Rotating Pallet Replacement Mechanism for Compact Load Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallet replacement devices are complex, bulky, and expensive, lacking flexibility and economy.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a slide surface element, translating support element, load sliding control element, connecting element, and rotation member, allowing for the efficient and economical replacement of pallets by rotating and translating components to swap a first pallet with a second pallet under a load, with optional motorized actuators and programmable control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known devices for replacing pallets are used, then pallet replacement function is achieved, but device complexity increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a support element for holding the load, a translation element for moving the support element horizontally, and a rotation element for rotating the support element. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses dynamic movement sequences where the support element is first translated horizontally to position the replacement pallet, then rotated to facilitate pallet exchange. This dynamic approach allows a simple mechanical structure to achieve complex pallet replacement functionality without requiring sophisticated control systems.
2Reliability
If known devices for replacing pallets are used, then pallet replacement function is achieved, but device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The translation element and rotation element are integrated into a compact arrangement where the support element serves dual purposes: holding the load during translation and facilitating pallet exchange during rotation. This merging of functions reduces the overall device volume while maintaining the reliability of the pallet replacement operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device operates in multiple dimensions: horizontal translation for positioning and vertical rotation for pallet exchange. By utilizing different spatial dimensions for different operational phases, the device achieves comprehensive functionality within a compact volume, avoiding the need for large separate mechanisms for each function.
3Reliability
If known devices for replacing pallets are used, then pallet replacement function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be easily assembled and disassembled using standard mechanical components that can be manufactured independently. The support element, translation element, and rotation element can be produced separately and assembled on-site, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while ensuring reliable pallet replacement function.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses simple, inexpensive mechanical components such as standard gears, sliders, and support structures that can be easily manufactured or replaced. This approach prioritizes cost-effectiveness over using expensive specialized components, making the device economically viable while maintaining functional reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for replacing a first pallet (P) supporting a load (C) with a second pallet (S) includes a flat faced slide surface element (3), a flat faced translating support element (5), a load sliding control element (7) parallel to the translating support element (5), a connecting element (9), where the load sliding control element is connected to the slide surface element (3) and/or to the connecting element (9), and a rotation member (11) connected to the connecting element (9) to allow the rotation thereof around a rotation axis (R) parallel to the flat face of the translating support element (5) between an initial condition, in which the slide surface element (3) and the translating support element (5) are respectively vertical and horizontal, and a rotated condition in which they (3, 5) are rotated by more than 90° for replacing the first pallet (P) with the second pallet (S).