Segmented Pallet for Fiber Rolls Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional systems for forming structural components from fiber reinforced materials face inefficiencies in handling and material distribution, leading to wasted resources and labor due to the need for multiple pallets and specialized equipment for moving rolls of material.

Innovation Solution

A system where rolls of fibrous reinforcement material are arranged on a pallet in a configuration that allows for efficient movement and use, with a single layer of rolls, minimal excess material, and defined spacings between rolls, enabling easier handling and formation of structural components without the need for overhead cranes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If rolls of fibrous reinforcement material are placed on a conventional pallet to maximize material quantity, then the amount of material that can be stored and transported is increased, but the handling complexity increases and requires specialized equipment such as overhead cranes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveamount of fibrous reinforcement materialVSAvoidhandling of rolls

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The pallet structure is segmented into a base portion and a raised portion, creating distinct zones for different roll configurations. This segmentation allows rolls to be positioned in specific orientations and locations that facilitate handling while maintaining high material density.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention utilizes vertical dimension by incorporating a raised portion on the pallet that elevates rolls above the base surface. This dimensional change allows rolls to be stacked or positioned in configurations that optimize both space utilization and accessibility without requiring additional horizontal space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Quantity of substance

If multiple pallets are used to supply sufficient material for structural component formation, then the total material capacity is increased, but the number of handling steps and equipment requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetotal material capacityVSAvoidhandling time

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The pallet design merges storage and handling functions into a single integrated structure. The raised portion and specific roll positioning allow the entire pallet load to be moved as one unit using standard equipment, eliminating the need to separate and rehandle rolls during transfer operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Rolls are pre-positioned on the pallet in optimal configurations during the palletizing process. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the pallet is moved to the formation area, the rolls are already in positions that facilitate efficient unloading and material dispensing, reducing on-site handling time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Quantity of substance

If rolls are densely packed on the pallet to minimize space, then the material density is increased, but the ease of removing and positioning individual rolls deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvematerial density on palletVSAvoidease of roll removal and positioning

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the pallet provide different qualities: the base portion provides stable support and dense packing, while the raised portion provides accessible positioning for rolls that need to be frequently removed or adjusted. This local differentiation optimizes both density and handling ease in different areas.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11498748B2Pallet with rolls of reinforcement material

Publication Date: 2022.11.15 OWENS CORNING INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL LLC

AI summary

A load unit (700) of material for forming a structural component made from layers of a fiber reinforced material, the load unit (700) comprising a pallet (704) and a single layer of rolls of fiber reinforced material (702).