WO2020061626A1

WO2020061626A1 - Pallet transit frame

Info

Publication number: WO2020061626A1
Application number: PCT/AU2019/051028
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lee Irwin; Jerra Smith
Original assignee: Smartrax Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2018-09-25
Filing date: 2019-09-25
Publication date: 2020-04-02

Abstract

Provided is a pallet transit frame (10) comprising four operatively downward extending legs (12) each defining a foot (14) configured to engage a corner of a lower pallet (8) and/or a ground surface, as well as first and second cross beams (16 and 18) supported by said legs (12.) Each beam (16 and 18) defines a shoulder (20) at both ends thereof configured to engage corners of an upper pallet (6), wherein the pallet transit frame (10) is able to straddle the lower pallet (8) and support the upper pallet (6) on the shoulders (20) and/or cross beams (16 and 18) during transport.

Description

1

PALLET TRANSIT FRAME

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention relates to pallet transport and storage, in general, and more specifically to a pallet transit frame .

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application .

[0003] Pallets are well-known in the field of goods transport. A pallet is generally a flat transport structure, which supports goods in a stable fashion while being lifted by a forklift, a pallet jack, a front loader, a jacking device, a crane, or the like. A pallet is typically the structural foundation of a unit load which allows handling and storage efficiencies. Pallets typically consist of three or four stringers that support several deckboards, on top of which goods are placed. In a pallet size measurement, the first number is generally the so-called stringer length and the second is the deckboard length.

[0004] Goods are often placed on a pallet secured with strapping, stretch wrap or shrink wrap and shipped. Since its invention in the twentieth century, the use of pallets has dramatically supplanted older forms of crating like the wooden box and the wooden barrel, as it works well with modern packaging like intermodal containers commonly used for bulk shipping. As such, containerisation for transport has spurred the use of pallets as shipping containers have the smooth, level surfaces needed for easy pallet movement. While most pallets are wooden, pallets can also be made of plastic, metal, paper, and recycled materials.

[0005] No universally accepted standards for pallet dimensions exist. Companies and organizations utilize hundreds of different pallet sizes around the globe. While no single dimensional standard governs pallet production, a few different sizes are widely used. For example, the standard shipping pallet in Australia is 1165 mmm x 1165 mm in plan dimensions .

[0006] This 1ack of a single international standard for pallets causes substantial continuing expense in international trade. A single standard is difficult due to the wide variety of needs a standard pallet would have to satisfy, such as passing through doorways, fitting in standard containers, labour costs, etc. For example, organisations already handling large pallets often see no reason to pay the higher handling cost of using smaller pallets that can fit through doors.

[0007] Pallets are typically transported on trucks and trailers and in shipping containers where they are placed next to each other, forming a single layer of pallets. The number of pallets able to be transported is generally the area of the transport bed divided by the area of a single pallet, i.e. a floorspace of the transport bed or container. [0008] While pallet frames and associated pallet stillages are known for storing pallets in warehouses, during transport pallets are not generally stackable one on top of another due to the danger of moving loads and damage should a pallet move and/or fall. This conventional practice often leaves significant wasted space in a transport container or bed above pallets resting on the floorspace.

[0009] The current invention was conceived with these shortcomings in mind.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a pallet transit frame comprising:

four operatively downward extending legs each defining a foot configured to engage a corner of a lower pallet and/or a ground surface; and

first and second cross beams supported by said legs, each beam defining a shoulder at both ends thereof configured to engage corners of an upper pallet;

wherein the pallet transit frame is able to straddle the lower pallet and support the upper pallet on the shoulders and/or cross beams during transport.

[0011] Typically, the legs are height-adjustable to accommodate varying heights of the lower pallet.

[0012] Typically, the legs are height-adjustable by means of telescoping sections with locking pins, latches, detents, or the like. [0013] Typically, the legs are foldable relative to the cross beams when the frame is not supporting an upper pallet to facilitate storage and transport of the frame when not in use .

[0014] Typically, the foot is configured to engage a corner of the lower pallet by comprising three orthogonally-arranged plates that sit about a corner of the pallet.

[0015] Typically, the foot is configured to engage a corner of the lower pallet by means of a fastener.

[0016] Typically, the foot is configured to transfer a load of the upper pallet on the frame to the ground surface.

[0017] Typically, at least a portion of the foot extends about the corner of the pallet and onto the ground surface in order to transfer load onto the ground surface.

[0018] Typically, the cross beams are pivoted or scissored together by means of a swivel pin to allow relative angle adjustment between the beams to accommodate various pallet sizes .

[0019] Typically, the pivotable cross beams are fixable relative to each other by means of fixing means to maintain a specific angle between said beams.

[0020] Typically, the first and second beams are length- adjustable to accommodate various pallet sizes. [0021] Typically, the beams define a flat lower portion to facilitate lifting of the frame by means of a forklift, or the like .

[0022] Typically, the shoulder is configured to engage a corner of the upper pallet by comprising two plates arranged orthogonal on a beam so that the corner of the upper pallet sits within the shoulder.

[0023] Typically, the foot of each leg is configured to engage a corresponding shoulder of a similar support frame to allow stacking of such frames with upper pallets during transport .

[0024] In an embodiment, the frame includes a platform for supporting the upper pallet on the cross beams.

[0025] In an embodiment, the frame includes a brace for bracing the legs and/or cross beams.

[0026] In an embodiment, the frame includes an AIDC identifier to facilitate tracking of the upper and/or lower pallet during transport. The skilled addressee will also appreciate that reference herein to the phrase 'automatic identification and data capture' or AIDC generally refers to any suitable technique of methodology for automatically and without user data entry, identifying an object and entering relevant data directly into a computer system (i.e. without human data entry involvement) . Examples of AIDC technologies include bar codes, Quick Response (QR) tags, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) , Near-Field Communication (NFC) , data tags, magnetic stripes, smart cards, etc. [0027] In an embodiment, the AIDC identifier includes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) transceiver to facilitate tracking of a geographic location of the frame.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of one embodiment of a pallet transit frame, in accordance with an aspect of the invention;

Figure 2 is a diagrammatic perspective exploded-view representation of the pallet transit frame of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is diagrammatic perspective-view representation of the pallet transit frame of Figure 1, in use;

Figure 4 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional representation of the pallet transit frame of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of a further embodiment of a pallet transit frame ;

Figure 6 is a diagrammatic perspective exploded-view representation of the pallet transit frame of Figure 5;

Figure 7 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of the pallet transit frame of Figure 5, in use; and Figure 8 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional representation of the pallet transit frame of Figure 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0028] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention to the skilled addressee. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. In the figures, incorporated to illustrate features of the example embodiment or embodiments, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout.

[0029] With reference now to the accompanying drawings, there is shown embodiments of a pallet transit frame 10 which is useable in supporting an upper pallet 6 above a lower pallet 8 during transport of such pallets. As such, the frame 10 is configured to accommodate forces resulting from movement of pallets and their associated loads during transport in order to prevent movement of pallets and such loads.

[0030] The pallet transit frame 10 typically comprises four operatively downward extending legs 12 each defining a foot 14 configured to engage a corner of a lower pallet 8 and/or a ground surface (not shown) on which the frame 10 and/or lower pallet 8 rests. The frame 10 also includes first and second cross beams 16 and 18 that are supported by the legs 12, with each beam 16 and 18 defining a shoulder 20 at both ends of the beam 16 and 18, as shown. The shoulders 10 are generally configured to engage corners of an upper pallet 8. [0031] In this manner, the pallet transit frame 10 is able to straddle the lower pallet 8 and support the upper pallet 6 on the shoulders 20 and/or on the cross beams 16 and 18 during transport. This arrangement, as described, enables stacking of pallets on top of each other, via frame 10, in order to make better use of transport volume when transporting pallets.

[0032] The legs 12 are typically height-adjustable in order to accommodate varying heights of the lower pallet 8 and goods thereon. In one embodiment, the legs 12 are height-adjustable by means of telescoping sections 22 with locking pins, latches, detents, or the like, as is known in the art. Variations hereon are possible and within the scope of the present invention.

[0033] In one embodiment, it is to be appreciated that the first and second beams 16 and 18 may also be length-adjustable to accommodate various pallet sizes, as shown in Figure 2. Similarly, the beams 16 and 18 may be length-adjustable by means of telescoping sections 22 with locking pins, latches, detents, or the like. Again, variations hereon are possible and within the scope of the present invention.

[0034] In one embodiment, as indicated in Figure 1, the legs 12 are foldable relative to the cross beams 16 and 18 when the frame 10 is not supporting an upper pallet 6 to facilitate storage and transport of the frame 10 when not in use, i.e. the legs 12 can fold underneath the cross beams 16 and 18 to reduce a size of the frame 10.

[0035] The foot 14 of each leg 12 is generally configured to engage a corner of the lower pallet 8 by comprising three orthogonally-arranged plates 26, as shown, that sit about a corner of the pallet 8. In a further embodiment, the foot 14 is also configured to engage a corner of the lower pallet by means of a fastener, e.g. a nut and bolt, a screw, etc., in order to secure the frame 10 to the lower pallet 8.

[0036] The foot 14 is typically configured to transfer a load of the upper pallet 6 supported by the frame 10 to the ground surface on which the lower pallet 8 rests. Such an example may see at least a portion of the foot 14 extend about the corner of the pallet and onto the ground surface in order to transfer load onto the ground surface, or the like.

[0037] Similarly, the shoulder 20 of each beam 16 and 18 is generally configured to engage a corner of the upper pallet 6 by comprising two plates arranged orthogonal on a beam so that the corner of the upper pallet sits within the shoulder 20.

[0038] In the manner described, the frame 10 is able to securely support the upper pallet 6 over the lower pallet 8 without the upper pallet 6 moving or falling during transport.

[0039] In one embodiment, the cross beams 16 and 18 are pivoted or scissored together by means of a swivel pin or pivot 28 to allow relative angle adjustment between the beams 16 and 18, as indicated in Figure 1, to accommodate various pallet sizes. The pivotable cross beams are also typically fixable relative to each other by means of fixing means (not shown) to maintain a specific angle between said beams 16 and 18. The skilled addressee will appreciate that such a fixing means may take a variety of forms, as known in the art, such as a threaded fastener, a locking pin, an interference arrester, a detent, etc . [0040] As will be appreciated by the skilled addressee, by having the beams 16 and 18 length-adjustable, as described, as well as an angle between beams 16 and 18 being adjustable, the frame 10 is able to engage with a number of pallets or varying sizes. Typically, the beams 16 and 18 define a flat lower portion to facilitate lifting of the frame 10 by means of a forklift, a pallet jack, a front loader, a jacking device, a crane, or the like.

[0041] In one embodiment, the foot 14 of each leg 12 is configured to engage a corresponding shoulder 20 of a similar support frame 10 to allow stacking of such frames 10 with upper pallets during transport. For example, two frames 10 can be used to stack three pallets over each other, where the frames engage each other complementarily .

[0042] In an embodiment, the frame 10 includes a platform (not shown) for supporting the upper pallet 6 on the cross beams 16 and 18. For example, the platform may comprise a circular or triangular form that is supported by the beams 16 and 18 to facilitate support of the upper pallet 6, or the like. Similarly, in an embodiment, the frame 10 may include a brace (not shown) for bracing the legs 12 and/or cross beams 16 and 18.

[0043] In one embodiment, the frame 10 also includes an AIDC identifier 30 to facilitate tracking of the upper and/or lower pallets during transport. In an embodiment, the AIDC identifier 30 includes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) transceiver to facilitate tracking a geographic location of the frame 10. [0044] Applicant believes is particularly advantageous that the present invention provides for a pallet transit frame 10 which facilitates an upper pallet 6 to be stored or transported above a lower pallet 8, effectively doubling the possible number of pallets that can be stored or transported per unit area. It is believed that the invention will improve the efficiency and productivity of the logistics and freight industry, and enhance the integrity of the load being transported on such pallets and will help to reduce damaged freight. Importantly, the frame is also able to accommodate varying sizes of pallets with a single frame, according to requirements .

[0045] Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth. In the example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail, as such will be readily understood by the skilled addressee .

[0046] The use of the terms "a", "an", "said", "the", and/or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the claimed subject matter) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including, " and "containing" are to be construed as open- ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter .

[ 0047 ] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer," "beneath, " "below, " "lower, " "above, " "upper, " and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element (s) or feature (s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[ 0048 ] It is to be appreciated that reference to "one example" or "an example" of the invention, or similar exemplary language (e.g., "such as") herein, is not made in an exclusive sense. Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter are described herein, textually and/or graphically, for carrying out the claimed subject matter. [ 0049 ] Accordingly, one example may exemplify certain aspects of the invention, whilst other aspects are exemplified in a different example. These examples are intended to assist the skilled person in performing the invention and are not intended to limit the overall scope of the invention in any way unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Variations (e.g. modifications and/or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. The inventor (s) expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor (s) intends for the claimed subject matter to be practiced other than as specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A pallet transit frame comprising:

2. The pallet transit frame of claim 1, wherein the legs are height-adjustable to accommodate varying heights of the lower pallet .

3. The pallet transit frame of claim 2, wherein the legs are height-adjustable by means of telescoping sections with locking pins, latches, detents, or the like.

4. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the legs are foldable relative to the cross beams when the frame is not supporting an upper pallet to facilitate storage and transport of the frame when not in use.

5. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the foot is configured to engage a corner of the lower pallet by comprising three orthogonally-arranged plates that sit about a corner of the pallet.

6. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the foot is configured to engage a corner of the lower pallet by means of a fastener.

7. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the foot is configured to transfer a load of the upper pallet on the frame to the ground surface.

8. The pallet transit frame of claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the foot extends about the corner of the pallet and onto the ground surface in order to transfer load onto the ground surface.

9. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cross beams are pivoted or scissored together by means of a swivel pin to allow relative angle adjustment between the beams to accommodate various pallet sizes.

10. The pallet transit frame of claim 9, wherein the pivotable cross beams are fixable relative to each other by means of fixing means to maintain a specific angle between said beams.

11. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first and second beams are length-adjustable to accommodate various pallet sizes.

12. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the beams define a flat lower portion to facilitate lifting of the frame by means of a forklift, or the like.

13. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the shoulder is configured to engage a corner of the upper pallet by comprising two plates arranged orthogonal on a beam so that the corner of the upper pallet sits within the shoulder .

14. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the foot of each leg is configured to engage a corresponding shoulder of a similar support frame to allow stacking of such frames with upper pallets during transport.

15. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 14, which includes a platform for supporting the upper pallet on the cross beams.

16. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 15, which includes a brace for bracing the legs and/or cross beams.

17. The pallet transit frame of any of claims 1 to 16, which includes an AIDC identifier to facilitate tracking of the upper and/or lower pallet during transport.

18. The pallet transit frame of claim 17, wherein the AIDC identifier includes a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) transceiver to facilitate tracking of a geographic location of the frame.