Energy Consumption When Transporting Pallet Loads Using a Forklift with an Anti Slip Pad Preventing Damage

Abstract

A large number of processes for transporting and handling palletized goods using a forklift in logistics centers is usually associated with an increase in pallet and load damage. Therefore, first of all, the “damage mechanism” was identified. A classic “state of the art” analysis was conducted. The paper presents the essence of the authors’ hybrid idea of:—locking the load;—while increasing the coefficient of friction between the pallet and the forks of the forklift; but so as not to compromise on the existing functionality of the forklift forks. The idea turned out to be an innovation that required intellectual property protection, hence it was not only described in a paper but also patented. It is about an extra element that is not standard on forklifts—a forklift fork attachment. The paper discusses mechanical damage to loads involving a forklift, load damage test results, anti-slip forklift attachment, computational model of the attachment, prototype, and real-world testing of the attachment on a forklift in a logistics center. Design data from the FEM calculation system, photos of:—the prototype with components,—the prototype on tests in the logistics center were made available. The paper concludes with a pallet and load damage study performed at a logistics center and an insulation panel factory. The level of accuracy of the publication is detailed enough that the reader can make the attachment on their own and, using the content of the paper, adapt it to the needs of their own logistics system.