AU2019204661A1

AU2019204661A1 - System and method for securing an item to a pallet

Info

Publication number: AU2019204661A1
Application number: AU2019204661A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Daniel Black; Warwick Brown; Michael Robertson; Steven Sillitoe
Original assignee: Menzies Gareth; Menzies Timothy
Current assignee: Menzies Gareth; Menzies Timothy
Priority date: 2019-06-28
Filing date: 2019-06-28
Publication date: 2020-10-08
Also published as: AU2020101895A4; AU2020101895B4

Abstract

A system for securing an item to a pallet includes a pallet with a load-receiving platform part which has a load-receiving surface with apertures. The system includes a securing arrangement which provides a first engagement part configured to engage part of the pallet, and a connection part 5 which extends from the first engagement in use extends through one of the apertures. The securing arrangement also includes a second engagement part for engaging part of the item to be secured to the pallet and a forcing arrangement for forcing the second engagement part towards the pallet. The forcing arrangement includes a screw threaded part. In use, operation of a threaded connection arrangement which includes the screw threaded part forces the second engagement part towards .0 the pallet, to secure the item to the pallet. 49 iGIL 402.

Description

iGIL

402.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SECURING AN ITEM TO A PALLET FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a system and method for securing an item to a pallet, and extends

to related apparatus.

The present disclosure relates especially, but not exclusively, to a system and method for securing a

heavy item, such as an item of heavy machinery, to a metal pallet to facilitate transportation of the

heavy item.

BACKGROUND

Pallets are commonly used for transporting goods.

.0 Pallets are generally constructed of timber in order to contain cost, but may be constructed of

metal.

It is important to adequately secure a load to a pallet to ensure that the load does not become

separated from the pallet during transportation.

One known method of securing a load to a pallet which, has been used for securing items of heavy

.5 machinery to pallets, is to lash the load to the pallet. Lashing a load to a pallet may involve using a

long flexible lashing member, such as a strip of polymer webbing. Chains and metal straps have

been used as lashing members, especially for securing heavy loads. The lashing member may be

passed over the load and under at least part of the pallet to lash the load to the pallet.

Issues encountered in lashing a load, such as an item of heavy machinery, to a pallet include: that

the lashing members may engage an upper part of the load that is not designed or adapted to resist

substantial forces; that load may be damaged by, or need to be protected from, lashing members

that are passed thereover and tensioned to secure the load; that excessive tensioning of the lashing

members may unduly force the load downwardly, against the pallet, adding substantially to the effective weight of the load that must be borne by an upper, load-bearing, part of the pallet; and that the lashing members may interfere with preservation materials used to wrap and protect the item.

Any references to methods, apparatus or documents of the prior art or related art are not to be

taken as constituting any evidence or admission that they formed, or form, part of the common

general knowledge.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a system for securing an item

to a pallet, the system comprising:

.0 a pallet with a load-receiving platform part, the platform part providing a load-receiving surface

having at least one aperture therein;

a securing arrangement comprising:

- a first engagement part configured to engage part of the pallet, in use;

- a connection part which extends from the first engagement and is configured to extend

.5 through one of the at least one apertures,

- a second engagement part, adapted to engage part of an item to be secured to the pallet;

and

- a forcing arrangement for forcing the second engagement part towards the pallet, wherein

the forcing arrangement comprises a screw threaded part and wherein in use operation of a

threaded connection arrangement which includes the screw threaded part forces the second

engagement part towards the pallet, to secure the item to the pallet.

In an embodiment the platform part is made substantially from metal.

In an embodiment the pallet is made substantially of metal.

In an embodiment the forcing arrangement is adapted to force the second engagement part towards

the first engagement part.

In an embodiment the connection part comprises an elongate shaft.

In an embodiment the screw threaded part is provided on the elongate shaft.

In an embodiment the screw threaded part is a male threaded part of the elongate shaft.

In an embodiment the second engagement part is adapted to move along the screw threaded part.

In an embodiment the second engagement part comprises a washer.

In an embodiment the washer is in the form of a substantially rectangular plate.

In an embodiment the threaded connection arrangement comprises a threaded forcing element,

.0 complementary to the screw threaded part.

In an embodiment the threaded forcing element comprises a female threaded element.

In an embodiment the threaded forcing element comprises a nut.

In an embodiment the threaded forcing element is operable to force the second engagement part

towards the pallet.

towards the first engagement part.

In an embodiment the second engagement part comprises part of the threaded forcing element.

Such an embodiment may result from omission of a washer and use of the threaded forcing

element, which in an embodiment is a nut, to engage said part of an item to be secured to the pallet.

In an embodiment the first engagement part first comprises a transverse element which extends

transversely outwardly from the connection part.

In an embodiment the connection part has a direction of elongation and the first engagement part

extends outwardly from the connection part in a direction substantially transverse to the direction

of elongation.

In an embodiment the first engagement part extends outwardly from the connection part in first and

second substantially opposed directions.

In an embodiment the first engagement part provides an engagement surface adapted to engage an

underside of the platform part of the pallet.

In an embodiment the first engagement part provides at least one stop configuration adapted to

engage a feature on the underside of the platform part of the pallet to limit rotation of the first

.0 engagement part.

In an embodiment the first engagement part provides at least first and second stop configurations,

each adapted to engage a respective feature on the underside of the platform part of the pallet to

limit rotation of the first engagement part.

In an embodiment the first engagement part has first and second ends, each spaced apart from the

.5 connection part, and provides at least one stop configuration at or adjacent each of the first and

second ends.

In an embodiment the first engagement part is integrally formed with the connection part.

In an embodiment the first engagement part is integrally formed with the connection part by

welding of the first engagement part to the connection part.

In an embodiment the connection part projects substantially perpendicular to the first engagement

part.

In an embodiment the first engagement part is dimensioned so that it can be passed through the at

least one aperture in one or more insertion orientations and can be oriented to a retention

orientation in which it cannot pass through the aperture.

In an embodiment the integrally formed first engagement part and connection part is dimensioned

so that the first engagement part be passed through the at least one aperture in one or more

insertion orientations and can be oriented to a retention orientation in which it cannot pass through

the aperture.

In an embodiment the aperture has a width and a length, the width being no greater than the

length.

.0 In an embodiment the first engagement part has a width and a length, the width being no greater

than the length.

In an embodiment the width and length directions of the first engagement part are both

substantially perpendicular to a direction of elongation of the connection part.

In an embodiment the first engagement part has a width not substantially greater than the width of

.5 the aperture.

In an embodiment the first engagement part has a length greater than the width of the aperture.

In an embodiment the first engagement part has a length greater than 1.2 times its width.

In an embodiment the first engagement part has a length greater than twice its width.

In an embodiment the first engagement part has a length greater than three times its width.

In an embodiment said width of the first engagement part is a width measured along a line which

intersects a position where the connection part is connected to the first engagement part

In an embodiment the connection part is attached to the first engagement part approximately half

way along the length of the first engagement part and the first engagement part has a length less

than twice the length of the aperture.

In an embodiment the length of the first engagement part is at least twice the width of the aperture.

In an embodiment the length of the first engagement part is at least three times the width of the

aperture.

In an embodiment the securing arrangement further comprises a retaining member for retaining the

first engagement part in engagement with the pallet prior to operation of the forcing arrangement.

In an embodiment the retaining member is adapted to engage the load-receiving surface of the

.0 pallet.

In an embodiment the retaining member is adapted to apply a force to the first engagement part

when the retaining member is engaged with the load-receiving surface of the pallet.

In an embodiment the force is provided by retaining a part of the load receiving platform part

between the retaining member and the first engagement part.

.5 In an embodiment the force is provided via a resilient member.

In an embodiment the resilient member comprises a spring.

In an embodiment the resilient member is provided about the connection part.

In an embodiment the connection part comprises a configuration for retaining and bearing against at

least part of the resilient member.

In an embodiment the retaining member comprises a female threaded member moveable along a

male threaded part of the connection part.

In an embodiment the retaining member is coupled to the connection part.

In an embodiment the connection part passes through a connection aperture of the retaining

member.

In an embodiment the retaining member provides first and second contact parts, on respective first

and second sides of the connection aperture, for contacting the load-receiving surface of the pallet.

In an embodiment the retaining member is generally u-shaped.

In an embodiment the retaining member is adapted to move relative to the connection part in a

direction of elongation of the connection part.

In an embodiment the retaining member is adapted to apply a force to the connection part when

the retaining member is engaged with the load-receiving surface of the pallet.

.0 In an embodiment the retaining member is adapted to apply a force to the connection part in order

to force the first engagement part against part of the pallet.

In an embodiment the retaining member is adapted to apply a force to the connection part in order

to force the first engagement part against an underside of the platform part of the pallet.

In an embodiment the system comprises at least two securing arrangements.

.5 In an embodiment the system comprises at least three securing arrangements.

In an embodiment the system comprises at least four securing arrangements.

Plural securing arrangements may be used for securing different parts of the item at respective

different positions on the load-bearing platform part of the pallet.

In an embodiment the load-receiving surface of the pallet is provided with a plurality of apertures.

In an embodiment adjacent apertures of the load-receiving surface are spaced apart by a distance

less than at least one of: a width of the apertures; and, a length of the apertures.

In an embodiment apertures of the load-receiving surface are substantially rectangular.

In an embodiment apertures of the load-receiving surface are substantially regularly distributed over

at least part of the load-receiving surface.

In an embodiment the load-receiving surface of the pallet is provided by a grating.

In an embodiment the grating is welded to a substructure of the pallet.

In an embodiment the grating provides a plurality of apertures in the load-receiving surface.

In an embodiment the grating comprises a plurality of spaced apart, substantially mutually parallel,

load-bearing members.

In an embodiment at least half of the load-bearing members are welded to the substructure of the

pallet.

.0 In an embodiment at least half of the load-bearing members are welded to the substructure of the

pallet.

In an embodiment substantially all of the load-bearing members are welded to the substructure of

the pallet.

In an embodiment the grating further comprises a plurality of connecting members extending

.5 between and connecting the load bearing members.

In an embodiment apertures are provided between, and at least partially defined by, said load

bearing members.

In an embodiment the first engagement part is adapted to extend across, and bear against the

undersides of at least two of said load-bearing members.

In an embodiment the first engagement part is adapted to extend across at least three of said load

bearing members, and bear against the undersides of at least two of said load-bearing members.

In an embodiment the first engagement part is adapted to extend across at least four of said load

In an embodiment adjacent apertures of the grating are spaced apart by a distance less than at least

one of: a width of the apertures; and, a length of the apertures.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises a plurality of primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the primary spacing members underlie the load-receiving platform.

In an embodiment the primary spacing members define tine-receiving channels of the pallet.

In an embodiment the primary spacing members define tine-receiving channels of the pallet

therebetween.

.0 In an embodiment at least one of the primary spacing members defines an elongate channel therein

which provides a tine-receiving channel of the pallet.

In an embodiment the primary spacing members comprise elongate metal channel sections.

In an embodiment the primary spacing members comprise elongate steel channel sections.

In an embodiment at least one of the primary spacing members comprises a metal C-section.

In an embodiment at least one of the primary spacing members comprises a metal hollow structural

section or box section.

In an embodiment at least three of the primary spacing members are substantially mutually parallel.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises a plurality of reinforcing members arranged substantially

perpendicular to a plurality of the primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises a plurality of reinforcing members overlaid upon a plurality

of the primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises at least three reinforcing members overlaid upon a plurality

of the primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises at least three substantially mutually parallel reinforcing

members, each overlaid upon a plurality of the primary spacing members.

members, each overlaid upon substantially all of the primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises a first reinforcing member at or adjacent a first edge region

of the pallet, a second reinforcing member at or adjacent a second, opposed, edge region of the

pallet, and at least one further reinforcing member located intermediate the first and second

.0 reinforcing members.

In an embodiment the first reinforcing member, second reinforcing member and at least one further

reinforcing member are substantially mutually parallel.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises at least four reinforcing members overlaid upon a plurality of

the primary spacing members.

.5 In an embodiment the pallet comprises at least four substantially mutually parallel reinforcing

members each overlaid upon substantially all of the primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises at least four substantially mutually parallel reinforcing

members, each overlaid upon a plurality of the primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the reinforcing members comprise elongate metal channel sections.

In an embodiment the reinforcing members comprise elongate steel channel sections.

In an embodiment the reinforcing members comprise elongate metal box sections.

In an embodiment the reinforcing members are arranged between the primary spacing members

and the load receiving platform.

and the grating.

In an embodiment the reinforcing members are welded to the primary spacing members and the

grating.

In an embodiment the pallet further comprises at least two bottom members, each of which

underlies and extends between at least two primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises at least three bottom members, each of which underlies and

extends between at least two primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet further comprises at least four bottom members, each of which

.0 underlies and extends between at least two primary spacing members.

In an embodiment each of at least three of the bottom members underlies and extends between at

least three primary spacing members.

In an embodiment each of at least four of the bottom members underlies and extends between at

least four primary spacing members.

.5 In an embodiment at least some of the bottom members are arranged substantially perpendicular to

a plurality of the primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises a first bottom member at or adjacent a first edge region of

the pallet, a second bottom member at or adjacent a second, opposed, edge region of the pallet,

and at least one further bottom member located intermediate the first and second bottom

members.

In an embodiment the first bottom member, second bottom member and at least one further

bottom member are substantially mutually parallel.

In an embodiment the pallet is substantially rectangular having a length direction and a width

direction.

In an embodiment the primary spacing members are elongate with a direction of elongation

extending in the width direction of the pallet.

In an embodiment the reinforcing members are elongate with a direction of elongation extending in

the length direction of the pallet.

In an embodiment the bottom members are elongate with a direction of elongation extending in the

length direction of the pallet.

In an embodiment the system further comprises at least one load spreading member adapted to

.0 overlie at least part of the surface of the load-receiving platform part and to spread the load of an

item secured to the pallet, on the load receiving surface of the pallet.

In an embodiment at least one said load spreading member comprises a metal plate.

In an embodiment at least one said load spreading member provides an aperture therein for passage

of the connection part of the securing arrangement therethrough.

.5 In an embodiment the system further comprises at least one friction member, adapted to be

positioned between the pallet and the item, to increase friction therebetween.

In an embodiment the friction member comprises a sheet or pad of rubber or like material.

In an embodiment the friction member provides an aperture therein for passage of the connection

part of the securing arrangement therethrough.

In an embodiment a first friction member is provided for positioning between the pallet and the load

spreading member and a second friction member is provided for positioning between the load

spreading member and the item.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a method of securing an

item to a pallet comprising:

providing a pallet with a load-receiving platform part, the platform part providing a load-receiving

surface having at least one aperture therein;

positioning a fixing arrangement so that:

- a first engagement part of the fixing arrangement engages a part of the pallet;

- a connection part of the fixing arrangement extends from the first engagement part,

through one ofthe at leastone apertures,

- a second engagement part of the fixing arrangement engages part of an item to be secured

.0 to the pallet; and

operating a forcing arrangement to force the second engagement part towards the pallet, wherein

the forcing arrangement comprises a screw threaded part and wherein the method comprises

tightening of a threaded connection which includes the screw threaded part to force the second

engagement part towards the pallet, to secure the item to the pallet.

.5 In an embodiment the platform part is made substantially from metal.

In an embodiment the method comprises passing at least part of the fixing arrangement through an

item aperture provided in the item.

In an embodiment the item aperture provided is an aperture provided in the item for receiving a

bolt therethrough.

In an embodiment the item is an item of machinery comprising at least one mounting part for

mounting to a surface, and the item aperture is an aperture provided in the mounting part.

In an embodiment the method comprises arranging a fixing member in the aperture so that at least

a first part of the fixing member is retained in the aperture and at least a second part of the fixing

member is spaced apart from and projects away from the pallet.

In an embodiment the method comprises placing the item on the pallet so that the centre of gravity

of the item is located above a geometrically central part of the pallet.

In an embodiment the method comprises placing at least one layer of a material between the pallet

and the item to increase the frictional resistance to movement of the item relative to the pallet,

compared to having the surface of the item contacting the surface of the pallet.

In an embodiment the method comprises placing at least one layer of a rubber material between the

.0 pallet and the item.

In an embodiment the method comprises placing at least load distribution plate between the pallet

and the item.

In an embodiment the method comprises placing, between the pallet and the item: a first, lower

layer comprising rubber or like high friction material; a second intermediate layer comprising a load

.5 distribution plate; and a third higher layer comprising rubber or like high friction material.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a securing arrangement for

use in the system of the first aspect for securing an item to a pallet.

In an embodiment the securing arrangement comprises:

- a first engagement part configured to engage part of the pallet, in use;

through one ofthe at leastone apertures,

and

engagement part towards the pallet, to secure the item to the pallet.

In an embodiment the securing arrangement comprises a bolt having a bolt head which comprises

the first engagement part, and a bolt shaft which comprises the connection part and which provides

said screw threaded part.

The securing arrangement of the third aspect may comprise any one or more of the features or

characteristics of the securing arrangement as set out above in relation to embodiments of the

.0 system of the first aspect.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a pallet for use in the system

of the first aspect, the pallet comprising a load-receiving platform part, the platform part being

made substantially from metal and the platform part providing a load-receiving surface having at

least one aperture therein.

.5 The pallet of the fourth aspect may comprise any one or more of the features or characteristics of

the pallet as set out above in relation to embodiments of the system of the first aspect.

In an embodiment the pallet is made substantially of metal.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises a plurality of primary spacing members which underlie the

load-receiving platform part and which at least partially define tine-receiving channels of the pallet.

In an embodiment the pallet further comprises a plurality of reinforcing members comprising

elongate metal channel sections.

In an embodiment the reinforcing members are arranged substantially perpendicular to a plurality of

the primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the reinforcing members and the primary spacing members are provided

substantially in respective, substantially horizontal, layers of the pallet.

In an embodiment at least some of the reinforcing members are arranged between the primary

spacing members and the load receiving platform part.

underlies and extends between at least two primary spacing members.

extends between at least two primary spacing members.

In an embodiment the pallet comprises at least four bottom members, each of which underlies and

.0 extends between at least two primary spacing members.

.5 In an embodiment apertures of the load-receiving surface are substantially regularly distributed over

at least part of the load-receiving surface.

therebetween.

In an embodiment at least one of the primary spacing members defines an elongate channel therein

which provides a tine-receiving channel of the pallet.

section or box section.

perpendicular to a plurality of the primary spacing members.

.0 and the grating.

grating.

direction.

.15 In an embodiment the primary spacing members are elongate with a direction of elongation

extending in the width direction of the pallet.

the length direction of the pallet.

length direction of the pallet.

In an embodiment the grating is welded to a substructure of the pallet.

load-bearing members.

pallet.

In an embodiment at least half of the load-bearing members are welded to at least two of said

reinforcing members.

the pallet.

.0 reinforcing members.

In an embodiment substantially all of the load-bearing members are welded to at least two of said

reinforcing members.

In an embodiment at least half of the load-bearing members are welded to at least four of said

reinforcing members.

.5 In an embodiment substantially all of the load-bearing members are welded to at least four of said

reinforcing members.

between and connecting the load bearing members.

bearing members.

one of: a width of the apertures; and, a length of the apertures.

According to a fifth aspect there is provided a method of securing an item to a pallet comprising use

of a securing arrangement in accordance with the third aspect.

According to a sixth aspect there is provided a method of securing an item to a pallet comprising use

of a pallet in accordance with the fourth aspect.

According to a seventh aspect there is provided a combination of a pallet and an item secured

thereto, wherein the combination comprises a system in accordance with the first aspect.

According to an eighth aspect there is provided a combination of a pallet and an item secured

thereto, wherein the combination comprises a securing arrangement in accordance with the third

aspect.

.0 According to a ninth aspect there is provided a combination of a pallet and an item secured thereto,

wherein the combination comprises a pallet in accordance with the fourth aspect.

According to a tenth aspect there is provided a combination of a pallet and an item secured thereto,

wherein the item is secured to the pallet by a method in accordance with any one or more of the

second fifth and sixth aspects.

.5 According to an eleventh aspect there is provided a method of securing an item of machinery to a

pallet, comprising bolting the item of machinery to the pallet.

In an embodiment a bolt extends through an aperture of a grating which forms at least part of a

load-receiving platform of the pallet, and a shaft of the bolt extends through an aperture provided in

the item of machinery for receiving a bolt in order to bolt the item of machinery to a surface.

It should be appreciated that features or characteristics described in relation to embodiments of any

one or more aspects may, unless logic dictates otherwise, be incorporated into any other aspect.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described, by way of example, in the

following Detailed Description of Embodiments which provides sufficient information for those

skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description of Embodiments is not to be

regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary section in any way. The Detailed

Description will make reference to the accompanying drawings, by way of example, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a system for securing an item to a

pallet in accordance with the present disclosure, showing the item secured to the pallet;

Figure 2 is a schematic top plan view of the pallet of the system of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the pallet of Figure 2;

.0 Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view from below of the pallet of Figure 2;

Figure 5 is a schematic side view of the pallet of Figure 2;

Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a securing arrangement of the system

of Figure 1;

Figure 7 is a schematic front view of the securing arrangement of Figure 6;

.5 Figure 8 is a schematic exploded front view of the securing arrangement of Figure 6;

Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of a clip component of the securing arrangement of Figure

6;

Figure 10 is a schematic top plan view of a blank from which the clip component of Figure 9 may be

formed;

Figure 11 is a schematic front view corresponding generally to Figure 7 but illustrating the clip

component in an alternative position;

Figure 12 is a schematic side view of the securing arrangement of Figure 6 prior to engagement with

a grating that forms a load receiving platform of a pallet;

Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of the securing arrangement of Figure 6 prior to

engagement with a grating that forms a load receiving platform of a pallet;

Figures 14, 15 and 16 are schematic side views illustrating sequential steps in positioning the

securing arrangement of Figure 6 relative to a grating that forms a load receiving platform of a

pallet, prior to securing an item to the pallet;

Figure 17 is a schematic side view of the securing arrangement of Figure 6 positioned ready for use

relative to a grating that forms a load receiving platform of a pallet, subsequent to the steps

.0 illustrated in Figures 14 to 16;

Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view substantially corresponding to Figure 17

Figure 19 is a schematic, exploded, perspective illustration, showing hidden detail, of an

arrangement for distributing weight of an item, the arrangement comprising a substantially rigid

layer between two rubber layers;

.5 Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view showing the three layers of Figure 19 separated so that

one layer is not obscured by another;

Fig. 21 is a schematic partial cross sectional view illustrating part of an item secured to a pallet;

Figure 22 is a perspective bottom view of an alternative embodiment of a pallet to that illustrated in

Figures 1 to 5;

Figure 23 is a perspective bottom view of a further alternative embodiment of a pallet;

Figure 24 is a perspective bottom view of a further alternative embodiment of a pallet;

Figure 25 is a perspective bottom view of a further alternative embodiment of a pallet;

Figure 26 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a securing arrangement to that

illustrated in Figures 6 to 11;

Figure 27 is a front view of the securing arrangement of Figure 26;

Figure 28 is a schematic perspective view showing a main part of the securing arrangement of Figure

26 retained relative to a part of a grating that provides a load-receiving surface of a pallet, and

illustrating introduction of one layer of an arrangement for distributing weight of an item;

Figure 29 is a schematic perspective view corresponding to Figure 28 but showing three layers of the

arrangement for distributing weight of an item;

Figure 30 is a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of a securing arrangement;

.0 Figure 31 is a top plan view of the securing arrangement of Figure 30, showing some hidden detail;

Figure 32 is a front view of the securing arrangement of Figure 30;

Figure 33 is a side view of the securing arrangement of Figure 30;

Figures 34(a) to 34(e) illustrate schematically a sequence of steps that could be used to pass part of

the securing arrangement of Figures 6 to 11 through an aperture provided in a load-receiving surface

.5 of a pallet; and

Figure 35 is a schematic, exploded, perspective illustration, showing hidden detail, of an alternative

embodiment to that illustrated in Figure 19, of an arrangement for distributing weight of an item.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

With reference to the accompanying drawings embodiments of a system for securing an item to a

pallet will now be described.

Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of a system, generally designated by the reference numeral 1, for

securing an item to a pallet, in use.

As illustrated in Figure 1 an item, generally designated by the reference numeral 5, is secured to a

pallet, generally designated by the reference numeral 200, by a plurality of securing arrangements

each generally designated by the reference numeral 600.

The item 5, as illustrated in Figure 1 is an item of machinery, such as a generator, compressor or the

like, and is provided with a number of feet 6, each of which is provided with a through aperture (not

shown in Figure 1, but see Figure 21) in order to receive a bolt or similar fixing therethrough to

facilitate attachment of the item 5 to a floor when situated for use.

.0 The pallet 200, provides a load receiving platform 202 in the form of a metal grating 204, which

provide a large number of apertures (for example aperture 206) therethrough.

The system 1 makes use of the through apertures in the feet 6 of the item 5 to secure the item 5 to

pallet 1, by providing each securing arrangement 600 with: a first engagement part that engages an

underside of the grating 202; a connection part that extends through a selected aperture 206 of the

.5 grating and through the aperture of a foot 6 of the item 5; a second engagement part that engages

an upper surface of the foot 6; and a forcing arrangement for forcing the second engagement part

downwardly towards the grating, all of which will be described in more detail below.

With reference to Figures 2 to 5 the pallet 200 will be described in more detail.

It should be appreciated that pallets of the system disclosed herein may be made in any of a variety

of sizes and engineered with any of a variety of load capacities. For example, a first size of pallet

may be relatively small, for example 1160 by 1160 mm or less and engineered to have a load

capacity of about a tonne (1000 kg) and a second size of pallet may be relatively large, for example

3.5 metres by about 2.3 metres, and engineered to have a load capacity of several tonnes or more.

Of course different sizes of pallet to those specifically mention may be provided, and should be considered to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, pallets larger than 3.5 metres by about 2.3 metres may be provided.

The pallet 200 of Figures 2 to 5 should therefore be appreciated to be only an illustrative, particular,

example of a pallet that may form part of a system in accordance with the present disclosure.

The pallet 200 is may be 3.5 metres long (in a longer, length, direction) and 1.8 metres wide. The

pallet is substantially rectangular and has first and second longer sides, 210, 212, and first and

second shorter sides 214, 216.

The pallet 200 comprises the grating 202 and an underlying structure or substructure 218 which may

be regarded as having a number of layers.

.0 A bottom layer 219 comprises a plurality of bottom members 220, 222, 224, 226 which in the

illustrated embodiment each comprise an elongate steel bar, which may be quite flat, for example

having transverse dimensions of 10 mm height and 100 mm width. The bottom members 220, 222,

224, 226 extend the length of the pallet. In the illustrated embodiment a first bottom member 220

extends along or adjacent the first longer side 210 of the pallet 200, a second bottom member 222

.5 extends along or adjacent the second longer side 212 of the pallet 200, and the rest of the bottom

members (in this embodiment third and fourth bottom members 224, 226, although more or fewer

may be provided) extend substantially parallel to the first and second bottom members 220, 222,

and are positioned so that the bottom members are spaced apart in the width direction of the

pallet. In the illustrated embodiment the lateral spacing between each bottom member is about

467mm.

A second layer 229 comprises a plurality of elongate spacing members 230, 231, 232, 234, 235, 236,

237, which are arranged in to extend in the width direction of the pallet 200.

In the illustrated embodiment the elongate spacing members 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236,

each comprise an elongate structural steel channel section which provides an in use height of about

120mm. Structural channel section is used to provide high structural strength for the second layer

229 without undue weight. The type of channel member to be used may be selected according to

the load capacity that the pallet is required to have. Different types of channel section may be used

for different elongate spacing members 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236. In the illustrated

embodiment a first spacing member 230 extends along or adjacent the first shorter side 214 of the

pallet 200, a second spacing member 231 extends along or adjacent the second shorter side 216 of

the pallet 200, and the rest of the spacing members (in this embodiment third to sixth spacing

members 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, although more or fewer may be provided) extend substantially

parallel to the first and second spacing members 230, 231, and are positioned so that the spacing

.0 members are substantially uniformly spaced apart in the length direction of the pallet. In the

illustrated embodiment the distance between the transverse centre of each spacing member and

the transverse centre of a neighbouring spacing member is about 575 mm plus or minus about

20mm.

Different types of channel section may be used for different elongate spacing members 230, 231,

.5 232,233,234,235,236.

In the illustrated embodiment the first and second spacing members 230, 231, the third and seventh

spacing members 232, 236 (which are those that neighbour the first and second spacing members

230, 231) and the fifth spacing member 234 comprise C-section steel members, which in the

illustrated embodiment are 120 mm (in the in-use height direction) by 52 mm, with a 4 mm wall

thickness. The fourth and sixth spacing members 233, 235 in this embodiment comprise box sections

which are 120 mm (in the in-use height direction) by 200 mm, with a 4 mm wall thickness. (Itshould

be appreciated that while this arrangement is considered to be both structurally effective and cost

effective, the selection of a C-section member or a box section member for any given spacing

member may be varied: for example, if desired any of the C-section members could be replaced by a

suitable box section member to provide an alternative box section spacing member, and/or any of the box section members could be replaced by a suitable C-section member to provide an alternative C-section spacing member. Further, other forms of spacing member, for example other forms of channel member, could be used if desired.) Attachment lugs 238 may be provided on the spacing members, for example to facilitate the pallet being tied down for transportation.

A third layer 239 comprises a plurality of reinforcing members 240, 242, 244, 246 which in the

illustrated embodiment each comprise an elongate channel section in the form of a steel box section

member, for example having transverse dimensions of 50 mm (in the in-use height direction) by 100

mm, with a 4 mm wall thickness.

The reinforcing members 240, 242, 244, 246 extend the length of the pallet. In the illustrated

.0 embodiment a first reinforcing member 240 extends along or adjacent the first longer side 210 of

the pallet 200, a second reinforcing member 242 extends along or adjacent the second longer side

212 of the pallet 200, and the rest of the bottom members (in this embodiment third and fourth

bottom members 244, 246, although more or fewer may be provided) extend substantially parallel

to the first and second reinforcing members 240, 242, and are positioned so that the reinforcing

.5 members are substantially uniformly spaced apart in the width direction of the pallet. In the

illustrated embodiment the lateral spacing between each bottom member is about 467mm. In the

illustrated embodiment each of the reinforcing members 240, 242, 244, 246 is located substantially

directly above a respective bottom member 220, 222, 224, 226.

A fourth layer or top layer 249, which is in the illustrated embodiment provided by the grating 204,

provides the load receiving platform 202 of the pallet 200. The grating comprises a plurality of

mutually substantially parallel, mutually spaced apart load members 250, interconnected by a

plurality of mutually substantially parallel, mutually spaced apart tying members, in the form of tie

rods 252. The tie rods 252 are substantially perpendicular to the load members 250, so that a large

number of substantially rectangular apertures 206 are defined by the grating 204. In the illustrated embodiment the load members 250 extend across the width direction of the pallet 200 and the tie rods 252 extend along the length direction of the pallet 200.

In an embodiment using a particular grating 204, the load members 250 are steel bars with

substantially rectangular transverse cross section of approximately 34 mm by 4.75 mm and are

spaced approximately 34 mm apart. In use the longer transverse sides are oriented in the height

direction. In this embodiment the tie rods 252 are steel rods with substantially circular transverse

cross section having a diameter of approximately 6 mm and are spaced approximately 96 mm apart.

The rectangular apertures 206 are thus approximately 34 mm by 96 mm.

Of course, a differently dimensioned grating may be used, and in one alternative the load members

.0 have a rectangular transverse cross section of approximately 20 mm by 3.5 mm and are spaced

approximately 30 mm apart. In this alternative embodiment the maybe are steel rods with

substantially circular transverse cross section having a diameter of approximately 6 mm, as

described above and may be spaced approximately 96 mm apart as described above, but may be

dimensioned and/or spaced differently, and suitable and desired.

.5 The pallet 200 is constructed by welding members of each of the first to fourth layers 219, 229, 239,

to members 249 of at least one of the other layers. The number, type and size of welded

connections is selected to provide adequate strength for the pallet 200 taking into account the

desired load capacity.

It should be appreciated that the considerations in relation to a given load capacity for a pallet

providing a load receiving platform to which items are to be secured using embodiments of securing

arrangements in accordance as disclosed herein, in which the item is in effect clamped to load

members of the grating, may be quite different to considerations where a pallet is intended to

merely bear the weight of an item, or to have the item lashed to the pallet using straps which extend

around parts of the substructure of the pallet. In particular, in embodiments of the system 1, an

item secured to the pallet 200 by securing arrangements 600, will during transportation in a vehicle likely impart substantial tensile forces between the grating and the substructure, which the welded connections between the grating and the substructure must be capable of resisting. In contrast, in a pallet in which the item is lashed to the substructure, the forces between the grating and the substructure will be largely compressive, and it will be appreciated that less strength in welded connections between the grating and the sub structure will likely be required for an item of the same weight. Broadly, and in summary, pallets are generally engineered with sole or primary consideration given to their resistance to compressive forces, but in contrast in the system 1, the ability of the pallet 200 to resist tensile forces is an important consideration.

In the illustrated embodiment, pallet 200, is intended to have a load capacity of about 5 tonnes,

.0 although this could of course be varied by appropriate choice of materials, dimensions, and the like.

In this embodiment the bottom members 220, 222, 224, 226 are welded to the elongate spacing

members 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236 wherever a bottom member 220, 222, 224, 226 crosses

one of the elongate spacing members 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, by continuous fillet welding

along each side edge of the bottom member 220, 222, 224, 226. Each end of each bottom member

.5 220, 222, 224, 226 is also welded to one of the first and second spacing members 230, 231.

Similarly, each of the elongate spacing members 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236 is welded to each

of the reinforcing members 240, 242, 244, 246 along at least two sides of the overlap therebetween,

using continuous fillet welding along each of two opposed edges. Further, each of the load

members 250 of the grating 204 is welded to each of the reinforcing members 240, 242, 244, 246

using a continuous fillet weld of at least 50mm length. Because the structural strength of the pallet

200 is important, it use, it is desirable to ensure that all construction material used (in this

embodiment, steel, meets a predetermined quality and/or strength requirement, and in the

described embodiment all steel used meets the requirements of the Q235 standard and/or has a

minimum strength of 250MPa.

As foreshadowed by the above, the bottom layer 219 may have a height of about 10mm, the second

layer may have a height of about 120 mm, the third layer may have a height of about 50 mm, and

the grating may have a height of about 34 mm. This gives a total height for the pallet 200 of about

214mm, although it will be appreciated that this height dimension is provided by way of example

only.

With reference to Figures 6 to 11, an embodiment of a securing arrangement 600 will now be

described.

The securing arrangement 600 comprises a first engagement part that in this embodiment is in the

form of an elongate cross member 602 which is attached substantially at its longitudinal centre to

.0 one end region of an elongate shaft 604. The elongate shaft 604 projects substantially perpendicular

to the direction of elongation of the cross member 602. The cross member has an engagement

surface 606 which faces generally in the direction in which the elongate shaft 604 projects from the

cross member 602, and which is adapted in use to engage an underside of the grating 202. At each

longitudinal end of the cross member 602, there is provided a projection 608, 609, which extends

.5 substantially perpendicular to the surface 606.

The elongate shaft 604 is adapted to extend from the underside of the grating 202 through an

aperture 206 of the grating, and thus comprises a connection part that can extend through a

selected aperture 206 of the grating in use.

An end region of the elongate shaft 604 distal from the cross member is provided with a male helical

screwthread610. In the illustrated embodiment the screw thread 610 extends most of the length

of the elongate shaft 604, and there is only a small unthreaded part 612 of the elongate shaft 604,

which is adjacent the cross member 602.

Provided adjacent the cross member 602, on the unthreaded part 612 of the elongate shaft 604

there is provided a generally u-shaped biasing clip 614. The biasing clip 614 is captured on the shaft

604, which extends through a hole 616 in the biasing clip 614 (see Figure 9). The biasing clip 614 is

restricted to a region of the elongate shaft close to the cross member (in this embodiment the

unthreaded part 612) by a retaining ring 618, which is mounted on and about the shaft a small

predetermined distance from the cross member 602, and in this embodiment at the transition

between the unthreaded part 612 of the elongate shaft 604 and the screw thread 610.

The biasing clip 614 is biased towards the cross member 602 by a helical spring 620, which is

mounted about the unthreaded part 612 of the elongate shaft 604, and which has a first end

engaged with the biasing clip 614 and a second end engaged with the retaining ring 618.

The securing arrangement 600 further comprises a nut 622 which is complementary to the screw

.0 thread 610, and a plate washer 624 which can be mounted loosely on the shaft and which can be

forced towards the cross member 602, in use, by operation (tightening) of the nut 622. A spring

washer 626 is provided for use between the nut 622 and the plate washer 624, for example to help

avoid or reduce unintentional loosening of the nut 622 in use, although this may, of course, be

achieved in alternative ways, for example by use of a locking nut, such as a polymer insert locking

.5 nut (or nyloc nut) in which case a normal washer, rather than a spring washer, may be used.

In use, the shaft can extend through an aperture in the foot 6 of an item 5, and the nut 622 can be

tightened to force the plate washer 624 against an upper surface of the foot, thus forcing the foot

against the grating 204, facilitating securing of the item to the pallet 200. Thus the plate washer 624

is an example of a second engagement part that engages an upper surface of the foot 6; the nut 622

in cooperation with the screw thread 610 is an example of a forcing arrangement for forcing the

second engagement part downwardly towards the grating, as will be described in more detail below.

It will be appreciated that in some circumstances it may be appropriate to omit the plate washer

624, so that the nut bears directly (or via a spring or other washer) on the upper surface of the foot 6

(or other appropriate part of an item). In such a case the nut may provide the second engagement

part, as well as being integral to the forcing arrangement.

The biasing clip 614 is shown in isolation in Figure 9. The biasing clip 614 comprises a base plate

portion 901, in which the hole 616 is provided, and which, in use, is engaged by the spring 620. In

the illustrated embodiment the base plate portion 901 is generally square. First and second

upstanding wall portions 902, 903 project upwardly from opposed sides of the base plate portion

601. Each upstanding wall portion 902, 903 terminates in an upper lip or shoulder 904, 905 which

projects outwardly from the top of the respective wall portion 902, 903. Figure 10 illustrates a

general planar rectangular sheet metal blank 1000, which can be formed into the biasing clip 614 by

forming radiused right angle bends at the regions indicated by broken lines 1002, 1004, 1006, 1008.

The bends formed along broken lines 1004, 1006 (which are close to the hole 616) form transitions

.0 between the base plate portion 901 and the upstanding wall portions 902, 903. The bends formed

along broken lines 1002, 1008 (which are further from the hole 616) form transitions between the

upstanding wall portions 902, 903 and the respective lips or shoulders 904, 905.

Figure 8 is a schematic exploded view of the securing arrangement 600 of Figures 6 and 7, and

illustrates the component parts thereof. The securing arrangement 600 can be formed from the

.5 component parts illustrated in Figure 8 as follows. The projections 608, 609, are welded onto the

end parts of the cross member 602. An end of the shaft 604 is inserted into a hole 630 provided at

the longitudinal centre of the cross member 630, and welded in place by a suitable strong weld, such

as a circular continuous fillet weld (not shown), to form the cross member 602 and shaft 604 into a

robust integral member, with the approximate shape of an inverted upper case 'T'. The biasing clip

614, spring 620 and retaining ring 618 are placed onto the shaft 604, from the upper end of the shaft

604 as illustrated. The retaining ring 618 is moved into its final position, slightly compressing the

spring 620, and spot or tack welded to the shaft 604. The washer plate 624, spring washer, 626 and

nut 622 may be threaded onto the shaft 604 if desired, or retained separately for later use, as the

process of securing an item to a pallet will typically require that they are not present on the shaft

until after the shaft is passed through an aperture of an item to be secured (although this may not

be the case for all configurations of aperture).

The strength of the shaft 604 (and its size) should be selected to be appropriate for the dimensions

and mass of the item (and any other load that may be connected to the item). In the illustrated

embodiment the shaft is 20mm in diameter (M20 size) and made from steel with a minimum

strength of 400MPa. The minimum strength of weld metal used in the securing arrangement 600 is

550 MPa.

Figure 11 illustrates that the biasing clip 614 is movable in the axial (elongation) direction of the

shaft 604, and shows the biasing clip 614 in a position in which the spring 620 is somewhat

compressed between the biasing clip 614 and the retaining ring 618. It will be appreciated from

Figure 11, that if with the spring 620 compressed as illustrated, if the lips 904, 905 are held in

.0 position and the rest of the securing arrangement 600 is free to move, the force exerted by the

spring 620 between the biasing clip 614 and the retaining ring 618 will force, and move, the retaining

ring 618, and thus the shaft 604 and the cross member 602, upwards.

Figures 12 to 18 illustrate attachment of at least part of the securing arrangement 600 to pallet as an

initial step in securing a load.

.5 Figures 12 and 13 illustrate the securing arrangement 600, but without the washer plate 624, spring

washer, 626 and nut 622, in proximity to the grating 204 of a pallet 200, noting that for convenience

only a small part of the grating 204 is shown. It will be noted that the biasing clip 614 has been

deliberately rotated by 90 degrees, so that the lips 904, 905 project outwardly beyond the width of

the cross member 602. Thus when the cross member 602, which is only slightly narrower than the

apertures 206 of the grate 204 is inserted into an aperture 206, the lips 904, 905 will not be able to

enter the aperture 206. As illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, the direction of elongation of the cross

member 602 is substantially aligned with the length direction of the apertures 206.

Figure 14 illustrates the securing arrangement 600 (without the washer plate 624, spring washer,

626 and nut 622) being partially inserted into an aperture 206 of the grating 204, so that the lips

904, 905 engage the upper surfaces of two load members 250 that partially define the aperture 206.

As illustrated in Figure 14 the spring 620 is not compressed, and the engagement surface 606 of the

cross member 602 is higher than the bottoms of the two load members 250.

Figure 15 illustrates a user having applied a small downward force to the shaft 604 in order to

partially compress the spring 620. As illustrated in Figure 15, when the spring 620 is compressed the

vertical distance (in the direction of elongation of the shaft 604) between the lips 904, 905 and the

engagement surface 606 of the cross member 602 is greater than the height of the two load

members 250. Indeed, the vertical distance (in the direction of elongation of the shaft 604) between

the lips 904, 905 and the tops of the projections 608, 609 of the cross member 602 is greater than

the height of the two load members 250.

.0 Figure 16 illustrates the downward force still being applied, and the user having rotated the shaft

604, and therefore also the cross member 602, by 90 degrees. The direction of elongation of the

cross member 602 is now substantially perpendicular to the load members 250 and to the length

direction of the apertures 206.

Figures 17 and 18 illustrates the downward force having been released, so that the biasing action of

.5 the spring 620 and biasing clip 614 has raised the shaft 604 and cross member 602. As illustrated in

Figures 17 and 18, the engagement surface 606 of the cross member 602 extends across, and

engages the bottoms of, four load members 250. The projections 608, 609 of the cross member 602

extend above the bottoms of the load members 250, and in this position effectively prevent

inadvertent rotation of the shaft 604 and cross member 602 away from the illustrated desired

position. It will be appreciated that having the cross member 602 extend across, and engage the

bottoms of, four load members 250 can provide more effective distribution of forces, and thus

greater effective strength that would be provided by a shorter cross member that would engage

fewer load members 250, for example, only the two load members immediately adjacent the

aperture.

As illustrated in Figures 17 and 18, the shaft 604 and cross member 602 are retained, by the biasing

clip, in a convenient position, with the threaded part of the shaft extending upwardly from the

grating, so that an item to be secured to the pallet 200 can be engaged therewith. For example, an

engine or other item of machinery with bolt-holes in a mounting part thereof can be lowered onto

the pallet, so that respective bolt-holes engage with respective upwardly extending threaded parts

of respective shafts 604, without the shafts 604 or associated securing arrangements 600 having to

be held in place by a person. Rather, the shafts 604 and associated securing arrangements 600 can

be effectively held in place are by the biasing clip of each respective securing arrangement 600.

Figures 19 and 20 illustrate a load distribution and anti-slip arrangement, generally designated 1900,

.0 which may be used as part of the system 1.

In order to avoid contact of a metal part of an item 5 (for example metal foot 6) with the metal load

members 250 of the grating 204, which may result in an undesirably low-friction contact, it is

desirable to provide a layer of high friction material, such as rubber, between the grating 204 and

the item 5. It is also desirable, at least in some cases, to provide a layer or plate of substantially

.5 rigid material between the grating 204 and the item 5 to help spread the weight of the item over a

greater number of load members than would otherwise be borne upon by the foot 6 (or feet).

As illustrated in Figures 19 and 20 the load distribution and anti-slip arrangement 1900 comprises a

first, in-use lower, layer provided by a sheet or mat of rubber 1920, a second, in use intermediate,

layer provided by a metal (e.g. steel) sheet or plate 1930, and a third, in use higher, layer provided

by a sheet or mat of rubber 1940. Each sheet, mat or plate 1920, 1930, 1940 is provided with a

respective aperture, 1921, 1931, 1941 which may be at a geometric centre thereof, to allow the

shaft 604 to pass therethrough. This helps ensure that all parts of the load distribution and anti-slip

arrangement 1900 are positioned correctly relative to the item (which is to be attached to the shaft,

as will be described in more detail hereafter).

The aperture 1921 of the lower sheet or mat of rubber 1920, and the aperture 1931 of the metal

sheet or plate 1930, are, in the illustrated embodiment, substantially larger than the diameter of the

shaft 604 and the width of the biasing clip 614, to avoid contact with the biasing clip 614 which could

damage the sheet or mat of rubber 1920 or the biasing clip 614, or create an irregularity that might

lead to play in the position of the foot 6. In the illustrated embodiment the maximum width of the

biasing clip 614 (between distal edges of the lips 904, 905 may be about 47 mm, and the size of the

apertures 1921, 1931 may be 55 by 75 mm.

Figure 21 illustrates schematically and in partial cross section, the securing arrangement 600 being

used to secure a foot 6 of an item 5 to the grate 204 of pallet 200, with the load distribution and

.0 anti-slip arrangement 1900 in use, between the grating 204 and the foot 6. It will be appreciated

that tightening of the nut 622 effectively clamps the foot 6 to the grating 204.

Use of four (or more) securing arrangements of the type described, according to the mass of the

item to be secured and the number of feet or, more generally, mounting regions with bolt apertures,

can allow the system 1 to effectively secure heavy items such as generators, compressors and other

.5 machinery to a pallet. The item should normally be located and secured on the pallet so that the

centre of gravity of the item is located above a geometrically central part of the pallet. The use of a

pallet with a grating providing the platform provides a large number of closely spaced apertures,

providing a high level of flexibility in relation to selection of apertures which align with the apertures

provided by the item.

Of course, many variations are possible.

Figures 22 to 25 illustrate alternative embodiments of pallets 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500 which may be

used as part of the disclosed system for securing a load, and which are configured and constructed

similar to the pallet 200 of Figures 1 to 5, with substantially similar four-layer construction.

The pallet 2200, illustrated in Figure 22, is very similar to the pallet 200, being of the same length but

of greater width, being 2.3 metres wide, compared to the 1.8 metre width of pallet 200. The

greater width is provided by using increased lengths for the members which extend in the width

direction and using an appropriately increased number of members which extend in the length

direction. The pallet 2200 is constructed to have a load capacity of approximately six tonnes.

The pallet 2300, illustrated in Figure 23, is of slightly smaller width than the pallet 200, being

1500mm wide as against 1800 mm wide, and is of smaller length being 2380 mm long as against the

3500 mm length of pallet 200. In this embodiment slightly smaller bottom members 2320 are used,

being steel members 8 mm thick by 80 mm wide (as against the 10 mm by 100 mm bottom

.0 members of pallet 200). Further, fewer spacing members are used, as can be seen in Figure 23.

However, the same types and cross sectional dimensions of spacing members 2330 and reinforcing

members are used as used in pallet 200. The pallet 2300 is constructed to have a load capacity of

approximately 3.5 tonnes.

The pallet 2400 of Figure 24 is still smaller, having a length of 2320 mm and a width of 1160 mm. In

.5 this embodiment bottom members 2420 with transverse size 8mm by 80 mm, and reinforcing

members with transverse size 70 mm by 50 mm are used. The grating members and spacing

members correspond to those used in pallet 200 (but are of course fewer in number and shorter in

length). The pallet 2400 is constructed to have a load capacity of approximately 2.5 tonnes.

The pallet 2500 of Figure 25 is still smaller, having a length of 1160 mm and a width of 1160 mm. In

this embodiment the transverse size of the bottom members 2520, spacing members 2530,

reinforcing members 2540 and grating members are all the same as used for pallet 2400 (but are of

course varied in number and length as appropriate). The pallet 2500 is constructed to have a load

capacity of approximately 1.5 tonnes.

It will be appreciated that the sizes and load capacities of the described pallets are provided by way

of example, and that suitable engineering of a pallet with a grating providing some or all of the upper surface thereof may provide a pallet of substantially any appropriate desired size, and with a load bearing capacity as desired or required, up to, and even in excess of, 10 tonnes. Further, it should be appreciated that while use of a grating is considered particularly useful for providing a structurally strong platform part with a large number of closely spaces apertures (to allow flexibility in the positioning of securing arrangements), other apertures surface arrangements could be used, and if a grating arrangement is used the grating need not cover all of the upper surface part of the platform, but may be provided only at a (typically, but not necessarily) generally central region of the platform, where it is expected that an item is to be attached to the pallet. For example, one or more non-central, top surface regions of the platform may be made from sheet metal (such as sheet steel)

.0 with or without apertures provided in the sheet metal.

It will be appreciated that the pallets 200, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500 are all constructed to be suitable

for use with forklift trucks, and that the spacing members define tine-receiving channels of the

pallets. Depending on the size of the pallet and the spacing of the tines of the forklift, the tines may

be received in spaced between the spacing members, or the box section spacing members may be

.5 adapted to receive the tines therein.

The pallets 200, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500 all provide reinforcing members which overlie spacing

members, as described in detail in relation to the pallet 200, so that the reinforcing members and

the spacing members are provided substantially in respective, different, substantially horizontal,

layers of the pallet. In the illustrated embodiments the reinforcing members are shown to be of

generally rectangular transverse cross section, with the longer sides of the rectangular cross

sectional shape substantially horizontal in use, and the shorter sides of the rectangular cross

sectional shape substantially vertical in use (extending in the height direction of the pallet). In an

alternative embodiment the rectangular cross sectional reinforcing members may be oriented with

the longer sides of the rectangular cross sectional shape substantially vertical in use, and the shorter

sides of the rectangular cross sectional shape substantially horizontal in use. This alternative orientation of the reinforcing members may provide greater resistance to bending of the pallet downwardly along its length, under load, when being lifted by a crane or the like. Ofcourse increased resistance to bending may alternatively or additionally be provided in other ways, for example, further reinforcement may be provided by welding additional members (optionally using the same type of member as the reinforcing members or as one or more of the spacing members) between neighbouring spacing members. Such additional members may be arranged substantially in the same horizontal layer of the pallet as the spacing members, with the additional members being welded to vertical surface parts of the spacing members.

Pallets generally of the illustrated and described construction may be provided with lifting lugs

.0 accessible from the top of, or above, the pallet to facilitate lifting of the pallets (and items secured

thereto) by a crane. Lifting lugs may, for example, be securely fixed by welding to the top surfaces of

some or all of the spacing members and/or reinforcing members. Accessibility of the lifting lugs

from the top of, or above, the pallet may be facilitated by omitting small sections of the grating to

allow access.

.5 Figures 26 and 27 illustrate an alternative embodiment 2600 of securing arrangement to the

securing arrangement 600 of Figures 6 to 10. There are many similarities between the securing

arrangement 600 and the securing arrangement 2600 and only the differences will be discussed in

detail. The securing arrangement 2600 provides projections (corresponding to projections 608, 609

of securing arrangement 600) in the form of first and second pairs of studs 2608, 2609. More

functionally significant is that securing arrangement 2600 does not provide a biasing clip. Rather the

securing arrangement 2600 allows cross member 2602 to be retained against the underside of load

members of a grating by providing a screw threaded washer 2614, which a user can cause to travel

along the screw thread 2610 of shaft 2604 by causing rotation thereof. In use, the user inserts cross

member 2602 through an aperture of a grating, rotates the shaft 2604 to orient the cross member

2602 transverse to the load members of the grating and then rotates the threaded washer until it reaches the bottom of the screw thread and engages the tops of the load members adjacent the aperture, thereby retaining the cross member 2602 to be retained against the underside of load members of a grating. The user may either lift the shaft 2604 so that the cross member 2602 engages the underside of the load members prior to rotating the threaded washer 2614, so that the cross member is manually placed in position and then merely retained in that position by the threaded washer, or may use the action of rotating the threaded washer, while it is engaged with the tops of the load members adjacent the aperture, to raise the shaft 2604 and the cross member

2602, although the latter approach is considered more prone to error. Compared to the bias clip

614 of securing arrangement 600, the securing arrangement 2600 is considered less convenient to

.0 use, requiring greater manipulation and being more time consuming.

Figure 28 shows the relevant parts of securing arrangement 2600, with the threaded washer 2614

engaged with the tops of load members 250, so as to hold the cross member against the bottoms of

load members 250. Figure 28 further illustrates positioning of a rubber mat or sheet 2800, with a

differently shaped aperture to that of rubber mats or sheets 1920, 1940 described above and

.5 illustrated in Figures 19 and 20.

Figure 29 illustrates the rubber mat or sheet 2800 in position as a lower friction enhancing layer, and

addition of further elements of a load distribution and anti-slip arrangement, being a metal (e.g.

steel) sheet or plate 2930, and an in use higher, friction enhancing layer provided by a sheet or mat

of rubber 2940, which are variations of those previously described.

Figures 30 to 33 illustrate a further, and less-developed, embodiment of a securing arrangement

3000. There are many similarities between the previously described securing arrangements 600,

2600 and the securing arrangement 3000 and only the differences will be discussed in detail. One

such difference is that the securing arrangement 3000 lacks a retaining arrangement for retaining

cross member 3002 against the underside of load members of a grating. Another difference is that

the cross member is relatively short in length compared to previously described embodiments, and adapted to engage the undersides of only two load members of a grating. While this may be adequate under some circumstances, engagement of the undersides of a greater number of load members is considered desirable.

In relation to this it should be appreciated that the cross member 602 of a securing arrangement

may be longer than the length of the grating aperture without precluding the cross member 602

being readily able to be inserted into the aperture. Figures 34(a) to 34(e) illustrate schematically

how a combined cross member and shaft 3400 with a cross member 3406 of greater length than the

length of an aperture 3410 of a grating 3411, may be easily manipulated to allow insertion of the

cross member through the aperture 3410. As can be seen in Figure 34(a) the length of the aperture

.0 3410 is the distance between first and second tie rods 3452, 3453. Broadly speaking the process is

to incline the cross member 3406, and feed a first lower end 3406A into the aperture 3410, as

illustrated in Figure 34(b). The combined cross member and shaft 3400 is then moved so that the

first end of the cross member 3406A passes below the tie rod 3452 defining one end of the aperture,

as illustrated in Figure 34(c) and so that the shaft part of the combined cross member and shaft 3400

.5 is close to that tie rod 3452. The combined cross member and shaft 3400 can then be lowered

and/or rotated to move the second end of the cross member 3406 into the aperture 3410, as

illustrated in Figures 34(d) and 34(e). After insertion, the cross member 3410 may be rotated as

described above.

Figure 35 illustrates an alternative embodiment 3500 of a load distribution and anti-slip

arrangement, to the arrangement, designated 1900, of Figures 19 and 20. The significant difference

is that the a first, in-use lower, layer provided by a sheet or mat of rubber 3520, a second, in use

intermediate, layer provided by a metal (e.g. steel) sheet or plate 3530, and a third, in use higher,

layer provided by a sheet or mat of rubber 3540, are all generally square rather than rectangular.

At least embodiments described herein provide a number of advantages over certain known ways of

attaching items to pallets.

The securing arrangement 600 can provide an effective and direct restraint between the pallet and a

robust part of the item. In contrast lashing is often placed over or around an item which may

damage the item and/or damage or interfere with a preservation materials used to wrap and protect

the item.

The securing arrangement 600 does not exert substantial net downward pressure on the pallet. In

contrast tensioned lashing may add to the effective weight of an item on a pallet which can decrease

the effective load bearing capacity of the pallet

The securing arrangement 600 uses a robust metal shaft, and is very heavy duty and anticipated to

have a long service life.

.0 The securing arrangement 600 does not require use of lugs provided on the pallet, and therefore

increased the availability of any such lugs for use in restraining the pallet to a vehicle.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to

structural or methodical features. The term "comprises" and its variations, such as "comprising" and

"comprised of" is used throughout in an inclusive sense and not to the exclusion of any additional

.5 features.

It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since

the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.

The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of

the appended claims appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A system for securing an item to a pallet, the system comprising:

a pallet with a load-receiving platform part, the platform part providing a load-receiving surface

having at least one aperture therein;

a securing arrangement comprising:

- a first engagement part configured to engage part of the pallet, in use;

through one ofthe at leastone apertures,

.0 - a second engagement part, adapted to engage part of an item to be secured to the pallet;

and

.5 engagement part towards the pallet, to secure the item to the pallet.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the platform part is made substantially from metal.

3. A system according to either preceding claim, wherein the forcing arrangement is adapted

to force the second engagement part towards the first engagement part.

4. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the connection part comprises an

elongate shaft, and the screw threaded part is provided on the elongate shaft as a male threaded

part of the elongate shaft.

5. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the threaded connection arrangement

comprises a nut, complementary to the screw threaded part.

6. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first engagement part first

comprises a transverse element which extends transversely outwardly from the connection part in

first and second substantially opposed directions and provides an engagement surface adapted to

engage an underside of the platform part of the pallet.

7. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first engagement part is

dimensioned so that it can be passed through the at least one aperture in one or more insertion

orientations and can be oriented to a retention orientation in which it cannot pass through the

aperture.

8. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the aperture has a width and a length,

.0 the width being no greater than the length, and the first engagement part has a width and a length,

the width being no greater than the length, and the length of the first engagement part is at least

three times the width of the aperture.

9. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the securing arrangement further

comprises a retaining member for retaining the first engagement part in engagement with the pallet

.5 prior to operation of the forcing arrangement, the retaining member being adapted to engage the

load-receiving surface of the pallet and to apply a force to the first engagement part when the

retaining member is engaged with the load-receiving surface of the pallet in order to force the first

engagement part against part of the pallet.

10. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises at least three

securing arrangements for securing respective different parts of the item at respective different

positions on the load-bearing platform part of the pallet.

11. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the load-receiving surface of the pallet

is provided by a grating providing a plurality of apertures which are substantially regularly

distributed over at least part of the load-receiving surface.

12. A system according to claim 11, wherein the grating comprises a plurality of spaced apart,

substantially mutually parallel, load-bearing members and substantially all of the load-bearing

members are welded to a substructure of the pallet which underlies the grating.

13. A system according to claim 12, wherein the first engagement part is adapted to extend

across at least three of said load-bearing members, and bear against the undersides of at least two

of said load-bearing members.

14. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the pallet comprises:

a plurality of primary spacing members which underlie the load-receiving platform part and which at

least partially define tine-receiving channels of the pallet; and

.0 a plurality of reinforcing members arranged substantially perpendicular to a plurality of the primary

spacing members, the reinforcing members comprising elongate metal channel sections, and the

reinforcing members being arranged between the primary spacing members and the load receiving

platform part.

15. A system according to claim 14, wherein the pallet further comprises at least two bottom

.5 members, each of which underlies and extends between at least two primary spacing members.

16. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system further comprises at least

one load spreading member adapted to overlie at least part of the surface of the load-receiving

platform part and to spread the load of an item secured to the pallet, on the load receiving surface

of the pallet, at least one said load spreading member providing an aperture therein for passage of

the connection part of the securing arrangement therethrough.

17. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system further comprises at least

one friction member, adapted to be positioned between the pallet and the item, to increase friction

therebetween the friction member providing an aperture therein for passage of the connection part

of the securing arrangement therethrough.

18. A method of securing an item to a pallet comprising:

surface having at least one aperture therein;

positioning a fixing arrangement so that:

through one ofthe at leastone apertures,

to the pallet; and

.0 operating a forcing arrangement to force the second engagement part towards the pallet, wherein

engagement part towards the pallet, to secure the item to the pallet.

19. A method according to claim 18, wherein the method comprises passing at least part of the

.5 fixing arrangement through an item aperture provided in the item and the item aperture is an

aperture provided in the item for receiving a bolt therethrough.

20. A method according to claim 19, wherein the item is an item of machinery comprising at

least one mounting part for mounting to a surface, and the item aperture is an aperture provided in

the mounting part.

21. A method according to any of claims 18 to 20, wherein the method comprises placing,

between the pallet and the item: a first, lower layer comprising rubber or like high friction material;

a second intermediate layer comprising a load distribution plate; and a third higher layer comprising

rubber or like high friction material.

22. A method according to any of claims 18 to 21, wherein the method comprises use of a

system in accordance with any of claims 1 to 17.

23. A securing arrangement for use in the system of any of claims 1 to 17, the securing

arrangement comprising:

- a first engagement part configured to engage part of the pallet, in use;

through one ofthe at leastone apertures,

and

.0 - a forcing arrangement for forcing the second engagement part towards the pallet, wherein

engagement part towards the pallet, to secure the item to the pallet.

24. A securing arrangement according to claim 23, wherein the securing arrangement comprises

.5 a bolt having a bolt head which comprises the first engagement part, and a bolt shaft which

comprises the connection part and which provides said screw threaded part.

25. A pallet for use in the system of any of claims 1 to 17, the pallet comprising a load-receiving

platform part, the platform part being made substantially from metal and the platform part

providing a load-receiving surface having at least one aperture therein.

26. A pallet according to claim 25, wherein the pallet comprises:

- at least three primary spacing members which underlie the load-receiving platform part and

which at least partially define tine-receiving channels of the pallet; and

- at least three reinforcing members overlaid across a plurality of the primary spacing

members, the reinforcing members comprising elongate metal channel sections, the reinforcing members being arranged between the primary spacing members and the load receiving platform part.

27. A pallet according to claim 26, wherein the pallet is substantially rectangular having a length

direction and a width direction, the length of the pallet being at least as great as the width, the

primary spacing members being elongate with a direction of elongation extending in the width

direction of the pallet, and the reinforcing members being elongate with a direction of elongation

extending in the length direction of the pallet.

28. A pallet according to either of claims 26 or 27, wherein the load-receiving surface of the

pallet is provided by a grating comprising a plurality of spaced apart, substantially mutually parallel,

.0 load-bearing members.

29. A pallet according to claim 28, wherein at least half of the load-bearing members are welded

to at least three of said reinforcing members.

30. A pallet according to claim 29, wherein substantially all of the load-bearing members are

welded to at least three of said reinforcing members.

.5

31. A pallet according to any of claims 26 to 29, wherein the pallet comprises at least three

bottom members, each of which underlies and extends between at least three primary spacing

members.

32. A pallet according to claim 31, wherein the bottom members are elongate with a direction of

elongation extending in a length direction of the pallet.

33. A method of securing an item of machinery to a pallet, comprising bolting the item of

machinery to the pallet.

34. A method according to claim 33, wherein a bolt extends through an aperture of a grating

which forms at least part of a load-receiving platform of the pallet, and a shaft of the bolt extends through an aperture, provided in the item of machinery, for receiving a bolt in order to bolt the item of machinery to a surface.