Reversible Support Device for Truck Container Cargo Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for loading truck containers with loose postal items result in unstable stack segments, which often require undesirable support structures to prevent tipping, and existing support devices are not easily removable, limiting container space for additional cargo.
Innovation Solution
A support device with a reversible positioning mechanism and support structure that can be enlarged or reduced to stabilize stack segments by supporting them from one side, allowing for easy movement and removal, and can be configured as a fan or roller blind to minimize interference with the cargo.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If support structures are used to stabilize stacking segments, then stability is improved, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned only when needed during loading operations. The positioning device enables the support structure to be moved to different locations within the container and removed after use, transforming a static complex structure into a dynamic, on-demand support system that reduces overall device complexity while maintaining stability when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is extracted as a separate, removable component rather than being integrated permanently into the container. This allows the support function to be provided only when needed during loading, and the structure can be completely removed afterward, eliminating continuous space occupation and reducing device complexity while maintaining stacking segment stability during the loading process.
2Stability of the object's composition
If support structures are left in place during transport, then stability is maintained, but cargo capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking segments are designed to be self-stabilizing through their own weight and friction between segments, eliminating the need for continuous external support structures during transport. The support structure is only temporarily required during the loading process to prevent tipping, after which it is removed, allowing maximum cargo capacity while maintaining stability through the inherent properties of the stacked segments themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is completely removed from the container after the loading process is complete, leaving no permanent obstacles or space-consuming elements that would reduce cargo capacity. The extraction of the support structure after use maximizes the available space for cargo while the structure performs its stabilizing function only when absolutely necessary during the loading operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a large effective surface is used to support stacking segments, then stability is improved, but mobility and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure employs a movable design with a positioning device that enables easy repositioning within the container. The structure can be moved horizontally along guides or tracks, allowing operators to position the large effective surface exactly where needed to support stacking segments during loading, then move it away when no longer required, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining the stability benefits of a large support surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure utilizes vertical movement or folding mechanisms to provide a large effective surface area when needed for stabilizing stacking segments, then collapses or retracts to a compact form for easy movement and storage. This dimensional transformation allows the structure to offer extensive support surface area during loading operations while minimizing space occupation and improving mobility when repositioning or removing the structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
Support device (2) for supporting stacking segments of stacked postal general cargo (5) arranged in a container (21) for trucks, comprising a positioning device (6) and a support structure (3);wherein, by means of the support structure (3), an effective surface (11) of the support device (2) can be reversibly moved into an enlarged state (3a) and into a reduced state (3b) such that - the support structure (3) with the effective surface (11) is configured in the enlarged state (3a) to support a stacking segment (8) from a first side in order to prevent the stacked goods in the stacking segment (8) from tipping over or falling onto the first side, and - the support structure (3) with the effective surface (11) is configured in the reduced state (3b) to be moved within the container from the first side of the stacking segment (8) to a second side of the stacking segment (8) opposite the first side by means of the positioning device (6).