Roller Chain Cargo Loading for Faster, Safer Pallet Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current cargo loading methods require manual labor inside the cargo space, which is dangerous and slow, and loading pallets are typically done one at a time, further slowing the process.

Innovation Solution

A cargo loading arrangement featuring a roller chain system with rotatable rollers, a cargo stopper, and a drive mechanism to automate the loading process, allowing pallets to be loaded quickly and safely by gravity using inclined ramps and adjustable angles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual loading methods using forklift trucks and hand pallet trucks are used, then the loading process can be performed with simple equipment, but the loading speed is slow and manual labor inside the cargo space is required which reduces safety

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveloading speedVSAvoidsafety hazards for manual labor

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The loading system performs loading operations automatically without requiring manual intervention inside the cargo space. The rollers and chain mechanism self-propel the cargo pallets into the cargo space using gravity and mechanical drive, eliminating the need for operators to enter hazardous areas and significantly improving both safety and loading speed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (hand pallet trucks operated by persons inside cargo space) with an automated roller chain system. The system uses a combination of gravity-fed rollers and a powered chain mechanism to automatically transport and position cargo pallets, substituting human labor with mechanical automation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If pallets are loaded one at a time using conventional devices, then the loading process can be controlled manually, but the overall loading time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveloading throughputVSAvoidloading time per pallet

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The roller chain arrangement merges multiple loading operations into a single continuous process. Multiple pallets can be loaded simultaneously or in rapid succession as the chain mechanism continuously transports cargo into the cargo space, eliminating the sequential one-at-a-time loading of conventional methods and dramatically increasing throughput.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The powered chain mechanism provides continuous motion to transport pallets into the cargo space without interruption. The system maintains continuous loading action rather than stopping between individual pallets, maximizing the utilization of loading time and significantly reducing total loading duration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Productivity

If automation is introduced to improve loading speed and safety, then productivity and safety are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveloading efficiencyVSAvoidcomplexity of roller chain arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The loading system uses gravity as a free energy source by positioning the cargo space on an inclined ramp. Cargo pallets naturally roll down the incline onto the roller chain, eliminating the need for complex powered lifting mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high loading efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #12Equipotentiality

Solution Approach 2:

The automated loading system is divided into distinct functional modules: the inclined ramp for gravity feeding, the roller chain mechanism for powered transport, the cargo stopper for positioning control, and the detachable connecting members for modular assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance and operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

The system automates cargo loading, reducing manual labor, enhancing safety, and increasing loading speed while minimizing material damage.

Implementation Method 1

The loading arrangement (1) comprises a roller chain arrangement (5) which comprises rotatable first rollers (6) configured to be placed on the cargo space floor (4)... The ramp arrangement (16) comprises a ramp (17), on which the cargo space (3) is arranged to be placed. The inclination angle of the ramp (17) may be adjustable.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP4644303A1Cargo loading arrangement

Publication Date: 2025.11.05 MOS ENGINEERING OY

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AI summary

A loading arrangement (1) for loading cargo (2) to a cargo space (3) having a cargo inlet (12) and a floor (4) arranged in an inclined position. The loading arrangement (1) comprises a roller chain arrangement (5) comprising at least one roller chain (5.1), which comprises rotatable first rollers (6) configured to be placed on the cargo space floor (4) and rotatable second rollers (7), on which cargo (2) to be loaded is arranged be placed, a cargo stopper (8) attached to the roller chain arrangement (5) and configured to prevent the cargo (2) from moving on the second rollers (7) past the cargo stopper (8), at least one chain wheel (9) around which the roller chain(s) (5.1) of the roller chain arrangement (5) is/are arranged, and a drive (10) arranged in force transmission connection with the at least one chain wheel (9) for rotating the chain wheel (9).