U-Shaped Spring Blade Pallet Latch Foot Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pallet latches require dedicated space during manufacturing, limiting their applicability to pallets without a designated housing, and are complex in design.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped spring blade latch with a foot-operated bolt mechanism that can be integrated into various pallets without a specific housing, using a clamping plate for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional pallet latch with two bolts and spring blades is used, then the belt can be securely retained on the pallet, but the latch requires a dedicated housing space during pallet manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate bolts into a single U-shaped spring blade that forms one integrated latch component. This merging reduces the number of parts and eliminates the need for a dedicated housing, allowing the latch to be installed in simpler pallet structures without compromising belt retention capability
Solution Approach 2:
The U-shaped spring blade latch is designed to be universally applicable to different pallet types without requiring specific housing features. The single integrated component can be adapted to various pallet configurations, making the system versatile and compatible with both traditional and modern pallet designs
2Reliability
If a traditional pallet latch with multiple components is used, then the belt can be securely retained, but the latch design becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple latch components (two bolts, pedal, and spring blades) into a single U-shaped spring blade structure. This integration simplifies the overall latch design while maintaining the functional capability to securely retain the belt through the foot-actuated releasing mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The U-shaped spring blade is divided into functional segments: the U-shape provides the locking action, the first arm provides structural support, and the second arm extends to receive foot actuation. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a compact latch design is used, then easier integration into various pallets is achieved, but the belt support capability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The compact U-shaped spring blade combines multiple functions into one element: it provides structural support through its U-shape, enables belt retention through the spring action, and allows foot-actuated release through the extended second arm. This merging maintains full functionality in a compact form suitable for various pallet integrations
Solution Approach 2:
The spring blade incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to adapt to different pallet configurations. The spring action provides flexible belt support, and the foot-actuated mechanism allows dynamic control of the locking state, enabling reliable belt support in a compact, adaptable design
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 latch is compact, easily integrated into a wider variety of pallets, allowing secure belt retention without additional manufacturing space, and facilitates easy belt handling and folding.
Implementation Method 1
a U-shaped spring blade (104)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a pallet latch (102). The latch (102) comprises a U-shaped spring blade (104). A first arm (106) of the spring blade is traversed by a passage (128), so as to allow a foot control (126) attached to a second arm (108) of the blade to pass through the first arm (106). The foot control (124) extends sufficiently beyond the first arm (106) to allow an operator to reversibly move a bolt (116) extending from a free end (114) of the second arm (108) towards the first arm (106).