Timber Transport Pallet with Segmented Frame and Quick-Release End Walls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cargo containers for transporting logs or sawn timber are heavy and require significant effort for loading and unloading, making them uneconomical for combined transport between trucks and rail wagons.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight pallet design with a frame and stanchions, where the wood itself bears the load, allowing easy transfer between vehicles using a forklift, and a locking system with quick-release fasteners for secure attachment to trucks and wagons, facilitating seamless transport mode changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If conventional cargo containers are used for transporting logs or sawn timber, then the load can be securely contained, but the container weight is high and loading/unloading requires considerable effort
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into a reusable frame structure and removable end walls. The frame remains on the transport vehicle while end walls are detached and reattached during transfer between truck and rail wagon, eliminating the need to move the entire container and reducing handling effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The end walls are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to be removed for transfer operations and reattached for secure transport. This dynamic configuration enables the container to adapt between transport modes without requiring complete container relocation.
2Ease of operation
If conventional containers are used for combined transport, then cargo protection is maintained, but the manipulation effort during loading and unloading is considerable
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the container into a permanent frame and removable end walls, the system allows quick manipulation during transfer while the frame remains secured to the vehicle. The end walls can be efficiently removed and reattached, reducing manipulation effort while maintaining cargo security during transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure serves multiple functions: it provides cargo containment during transport, acts as a mounting structure on the vehicle, and serves as a base for reattaching end walls. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate handling operations while maintaining cargo security.
3Reliability
If containers are used for combined transport between truck and rail, then cargo can be protected, but the high dead weight makes the transport uneconomical
Solution Approach 1:
The container frame is left on the transport vehicle and only the end walls are removed and reattached during mode transfer. This segmentation eliminates the need to move the heavy frame between truck and rail, significantly reducing the weight that must be handled while maintaining cargo protection within the frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame acts as an intermediary structure that remains on the vehicle while facilitating cargo transfer. By keeping the frame stationary on the vehicle and only moving the end walls, the system reduces the weight involved in transfer operations while maintaining cargo protection.
Data Source
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AI summary
The pallet (1) for transporting planks or logs has uprights (6) at each corner. Timber is loaded between these so that it projects on either side beyond the pallet. The timber is strapped in place and can be loaded and unloaded using a fork-lift truck. An independent claim is included for a method for transporting timber using the pallet.