阅读说明：本技术 货板模块的品类及其构成的货板组件 (Article of pallet modules and pallet assembly formed thereby ) 是由 马修·耶里 马苏德·塔勒比阿米里 于 2020-01-06 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种货板模块(10；20；30)的品类配置为允许至少两个货板模块形成嵌套货板组件,每个货板模块包括：主要结构体(100；200；300),其呈现大致四边形的外周边界(100A；200A；300A),该外周边界具有第一至第四横向侧(101-104；201-204；301-304)；配合系统(110、120、130、140；210、220、230、240；310、320,330、340),其设置在所述第一至第四横向侧上以允许货板模块与另一货板模块的嵌套；固定系统(51-54),其配置成允许货板模块固定到另一货板模块或从另一货板模块释放；以及支脚结构(90)。该货板模块的品类包括：单位尺寸的货板模块(10),其主要结构体(100)呈现单位尺寸；和至少一种更大尺寸的货板模块(20；30),其主要结构体(200；300)呈现的长度(L2；L3)对应于单位尺寸的货板模块的主要结构体的长度(L1)的整数倍,单位尺寸的货板模块和每一种更大尺寸的货板模块是可彼此组合的。(A category of pallet modules (10; 20; 30) is configured to allow at least two pallet modules to form a nested pallet assembly, each pallet module comprising: a main structure (100; 200; 300) presenting a substantially quadrangular peripheral boundary (100A; 200A; 300A) having first to fourth lateral sides (101-; a mating system (110, 120, 130, 140; 210, 220, 230, 240; 310, 320, 330, 340) disposed on the first through fourth lateral sides to allow nesting of a pallet module with another pallet module; a securing system (51-54) configured to allow a pallet module to be secured to or released from another pallet module; and a foot structure (90). The category of the pallet module includes: a unit size pallet module (10) having a main structure (100) exhibiting a unit size; and at least one larger-sized pallet module (20; 30) whose main structure (200; 300) exhibits a length (L2; L3) corresponding to an integer multiple of the length (L1) of the main structure of the unit-sized pallet module, the unit-sized pallet module and each larger-sized pallet module being combinable with each other.)

1. A class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) configured to allow at least two pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) from the class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) to form a nested pallet assembly (1000; 30) configured to act as a self-supporting platform to allow the handling and transportation of cargo, each pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) comprising:

-a main structure (100; 200; 300; 400; 100; 200; 300) presenting a substantially quadrangular outer perimeter boundary (100A; 200A; 300A; 400A; 100A; 200A; 300A), wherein a first lateral side to a fourth lateral side (101-;

-a mating system (110, 120, 130, 140; 210, 220, 230, 240; 310, 320, 330, 340; 410, 420, 430, 440; 110, 120, 130, 140; 210, 220, 230, 240; 310, 320, 330, 340) disposed on the first lateral side to the fourth lateral side (101-, 230. 240; 310. 320, 330, 340; 410. 420, 430, 440; 110, 120, 130, 140; 210, 220, 230, 240; 310, 320, 330, 340);

-a securing system (51-54) configured to allow the pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) to be secured to or released from another pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) in the category; and

-a leg structure (90; 90) arranged on the underside (100C; 200C; 300℃; 400C; 200C; 300℃; 100C; 200C; 300℃) of the main structure (100; 200; 300),

characterized in that the pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) are produced in at least two different sizes and the grades of the pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) comprise unit-sized pallet modules (10; 40; 10) and at least one larger-sized pallet module (20; 30; 20; 30), the main structures (100; 400; 100) of the unit-sized pallet modules (10; 40; 10) exhibiting unit sizes, the main structures (200; 300) of the at least one larger-sized pallet modules (20; 30) exhibiting lengths (L2; L3) corresponding to integral multiples of the lengths (1) of the main structures (100; 400; 100) of the unit-sized pallet modules (10; 40; 10), the unit-size pallet modules (10; 40; 10) and each of the larger-size pallet modules (20; 30; 20; 30) are combinable with each other.

2. A category of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 1, wherein the length (L2; L3) of the main structures (200; 300; 200; 300) of each of the larger-sized pallet modules (20; 30; 20; 30) is at least twice the length (L1) of the main structures (100; 400; 100) of the unit-sized pallet module (10; 40; 10).

3. A class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the peripheral boundaries (100A; 400A; 100A) of the main structures (100; 400; 100) of the unit size pallet modules (10; 40; 10) exhibit a square shape.

4. A family of pallet modules (10, 20, 30) according to claim 3, wherein the peripheral boundaries (200A; 300A) of the main structures (200; 300) of each of the larger-sized pallet modules (20; 30) exhibit a square shape.

5. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least two types of larger-sized pallet modules (20; 30; 20; 30), namely medium-sized pallet modules (30; 20) and large-sized pallet modules (20; 30).

6. A category of pallet modules (10; 20; 30) according to claim 5, wherein the peripheral boundaries (200A) of the main structures (200) of the medium-sized pallet modules (20) present a length (L2) twice the length (L1) of the main structures (100) of the unit-sized pallet modules (10),

and wherein the peripheral boundaries (300A) of the main structures (300) of the large-sized pallet modules (30) exhibit a length (L3) that is at least three times the length (L1) of the main structures (100) of the unit-sized pallet modules (10).

7. A category of pallet modules (10; 20; 30) according to claim 6, wherein the peripheral boundaries (300A) of the main structures (300) of the large-size pallet modules (30) exhibit a length (L3) four times the length (L1) of the main structures (100) of the unit-size pallet modules (10).

8. A class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the length (L1) of the main structure (100; 400; 100) of the unit size pallet module (10; 40; 10) is comprised in the range of 150mm to 300 mm.

9. A category of pallet modules (10, 20, 30) according to claim 8, wherein the length (L1) of the main structure (100) of the unit size pallet module (10) is selected to be 180mm-192mm, 239mm-256mm or 272mm-288 mm.

10. The assortment of pallet modules (10; 20; 30) according to claim 3, comprising at least two types of larger-sized pallet modules (20; 30), a medium-sized pallet module (30) and a large-sized pallet module (20),

wherein the peripheral boundary (300A) of the main structure (300) of the medium sized pallet module (30) exhibits a rectangular shape having a length (L3) equal to twice the length (L1) of the main structure (100) of the unit sized pallet module (10), the rectangular shape having a width (W3) less than twice the length (L1) of the main structure (100) of the unit sized pallet module (10),

and wherein the outer perimeter boundaries (200A) of the main structures (200) of the large-size pallet module (20) exhibit a square shape having a length (L2) equal to twice the length (L1) of the main structures (100) of the unit-size pallet module (10).

11. The assortment of pallet modules (10; 20; 30) of claim 10, wherein the length (L1) of the primary structures (100) of the unit size pallet module (10) is about 300 mm.

12. The assortment of pallet modules (10; 20; 30) of claim 11, wherein the size of the medium-sized pallet modules (30) corresponds substantially to one quarter of the size of a standard euro pallet, and the length (L3) and width (W3) of the main structure (300) of the medium-sized pallet modules (30) are approximately 600mm and 400mm, respectively.

13. A class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the length (L1; L2; L3) of the primary structures (100; 200; 300; 400; 100; 200; 300) in the pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) is comprised in the range of 150mm to 1200 mm.

14. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mating system (110, 120, 130, 140; 210, 220, 230, 240; 310, 320, 330, 340; 410, 420, 430, 440; 110, 120, 130, 140; 210, 220, 230, 240; 310, 320, 330, 340) of each pallet module (10; 20; 30; 10; 20; 30) comprises:

-first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320) extending outwardly from a peripheral boundary (100A; 200A; 300A; 400A; 100A; 200A; 300A) of the main structure (100; 200A; 300A; 100A; 200A; 300A) along the first and second lateral sides (101, 102; 201, 202; 301, 302); and

-first and second lateral grooves (130, 140; 230, 240; 330, 340; 430, 440; 130, 140; 230, 240; 330, 340) extending inwardly from a peripheral boundary (100A; 200A; 300A; 400A; 100A; 200A; 300A; 100A; 200A; 300A) of the main structure (100; 200A; 300A) and along the third and fourth lateral sides (103, 104; 203, 204; 303, 304), the first and second lateral grooves (130, 140; 230, 240; 330, 340; 430, 440; 130, 140; 230, 240; 330, 340; 40, 30; and 30; and a, respectively) of the respective of the lateral flanges, 30; and a, respectively, 30; and a, respectively, 30; and a, 30, respectively, 30, respectively, a, respectively, a, respectively, a, and a, respectively, a, respectively, a, and a, respectively, in a, respectively, a, and a, in a, in a substrate, a, in a substrate, and a substrate, in a substrate, and a substrate, 120 of a solvent; 210. 220, 220; 310. 320, a first step of mixing; 410. 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320) such that the other pallet module (10; 20; 30, of a nitrogen-containing gas; 40; 10a, adding a catalyst; 20, dividing the basic word into two parts; 30) of the first and second transverse flanges (110, 120; 210. 220, 220; 310. 320, a first step of mixing; 410. 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320) are nested in the respective first and second transverse grooves (130, 140; 230. 240; 330. 340, respectively; 430. 440, a step of; 130, 140; 230, 240; 330, 340) to form the nested pallet assembly (1000; 1000*).

15. A web of modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 14, wherein each of said first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 310A, 220A; 310A, 320A; 410A, 420A; 110A, 120A; 210A, 220A; 310A, 320A) presents at least one locating notch (110A, 120A; 210, 220A; 310A, 320A) formed along an outer edge of said first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320),

and wherein each of said first and second lateral grooves (130, 140; 230, 240; 330, 340; 430, 440; 130, 140; 230, 240; 330, 340) presents at least one protrusion (130A, 140A; 230A, 240A; 330A, 340A; 430A, 440A; 130A, 140A; 230A, 240A; 330A, 340A) configured to interact with said first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 210, 120A; 210A, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110A, 120A; 210A, 320A; 320A) of another pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) disposed in said category, 120A; 210A, 220A; 310A, 320A) are mated.

16. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 310, 202; 301, 302; 401, 402; 101, 102; 201, 202; 301, 302) are laterally offset with respect to the first and second lateral sides (101, 102; 201, 202).

17. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 16 wherein the first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320) are joined together to form an L-shaped lateral flange.

18. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of claims 14 to 17, wherein the first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320) are integrally formed with the main structure (100; 200; 300; 400; 100; 200; 300).

19. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 18, wherein the main structure (100; 200; 300; 400; 100; 200; 300) and the first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320) are made of a plastic or a biopolymer material.

20. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 19 wherein the main structures (100; 200; 300; 400; 100; 200; 300) and the first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320) are made of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE).

21. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 19 wherein the primary structures (100; 200; 300; 400; 100; 200; 300) and the first and second lateral flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320) are made of a biopolymer material.

22. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of claims 18 to 21, wherein each pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) further comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements (161, 162; 261, 262; 361, 362; 461, 462; 161, 162; 261, 262; 361, 362), which extend within the main structure (100; 200; 300; 400; 100; 200; 300) and the first and/or second transverse flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320).

23. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 22, wherein the reinforcement elements (161, 162; 261, 262; 361, 362; 461, 462; 161, 162; 261, 262; 361, 362) are made of metal, metal alloy or composite material.

24. A grade of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 23, wherein the reinforcement elements (161, 162; 261, 262; 361, 362; 461, 462; 161, 162; 261, 262; 361, 362) are made of aluminium.

25. A grade of pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of claims 22 to 24, wherein the reinforcing elements (161, 162; 261, 262; 361, 362; 461, 462; 161, 162; 261, 262; 361, 362) are longitudinal rod elements extending between the upper and lower surfaces of the main structural body (100; 200; 300; 400; 100; 200; 300), and longitudinal rod elements extending between the upper and lower surfaces of the first and/or second transverse flanges (110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420; 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320).

26. A class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing system (51-54) of each pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) comprises:

-first and second toggle-latch members (51, 52) arranged in proximity of said first and second lateral sides (101, 102; 201, 202; 301, 302; 401, 402; 101, 102; 201, 202; 301, 302), respectively; and

-third and fourth toggle-latch members (53, 54) arranged in proximity of said third and fourth lateral sides (103, 104; 203, 204; 303, 304; 403, 404; 103, 104; 203, 204; 303, 304), respectively,

the first and second toggle-latch members (51, 52) are each configured to mate with and interlock with the third and fourth toggle-latch members (53, 54) respectively of another pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) in the category to form a releasable toggle latch (500) allowing the pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) to be secured to or released from the other pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30).

27. A class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 26, wherein the first to fourth toggle latch members (51-54) are provided on an upper side (100B; 200B; 300B; 400B; 100B; 200B; 300B) of the main structure (100; 200; 300), at least partially in recesses (151; 154; 251; 254; 351; 354; 451; 454; 151-154; 251; 254; 251-354) formed below an upper surface of the main structure (100; 200; 300; 400; 100B; 200B; 300B).

28. A category of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the unit dimensions of the unit size pallet modules (10; 40; 10) are selected such that a total width of the pallet assembly equal to an integer multiple of the width (L1) of the unit size pallet modules (10; 40; 10) fits the width of a door opening of a standard railway/marine container and can occupy more than 95%, preferably more than 98%, of the width of the door opening.

29. A class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 28, wherein the width of the door opening of the standard railway/marine container is about 2.33 meters, or 92 inches.

30. A category of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the total width of the pallet assemblies fitting the width of the door opening of the standard railway/marine container is equal to eight times the width (L1) of the pallet modules (10; 40; 10) per unit size.

31. A category of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 27, wherein the unit dimensions of the unit size pallet modules (10; 40; 10) are selected such that a total width of the pallet assemblies equal to an integer multiple of the width (L1) of the unit size pallet modules (10; 40; 10) fits the width of a door opening of a standard truck transport container and can occupy more than 95%, preferably more than 98%, of the width of the door opening.

32. A class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 31 wherein the width of the door opening of the standard truck shipping container is about 2.5 meters, or 98 inches.

33. A category of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the total width of the pallet assemblies fitting the width of the door opening of the standard truck shipping container is equal to twelve times the width (L1) of the unit size pallet module (10; 40; 10).

34. The class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) are configured to be compatible with and enable an internet of things (PI) global logistics model, each pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) comprising a smart tag providing identification and traceability of the pallet module.

35. A pallet assembly (1000; 1000) configured to function as a self-supporting platform to allow for the handling and transportation of cargo, the pallet assembly (1000; 1000) being constructed from a plurality of pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 10; 30) selected from the class of pallet modules (10; 20; 30) according to any one of the preceding claims, the pallet modules (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) being nested within one another and interlocked with one another.

36. Use of a item of a pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any one of claims 1 to 34, or of a pallet assembly (1000; 1000) according to claim 35, for the purposes of freight logistics, warehousing, transportation and/or shipping.

37. Use of a grade of a pallet module (10; 20; 30; 40; 10; 20; 30) according to any one of claims 1 to 34, or of a pallet assembly (1000; 1000) according to claim 35, for internal logistics purposes.

Technical Field

The present invention generally relates to a class (assembly) of pallet modules (pallet modules) configured to allow at least two pallet modules selected from the class of pallet modules to form a nested pallet assembly configured to function as a self-supporting platform that allows the handling and transportation of cargo. The invention also relates to a pallet assembly consisting of a plurality of pallet modules of a category selected from the pallet modules.

Background

US patent No. US 3,857,342 discloses a pallet formed of nestable plastic modules, each module having four centrally located legs and four outwardly extending flanges, each flange having means for interlocking with the flanges of adjacent modules. Although this solution is suitable for at least two pallet modules to form a nested pallet assembly, the resulting pallet assembly is not sufficiently strong and the mating and interlocking system is prone to undesired release, resulting in the possibility of the pallet modules breaking during handling and/or transport of the load, which is obviously undesirable. This is particularly important for the transport of large loads.

The interlocking system envisaged in US 3,857,342 is also prone to breakage after repeated use due to the inherent local deformation of the plastic material at the attachment points between the pallet modules.

Other similar solutions are disclosed in U.S. patent No. US 5,105,746 a, japanese patent publication No. jp (h)5-85546 a, chinese utility model publication nos. CN 205023079U and CN 206345153U, and international (PCT) publication nos. WO 98/31595 a1, WO 2017/023163 a1, WO 2017/200482A 1, and WO 2010/128261 a 2.

Another solution is disclosed in french patent No. FR 2157171 a5, in which individual pallet modules are securable to one another in a longitudinal direction by first and second toggle-type latch members located on opposite lateral sides of each pallet module, the first and second toggle-type latch members being configured to mate and interlock with corresponding toggle-type latch members of another similar pallet module to form a releasable toggle latch, thereby allowing any given pallet module to be secured to or released from one or both of the similar pallet modules in the longitudinal direction.

These other known solutions also have drawbacks, including complex nesting and/or interlocking systems that unnecessarily complicate the assembly and disassembly of multiple pallet modules from one another, which results in a reduction in efficiency of use.

Another problem with the aforementioned known pallet modules is that they are not optimized for shipment or storage of the individual pallet modules and components, in particular due to the presence of feet which are usually made integral with the main structure of the pallet modules. This known solution also limits the ability to stack individual pallet modules one on top of the other in a compact manner.

Another problem with known pallet modules is their lack of flexibility, particularly in terms of size and dimensions, which are not optimal and limit the ability of the user to construct various different sizes and dimensions of pallet assemblies for non-standard sized goods or equipment. Furthermore, the height of known pallet modules and the height of the resulting pallet assembly are not optimized and their configuration typically limits the ability to use the full volume of the transport unit and/or limits the ability to efficiently stack individual pallet modules one on top of another for, for example, shipping or warehousing purposes. This is particularly true for pallet modules that include leg structures that are made integral with the main structure of the pallet module.

Because of these limitations, end users often use conventional wood pallets, such as euro pallets, standard US pallets, and/or other non-standard wood pallets, for larger sized goods or equipment. While these wooden pallets can be produced in essentially any size and can be considered to provide a reasonably flexible solution, they do not constitute an effective solution for end users because they are produced to meet specific needs and are generally intended to be disposable, which makes the solution cost effective and not environmentally sustainable. These pallets are less expensive to produce in the case of standard-sized euro pallets, but generally they are fixed in dimensions of 1200mm x 800mm x 144mm (length x width x height), which is not the optimum dimension when shipping and/or warehousing individual pallets and/or for packaging and shipping goods or equipment that require a particular non-standard pallet solution. The same is true of similar semi-standardized pallets. In fact, such standardized or semi-standardized pallet solutions allow only 80% to 90% of the available transport space (20 feet or 40 feet in length) of standard dry containers to be maximally utilized, which results in serious inefficiencies and substantial waste of transport space. Thus, existing solutions do not provide flexibility and adaptability in terms of pallet size, which is important for transportation, packaging and cost efficiency. Furthermore, conventional wood pallets are not very strong and are easily broken, which means that their usability and life cycle are typically limited to a single use or at most a few use cycles (typically less than five on average). Furthermore, standard sized pallets, such as euro pallets, do not constitute an optimal solution for shipping goods or equipment having non-standard sizes and dimensions.

Summary of The Invention

It is a general object of the invention to provide an improved category of pallet modules of the type configured to allow at least two pallet modules selected from the category of pallet modules to form a nested pallet assembly.

More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide a class of such pallet modules from which an end user may select to build a wide variety of pallet assemblies.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a class of pallet modules which ensures the formation of a strong pallet assembly without compromising the ease and speed of assembly and disassembly.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an assortment of pallet modules that is constructed and designed to facilitate and optimize the shipping and warehousing of individual pallet modules and their components, which benefits from more optimal dimensions and configurations.

It is another object of the present invention to reduce material consumption and increase shipping flexibility and efficiency, particularly by reducing waste and providing a reusable solution.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a solution that allows optimizing a number of factors that affect flexibility and efficiency, namely (i) pallet assembly time, (ii) pallet material cost, and (iii) shipping efficiency.

These objects are achieved thanks to the solution defined in the claims.

According to the present invention there is provided a category of pallet modules according to claim 1, the category of pallet modules being configured to allow at least two pallet modules selected from the pallet modules of the category to form a nested pallet assembly, the nested pallet assembly being configured to act as a self-supporting platform to allow the handling and transportation of cargo, each pallet module comprising:

-a main structure presenting a substantially quadrangular peripheral boundary, wherein first to fourth lateral sides extend between an upper side and a lower side of the main structure;

-a mating system provided on the first to fourth lateral sides of the main structure, the mating system being configured to allow a pallet module to nest within a corresponding portion of the mating system of another pallet module in the category;

-a securing system configured to allow a pallet module to be secured to or released from another pallet module in the category; and

-a foot structure provided on the underside of the main structure.

According to the invention, the pallet modules produced in at least two different sizes and the assortment of pallet modules comprises a unit-size pallet module, the main structure of which exhibits a unit size, and at least one larger-size pallet module, the main structure of which exhibits a length corresponding to an integer multiple of the length of the main structure of the unit-size pallet module, the unit-size pallet module and each larger-size pallet module being combinable with each other.

The present invention provides unprecedented benefits in its intelligent, modular concept, particularly in terms of freight logistics and environmental sustainability. In particular, the infrastructure and concept of the present invention is simple, but provides considerable flexibility in a wide variety of pallet assemblies that may be built based on the class of the relevant pallet modules. The size and configuration of the associated pallet module may be selected to improve efficiency and ease of use. In fact, the pallet module can be assembled (and disassembled) very easily and quickly, and its dimensions can be optimized to ensure that substantially all of the available shipping space can be utilized, thereby greatly reducing waste and packaging and shipping costs. Furthermore, the pallet module is designed to be reusable multiple times, thus ensuring higher sustainability and reducing carbon emissions compared to existing pallet solutions.

Furthermore, the standardization of pallet modules can be used to manufacture pallet assemblies of a variety of desired sizes meeting a wide variety of requirements, facilitating and enabling true recycling economies. This results in a significant cost reduction of an order of magnitude compared to existing solutions. This further provides greater flexibility in optimizing the use of available shipping space. Finally, the circular economy provides the ability to integrate digital solutions to efficiently manage, monitor, and track individual pallet modules.

According to an embodiment of the invention the length of the main structure of each larger size pallet module is at least twice the length of the main structure of the pallet module per unit size.

The peripheral boundary of the main structure of a unit size pallet module may conveniently assume a square shape. That is, the main structure of a unit size pallet module may optionally assume a rectangular shape with different width and length dimensions.

In the context of embodiments in which the peripheral boundary of the main structure of a unit size pallet module assumes a square shape, the peripheral boundary of the main structure of each larger size pallet module may likewise assume a square shape. In other words, each of the pallet modules of the relevant category exhibits a square shape, and the larger size pallet modules are integer multiples of the unit size pallet modules. However, the same principle applies to the case where the main structure of a unit-size pallet module takes on a rectangular shape.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the category of pallet modules preferably comprises at least two types of larger-sized pallet modules, namely medium-sized pallet modules and large-sized pallet modules. Preferably, the peripheral boundary of the main structure of the medium-sized pallet module exhibits a length which is twice the length of the main structure of the unit-sized pallet module. The peripheral boundary of the main structure of the large-size pallet module exhibits a length which is at least three times, in particular four times, the length of the main structure of the unit-size pallet module.

According to another embodiment of the invention, wherein the peripheral boundary of the main structure of the unit-size pallet modules exhibits a square shape, the category of pallet modules also comprises at least two types of larger-size pallet modules, namely medium-size pallet modules and large-size pallet modules. According to this further embodiment, the peripheral boundary of the main structure of the medium-sized pallet module exhibits a rectangular shape having a length equal to twice the length of the main structure of the unit-sized pallet module and a width smaller than twice the length of the main structure of the unit-sized pallet module, and the peripheral boundary of the main structure of the large-sized pallet module exhibits a square shape having a length equal to twice the length of the main structure of the unit-sized pallet module.

In the context of this further embodiment, the length of the main structure of the unit size pallet module may be about 300mm, and the size of the medium size pallet module may preferably correspond substantially to one quarter of the size of a standard euro pallet, the length and width of the main structure of the medium size pallet module being about 600mm and 400mm, respectively.

From a more general point of view, the length of the main structure of the pallet module is preferably comprised in the range of 150mm to 1200 mm.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the mating system of each pallet module comprises:

-first and second transverse flanges extending outwardly from an outer peripheral boundary of the main structure along first and second transverse sides; and

-first and second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary of the main structure along the third and fourth lateral sides, the first and second lateral grooves each being configured to receive the first and second lateral flanges, respectively, of another pallet module in the category such that the first and second lateral flanges of the other pallet module nest within the respective first and second lateral grooves, respectively, to form a nested pallet assembly.

Advantageously, each of the first and second transverse flanges may present at least one locating notch formed along an outer edge of the first and second transverse flanges, and each of the first and second transverse grooves may likewise present at least one protrusion configured to mate with the at least one locating notch on the first and second transverse flanges of another pallet module disposed in the category.

The first and second transverse flanges may in particular be laterally offset with respect to the first and second transverse sides, wherein the first and second transverse flanges are optionally joined together to form an L-shaped transverse flange.

The first and second transverse flanges may be integrally formed with the main structure, in which case the main structure and the first and second transverse flanges may advantageously be made of a plastic or biopolymer material. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) may be particularly considered. The use of biopolymer materials may also be considered as an alternative to plastic materials.

In the foregoing context, the pallet module may further comprise a plurality of stiffening elements extending within the main structure and the first and/or second transverse flanges. Such a reinforcing element may in particular be made of metal (e.g. aluminium), a metal alloy or a composite material. Furthermore, the aforementioned stiffening element is preferably a longitudinal bar element extending between the upper and lower surfaces of the main structure and the first and/or second transverse flange.

According to a further development of the invention, the fixing system of each pallet module comprises:

-first and second toggle-type latch members arranged in the vicinity of the first and second lateral sides, respectively; and

-third and fourth toggle-type latch members arranged in the vicinity of the third and fourth lateral sides, respectively,

the first and second toggle-latch members are each configured to mate with and interlock with, respectively, the third and fourth toggle-latch members of another pallet module in the category to form a releasable toggle latch, thereby allowing the pallet module to be secured to or released from the other pallet module.

In the latter case, the first to fourth toggle-type latch members are preferably provided on the upper side of the main structural body, at least partially within a recess formed below the upper surface of the upper side of the main structural body.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the unit size of the unit size pallet module is chosen such that the total width of the pallet assembly, which is equal to an integer multiple (in particular eight times) of the width of the unit size pallet module, fits the width of the door opening of a standard railway/marine container and may occupy more than 95% (preferably more than 98%) of the width of the door opening. In this case, the relevant width of the door opening of a standard railway/sea container may in particular be about 2.33 meters (or 92 inches).

Also, according to another embodiment of the invention, the unit size of the unit size pallet module is selected such that the total width of the pallet assembly, which is equal to an integer multiple (in particular twelve times) of the width of the unit size pallet module, fits the width of the door opening of a standard truck shipping container and may occupy more than 95% (preferably more than 98%) of the width of the door opening. In this case, the relevant width of the door opening of a standard truck shipping container may be in particular about 2.5 meters (or 98 inches).

Preferably, the pallet modules are configured to be compatible with and capable of implementing a so-called internet of things (PI) global logistics model, each pallet module comprising a smart tag providing identification and traceability of the pallet module. The modularity of the pallet concept of the present invention is actually a function enabler of the packaging principle required by the global logistics model of the internet of things.

Also claimed is a pallet assembly configured for use as a self-supporting platform allowing the handling and transportation of cargo, the pallet assembly being constructed from a plurality of pallet modules selected from the category of pallet modules according to the invention, the pallet modules being nested within one another and interlocked with one another.

Also claimed is the use of the item class of the pallet module or of the pallet assembly for the purpose of freight logistics, warehousing, transportation and/or shipment or for the purpose of internal logistics.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are discussed below.

Drawings

Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly from a reading of the following detailed description of an embodiment of the invention, provided purely by way of non-limiting example and illustrated by the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a pallet module from an upper perspective according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the pallet module of FIG. 1A from a lower perspective;

FIG. 1C is a top view of the pallet module of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1D is a bottom view of the pallet module of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1E is a side view of the pallet module of FIG. 1A from a first side;

FIG. 1F is a side view of the pallet module of FIG. 1A from a second side;

FIG. 1G is a side view of the pallet module of FIG. 1A from a third side;

FIG. 1H is a side view of the pallet module of FIG. 1A, as viewed from a fourth side;

FIG. 2A is a partial perspective view of the pallet module of FIG. 1A from a lower perspective and showing one of the plurality of leg members of the leg structure disposed on the underside of the pallet module;

FIGS. 2B and 2C are exploded views of one of the leg members of FIG. 2A shown in isolation;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a pallet module from an upper perspective according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the pallet module of FIG. 3A from a lower perspective;

FIG. 3C is a top view of the pallet module of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a pallet module from an upper perspective according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the pallet module of FIG. 4A from a lower perspective;

FIG. 4C is a top view of the pallet module of FIG. 4A;

fig. 5A is a perspective view of the pallet module of fig. 1A, seen from above, which is further provided with a pair of covering elements according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the pallet module and the cover element of FIG. 5A from a lower perspective;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are perspective views of a first one of the cover elements of FIGS. 5A-5B from an upper and lower angle;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are perspective views of a second one of the cover elements of FIGS. 5A-5B from an upper and lower angle;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a releasable toggle latch for securing two adjacent pallet modules one to the other in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9A is a schematic top view of a pallet assembly formed by combining a plurality of pallet modules according to an embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 9B is another schematic top view of another pallet assembly formed by combining a plurality of pallet modules according to the invention;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a pallet module from an upper perspective according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the pallet module of FIG. 10A from a lower perspective;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a pallet module from an upper perspective according to yet another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the pallet module of FIG. 11B from a lower perspective;

figure 12A is a perspective view from above of a pallet module forming part of the same category of pallet modules as the pallet modules of figures 11A-11B, according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the pallet module of FIG. 12A from a lower perspective;

figure 13A is a perspective view from above of a pallet module forming part of the same category of pallet modules as the pallet modules of figures 11A-11B and 12A-12B, according to a further embodiment of the invention; and

figure 13B is a perspective view of the pallet module of figure 13A from a lower perspective.

Detailed description of the invention

The invention will be described in conjunction with various illustrative embodiments. It should be understood that the scope of the present invention includes all combinations and subcombinations of the features of the embodiments disclosed herein.

When two or more parts or components are described as being connected, secured or coupled to each other, as described herein, they may be connected, secured or coupled to each other directly or through one or more intermediate parts.

In the context of the present invention, the expressions "pallet module" and "pallet assembly" are understood to mean a self-supporting platform configured to allow the handling and transportation of goods, in particular for the purpose of freight logistics, warehousing, transportation and/or shipping. Other similar purposes are also contemplated, including, for example, internal logistics, i.e., the handling of cargo logistics within the walls of a production or distribution center. More particularly, the pallet assembly according to the invention is constructed of a plurality of pallet modules nested within one another and interlocked with one another to form a platform that is particularly adapted to support and permit the transport and shipment of goods or equipment, whether by land, sea or air.

The invention will be described in connection with various embodiments of pallet modules as depicted in fig. 1A-1H-13A-13B, each of which is configured to allow at least two similar pallet modules to form a nested pallet assembly, as schematically illustrated by fig. 9A and 9B. Although some features of the present invention will be discussed with reference to fig. 1A-1H-2A-2C and 5A-5B-8, it should be understood that relevant considerations apply by analogy to the embodiments shown in fig. 3A-3C, 4A-4C, and 10A-10B-13A-13B.

Fig. 1A and 1B are two perspective views, taken from different perspectives, of a pallet module according to an embodiment of the invention, the pallet module being generally designated by reference numeral 10. The same pallet module 10 is shown from the top and bottom in fig. 1C and 1D and from all four lateral sides in fig. 1E to 1H.

The pallet module 10 (and other embodiments of the pallet modules described herein) is configured to allow the formation of at least two similar pallet modules forming a nested pallet assembly, wherein the at least two similar pallet modules may be another identical pallet module 10 or a compatible pallet module 20 or 30 as shown, for example, in fig. 3A-3C or fig. 4A-4C.

The pallet module 10 includes a main structure 100, the main structure 100 presenting a substantially quadrilateral peripheral boundary 100A, wherein first through fourth lateral sides 101-104 extend between an upper side 100B and a lower side 100C of the main structure 100. The first through fourth lateral sides 101-104 are numbered sequentially here in a counter-clockwise direction when the pallet module 10 is viewed from the top (as shown in fig. 1C). The pallet module 10 further comprises a foot structure 90, which foot structure 90 is arranged on the underside 100C of the main structure 100. The foot structure 90 may be designed as a fixed foot structure comprising one or more fixed foot elements integrated with the main structure 100 or permanently attached to the main structure 100. Preferably, however, the foot structure 90 is configured as a releasable foot structure comprising one or more releasable foot elements 91, each releasable foot element 91 being securable to or removable from a respective foot receiving element 92 provided on the underside 100C of the main structure 100.

According to this embodiment, as reproduced in fig. 1C, peripheral boundary 100A here exhibits a square shape with a defined length (and width) L1. By way of illustration, it will be assumed that the length L1 is approximately 300mm, but any other length is contemplated. From a general point of view, the length of the pallet module according to the invention may in particular be in the order of magnitude of 150mm to 1200 mm.

More specifically, the pallet module 10 depicted in fig. 1A-1H forms one of a class of pallet modules (including the pallet module 20 of fig. 3A-3C and the pallet module 30 of fig. 4A-4C) that can be combined to form a nested pallet assembly. In this regard, the pallet module 10 will also be referred to as a "unit size pallet module", i.e., pallet module 10, whose main structure exhibits a unit size (here L1 × L1), with all other pallet modules of the relevant category exhibiting larger sizes. More precisely, larger size pallet modules (e.g., the pallet modules 20 and 30 of fig. 3A-3C and 4A-4C, respectively) are pallet modules whose main structures (200, 300, respectively) exhibit a length (L2, L3, respectively) that corresponds to an integer multiple of the length L1 of the main structure 100 of a unit size pallet module 10. In this regard, the length L1 will also be referred to as a "unit length".

One particular feature of the pallet module 10 of fig. 1A-1H, which is also reflected in the pallet modules 20 of fig. 3A-3C and 30 of fig. 4A-4C, is the presence of first and second lateral flanges 110, 120, the first and second lateral flanges 110, 120 extending outwardly from the peripheral boundary 100A of the main structure 100 along the first and second lateral sides 101, 102. These first and second lateral flanges 110, 120 form a first part of a mating system configured to allow a plurality of pallet modules to be nested within each other. As will be understood below, the first and second lateral flanges 110, 120 are configured to mate with respective side portions of another similar pallet module, i.e., another portion of an associated mating system.

As shown in fig. 1A-1H, the main structure 100 exhibits first and second lateral grooves 130, 140, the first and second lateral grooves 130, 140 extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 100A of the main structure 100 along the third and fourth lateral sides 103, 104. These first and second transverse grooves are each configured to receive a first and second transverse flange, respectively, of another similar pallet module (including, for example, the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120 of another pallet module 10) such that the first and second transverse flanges of the other similar pallet module nest within the respective first and second transverse grooves 130, 140, respectively, forming a nested pallet assembly.

As can be seen from the illustrations of fig. 1A-1H (as well as fig. 3A-3C and 4A-4C), the first and second lateral flanges 110, 120 are advantageously laterally offset with respect to the first and second lateral sides 101, 102. This optimizes the available space for nesting the pallet modules one inside the other and in particular ensures that the load can be adequately supported at each corner of the pallet modules. In the illustrated example, in view of the fact that the first and second lateral sides 101, 102 are adjacent sides, it will be appreciated that the first and second lateral flanges 110, 120 jointly form an L-shaped lateral flange on the sides of the pallet module, which constitutes an important characteristic feature of this embodiment of the invention. This same feature is also present in the other illustrated embodiments of the pallet modules of fig. 3A-3C and 4A-4C.

In addition to the aforementioned mating systems 110, 120, 130, 140, the pallet module 10 also includes a securing system configured to allow the pallet module 10 to be secured to or released from another similar pallet module in a nested pallet assembly. The securing system comprises first and second toggle-type latch members 51, 52 arranged adjacent to the first and second lateral sides 101, 102, respectively, and third and fourth toggle-type latch members 53, 54 arranged adjacent to the third and fourth lateral sides 103, 104, respectively, the first and second toggle-type latch members 51, 52, respectively. The first and second toggle-latch members 51, 52 are each configured to mate with and interlock with, respectively, the third and fourth toggle-latch members 53, 54 of another similar pallet module in the nested pallet assembly to form a releasable toggle latch 500 (see fig. 8) to allow the pallet module 10 to be secured to or released from the other similar pallet module.

As shown in fig. 8, the resulting releasable toggle latch 500 typically includes a spring-loaded latch element having a movable latch portion 510 extending outwardly to mate with a catch element including a catch portion 550. The spring-loaded latching element is preferably manually actuatable, and further includes a handle portion 520, the handle portion 520 being mechanically connected to the movable latching portion 510 to allow manual actuation of the latching element. Each releasable toggle latch 500 is thus formed of two connectable or disconnectable parts, one provided on one pallet module in the pallet assembly and the other on another adjacent pallet module in the pallet assembly.

Preferably, as shown, the first through fourth toggle-type latch members 51-54 are disposed on the upper side 100B of the main structure 100, i.e., at least partially within recesses 151 and 154 formed below the upper surface of the upper side 100B of the main structure 100. The first to fourth toggle-type latch members 51-54 may alternatively be provided on the underside 100C of the main structure 100, but this constitutes a less advantageous solution.

In the illustrated embodiment, the aforementioned spring-loaded latching elements are advantageously located on the side on which the first and second transverse flanges are respectively provided. This provides some protection for the movable latch portion 510 due to the presence of the adjacent lateral flanges. Referring to fig. 1A-1H, the first and second toggle-type latching members 51, 52 thus comprise spring-loaded latching elements whose movable latching portions 510 extend outwardly beyond the peripheral boundary 100A of the main structure 100, i.e., beyond the first and second lateral sides 101, 102, respectively. Thus, the third and fourth toggle-type latch members 53, 54 consist of snap-lock elements, the snap-lock portions 550 of which are fully located in the associated recesses 153, 154, respectively. As shown, respective gaps are formed in all four lateral sides 101-104 to allow passage of the relevant portions of the movable latch portion 510, thereby allowing multiple pallet modules to be assembled together.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, each of the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120 presents at least one positioning notch 110A, 120A, respectively, the at least one positioning notch 110A, 120A being formed along the outer edge of the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120. In the illustration of fig. 1A-1H, only one locating notch 110A, 120A is formed along the outer edge of the first and second lateral flanges 110, 120, respectively. Likewise, each of the first and second lateral grooves 130, 140 presents at least one respective protrusion 130A, 140A, respectively, which respective protrusion 130A, 140A is configured to cooperate with a respective positioning notch provided on the first and second lateral flanges of another similar pallet module.

According to a particularly preferred variant, as shown, the position of each positioning notch 110A, 120A along the outer edge of the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120 and the position of each projection 130A, 140A within the first and second transverse grooves coincide with the position of each of the first to fourth toggle-latch members 51-54 along the first to fourth transverse sides. This same principle is reflected on other pallet modules of the same kind and ensures that the pallet modules are accurately and precisely positioned from one to the other. This further ensures that the mating system 110, 120, 130, 140 desirably supports the loads imposed on the pallet assembly and provides sufficient resistance and robustness against shear stresses.

Preferably, the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120 are integrally formed with the main structure 100, which ensures the structural integrity of the entire pallet module. It is alternatively contemplated that the pallet module is constructed from a plurality of pallet parts assembled to each other.

However, a unitary construction is preferred, as the pallet module can be mass produced, for example by moulding. In this regard, the main structure 100 and the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120 may be made of, inter alia, a plastic or biopolymer material, which may be shaped, inter alia, by molding into a desired configuration. In this regard, it will be appreciated that the primary structure 100 shown in fig. 1A-1H is advantageously configured to form ribs and valleys to reduce weight while maintaining the structural integrity of the primary structure 100. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) may be the best candidate because its highly crystalline structure makes it a strong, high density, medium durometer plastic well suited for its intended use. In addition, HDPE (like some other polymeric materials) is approved for use in contact with food products. Furthermore, HDPE is one of the most easily recyclable materials and the highest recovery (> 30%) in polymeric materials, which benefits from a sophisticated recovery channel. Biopolymer materials are also contemplated as a viable and sustainable alternative.

In particular in the latter case, it is important for structural integrity to additionally provide a plurality of stiffening elements extending within the main structure and the first and/or second transverse flanges. Such stiffening elements allow the force to be distributed over the entire surface area of the pallet module, thereby significantly improving the stress and load resistance of the resulting pallet assembly. The stiffening elements may be made of any suitable material, in particular a metal, such as aluminium, a metal alloy or a composite material.

The reinforcing elements are shown in fig. 1A-1H as longitudinal bar elements 161, 162 that extend between the upper and lower surfaces of the main structure 100 and the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120. More precisely, in the illustrated embodiment, the first series of longitudinal bar elements 161 extend in a first direction (here from the first transverse side 101 to the third transverse side 103 of the main structure 100, both above and below the position of the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120), while the second series of longitudinal bar elements 162 extend in a second direction different from the first direction (here perpendicular to the first series of bar elements 161 within the thickness of the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120).

The reinforcing elements 161, 162 can be integrated in particular within the main structure 100 made of plastic or biopolymer material and within the first and second lateral side flanges 110, 120 by means of a combined moulding technique, wherein the relevant reinforcing elements 161, 162 are previously placed in the mould before the injection of the plastic or biopolymer material, to finally form the combined metal-plastic structure.

Fig. 2A is a partial perspective view of the pallet module of fig. 1A-1H from a lower perspective and shows one of the plurality of foot elements of the foot structure 90 provided on the underside 100C of the main structure 100 of the pallet module 10.

According to a preferred variant of the invention, as shown, the foot structure 90 is configured as a releasable foot structure comprising one or more releasable foot elements 91, each foot element 91 being securable to or removable from a respective foot receiving element 92 provided on the underside 100C of the main structure 100.

Preferably, each releasable leg member 91 is connected to the leg receiving member 92 by a spring loaded locking mechanism (an example of which is shown in more detail in fig. 2B and 2C) configured to allow the releasable leg member 91 to be manually inserted into the leg receiving member 92 and automatically interlocked with the leg receiving member 92 without the need for any tools, the spring loaded locking mechanism also being configured to allow selective manual release of the releasable leg member from the leg receiving member.

Fig. 2B and 2C are exploded views of a particularly advantageous configuration of the releasable leg members 91 and leg receiving members 92, wherein the spring-loaded locking mechanism includes a mounting hole 92A, which mounting hole 92A is provided on each leg receiving member 92 (see fig. 2C) and is configured to receive the head 91A of each releasable leg member 91. The head portion 91A is provided with a retaining portion 91B, i.e., a retaining groove forming a neck portion on the head portion 91A, the retaining portion 91B being configured to mate with a plurality of spring-loaded retaining members 95 provided on each of the leg-receiving members 92 and present in the mounting hole 92A when the head portion 91A is axially inserted into the mounting hole 92A. In the present example, four such retaining elements 95 are distributed around the mounting hole 92A, so only part of the mounting hole 92A is visible in fig. 2C. The spring-loaded retaining member 95 may be a simple elongated member that is mounted within a radial bore formed in the foot-receiving member 92 and urged toward the interior of the mounting bore 92A by a spring.

Each releasable leg member may also be provided with a lower mounting hole 91C, the lower mounting hole 91C being configured and dimensioned to receive the head portion 91A of the other leg member 91, each releasable leg member 91 being provided with a plurality of spring loaded retaining members 95 (similar to the spring loaded retaining members 95 provided in the leg receiving member 92), the retaining members 95 being present within the lower mounting hole 91C, and the retaining members 95 being configured to mate with and retain the retaining portions 91B of the other leg member 91 when the head portion 91A of the other leg member 91 is axially inserted into the lower mounting hole 91C. In this way, a plurality of leg members 91 may be assembled together to form an assembly of parts that is easier and more convenient to handle, particularly for shipping purposes. In the illustrated example, only two spring-loaded holding elements 95 are provided, which is sufficient for the envisaged purpose. The force exerted by the spring-loaded retaining elements 95 may also be selected to facilitate complete manual release of the leg elements 91 from each other.

Also shown in fig. 2A-2C is a space 92C provided between each foot receiving member 92 and each releasable foot member 91. The space 92C is configured to allow a tool (such as a crowbar or screwdriver) to be inserted laterally between the foot receiving element 92 and the releasable foot element 91. Using the tool as a lever, the releasable leg element 91 can be easily released from the leg receiving element 92.

The head 92B of the foot-receiving element 92 can also be seen in fig. 2B-2C. The purpose of this head 92B is to secure the foot receiving element 92 to the underside 100C of the main structure 100. In a manner similar to the previously described reinforcing elements 161, 162, the foot-receiving element 92 (or more precisely the head 92B thereof) can be integrated by means of a composite moulding technique to the underside 100C of the main structure 100 made of plastic or biopolymer material.

Fig. 3A-3C are two perspective views and a top view, taken from different perspectives, of a pallet module according to an embodiment of the invention, generally indicated by reference numeral 20, and forming part of a pallet module of the same category as the pallet module 10 of fig. 1A-1H. The pallet module 20 will also be referred to as a "large-size pallet module".

Fig. 4A and 4B are two perspective views and a top view, taken from different perspectives, of a pallet module according to an embodiment of the invention, which is generally designated by the reference numeral 30 and likewise forms part of the same category of pallet modules as the pallet modules 10 of fig. 1A-1H and 20 of fig. 3A-3C. The pallet module 30 will also be referred to as a "medium size pallet module".

The pallet modules 20 and 30 share a number of common features with the pallet module 10, including:

a respective main structure 200, 300 presenting a respective substantially quadrangular peripheral boundary 200A, 300A, wherein a respective first to fourth lateral side 201, 204, 301, 304 extends between a respective upper side 200B, 300B and lower side 200C, 300C of the respective main structure 200, 300,

-first and second lateral flanges 210, 220, 310, 320, respectively, extending outwardly from the peripheral boundary 200A, 300A, respectively, of the main structural body 200, 300, respectively, along the lateral sides 201, 202, 301, 302, respectively,

-a respective first and second lateral groove 230, 240, 330, 340 extending inwardly from a respective peripheral boundary 200A, 300A of a respective main structure 200, 300 along a respective third and fourth lateral side 203, 204, 303, 304,

a foot structure 90 provided on a respective underside 200C, 300C of the respective main structure 200, 300,

first and second toggle-type latch members 51, 52 arranged in the vicinity of the respective first and second lateral sides 201, 202, 301, 302, and

third and fourth toggle-type latching members 53, 54 arranged in the vicinity of the respective third and fourth lateral sides 203, 204, 303, 304.

The first through fourth toggle-type latch members 51-54 are also disposed on the respective upper sides 200B, 300B of the respective main structures 200, 300 at least partially in the respective recesses 251, 254, 351, 354 formed below the upper surfaces of the respective upper sides 200B, 300B of the respective main structures 200, 300.

One difference between the pallet module 20 of fig. 3A-3C and the pallet module 10 of fig. 1A-1H is the size of the pallet module 20, or more precisely the size of the main structure 200. According to this embodiment, the peripheral boundary 200A here exhibits a square shape as reproduced in fig. 3C with a defined length (and width) L2, which defined length (and width) L2 is twice the unit length L1 of the pallet module 10 of the unit size of fig. 1A-1H, i.e. in the example shown approximately 600mm, which is why this pallet module 20 is referred to as a large-size pallet module.

Similarly, one difference between the pallet module 30 of fig. 4A-4C and the pallet module 10 of fig. 1A-1H is the size of the pallet module 30, or more precisely the size of the main structure 300. According to this embodiment, the peripheral boundary 300A here exhibits a rectangular shape having a defined length L3 and a defined width W3 as reproduced in fig. 4C. The length L3 is likewise twice the unit length L1 of the pallet module 10 of the unit size of fig. 1A-1H, i.e. in the example shown approximately 600mm, but the width W3 is approximately 400mm in the example shown, which is why this pallet module 30 is called a medium-sized pallet module.

In the illustrated example, the overall dimensions of the pallet module 30 are specifically chosen to correspond to exactly one quarter of the dimensions of a standard euro pallet having a length of 1200mm and a width of 800 mm. In other words, the assembly of four medium sized pallet modules 30 into a square shape will cause the pallet assembly to assume substantially the dimensions of a standard euro pallet. However, other dimensions are also contemplated. For example, the same principles may be applied with respect to standard american pallets or the like.

As a result of the above-mentioned dimensioning, and in order to ensure compatibility with, for example, the pallet module 10 of fig. 1A-1H, the number of toggle-latch members 51-54 on each side of the pallet module 20 is doubled, whereas in the case of the pallet module 30 only the number of second and fourth toggle-latch members 52, 54 is doubled. Likewise, each of the first and second lateral flanges 210, 220 and each of the first and second lateral grooves 230, 240 are provided with a pair of positioning recesses 210A, 220A and a pair of protrusions 230A, 240A, respectively, whereas only each of the second lateral flange 320 and the second lateral groove 340 is provided with a pair of positioning recesses 320A and protrusions 340A.

In the example of fig. 3A-3C, the positions of the second and fourth toggle-latch members 52 and 54 along the second and fourth lateral sides 202, 204 (and the positions of the detent recesses 220A and protrusions 240A) are compatible with the positions of the toggle-latch members 51-54 along the lateral side 101 of the pallet module 10 (and the positions of the associated recesses and protrusions) or the positions of the toggle-latch members 52, 54 along the lateral sides 302, 304 of the pallet module 30. In other words, two pallet modules 10 or one pallet module 30 may be assembled to one or both of the second and fourth lateral sides 202, 204 of the pallet module 20.

In contrast, the positions of the first and third toggle-type latch members 51 and 53 along the first and third lateral sides 201, 203 (and the positions of the positioning notch 210A and the protrusion 230A) are different, which means that the pallet module 20 can only be coupled to the respective lateral side of another pallet module 20 via the first lateral side 201 or the third lateral side 203 or to a similar pallet module exhibiting the same configuration.

However, the pallet module 20 may be designed to ensure that all toggle latch members 51-54, positioning notches 210A, 220A and protrusions 230A, 240A are positioned in a symmetrical manner and to ensure compatibility with other pallet modules on all sides.

As far as the toggle-type latch members 51-54 are concerned, they are identical to the toggle-type latch members 51-54 used in the embodiment of fig. 1A-1H. In other words, the first and second toggle-type latch members 51, 52 shown in fig. 3A-3C and 4A-4C are also spring-loaded latch elements that include a movable latch portion 510 (joined to a handle portion 520), the movable latch portion 510 extending outwardly beyond the respective peripheral boundary 200A, 300A of the respective main structure body 200, 300, while the third and fourth toggle-type latch members 53, 54 are snap-lock elements that include a snap-lock portion 550, the snap-lock portion 550 configured to mate with the movable latch portion 510 of the spring-loaded latch element of another similar pallet module.

Otherwise, substantially the same considerations as set forth with respect to the embodiment of fig. 1A-1H apply to the pallet modules 20 and 30.

For example, respective longitudinal bar elements 261, 262, 361, 362 are likewise provided as reinforcing elements in the respective main structural body 200, 300 and in the respective first and second transverse flanges 210, 220, 310, 320.

In the same way, the foot structure 90 of the pallet modules 20 and 30 may be exactly the same as the foot structure 90 discussed in relation to the embodiment of fig. 1A-1H and fig. 2A-2C, which means that the releasable foot elements 91 are completely interchangeable between the pallet modules 10, 20 and 30.

It will therefore be appreciated that the present invention provides unprecedented flexibility in that a wide variety and sizes of pallet assemblies can be manufactured to meet a wide variety of needs. Furthermore, such modularity does not compromise ease and speed of assembly and disassembly, or robustness. This extensive modularity further facilitates shipment of the associated pallet modules and components, optimizes space usage, and thus improves shipping efficiency. The advantages of the invention are manifold and include in particular:

multiple pallet module sizes, which reduces material waste and provides a more efficient solution for shipping purposes, since as a result multiple pallet assemblies of different sizes can be manufactured, which are most suitable for transportation purposes and in particular allow to reduce wasted space between the pallet goods or equipment;

improved stackability of pallet modules when empty/not in use, which optimizes shipping and warehousing of individual pallet modules;

ease and speed of assembly and disassembly of the pallet modules;

an optimized height of the pallet modules, which allows a further reduction of the volume when shipping or storing individual pallet modules; and

high robustness and high reliability, thus extending the life cycle and enabling the reuse of the pallet module in multiple transport operations.

Fig. 10A-10B are two perspective views, taken from different perspectives, of a pallet module according to another embodiment of the invention, the pallet module being designated in its entirety by reference numeral 40 and the pallet module forming part of a pallet module of another category. As with the pallet modules 10 of fig. 1A-1H, the pallet modules 40 will be referred to as "unit size pallet modules".

The pallet module 40 shares a number of common features with the pallet modules 10, 20 and 30, including:

a main structure 400 presenting a substantially quadrangular peripheral boundary 400A, wherein first to fourth lateral sides 401-404 extend between an upper side 400B and a lower side 400C of the main structure 400;

first and second transverse flanges 410, 420 extending outwardly from the peripheral boundary 400A of the main structure 400 along first and second transverse sides 401, 402;

first and second lateral grooves 430, 440 extending inwardly from the peripheral boundary 400A of the main structure 400 along the third and fourth lateral sides 403, 404;

a foot structure 90 provided on the underside 400C of the main structure 400;

first and second toggle-type latch members 51, 52 arranged near the first and second lateral sides 401, 402; and

third and fourth toggle-latch members 53, 54 arranged in the vicinity of the third and fourth lateral sides 403, 404.

In a manner similar to the unit size pallet modules 10, the main structure 400 of the unit size pallet modules 40 preferably assumes a square shape and all larger size pallet modules (not shown) of the same category assume a similar configuration, allowing the pallet modules to be combinable with one another. For example, the unit length (L1) of a unit size pallet module 40 is here approximately 192 mm.

The first through fourth toggle-type latch members 51-54 are also disposed on the upper side 400B of the main structure 400 at least partially within respective recesses 451-454 formed below the upper surface of the upper side 400B of the main structure 400.

One difference between the pallet module 40 of fig. 10A-10B and the pallet modules 10, 20, 30 of fig. 1A-1H, 3A-3C and 4A-4C is the configuration of the first and second lateral flanges 410, 420 and the first and second lateral grooves 430, 440, with the first and second lateral flanges 410, 420 and the first and second lateral grooves 430, 440 extending along only a portion of the associated lateral side 401 and 404. It will also be appreciated that each lateral flange 410, 420 is provided with a respective pair of locating recesses 410A, 420A, and each lateral groove 430, 440 is likewise provided with a pair of projections 430A, 440A, the function of which remains the same as that previously described.

Another difference is the configuration of the leg structure 90, in this example the leg structure 90 comprises a fixed leg structure provided on the underside 400C of the main structure 400 and comprises a leg element 91 formed integrally with the main structure 400. Advantageously, as shown, the leg elements 91 exhibit a conical shape and the main structure 400 is configured to exhibit corresponding recesses on the upper side 400B, allowing a plurality of pallet modules 40 to be stacked one on top of the other, which reduces space consumption when stacking.

The foregoing pallet module configurations and dimensions are examples of possible embodiments of the present invention. According to another embodiment of the invention it is envisaged that the main structure of each of the larger size pallet modules has a size corresponding to an integer multiple of the unit size of the pallet module of the unit size.

In particular, the unit size pallet modules may exhibit a square shape with a size of L1 × L1 (similar to the pallet modules 10 of fig. 1A-1H or the pallet modules 40 of fig. 10A-10B), and the peripheral boundary of the primary structure of each of the larger size pallet modules may exhibit a square shape with a size of n L1 × n × L1, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Even more preferably, a pallet module of larger size may present a size of 2ⁿ*L1×2ⁿSquare shape of L1. Figures 11A-11B to 13A-13B illustrate a class of pallet modules following this principle. In this case, the optimum dimensions include in particular the dimensions derived from the unit length L1, the unit length L1 being in the range from 150mm to 300mm, and in particular 180mm-192mm, 239mm-256mm or 272mm-288mm, which constitute particularly preferred dimensions. However, in the case where the pallet modules of a unit size exhibit a rectangular shape with different length and width dimensions, the same principle can be applied, with the result that each pallet module of a larger size of the category will likewise exhibit a rectangular shape with dimensions that are integer multiples of the unit size of the pallet module of a unit size.

Fig. 11A-11B are two perspective views, taken from different perspectives, of a pallet module according to yet another embodiment of the invention, the pallet module being generally indicated by reference numeral 10 and the pallet module forming part of a pallet module of another category. Like the pallet modules 10 of fig. 1A-1H and the pallet modules 40 of fig. 10A-10B, the pallet modules 10 will be referred to as "pallet modules per unit size".

Fig. 12A-12B are two perspective views, taken from different perspectives, of a pallet module, generally indicated by reference numeral 20, according to an embodiment of the invention and forming part of the same category of pallet modules as the pallet module 10 of fig. 11A-11B. The pallet module 20 will also be referred to as a "medium sized pallet module".

Fig. 13A-13B are two perspective views, taken from different perspectives, of a pallet module according to an embodiment of the invention, generally indicated by reference numeral 30, and likewise forming part of the same kind of pallet module as the pallet module 10 of fig. 11A-11B and the pallet module 20 of fig. 12A-12B. The pallet module 30 will also be referred to as a "large-size pallet module".

The pallet modules 10, 20 and 30 share a number of common features including:

-respective main structures 100, 200, 300 presenting respective substantially quadrangular peripheral boundaries 100A, 200A, 300A, wherein respective first to fourth lateral sides 101-104, 201-204, 301-304 extend between respective upper and lower sides 100B, 100C, 200B, 200C, 300B, 300C of the respective main structures 100, 200, 300,

respective first and second lateral flanges 110, 120, 210, 220, 310, 320 extending outwardly from respective peripheral boundaries 100A, 200A, 300A of respective main structures 100, 200, 300 along respective first and second lateral sides 101, 102, 201, 202, 301, 302,

respective first and second lateral recesses 130, 140, 230, 240, 330, 340 extending inwardly from respective peripheral boundaries 100A, 200A, 300A of respective main structures 100, 200, 300 along respective third and fourth lateral sides 103, 104, 203, 204, 303, 304,

leg structures 90 arranged on respective undersides 100C, 200C, 300C of respective main structures 100 x, 200 x, 300 x,

first and second toggle-type latch members 51, 52 arranged in proximity to respective first and second lateral sides 101, 102, 201, 202, 301, 302, and

third and fourth toggle-latch members 53, 54 arranged in proximity to respective third and fourth lateral sides 103, 104, 203, 204, 303, 304.

The first to fourth toggle-type latch members 51-54 are also disposed on the respective upper sides 100B, 200B, 300B of the respective main structural bodies 100, 200, 300, respectively, at least partially in the respective recesses 151-154, 251-254, 351-354 formed below the upper surfaces of the respective upper sides 100B, 200B, 300B of the respective main structural bodies 100, 200, 300.

The main structures 100, 200, 300 of the unit-size pallet module 10, the medium-size pallet module 20, and the large-size pallet module 30, respectively, each have a square shape. The length of the main structure 200 of the medium-sized pallet module 20 is here twice the unit length (L1), while the length of the main structure 300 of the large-sized pallet module 30 is four times the unit length (L1). For example, the unit length (L1) of a unit size pallet module 10 is about 287.5mm, which means that the lengths of a medium size pallet module 20 and a large size pallet module 30 are 575mm and 1150mm, respectively. Other dimensions may again be considered without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. The number of toggle latch members 51-54 along each side increases as the size of the pallet module increases, i.e. one from each side of the unit size pallet module 10 to two on each side of the medium size pallet module 20 and four on each side of the large size pallet module 30.

In a manner similar to the pallet module 40 of fig. 10A-10B, the leg structures 90 in each case comprise a fixed leg structure comprising one or more leg elements 91, the leg elements 91 being made integral with the respective main structure 100, 200, 300. Advantageously, the respective main structure 100 x, 200 x, 300 x is also configured to present one or more respective recesses on the respective upper side 100B, 200B, 300B, thereby allowing stacking of a plurality of pallet modules one on top of the other.

According to another variant of the invention, which is reflected in all the illustrated embodiments shown in fig. 1A-1H, 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 10A-10B, 11A-11B, 12A-12B and 13A-13B, the through holes 190 may be provided in the respective main structural body 100, 200, 300, 400, 100, 200, 300 and in the respective first and second lateral flanges 110, 120, 210, 220, 310, 320, 410, 420, 320 next to the toggle latch members 51-54, these through holes 190 extending from the upper surface to the lower surface of the main structural body and from the upper surface to the lower surface of the first and second lateral flanges. Fig. 1A-1H, 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 11A-11B, 12A-12B, and 13A-13B actually show a pair of such through holes 190 disposed adjacent each toggle-type latch member 51-54, while fig. 10A-10B only show one such through hole 190 disposed adjacent each toggle-type latch member 51-54. An advantage of these through holes 190 is that they may be used for the purpose of passing a rope, belt or similar securing strap to secure a load on an associated pallet assembly. These through holes 190 may also be used to mount vertical posts on the pallet assembly to support, for example, sidewalls or barriers.

Fig. 5A-5B-7A-7B show further improvements of the invention shown in the specific context of pallet module 10, but the improvements apply by analogy to any other pallet module, including pallet modules 20 and 30 of fig. 3A-3C and 4A-4C, pallet module 40 of fig. 10A-10B, and pallet modules 10, 20, and 30 of fig. 11A-11B-13A-13B.

Fig. 5A-5B show the pallet module 10 of fig. 1A-1H additionally provided with a pair of cover elements 170, 180, the cover elements 170, 180 being configured to cover the upper sides of the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120, the upper surface of each cover element 170, 180 being flush with the upper surface of the upper side 100B of the main structure 100 of the pallet module 10. Each cover element 170, 180 is shown separately in fig. 6A-6B and 7A-7B, respectively.

Although two cover elements 170, 180 are shown in fig. 5A-5B, it is clearly contemplated that a single L-shaped cover element may be used to cover both the first and second lateral flanges 110, 120.

It should also be understood that each cover element may also cover a portion of the first or second transverse flange of another pallet module in the nested pallet assembly, such as disclosed by way of illustration in fig. 9A and 9B.

Regardless of the above, each cover element comprises a respective at least one toggle-latch member 71, 81, the respective at least one toggle-latch member 71, 81 being configured to mate with and interlock with a respective one of the first and second latch members 51, 52 of the pallet module 10 to form a releasable toggle-latch 500, thereby allowing the cover element to be secured to or released from the pallet module 10. In the example shown, each toggle-type latch member 71, 81 comprises a catch element comprising the same catch portion 550 as the third and fourth toggle-type latch members 53, 54, which catch element is located in a corresponding recess 171, 181 of the cover element, respectively.

Also visible in fig. 5A-5B-7A-7B are extensions 170A, 180A provided on the underside of each cover element 170, 180 to fill the gaps of the positioning notches 110A, 120A formed along the outer edges of the first and second lateral flanges 110, 120.

Fig. 9A and 9B are two schematic top views of a pallet assembly formed by combining a plurality of pallet modules according to the invention.

More specifically, fig. 9A shows a pallet assembly 1000 formed from nine unit size pallet modules 10 assembled together to form a square pallet assembly. In this illustrative example, the two cover elements 170 'and 180' are located on a portion of the pallet assembly 1000 where the first and second lateral flanges 110, 120 of the pallet module 10 would otherwise be exposed.

Fig. 9B shows another pallet assembly 1000 formed of four pallet modules, namely two large-size pallet modules 20 and two medium-size pallet modules 30. In a manner similar to the pallet assembly 1000 of fig. 9A, the two cover elements 170 and 180 are located on a portion of the pallet assembly 1000 where the first and second lateral flanges 210, 220, 310, 320 of the pallet modules 20, 30 would otherwise be exposed.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the unit size of the unit size pallet modules (including the above-mentioned unit size pallet modules 10, 40 or 10) may be selected such that the total width of such a pallet assembly fits the width of a door opening (door opening) of a standard railway/marine container and may occupy more than 95% (preferably more than 98%) of the width of the door opening when the total width of the pallet assembly is equal to an integer multiple of the width (or length) L1 of the unit size pallet module. The relevant width of the door opening of a standard railway/sea container may in particular be about 2.33 meters (or 92 inches). In this case, the above requirements will for example be fulfilled with a pallet assembly having a total width equal to eight times the width L1 of a unit size pallet module (which has a unit size of about 290mm x 290 mm).

Similarly, according to another embodiment of the invention, the unit dimensions of the unit size pallet modules may be selected such that the total width of such a pallet assembly fits the width of a door opening of a standard truck shipping container and may occupy more than 95% (preferably more than 98%) of the width of the door opening when the total width of the pallet assembly is equal to an integer multiple of the width (or length) L1 of the unit size pallet modules. The relevant width of the door opening of a standard truck shipping container may particularly be about 2.5 meters (or 98 inches). In this case, the above requirements will for example be fulfilled with a pallet assembly having a total width equal to twelve times the width L1 of a unit size pallet module (which has a unit size of about 206mm x 206 mm).

According to a particularly preferred application of the invention, the pallet module may advantageously be configured to be compatible with and enable a so-called Internet of things (PI) Global Logistics model, also known as the Internet of things Initiative (Physical Internet Initiative) (see in particular "towarda Physical Internet: Meeting the Global Logistics Sustainability Challenge)", Benoit montreal, 2011 1 month, CIRRELT-2011-03, which publication is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). The internet of things encapsulates physical objects in physical packages or containers (referred to as "pi-containers"). The modularity of the pallet concept of the invention is in fact a functional realization of this packaging principle. The 'encapsulation' is one of three requirements of the global logistics model of the Internet of things, and the other two requirements are 'protocol' and 'interface'. The invention further acts as an enabler to achieve these two other requirements as it allows standardization of pallet modules for different size and load requirements and provides additional flexibility to enable the reassembly of the entire freight stream at the distribution center (or node). In this case, each pallet module may also include a smart tag (e.g., based on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) or global positioning system technology (GPS)), providing identification and traceability of each pallet module, which is another functional enabler of the global logistics model of the internet of things. The smart tag is particularly useful for ensuring identification, integrity, routing, regulation, monitoring, traceability and security for each pi-container, and further enables distributed handling, storage and routing automation.

Various modifications and/or improvements may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims. For example, although the illustrated embodiment shows a pallet module in which the first and second flanges and the first and second lateral grooves are contiguous, the first and second lateral flanges and the first and second lateral grooves may alternatively be provided on opposite lateral sides of the main structure of the pallet module. In this respect, the expressions "first lateral side", "second lateral side", "third lateral side" and "fourth lateral side" should not be interpreted to mean any particular order of the sides, but any of the four lateral sides forming the peripheral boundary of the quadrilateral of the main structure of the pallet module.

Furthermore, it should be understood that each pallet module may comprise a plurality of transverse flanges and a corresponding plurality of transverse grooves arranged at different heights, which are configured to cooperate with a plurality of transverse flanges of another similar pallet module.

Furthermore, as mentioned above, the foot structure may be designed as a releasable foot structure or a fixing foot structure, the fixing foot structure comprising one or more fixing foot elements, which are made integral with or permanently attached to the main structure of the pallet module.

It should also be understood that the category of pallet modules of the invention is not limited to only including unit size pallet modules, medium size pallet modules and large size pallet modules.

Furthermore, the outer perimeter boundary of the main structure of a unit size pallet module does not necessarily need to assume a square shape, but may for example be a rectangular shape with different width and length dimensions. The invention is applicable to virtually any pallet module in which the main structure exhibits a substantially quadrilateral peripheral boundary.

Lists of reference numerals and symbols used therein

10 (unit size) pallet module (first class of pallet modules)

100 main structure of pallet module 10

100A main structure 100 has a substantially quadrangular outer periphery

100B upper side of the main structure 100

Lower side of 100C main structure 100

101 first lateral side of main structure 100

102 second lateral side of main structure 100

103 the third lateral side of the main structure 100

104 fourth lateral side of the main structure 100

110 first transverse flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 100A of the main structure 100 along the first transverse side 101

110A are positioned notches formed along the outer edge of the first transverse flange 110

120 second lateral flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 100A of the main structure 100 along the second lateral side 102

120A are formed along the outer edge of the second transverse flange 120

130 first lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 100A of the main structure 100 along the third lateral side 103

130A formed as a protrusion within the first lateral groove 130

140 second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 100A of the main structure 100 along the fourth lateral side 104

140A formed in the second lateral groove 140

151 receive the recess of the first toggle latch member 51

152 receive the recess of the second toggle latch member 52

153 recess to receive the third toggle latch member 53

154 receive the recess of the third toggle latch member 54

161 reinforcing element/first series of longitudinal rod elements extending within the main structure 100

162 extending within the main structure 100 and the first and second transverse flanges 110, 120, a reinforcing element/second series of longitudinal rod elements

20 (large size) pallet module (first class of pallet modules)

200 pallet module 20 main structure

200A main structure 200 has a substantially quadrangular outer peripheral boundary

200B upper side of the main structure 200

200C lower side of the main structure 200

201 first lateral side of the main structure 200

202 second lateral side of the main structure 200

203 third lateral side of the main structure 200

204 fourth lateral side of the main structure 200

210A first transverse flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 200A of the main structure 200 along a first transverse side 201

210A are positioned notches formed along the outer edge of the first transverse flange 210

220 second lateral flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 200A of the main structure 200 along the second lateral side 202

220A are formed along the outer edge of the second transverse flange 220

230 first lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 200A of the main structural body 200 along the third lateral side 203

230A form a protrusion within the first lateral groove 230

240 second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 200A of the main structure 200 along the fourth lateral side 204

240A formed as a projection in the second lateral groove 240

251 receives the recess of the first toggle latch member 51

252 receive the recess of the second toggle latch member 52

253 recess to receive the third toggle latch member 53

254 receive the recess of the third toggle latch member 54

261 reinforcing element/first series of longitudinal rod elements extending within the main structure 200

262 reinforcing element/second series of longitudinal rod elements extending within the main structure 200 and the first and second transverse flanges 210, 220

30 (medium size) pallet module (first class of pallet modules)

300 pallet module 30 main structure

300A main structure 300 has a substantially quadrangular outer periphery

300B upper side of the main structure 300

300C lower side of the main structure 300

301 first lateral side of the main structure 300

302 second lateral side of main structure 300

303 third lateral side of main structure 300

304 fourth lateral side of main structure 300

310 first lateral flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 300A of the main structure 300 along a first lateral side 301

310A are formed along the outer edge of the first transverse flange 310

320 second lateral flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 300A of the main structure 300 along the second lateral side 302

320A are formed along the outer edge of the second transverse flange 320

330 first lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 300A of the main structure 300 along the third lateral side 303

330A form a protrusion in the first transverse groove 330

340 second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 300A of the main structure 300 along the fourth lateral side 304

340A form a protrusion in the second lateral groove 340

351 receive the recess of the first toggle latch member 51

352 receives the recess of the second toggle latch member 52

353 a recess receiving the third toggle latch member 53

354 receive the recess of the third toggle latch member 54

361 reinforcing element/first series of longitudinal rod elements extending within the main structure 300

362 reinforcing element/second series of longitudinal rod elements extending within the main structure 300 and the first and second transverse flanges 310, 320

40 (unit size) pallet module (second category of pallet module)

400 main structure of pallet module 40

400A main structure 400 has a substantially quadrangular outer periphery

400B upper side of the main structure body 400

400C lower side of the main structure 400

401 first lateral side of main structure 400

402 second lateral side of the main structure 400

403 third lateral side of the main structure 400

404 a fourth lateral side of the main structure 400

410A first transverse flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 400A of the main structure 400 along a portion of the first transverse side 401

410A positioning notch formed along the outer edge of the first transverse flange 410

420 second lateral flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 400A of the main structure 400 along a portion of the second lateral side 402

420A, a positioning notch formed along the outer edge of the second transverse flange 420

430 first lateral groove extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 400A of the main structure 400 along a portion of the third lateral side 403

430A formed in the first lateral groove 430

440 second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 400A of the main structure 400 along the fourth lateral side 403

440A formed in the second lateral groove 440

451 receiving the recess of the first toggle latch member 51

452 receives the recess of the second toggle latch member 52

453 of the third toggle latch member 53

454 receive a recess of the third toggle latch member 54

461 reinforcing elements (longitudinal rods) extending within the main structure 400

462 extending within the main structure 400 and the second transverse flange 420 are stiffening elements (longitudinal rods)

10 x (unit size) pallet module (third category of pallet module)

100 main structure of pallet module 10

100A main structure 100A has a substantially rectangular outer peripheral boundary

100B upper side of main structure 100

100C underside of main structure 100

101 first lateral side of main structure 100

102 second lateral side of main structure 100

103 the third lateral side of the main structure 100

104 the fourth lateral side of the main structure 100

110 first transverse flange extending outwardly from outer peripheral boundary 100A of main structure 100 along first transverse side 101

110A locating notch formed along an outer edge of the first lateral flange 110

120, second lateral flanges extending outwardly from outer peripheral boundary 100A of main structure 100 along second lateral sides 102

120A positioning notches formed along the outer edge of the second lateral flange 120

130 first transverse grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 100A of the main structure 100 along a third transverse side 103

130A formed in the first lateral groove 130

140 second lateral grooves extending inwardly from outer peripheral boundary 100A of main structure 100 along fourth lateral side 104

140A formed in the second lateral groove 140

151 receiving a recess of the first toggle latch member 51

152 receives the recess of the second toggle latch member 52

153 recess receiving the third toggle latch member 53

154 recess receiving the third toggle latch member 54

161 reinforcing elements (longitudinal bars) extending within the main structure 100 and the first transverse flange 110

162 reinforcing elements (longitudinal rods) extending within the main structure 100

20 x (medium size) pallet module (third category of pallet module)

200 main structure of pallet module 20

200A main structure 200A has substantially quadrangular outer periphery

200B upper side of main structure 200

200C lower side of main structure 200

201 first lateral side of main structure 200

202 second lateral side of main structure 200

203 a third lateral side of the main structure 200

204 of the fourth lateral side of the main structure 200

210 first transverse flange extending outwardly from outer peripheral boundary 200A of main structure 200 along first transverse side 201

210A are positioned notches formed along the outer edge of the first lateral flange 210

220, extending outwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 200A of the main structure 200 along a second lateral side 202

220A are positioned notches formed along the outer edge of the second lateral flange 220

230 first lateral grooves extending inwardly from outer peripheral boundary 200A of main structure 200 along third lateral side 203

230A formed in the first lateral groove 230

240 second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 200A of the main structure 200 along a fourth lateral side 204

240A formed in the second lateral groove 240

251 recess receiving the first toggle latch member 51

252 recess receiving the second toggle latch member 52

253 recess receiving the third toggle latch member 53

254 receives the recess of the third toggle latch member 54

261 reinforcing elements (longitudinal rods) extending within the main structure 200 and the first transverse flange 210

262 reinforcing elements (longitudinal rods) extending within the main structure 200

30 x (large size) pallet module (third category of pallet module)

300 × pallet module 30 main structure

300A main structure 300A has a substantially rectangular outer peripheral boundary

300B upper side of the main structure 300

300C underside of main structure 300

301 first lateral side of main structure 300

302 second lateral side of main structure 300

303 third lateral side of main structure 300

304 the fourth lateral side of the main structure 300

310 first transverse flange extending outwardly from outer peripheral boundary 300A of main structure 300 along first transverse side 301

310A locating notch formed along an outer edge of the first lateral flange 310

320 second lateral flange extending outwardly from outer peripheral boundary 300A of main structure 300 along second lateral side 302

320A locating notch formed along the outer edge of the second lateral flange 320

330 first lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 300A of the main structure 300 along a third lateral side 303

330A formed in the first lateral groove 330

340 second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the outer peripheral boundary 300A of the main structure 300 along a fourth lateral side 304

340A formed in the second lateral groove 340

351 receiving the recess of the first toggle latch member 51

352 recess receiving the second toggle latch member 52

353 recess receiving the third toggle latch member 53

354 to receive the recess of the third toggle latch member 54

361 extending within the main structure 300 and the first transverse flange 310 are reinforcing elements (longitudinal bars)

362 reinforcing elements (longitudinal rods) extending within the main structure 300

51 a first toggle latch member/spring-loaded latch element arranged in the vicinity of the respective first lateral side 101, 201, 301, 401, 101, 201, 301

52 second toggle latch member/spring-loaded latch element disposed adjacent respective second lateral sides 102, 202, 302, 402, 102, 202, 302

53 third toggle latch member/catch element arranged in the vicinity of the respective third lateral side 103, 203, 303, 403, 103, 203, 303

54 fourth toggle latch member/catch element arranged in the vicinity of the respective fourth lateral side 104, 204, 304, 404, 104, 204, 304

170 is configured as a covering element covering an upper side of the first transverse flange

170A cover the extension of the element 170 configured to fill the gap of the positioning notch on the first lateral flange

171 are formed in the cover member 170 to receive the toggle latch member 71

180 is configured as a covering element covering the upper side of the second transverse flange

180A cover the extension of the element 180 configured to fill the gap of the positioning notch on the second lateral flange

181 are formed in the cover element 180 in recesses to receive the toggle latch members 81

170' is configured as a covering element covering the upper side of the first transverse flange

180' is configured as a covering element covering the upper side of the second transverse flange

170 arranged to cover an upper side of the first transverse flange

180 configured as a covering element covering the upper side of the second transverse flange

71 toggle latch/catch element arranged on the respective cover element 170, 170

81 toggle latch/catch element arranged on respective cover element 180, 180

500 releasable toggle latch

510 movable latching portions of respective spring-loaded latching elements 51, 52

520 are mechanically connected to a handle portion of the movable latch portion 510

550 corresponding to the latching portions of the latching elements 53, 54, 71, 81

90 stand bar structure (releasable)

91 releasable leg element

91A releasable leg member 91 head sized and configured to be received in either the mounting hole 92A of a leg receiving member 92 or the lower mounting hole 91C of another releasable leg member 91

91B the retaining portion 91B of the head 91A is configured to mate with a spring-loaded retaining element 95 or 95

91C lower mounting hole provided in the lower part of the releasable leg element 91/dimensioned to receive the head 91A of another releasable leg element 91

92 foot receiving elements provided on respective undersides 100C, 200C, 300C of respective main structures 100, 200, 300

92A mounting holes provided in the foot receiving member 92/dimensioned to receive the head 91A of the releasable foot member 91

92B head of a foot receiving element 92 for attachment to a respective underside 100C, 200C, 300C of a respective main structure 100, 200, 300

95 spring-loaded retaining members provided on the foot-receiving member 92 and appearing in the mounting holes 92A

95 spring-loaded holding elements provided on the lower part of the releasable leg elements 91 and emerging into the lower mounting holes 91C

Leg structure of 90 x respective pallet modules 40, 10 x, 20 x, 30 x (fixed)

91 fixing leg element

190 through-holes extending from the upper surface to the lower surface of the respective main structural body 100, 200, 300, 400, 100, 200, 300, and from the upper surface to the lower surface of the respective first and second lateral flanges 110, 120, 210, 220, 310, 320, 410, 420, 110, 120, 210, 220, 310, 320

1000 pallet assembly of a plurality of pallet modules 10, the pallet modules 10 being nested within one another and interlocked with one another

1000 pallet assembly of a plurality of pallet modules 20, 30, the pallet modules 20, 30 being nested within one another and interlocked with one another

L1 length (and width) of the corresponding pallet module 10, 40, 10 (unit length) per unit size

L2 Pallet Module 20 Length (and Width)

Length of L3 pallet module 30

W3 width of the pallet module 30.