W-Shaped Base Frame for Stackable Transport Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stackable transport containers face challenges in easy stacking, handling by industrial trucks and forklifts, and safe load-carrying capacity, particularly due to the limitations of Z-shaped, N-shaped, U-shaped, or V-shaped base frames.
Innovation Solution
A mobile underframe with a W-shaped base frame, featuring trapezoidal elements and tubular legs, which allows for better stackability, stability, and easy handling by providing more support struts and accommodating forklifts through channel-shaped openings, enabling higher load capacity and improved safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a Z-shaped, N-shaped, U-shaped, or V-shaped base frame is used, then the structure is simpler, but the load capacity and stability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The base frame is segmented into multiple W-shaped modules, each contributing to the overall load capacity. The W-shape divides the structural support into four distinct legs rather than three, allowing distributed weight bearing across more contact points with the ground or supporting surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The base frame transitions from a two-dimensional planar shape (Z, N, U, or V-shape) to a three-dimensional W-shape that extends in multiple directions. This dimensional enhancement creates additional support struts and increases the structural footprint, thereby improving load capacity and stability without excessive complexity.
2Strength
If a W-shaped base frame with multiple support struts is used, then the load capacity increases, but the material usage and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The W-shaped base frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides load support, ensures stackability, facilitates handling by industrial trucks and forklifts, and maintains structural stability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components that would otherwise be required to achieve these separate functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention optimizes the geometric parameters of the W-shape, including the angles between legs and the distribution of support struts, to achieve maximum load capacity with minimum material. The specific configuration of the W-shape allows for efficient material distribution where it is most needed for structural integrity.
3Ease of operation
If a W-shaped base frame is used, then the stackability and handling improve, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The W-shaped base frame is designed to nest efficiently within another W-shaped frame when containers are stacked. The geometry of the W-shape allows the legs to interlock or fit into corresponding spaces of the underlying frame, securing the stack without requiring additional fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The base frame incorporates pre-formed geometric features, such as the specific W-shape configuration and integrated support struts, that are manufactured in advance to facilitate easy stacking and handling. These features are built into the frame structure during manufacturing, eliminating the need for complex assembly operations in the field.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a mobile undercarriage (12) for a stackable transport container (10) comprising a base frame (14) and rollers (16, 18) attached to the base frame (14), wherein the base frame (14) has a W-shaped plan. The present invention further relates to a stackable transport container (10).