GB2492375A - Pallet pulling apparatus and method - Google Patents
Pallet pulling apparatus and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- GB2492375A GB2492375A GB1111116.8A GB201111116A GB2492375A GB 2492375 A GB2492375 A GB 2492375A GB 201111116 A GB201111116 A GB 201111116A GB 2492375 A GB2492375 A GB 2492375A
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- United Kingdom
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- text
- securing
- pallet
- flexible elongate
- elongate strap
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 15
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000004753 textile Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- CNQCVBJFEGMYDW-UHFFFAOYSA-N lawrencium atom Chemical compound [Lr] CNQCVBJFEGMYDW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 26
- ORQBXQOJMQIAOY-UHFFFAOYSA-N nobelium Chemical compound [No] ORQBXQOJMQIAOY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 12
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 3
- 229910001335 Galvanized steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 238000012505 colouration Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000008397 galvanized steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C1/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles
- B66C1/10—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles by mechanical means
- B66C1/12—Slings comprising chains, wires, ropes, or bands; Nets
- B66C1/14—Slings with hooks
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66F—HOISTING, LIFTING, HAULING OR PUSHING, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. DEVICES WHICH APPLY A LIFTING OR PUSHING FORCE DIRECTLY TO THE SURFACE OF A LOAD
- B66F9/00—Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes
- B66F9/06—Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes movable, with their loads, on wheels or the like, e.g. fork-lift trucks
- B66F9/075—Constructional features or details
- B66F9/12—Platforms; Forks; Other load supporting or gripping members
- B66F9/19—Additional means for facilitating unloading
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Geology (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Package Frames And Binding Bands (AREA)
- Emergency Lowering Means (AREA)
- Pallets (AREA)
- Load-Engaging Elements For Cranes (AREA)
Abstract
Pallet puller apparatus 801 comprises a rigid hook element 802 for hooking onto a pallet for example at a spacer 114 and a flexible elongate strap element 803 for securing between the rigid hook element 802 and a pulling device such as a fork lift truck, the flexible elongate strap element 803 comprising a first securing element such as a safety hook 806 at a first location and a second securing element such as a ring 808 at a second location, the first and second securing elements releasably engaging to form a portion of the flexible elongate strap element into a loop for securing the flexible elongate strap element 803 to the pulling device. The strap element may 803 include several second securing elements (108, 110 fig. 1) to allow loops of different circumference to be formed. The apparatus may include two rigid hooks (609, 610 fig. 7) secured to two tails of the strap (603 fig. 7). A pulling device mounting element such as a mounting post or a ring (1110 fig. 11) may be secured to a pulling device for releasably engaging with the flexible elongate strap element (1103 fig. 11) of a pallet puller apparatus.
Description
PALLET HANDLING
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to pallet handling, in particular to apparatus for, and a method of, pallet pulling.
Background to the Invention
Pallets are used to facilitate handling and/or storage of goods. Typically, a pallet is structured to support goods received upon an item support surface whilst the pallet is lifted and moved, for example, by means of a fork lift device such as a pallet jack truck or a fork lift truck.
A known type of pallet construction is often generally referred to as a block pallet'. The frame of this type of pallet has a central arrangement of individual spacer members with upper deck boards connectedly secured across the tops of the spacer members to form an item support surface. Many pallets of this type also have lower deck boards secured to the spacer members in a second arrangement, to provide reinforced support base. Typically, the individual spacer members are substantially rectangular in shape, often being substantially square.
It may be desirable to pull a pallet from one location to another location. For n... 20 example, in some instances it is desirable to pull a pallet from the innermost end of a load delivery lorry to the open end, to a position at which it may be reached by a pallet jack truck or a fork lift truck.
*.....
* Summary of the Invention
According to a first aspect there is provided pallet puller apparatus comprising: a rigid hook element for hooking onto a pallet, and a flexible elongate strap element having a first rigid hook element connection end and a second pulling device connection end, wherein said flexible elongate strap element comprises a first securing element at a first location and a second securing element at a second location that is different from said first location, said first securing element and said second securing element configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop for use in securing said flexible elongate strap element to a pulling device.
In an embodiment the flexible elongate strap element further comprises an additional second securing element at a third location that is different from said first location and said second location, said first securing element and said additional second securing element configured to releasably engage to secuic a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop for use in securing said flexible elongate strap element to a pulling device; said first securing element and said second securing element are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop having a first circumferential length, and said first securing element and said additional second securing element are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop having a second circumferential length that is different from said first circumferential length.
In an embodiment, said rigid hook element is configured to locate around a spacer member of a pallet.
* : In an embodiment said first securing element is a safety hook and said *..** * second securing element is a ring.
According to a second aspect there is provided a method of pulling a pallet, said method comprising the steps of: receiving a rigid hook element for hooking onto a pallet, receiving a flexible strap element having a first rigid hook element connection end and a second pulling device connection end, said flexible elongate strap element comprising a first securing element at a first location and a second securing element at a second location that is different from said first location, said first securing element and said second securing element configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop for use in securing said flexible strap to a pulling device, hooking said rigid hook element onto a pallet, and securing said flexible elongate strap element between said rigid hook element and a pulling device.
According to a second aspect there is provided a pulling device mounting element configured to be secured to a pulling device, and configured for releasably engagement with the flexible elongate strap element of a pallet puller apparatus according to the first aspect.
Brief Description of the Drawings
For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows pallet puller apparatus according to a first example; Figure 2 shows the pallet puller apparatus of Figure 1, with the flexible elongate strap element arranged in a first securing loop having a first circumferential length: Figure 3 shows the pallet puUer apparatus of Figure 1, with the flexible elongate strap element arranged in a second securing loop having a second circumferential length; Figure 4 illustrates the pallet puller apparatus of Figure 1 in use, with the flexible elongate strap element arranged in the first securing loop as shown in Figure 2, Figure 5 illustrates the pallet puller apparatus of Figure 1 in use with the flexible elongate strap element arranged in the second securing loop as shown in Figure 3, Figure 6 shows pallet puller apparatus according to a second example; Figure 7 shows the pallet puller apparatus of Figure 6 in use; Figure 8 shows pallet puller apparatus according to a third example; Figure 9 shows pallet puller apparatus according to a fourth example: Figure 10 shows pallet puller apparatus according to a fifth example; Figure 11 shows pallet puller apparatus according to a sixth example; Figure 12 shows steps in a method of pulling a pallet.
Detailed Description
There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventor. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invent ion may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances well known methods and structures have not been described in detail, so as not to
unnecessarily obscure the description.
Figure 1 Figure 1 shows pallet puller apparatus 101. Pallet puller apparatus 101 comprises a rigid hook element 102 for hooking onto a pallet, and a flexible elongate strap element 103 having a first rigid hook element connection end 104 and a second pulling device connection end 105. The flexible elongate strap element 103 comprises a first securing element 106 at a first location 107 and a second securing element 108 at a second location 109 that is different from the first location 107. As will be described in further detail below, the first securing element 106 and the second securing element 106 are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of the flexible elongate strap element 103 in a securing oop for use in securing the flexible elongate strap element 103 to a pulling device. According to this illustrated embodiment, the flexible elongate strap element 103 further comprises an additional second securing element 110 at a third location 111 that is different from the first location 107 and the second location 109. As will be described in further detail below, the first securing element 106 and the additional second securing element 110 are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of the flexible elongate strap element 103 in a securing loop for use in securing the flexible elongate strap element 103 to a pulling device.
Pallet puller apparatus 101 is configured to be secured between a pallet, such as pallet 112, and a pulling device, such as pulling device 113. According to this illustrated scenario of Figure 1, pallet 112 is a block pallet having a plurality of individual spacer members 114. The rigid hook element 102 is configured to be hooked around a spacer member 114 of the pallet 112. According to this illustrated scenario of Figure 1, pulling device 113 is a fork lift truck, having forks, such as fork 115, extending from a fork support member 116. The flexible elongate strap element 103 is configured to be secured to the fork support member 116 of the pulling device 113.
With the rigid hook element 102 hooked onto the pallet 112 and the flexible elongate strap element 103 secured to the rigid hook element 102 and the pulling device 113, the pulling device 113 can be operated to pull the pallet 1 12.
According to the specific embodiment of pallet puller apparatus 101, the rigid hook element 102 comprises a first portion 117, a second portion 118 and a third portion 119. The second portion 118 extends substantially perpendicular to the first portion 117, and the third portion 119 extends substantially perpendicular to the second portion 118 and substantially parallel to the first portion 117. This arrangement complements the outer shape of a substantially rectangular or substantially square shape spacer element of a pallet. Example approximate dimensions are: first portion, 700mm length: second portion 118, 150mm length; *:*** third portion, 100mm length. Further, according this specific illustrated embodiment, the first portion 117, second portion 118 and third portion 119 of the rigid hook element all extend in the same plane. In alternative embodiments, the * 20 rigid hook element may have an alternative suitable profile.
According to this specific embodiment of pallet puller apparatus 101, the first securing element 106 is a hook. In this illustrated example, tile securing element 106 is a safety hook. According to this specific embodiment of pallet puller apparatus 101, each second securing element 108, 110 of the flexible elongate securing strap 103 is a ring. In alternative embodiments, an alternative suitable type or types of releasable engageable securing arrangement may be used.
According to this specific embodiment of pallet puller apparatus 101 the first securing element 106 is located at the second pulling device connection end 105 of the flexible elongate securing strap 103.
According to this specific embodiment of pallet puller apparatus 101, the flexible elongate securing strap 103 is releasably connectable to the rigid hook element 102. In the shown arrangement of this Figure, the rigid hook element 102 presents a strap connection hook 120, the flexible elongate Strap element 103 presents a hook connection ring 121, and the strap connection hook 120 and the hook connection ring 121 are configured to releasably engage, it is to be appreciated however that in alternative examples, an alternative Suitable type or types of releasable engageable securing arrangement may be used to releasably connect the rigid hook element 102 and the flexible elongate strap element 103.
In alternative embodiments, the flexible elongate securing strap 103 is fixedly connected to the rigid hook element 102.
Figure 2 In Figure 2, the flexible elongate strap element 103 of pallet puller apparatus 101 is shown arranged in a first securing loop 201 having a first circumferential length, indicated generally at 202. In the shown arrangement, the first securing element 106 and the second securing element 108 are releasably engaged. This secures a portion of the flexible elongate strap element 103 in a loop. This loop is usable to secure the flexible elongate strap element i 03 to a * : pulling device.
S..... * .
Y.20 Eg.yre3 The flexible elongate strap element 103 of pallet puller apparatus ioi is shown arranged in a second securing loop 301 in Figure 3. In the shown arrangement, the first securing element 106 and the additionai second securing * element no are releasably engaged. This secures a portion Of the flexible elongate strap element 103 in a loop, which is usable to secure the flexible elongate strap element 103 to a pulling device. Securing loop 301 has a second circumferential length, indicated generally at 302, that is different from the first circumferential length of the first securing loop shown in Figure 2.
Thus, it is to be appreciated that providing the flexible elongate strap element 103 with a first securing element and a plurality of second securing elements each releasably engageable with the first securing element allows the flexible elongate strap element 103 to be releasably arranged in one of a plurality -7..
of securing loops of different sizes, This feature advantageously allows the pallet puller apparatus 101 to be used with different pulling devices requiring differently sized securing loops to enable the flexible elongate strap element 103 to be looped onto each pulling device. This feature also advantageously allows the S length of the flexible elongate strap element 103 that extends between the rigid hook element 102 and the pulling device to be adjusted.
It is to be appreciated that the flexible elongate strap element 103 may have more than two second securing elements each releasably engageable with the first securing element. Further, it is to be appreciated that the flexible elongate strap element 103 may have more than one first securing element each releasably engageable with each of a plurality of second securing elements.
Thus, the relative spacing of a first and a second securing element along the length of the flexible elongate strap element will affect the size of a securing loop resultant from engagement of those first and second securing elements.
One of a plurality of differently sized selectable securing loops may be chosen for use with a particular pulling device.
* Figure 4 * *....
* Figure 4 illustrates pallet puller apparatus 101 in use, with the flexible elongate strap element 103 arranged in the first securing loop 201.
This Figure shows the rigid hook element 102 located around a spacer element 114 of pallet 112, and the first securing loop 201 of the flexible elongate strap element 103 secured around fork support member 116 of pulling device 113. With the pallet pulling apparatus 101 secured between the pallet 112 and 2 5 the pulling device 113 as shown, the pulling device 113 may now move in the direction of arrow 401, to pull the pallet 112.
Figure 5 Figure 5 illustrates pallet puller apparatus 101 in use, with the flexible elongate strap element 103 arranged in the second securing loop 301.
This Figure shows the rigid hook element 102 located around a spacer element 114 of pallet 112, and the first securing loop 201 of the flexible elongate strap element 103 secured around fork support member 116 of pulling device 113. With the pallet pulling apparatus 101 secured between the pallet 112 and the pulling device 113 as shown, the pulling device 113 may now move in the direction of arrow 501, to pull the pallet 112.
Figure 6 Figure 6 shows pallet puller apparatus 601. Pallet puller apparatus 601 is similar to pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 but also differs from pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 as will now be described.
According to this specific embodiment, pallet puller apparatus 601 comprises a flexible elongate strap element 602 comprising a lead portion 603 having a pulling device connection end 604. The flexible elongate strap element 602 comprises a first tail 605 having a first rigid hook element end 606 and a second tail 607 having a second rigid hook element end 608. Pallet puller apparatus 801 comprises a first rigid hook element 609 and a second rigid hook element 610. In this example, the first rigid hook element 609 is releasably connectable to the first rigid hook element end 606 of the first tail 605 and the second rigid hook element 610 is releasably connectable to the second rigid hook element end 608 of the second tail 607. In an alternative example, the first and * " 20 second rigid hook elements 602, 609 are fixedly connected to the first and second tails 605, 607. In another alternative embodiment, one of the first and second hook elements 602, 609 is fixedly attached to one of the first and second tails 605, 607 and the other of the first and second hook elements 602, 609 is *****.
* releasably connectable to the other of the first and second tails 605, 607.
In this illustrated example, a junction 611 is provided between the lead portion 604 and the first and second tails 605, 607 of the flexible elongate strap element 602. In this example, the first and second tails 605, 607 have the same length. In this example, the first and second tails 605, 607 are fixedly connected to the lead portion 604. In an alternative example, the first and second tails 605, 607 are releasably connectable to the lead portion 604. In a further alternative example one of the first and second tails 605, 607 is fixedly connected to the lead portion 604 and the other of the first and second tails 605, 607 is releasably connectable to the lead portion 604.
In this Figure, the rigid hook elements 602, 609 are sho.jn relatively arranged such that the hook ends 612, 613 respectively are facing each other; however, the hook ends 612, 613 of the rigid hook elements 602, 609 respectively may be relatively arranged such that they are facing away from each other, or they are both facing in the same direction.
Thus, a single flexible elongate strap element may be provided that may be used with one or both of a pair of rigid hook elements.
Figure 7 Figure 7 illustrates pallet puller apparatus 601 in use. This Figure shows the first rigid hook element 609 located around a first spacer element 114 of pallet 112, the second rigid hook element 610 located around a second spacer element 701 of pallet 112 and the flexible elongate strap element 603 secured to pulling device 113. With the pallet pulling apparatus 601 secured between the pallet 112 and the pulling device 113 as shown, the pulling device 113 may now * move in the direction of arrow 702, to pull the pallet 112.
**..** * . Figures Figure 8 shows pallet puller apparatus 801. Pallet puller apparatus 801 is similar to pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 but also differs from pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 as will now be described.
Pallet puller apparatus 801 comprises a rigid hook element 802 for hooking onto a pallet and a flexible elongate strap element 803 having a first rigid hook element connection end 804 and a second pulling device connection end 805.
The flexible elongate strap element 803 comprises a first securing element 806 at a first location 807 and a second securing element 808 at a second location 809 that is different from the first location 807. The first securing element 806 and the second securing element 808 are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of the flexible elongate strap element 803 in a securing loop for use in securing the flexible elongate strap element 803 to a pulling device. According to this illustrated embodiment, the flexible elongate strap element 803 comprises a first securing element and a single second securing element only.
A method of securing the flexible elongate strap element of a pallet puller apparatus as described herein to a fork support member of a pulling device is also shown in this Figure.
The method will now be described using the example of pallet puller apparatus 801 and fork support member 810 of a fork lift truck. The fork support member 810 defines at least a first aperture 811 and a second aperture 512 therein. To secure the flexible elongate strap element 803 to the lork support member 810, the second pulling device connection end 805 is threaded from the front of the fork support member 810 through the first aperture 811 to the rear of the of the fork support member 810, in the direction indicated by arrow 813, and is then threaded from the rear of the of the fork support member 810 through the second aperture 812 to the front of the fork support member 910, in the direction indicated by arrow 814. Thus, the second pulling device connection end 905 of the flexible elongate strap element 803 is threaded through the fork support member 810, in the direction indicated by arrow 815. The first securing element 806 and the second securing element 808 may then be releasably engaged, as indicated generally by arrow 816, to complete a securing loop. Of course, the *... 20 second pulling device connection end 805 of the flexible elongate strap element 803 may be threaded through the fork support member 810 in the opposite direction to the direction indicated by arrow 815, by threading the second pulling device connection end 805 firstly through second aperture 812 and then through * the first aperture 811. The flexible elongate strap element 803 may be secured to the pulling fork support member 810 before or after the rigid, hook element 802 is hooked onto a spacer member 114 of a pallet 112.
Figure 9 Figure 9 shows pallet puller apparatus 901. Pallet puller apparatus 901 is similar to pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 but also differs from pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 as will now be described.
Pallet puller apparatus 901 comprises a rigid hook element 902 for hooking onto a pallet and a flexible elongate strap element 903 having a first rigid hook element connection end 904 and a second pulling device connection end 905.
The flexible elongate strap element 903 comprises a first securing elenient 906 at the second pulling device connection end 905, and a second securing element 907 configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of the flexible elongate strap element 903 in a securing loop for use in securing the flexible elongate strap element 903 to a pulling device. According to this illustrated ermbodiment, the flexible elongate strap element 903 comprises a first securing elenient and a single second securing element only. As indicated by arrow 908, Ihe second securing element 907 is movably secured to the flexible elongate strap element 903 such that it may travel along a portion of the length of the flexible elongate strap element 903. The loose second securing element 907 would tighten up as tension in the flexible elongate strap element 903 increases in use.
Figure 10 Figure 10 shows pallet puller apparatus 1001. Pallet puller apparatus 1001 is similar to pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 but also differs from pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 as will now be described.
... 20 Pallet puller apparatus 1001 comprises a rigid hook element 1002 for hooking onto a pallet and a flexible elongate strap element 1003 having a first rigid hook element connection end 1004 and a second pulling device connection * end 1005. The flexible elongate strap element 1003 comprises a first securing * element 1006 at a first location 1007 and a second securing element 1008 at a second location 1009 that is different from the first location 1007. The first securing element 1006 and the second securing element 1008 are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of the flexible elongate strap element 1003 in a securing loop for use in securing the flexible elongate strap element 1003 to a pulling device.
The rigid hook element 1002 and the flexible elongate strap element 1003 are releasably connectable. The rigid hook element 1002 and the flexible elongate strap element 1003 are shown separated in this Figure. The rigid hook element 1002 presents a strap connection hook 1010. The flexible elongate strap element 1003 presents a hook connection ring 1011 at the hook element connection end 1004. The strap connection hook 1010 and the hook connection ring 1011 are configured to releasable engage to releasably connect the rigid hook element 1010 and the flexible elongate strap element 1011.
According to this specific embodiment, the flexible elongate strap element 1003 presents a second hook connection ring 1012 at a locaUon 1013 that is spaced further along the flexible elongate strap element 1003 from strap connection hook 1010. The strap connection hook 1010 and the second hook connection ring 10.12 are also configured to releasable engage to releasably connect the rigid hook element 1010 and the flexible elongate strap element 1011. Thus, flexible elongate strap element 1003 provides multiple connection points for connecting the rigid hook element 1002 to the flexible elongate strap element 1003.
A connection point from the available points of connection for the rigid hook element 1002 and the flexible elongate strap element 1003 may be selected in adjustment of the effective length between the rigid hook element 1002 and a pulling device.
In an embodiment, the rigid hook element 1002 comprises a mechanical securing element to maintain the strap connection hook 1010 of the rigid hook.
element 1002 in an engaged condition with a connection ring 1012 of the flexibie elongate strap element 1003. In an example, the strap connection hook 1010 is provided with a screw lock or rivet for this purpose; however, any suitable alternative may be provided.
By providing a releasable connection between a rigid hook element and the flexible elongate strap element, a rigid hook element may be used with different flexible erongate strap elements and a flexible elongate strap element may be used with different rigid hook elements. For example, it may be desirable to select a rigid hook element having a particular profile, material characteristics and/or dimensions and a flexible elongate strap element having particular features, material characteristics and/or dimensions for use together.
Figure 11 Figure 11 shows pallet puller apparatus 1101. Pallet puller apparatus 1101 is similar to pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 but also differs from pallet puller apparatus 101 of Figure 1 as will now be described.
Pallet puller apparatus 1101 comprises a rigid hook element 1102 for hooking onto a pallet and a flexible elongate strap element 1103 huaving a first rigid hook element connection end 1104 and a second pulling device connection end 1105. The flexible elongate strap element 1103 comprises a first securing element 1106 at a first location 1107 and a second securing element 1108 at a second location 1109 that is different from the first location 1107. The first securing element 1106 and the second securing element 1108 are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of the flexible elongate strap element 1103 in a securing loop for use in securing the flexible elongate strap element 1103 to a pulling device.
In this example, the first securing element 1106 is a safety heok and the second securing element 1108 is a ring.
According to this specific embodiment, pallet puller apparatus 1101 further comprises at least one pulling device mounting element 1110. In this example, pulling device mounting element 1110 is a mounting post configured to be secured to the fork support member 810 of a fork lift truck. In anaitGrnative embodiment, the pulling device mounting element 1110 may be a ring.
As shown, pallet puller apparatus 1101 is configured such that a securing element 1106, 1108 of the flexible elongate strap element 1103 is locatable * around the pulling device mounting element 1110, to connect the flexible elongate strap element 1103 to the pulling device. In an alternative embodiment, the flexible elongate strap element 1103 is provided with a securing element specifically for connection to the pulling device mounting element 111 0.
It is thus to be appreciated that pallet puller apparatus as described herein may comprise a pulling device mounting element to enable an alternative way of securing a flexible elongate strap element, and in turn a rigid hook element, of a pallet puller apparatus to a pulling device. A single pulling device mounting element may be provided, or a plurality of pulling device mounting elements may be provided. It is to be understood that a pulling device mounting element as described herein may be suitable for use with pallet puller apparatus other than pallet puller apparatus as described herein.
A pulling device mounting element may take any suitable form. A pulling device mounting element may be fixedly attached to a pulling device or may be releasably connected to a pulling device. Any suitable connection fr securing a pulling device mounting element to a pulling device may be used.
In an embodiment, a pulling device mounting element is fabricated from a metallic material. The metallic material may comprise one or more metals.
In an embodiment, the rigid hook element is fabricated frorri a metallic material. The metallic material may comprise one or more metals. The rigid hook element may be fabricated from steel, which may be galvanized steel.
In an embodiment, the flexible elongate strap element a textile strap. The flexible elongate strap element may be a woven strap.
In an embodiment, the first securing element and the second securing element are each fabricated from a metallic material. The metallic material may *: comprise one or more metals. The first securing element and the second securing element may be fabricated from steel, which may be galvanized steel.
Individual components of pallet puller apparatus described herein may have any suitable form and dimensions.
Individual components of pallet puller apparatus described herein may have any desired aesthetic finish and may present any desired colouration, colourations, graphics andIor alpha-numerical indications. A component may be aesthetically tailored to match or contrast with one or more of the other components.
F[gure 12 Figure 12 shows steps in a method 1201 of pulling a pallet. A rigid hook for hooking onto a pallet is received at step 1202. At step 1203, a flexible strap element having a first rigid hook element connection end and a second pulling device connection end, the flexible elongate strap element comprising a first securing element at a first location and a second securing element at a second location that is different from the first location, the first securing elerrient and the second securing element configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop for use in securing the flexible strap to a pulling device is received. The rigid hook element is hooked onto a pallet at step 1204, and the flexible elongate strap element is secured between the rigid hook element and a pulling device at step 1205. VVith the rigid hook element hooked onto the pallet and the flexible elongate strap element secured to the rigid hook element and the pulling device, the pullin device can then be operated to pull the pallet.
The pallet puller apparatus as described herein may be used vith a pulling device in the form of a fork lift truck or pallet jack truck, and may be used to pull a pallet located above ground level.
As described above, the present invention provides apparatus and a method for use in pallet handling. * * * . * . * *.* *, ** * -* * *
****** * S
Claims (1)
- <claim-text>Claims 1. Pallet puller apparatus comprising: a rigid hook element for hooking onto a pallet, and a flexible elongate strap element having a first rigid hook element connection end and a second pulling device connection end, wherein said flexible elongate strap element comprises a first securing element at a first location and a second securing element at a second location thai is different from said first location, said first securing element and said second securing element configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop for use in securing said flexible elongate strap element to a pulling device.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. Pallet pufler apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said flexible elongate strap element further comprises an additional second securing element at a third location that is different from said first location and said second location, *.... said first securing element and said additional second securing element configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elDngate strap element in a securing loop for use in securing said flexible elongate strap element * " 20 to a pulling device; said first securing element and said second securing element are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop having a first circumferential length, and said first securing element and said additional second securing element are configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop having a second circumferential length that is different from said first circumferential length.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said rigid hook element is configured to locate around a spacer member of a pallet.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said rigid hook element has a first portion, a second portion and a third portion, said second portion extends substantially perpendicular to said first portion, said third portion extends substantially perpendicular to said second portion and substantially parallel to said first portion, and said first portion, said second portion and said third portion all extend in the same plane.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said first securing element is a safety hook and said second securing element is a ring.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said rigid hook element and said flexible elongate strap element are releasablyconnectable.</claim-text> <claim-text>7. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein said rigid * hook element presents a strap connection hook, said flexible elongate strap element presents a hook connection ring, and said strap connection hook and said hook connection ring are configured to releasably engage.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein said flexible elongate strap element presents a second hook connection ring, and said strap connection hook and said second hook connection ring are configured to * releasably engage.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a second rigid hook element and wherein said flexible elongate strap element comprises a first tail presenting said first rigid hook element connection end and a second tail presenting a second rigid hook element connection end.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. Pallet putter apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising at least one pulling device mounting element configured to be secured to a pulling device, and configured to be releasably engageable with said flexible elongate strap element.</claim-text> <claim-text>11. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein said pulling device mounting element is fabricated from a metallic material.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said rigid hook element is fabricated from a metallic material.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said flexible strap element is a textile strap.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said first securing element and said second securing element are each fabricated from a metallic material.</claim-text> <claim-text>15. Pallet puller apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said pulling device is a fork lift truck. S.</claim-text> <claim-text>: 20 16. A method of pulling a pallet, said method comprising the steps of: receiving a rigid hook element for hooking onto a pallet, receiving a flexible strap element having a first rigid hook element connection end and a second pulling device connection end, said flexible elongate strap element comprising a first securing element at a first location and a second securing element at a second locationthat is different from said first location, said first securing element and said second securing element configured to releasably engage to secure a portion of said flexible elongate strap element in a securing loop for use in securing said flexible strap to a pulling device, hooking said rigid hook element onto a pallet, and securing said flexible elongate strap element between said rigid hook element and a pulling device.</claim-text> <claim-text>17. A method of pulling a pallet as claimed in claim 16, further comprising the step of securing a pulling device mounting element to a pulling device that is configured to be releasably engageable with said flexible elongate strap element.</claim-text> <claim-text>18. A pulling device mounting element configured to be secured to a pulling device for releasably engaging with a flexible elongate strap element of a pallet puller apparatus.</claim-text> <claim-text>19. Pallet pulling apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to, and as shown in, the accompanying Figures.</claim-text> <claim-text>20. A method of pulling a pallet substantially as described herein with reference to, and as shown in, the accompanying Figures.S..... * S ** *5*S* * * *. * * * S.. a. *e * * * * SSSaS..S a *</claim-text>
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1111116.8A GB2492375B (en) | 2011-06-29 | 2011-06-29 | Pallet handling |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1111116.8A GB2492375B (en) | 2011-06-29 | 2011-06-29 | Pallet handling |
Publications (3)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| GB201111116D0 GB201111116D0 (en) | 2011-08-10 |
| GB2492375A true GB2492375A (en) | 2013-01-02 |
| GB2492375B GB2492375B (en) | 2018-02-21 |
Family
ID=44485417
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1111116.8A Active GB2492375B (en) | 2011-06-29 | 2011-06-29 | Pallet handling |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| GB (1) | GB2492375B (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP2023010429A (en) * | 2021-07-09 | 2023-01-20 | 株式会社 ダイサン | Pallet connector |
Citations (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB555627A (en) * | 1942-06-02 | 1943-08-31 | Alfred Signalness | Improvements relating to cargo sling hooks |
| US3058184A (en) * | 1959-06-01 | 1962-10-16 | Ritzheimer Earl | Hook for choker cable |
| US4094544A (en) * | 1976-11-01 | 1978-06-13 | Spaine David L | Pallet pulling device |
| GB2223244A (en) * | 1988-09-28 | 1990-04-04 | Cornelius Locke | Tow rope |
| JP2004359291A (en) * | 2003-06-04 | 2004-12-24 | Toshiba Logistics Corp | Tool for unloading |
| BRPI0900668A2 (en) * | 2008-03-04 | 2010-05-04 | Magneti Marelli Spa | common rail direct injection assembly equipped with a shut-off valve for controlling the supply of a high pressure fuel pump |
Family Cites Families (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3807786A (en) * | 1972-10-10 | 1974-04-30 | J Alegria | Pallet puller |
| BR9000668A (en) * | 1990-02-14 | 1990-09-11 | Jose De Oliveira Nunes | TOWING AND / OR SUSPENSION ELEMENT WITH GEAR BUCKLES |
| US5688011A (en) * | 1995-06-30 | 1997-11-18 | Kenneth W. Browder | Lifting sling system having single strap with size-varying, spaced, in-line eye loops |
-
2011
- 2011-06-29 GB GB1111116.8A patent/GB2492375B/en active Active
Patent Citations (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB555627A (en) * | 1942-06-02 | 1943-08-31 | Alfred Signalness | Improvements relating to cargo sling hooks |
| US3058184A (en) * | 1959-06-01 | 1962-10-16 | Ritzheimer Earl | Hook for choker cable |
| US4094544A (en) * | 1976-11-01 | 1978-06-13 | Spaine David L | Pallet pulling device |
| GB2223244A (en) * | 1988-09-28 | 1990-04-04 | Cornelius Locke | Tow rope |
| JP2004359291A (en) * | 2003-06-04 | 2004-12-24 | Toshiba Logistics Corp | Tool for unloading |
| BRPI0900668A2 (en) * | 2008-03-04 | 2010-05-04 | Magneti Marelli Spa | common rail direct injection assembly equipped with a shut-off valve for controlling the supply of a high pressure fuel pump |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP2023010429A (en) * | 2021-07-09 | 2023-01-20 | 株式会社 ダイサン | Pallet connector |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB2492375B (en) | 2018-02-21 |
| GB201111116D0 (en) | 2011-08-10 |
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