forces of multiple trailers. The attachment system includes pre-installed strengthening elements such as reinforced hitches and secure locking features that are prepared in advance to withstand the stresses of towing trailer trains, thereby enabling enhanced productivity without compromising attachment strength.
4Speed
If a quick connect mechanism is implemented, then trailers can be quickly attached and detached, but the mechanism requires precise alignment and secure locking to ensure safety
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connect mechanism replaces complex manual alignment and securing operations with an automated locking system. The coupling device includes guide features that automatically align the connection points, and a locking mechanism that secures the attachment with a simple actuation, thereby achieving both high attachment speed and reliable connection without requiring precise manual alignment.
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
This solution enables a single operator to efficiently retrieve and move loads from shelves to trailers, reducing operational time and eliminating the need for a second operator, as the forklift can now tow multiple trailers, enhancing logistics efficiency within warehouses.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet assembly to securely attach the fork guides to the fork blades
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connect logistics trailer used with a forked vehicle, where the trailer includes two movable fork guides to attach to the forks of the forked vehicle, a fork guide spacer to move the fork guides to accommodate different fork spacing, and a movable top platform attached by hinges to allow access to components under the top platform. The quick connect logistics trailer also includes side mounted fork pockets to lift the logistics trailer. The quick connect logistics trailer also includes two linear latches attached to the fork guides that can be attached to the forks of the vehicle, and two switchable magnets attached to each fork guide to attach the fork guides to the forks. The quick connect logistics trailer can also include a trailer clip attached to the trailer and a fork truck clip assembly attached to the forked vehicle, where the trailer clip assembly temporarily but securely attaches to the fork truck clip assembly to allow the forked vehicle to tow the logistics trailer.