PLASTIC PALLET WITH REMOVABLE ELASTOMER FOOTPADS

Abstract

Disclosed is a transport system (100), including: a pallet (110), formed from plastic, wherein the pallet extends heightwise from a pallet top deck (130) to a pallet bottom deck (140) to define a pallet height, lengthwise from a pallet forward end (160) to a pallet aft end (170) to define a pallet length, and widthwise from a pallet first side (190) to a pallet second side (200) to define a pallet width, wherein the pallet bottom deck defines a pocket (210), the pocket defines a pocket sidewall that extends heightwise into the pallet, from the pallet bottom deck to a pocket base to define a pocket height; and a pad (240), formed of an elastomer, having complementary shape to the pocket and configured to be removably secured within the pocket, to define a pallet foot.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

Disclosed herein is a pallet for moving freight and more specifically to a plastic pallet with removable elastomer footpads. Also disclosed herein is a support system.

BACKGROUND

Pallets are portable rigid platforms used to consolidate shipments and allow for ease of freight movement. Pallets are commonly made of either wood or plastic. Plastic pallets loaded with freight can be moved from one location to another, such as when loading a freight truck, via a chain conveyor system. Slippage between chains of the chain conveyor and the plastic pallets can generate frictional heat leading to damage. Complicating a solution is that there is no one standard spacing between the chains in conveyor systems. There is a desire to prevent the occurrence of such damage to a plastic pallet.

DE 20 2007 011531 teaches a transport pallet, consisting of a support surface for the goods to be transported and on the underside thereof spaced blocks designed as feet, which is characterized in that at least some of the blocks on or near the outer circumference of the Pallet are arranged, a recess open to an outside is provided in which at least one holding element firmly connected to the block is arranged.

JP H10 77037 A teaches a non-slip member which is utilized to impart non-slip properties to the synthetic resin pallets, strip, formed in a strip shape from a slip resistant material and parts, a cylindrical insertion leg tip is opened while being more disposed spaced to one side of the strip portion, characterized in that integrally provided

JP S49 24837 Y1 teaches a palette having a number of reinforcing ribs.

EP 1 980 495 A1 teaches a multifunctional pallet for transporting goods by means of manipulation with a forklift, consisting of a single-part body comprised of a platform, the lower side of which, in correspondence with their vertices, comprises support legs, characterized in that the platform has a flat upper side with a plurality of slots configured to couple panels that laterally contain objects disposed on the platform.

US 2005/150892 A1 teaches a container includes a base having both side and end walls connected thereto to form a body having an opening at the top closed by a removable lid. The walls are made of a double walled construction and include an outer panel and an inner panel. An inwardly recessed ledge is formed adjacent the top to receive and mate with a lower rim of the lid. At least one latch member is mounted completely within an upper portion of each of two opposed walls and is movable between a locked and an unlocked position to lock or unlock the lid on the body of the container.

SUMMARY

Disclosed is a transport system, including: a pallet, formed from plastic, wherein the pallet extends heightwise from a pallet top deck to a pallet bottom deck to define a pallet height, lengthwise from a pallet forward end to a pallet aft end to define a pallet length, and widthwise from a pallet first side to a pallet second side to define a pallet width, wherein, the pallet bottom deck defines a pocket, the pocket defines a pocket sidewall that extends heightwise into the pallet, from the pallet bottom deck to a pocket base to define a pocket height; and a pad, formed of an elastomer, having complementary shape to the pocket and configured to be removably secured within the pocket, to define a pallet foot.

Further disclosed is a pad for placement in a pocket of a pallet, the pad including: a pad top surface, wherein: the pad extends heightwise from the pad top surface that to a pad bottom surface to define a pad height, the pad extends lengthwise from a pad forward end to a pad aft end to define a pad length, and the pad extends widthwise from a pad first side to a pad second side to define a pad width; pad ribs extend heightwise from the pad bottom surface, the pad ribs extend lengthwise from the pad forward end to the pad aft end, and the pad ribs are spaced widthwise from each other so that adjacent pairs of the pad ribs respectively define a chain receiving track; and the pad is formed of an elastomer.

Further disclosed is a method including: positioning elastomer pads in pockets formed about a bottom deck of a plastic pallet that is configured to transport freight; and removing the pads from the pockets after transporting freight.

Further disclosed is a support system including: a primary platform defining a plastic pallet, the primary platform formed by primary platform segments, that are interconnectable with each other, the primary platform segments each include a first side and a second side, the first and second sides, each define one of notches and tabs to respectively mate with tabs and notches of other ones of the primary platform segments, to thereby interconnect adjacent ones of the primary platform segments, wherein the primary platform segments each define primary legs extending downwardly therefrom, wherein the primary legs are sized to impart a primary slope along the primary platform, wherein the primary slope is 0.5 to 5 degrees, for example, one degree; and secondary platform segments that are interconnectable with each other and with the primary platform segments to form an extension of the primary platform, wherein the secondary platform segments each define secondary legs extending downwardly therefrom, wherein the secondary legs are sized so that the primary platform and the extension of the primary platform are smoothly continuous and planar with each other, wherein the primary platform has one of a circular and a rectangular shape; and wherein the primary platform has one of a continuous and a discontinuous top surface.

These and other features and characteristics are more particularly described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following is a brief description of the drawings wherein like elements are numbered alike and which is presented for the purposes of illustrating the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein and not for the purposes of limiting the same.

FIG. 1A shows a top perspective view of a pallet according to an embodiment;

FIG. 1B shows a bottom perspective view of a pallet with pads located in pockets formed in the pallet according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2A shows a top view of a pallet according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2B shows a side view of a pallet according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2C shows a bottom view of a pallet with pads located in pockets formed in the pallet according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a view of section 3A, identified in FIG. 2A, of the pallet;

FIG. 3B is a view of section 3B, identified in FIG. 3A, of the pallet;

FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the pad according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5A is a top view of an embodiment of the pallet, where the pockets are formed with fastener channels;

FIG. 5B is a cross sectional view of the pallet along section lines 5B-5B identified in FIG. 5A, and identifies sections 6A and 6B, described below;

FIG. 6A shows a section of the pallet pocket, with a pad in the pocket;

FIG. 6B is a section of the pallet pocket, without a pad in the pocket;

FIG. 7A is a bottom view of the pallet shown in FIG. 1A without pads in the pockets;

FIG. 7B is a bottom perspective view of the pallet, similar to that shown in FIG. 1B;

FIG. 8A is a bottom perspective view of the pad shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 8B is a bottom perspective view of the pad, similar to that shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 8C is a bottom perspective view of the pad according to an embodiment where dimples are provided along the bottom of the pad;

FIG. 8D is a bottom perspective view of the pad according to an embodiment where slots are provided through the dimples;

FIG. 8E shows the same aspects shown in FIG. 6A, with features of a fastener boss identified in greater detail;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a method of utilizing the pallet according to an embodiment;

FIG. 10A is a bottom view of the pallet with pads, similar to FIG. 2C, and identifies sections 10B and 10C, described below;

FIG. 10B shows a center pad installed in the pallet as shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 10C shows a side pad installed in the pallet as shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11A shows a top perspective view of a support pallet according to an embodiment, where the support pallet has a circular deck;

FIG. 11B shows a bottom perspective view of the support pallet of FIG. 11A, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11C shows a bottom perspective view of interconnectable portions of the support pallet of FIG. 11A, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11D shows a side view of the support pallet of FIG. 11A, according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a support pallet according to an embodiment, where the support pallet has a square deck.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

As indicated, plastic pallets, loaded with freight, can be moved from one location to another, such as when loading a freight truck, via a chain conveyor system. Slippage between chains of the chain conveyor and plastic pallets can generate frictional heat leading to damage. Complicating a solution is that there is no one standard spacing between the chains in conveyor systems.

To address the above issues related to plastic pallets, a transport system (or system) 100 is shown in FIGS. 1A-1B and 2A-2C. The system 100 includes a pallet 110, formed from a first material, e.g., a plastic. The pallet 110 extends downwardly, heightwise (e.g., in the heightwise direction) 120, from a pallet top deck 130 to a pallet bottom deck 140 to define a pallet height. The pallet 110 extends lengthwise (e.g., in the lengthwise direction) 150 from a pallet forward end 160 to a pallet aft end 170 to define a pallet length. The pallet extends widthwise (e.g., in the widthwise direction) 180 from a pallet first side 190 to a pallet second side 200 to define a pallet width.

As shown in FIG. 2A, and more clearly in FIGS. 3A-3B, the pallet bottom deck 140 defines a pocket (generally referred to as 210). The pocket 210 defines a pocket sidewall 220 that extends heightwise 120 into the pallet 110, from the pallet bottom deck 140 to a pocket base 230 to define a pocket height. As shown in FIGS. 2B and 4, and discussed in greater detail below, a pad (generally referred to as 240), formed of a second material, such as an elastomer, is removably secured within the pocket 210. The pad 240 has a complementary shape to the pocket 210 and the pad 240 defines a pallet foot. In one embodiment, the pad 240 is configured for a friction fit within the pocket 210, while in other embodiments a press fit secures the pad 240 to the pocket (e.g., FIG. 6A, discussed below). In one embodiment, the pallet bottom deck 140 is formed to be quarter symmetric in that the bottom deck 140 is symmetric about lengthwise and widthwise bisecting axes.

Turning back to FIGS. 3A-3B, pocket ribs 320 extend downwardly, heightwise 120, from the pocket base 230 toward the pallet bottom deck 140. The pocket ribs 320 form a grid that divides the pocket base 230 into pocket grid sections 230a, 230b. Though six pocket grid sections are shown in FIG. 3A, arranged in three widthwise rows of the pocket grid sections (with two pocket grid sections in each row), two pocket grid sections 230a, 230b are labeled for simplicity. The pocket ribs 320 are configured to engage pad grooves 330 (FIG. 4) formed in a pad top surface 250 of the pad 240. In one embodiment, the pocket grid sections 230a, 230b have a same size as each other. In one embodiment, ones of the pocket grid sections 230a, 230b that are adjacent to either of the pallet first side 190 or pallet second side 200 are narrower than others of the pocket grid sections 230a, 230b. In another embodiment, ones of the pocket grid sections 230a, 230b that are further from either of the pallet first side 190 or pallet second side 200 are narrower than others of the pocket grid sections 230a, 230b. In a further embodiment, in the widthwise direction, the widthwise rows of the pocket grid sections may be consecutively larger relative to each other. In such embodiment, the widthwise inner row (closer to the widthwise center of the pallet) of the pocket grid sections may be the narrowest of the widthwise rows of the pocket grid sections.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the pocket base 230 of the pocket 210 defines a pocket base bottom 340 that faces downwardly, heightwise 120, toward the pallet bottom deck 140. The pocket base 230 defines a pocket base body 350 that extends upwardly, heightwise 120, by a pocket base thickness from the pocket base bottom 340 to a pocket base top 360. The pocket base top 360 is orientated to face upwardly, heightwise 120, toward the pallet top deck 130. The pocket base bottom 340 is configured to engage the pad top surface 250 (FIG. 4) when the pad 240 is removably secured within the pocket 210.

Turning to FIGS. 5A-5B, and more clearly in 6A-6B, the pocket base 230 defines a fastener channel (shown in FIG. 6B and generally referred to as 370). The fastener channel 370 is defined by a fastener channel sidewall 380 (FIG. 6B) that extends upwardly, heightwise 120, from the pocket base bottom 340 to the pocket base top 360, to define a fastener channel height. In one embodiment, the fastener channel 370 is cylindrical to define a fastener channel diameter. The fastener channel 370 is configured to be resiliently engaged by a dimple or fastener boss (generally referred to as 390) that extends upwardly, heightwise 120, from the pad top surface 250 (FIG. 6A). As indicated below, the fastener boss 390 is conformingly shaped for the friction fit within the fastener channel 370.

As further shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, a plurality of the fastener channels (e.g., first and second fastener channels) 370a, 370b are respectively formed in ones of the pocket grid sections 230a, 230b. At least two of the fastener channels 370a, 370b have fastener channel diameters that differ from each other. Ones of the fastener channels 370a, 370b that are adjacent to either of the pallet first side 190 or pallet second side 200 have smaller fastener channel diameters than others of the fastener channels 370a, 370b. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the first fastener channel 370a, which is closer to the pallet second side 200 than the second fastener channel 370b has a smaller fastener channel diameter than the second fastener channel 370b. In one embodiment, the opposite configuration is provided, so that ones of the fastener channels 370a, 370b that are further from either of the pallet first side 190 or pallet second side 200 have smaller fastener channel diameters than others of the fastener channels 370a, 370b. In another embodiment, all of the fastener channels 370a, 370b have a same size as each other. In one embodiment, a differential in size between the fastener channels 370a, 370b is proportional to a difference in size between the pocket grid sections 230a, 230b.

The fastener channels 370a, 370b are respectively configured to be resiliently engaged by a plurality of the fastener bosses (e.g., first and second fastener bosses) 390a, 390b (FIG. 5B) that extend upwardly, heightwise 120, from the pad top surface 250. As indicated below the fastener bosses 390a, 390b are conformingly shaped for the friction fit within respective ones of the fastener channel 370a, 370b.

Turning to FIGS. 7A-7B, the pallet 110 defines a fork entryway grid 460 between the pallet top and bottom decks 130, 140. The fork entryway grid 460 defines a first set of fork entryways 460a (FIG. 7B) that extend lengthwise 150 from the pallet forward end 160 to the pallet aft end 170. The fork entryway grid 460 also defines a second set of fork entryways 460b (FIG. 7B) that extend widthwise 180 from the pallet first side 190 to the pallet second side 200.

As shown in FIG. 7A, respectively along the pallet first side 190 and the pallet second side 200, first and second sets of the pockets 210a,210b are distributed lengthwise 150 so as to be located forward, between and aft of the second set of fork entryways 460b. The first and second sets of the pockets 210a-210b are offset widthwise 180 from the first set of fork entryways 460a. With this configuration, as shown in FIG. 7A, the first and second sets of the pockets 210a, 210b each have three pockets distributed lengthwise 150 along the pallet 110. For example, at the pallet forward end 160, a first pocket 210a1 is included in the first set of the pockets 210a and a second pocket 210b1 is included in the second set of the pocket 210b. Each of the pockets in the first and second sets of the pockets 210a, 210b has a same widthwise size as each other.

The first and second sets of the pockets 210a, 210b are respectively configured to receive first and second sets of the pads 240a-240b (FIG. 7B). For example, at the pallet forward end 160, a first pad 240a1 is included in the first set of the pads 240a and a second pad 240b1 is included in the second set of the pads 240b. The first and second sets of the pads 240a,240b are respectively shaped to conform with the first and second sets of the pockets 210a, 210b so as to friction fit within the pockets 210a, 210b.

Turning back to FIG. 7A, in one embodiment, along a center portion 470 of the pallet 110, a third set of the pockets 210c is distributed lengthwise 150 so as to be located forward, between and aft of the first set of fork entryways 460b and widthwise offset from the first set of fork entryways 460a. The third sets of pockets 210c has three of the pockets, distributed lengthwise 150 along the pallet 110 and having a same widthwise size as each other. For example, at the pallet forward end 160, a third pocket 210c1 is included in the third set of pockets 210c. As shown in FIG. 7B, the third set of the pockets 210c1 are respectively configured to receive a third set of the pads 240c. For example, at the pallet forward end 160, a third pad 240c1 is included in the third set of the pads 240c. The third set of the pads 240c are shaped to conform with the third sets of the pockets 210c so as to friction fit within the pockets 210c.

In one embodiment, the first and second sets of the pockets 210a, 210b are wider than the third set of the pockets 210c. As a result, the first and second sets of the pads 240a, 240b are wider than the third set of the pads 240c. From this configuration, the pallet 110 is configured for placement over different chain conveyers respectively configured with chains at differing widthwise locations.

Turning to FIGS. 8A-8E the pad 240 will be disclosed in further detail. The pad 240 can include the pad top surface 250, e.g., facing upwardly, heightwise 120, when the pad 240 is installed in the pocket 210 (e.g., FIG. 5B). The pad 240 can extend downwardly, heightwise 120, from the pad top surface 250 to a pad bottom surface 260 (or pad base) to define a pad height (or pad thickness). The pad 240 can extend lengthwise 150 from a pad forward end 262 to a pad aft end 264 to define a pad length. The pad 240 can extend widthwise 180 from a pad first side 266 to a pad second side 268 to define a pad width. The pad 240 can have a height (or thickness) such that that the pad bottom surface 260 rides on a chain of a chain conveyer when the pallet 110 is placed on the conveyer with the pad 240 over the chain.

Pad ribs (generally referred to as 280) can extend downwardly, heightwise 120, from the pad bottom surface 260. The pad ribs 280 can extend lengthwise 150 from the pad forward end 262 to the pad aft end 264. The pad ribs 280 can be spaced widthwise 180 from each other so that adjacent pairs of the pad ribs respectively define a chain receiving track (generally referred to as 310) therebetween. As shown in FIG. 8A, the pad 110 defines three of the chain receiving tracks 310a-310c that are adjacent, widthwise 180, to each other. Four of the pad ribs that define the chain receiving tracks 310a-310c include a pair of widthwise outer pad ribs 280a1, 280a2 and a pair of widthwise intermediate pad ribs 280b1, 280b2. In one embodiment, the widthwise intermediate pad ribs 280b1, 280b2 (i.e., intermediate ones of the pad ribs 280) can have a same or less span, widthwise 180 (e.g., can be as thick or thinner), than the widthwise outer pad ribs 280a1, 280a2 (i.e., outer ones of the pad ribs 280). That is, the intermediate pad ribs 280b2, 280b2 can be designed with a higher stiffness, and thus they can be formed thinner than the outer pad ribs 280a1, 280a2.

As shown in FIGS. 8B-8D, the pad top surface 250 defines the pad grooves 330 that extend downwardly, heightwise 120, into the pad 240. The pad grooves 330 divide the pad top surface 250 into pad grid sections 250a, 250b, configured to the engage pocket ribs 320 that extend downwardly, heightwise 120, from the pocket 210 of the pallet 110 (FIGS. 3A-3B). Though six pad grid sections are shown in FIG. 8B, two pad grid sections 250a, 250b are labeled for simplicity. In one embodiment, the pad grid sections 250a, 250b have a same size as each other. In one embodiment, ones of the pad grid sections 250a, 250b that are adjacent to either of the pad sides 266, 268 are narrower than others of the pad grid sections 250a, 250b.

As shown in FIGS. 8C-8E, the fastener boss 390 extends upwardly, heightwise 120, from the pad top surface 250. The fastener boss 390 defines a boss neck 400 having a cylindrical shape that defines a neck diameter. The boss neck 400 extends heightwise 120 from the pad top surface 250 to a boss neck top end 410 (FIG. 8E) by a neck height. The neck height is the same as the height of the fastener channel 370, i.e., the heightwise span of the fastener channel sidewall 380 (FIG. 6B).

An anchor head 420 is formed at the boss neck top end 410. The anchor head 420 defines an annulus having a diameter that is larger than the fastener channel diameter. The anchor head 420 extends heightwise 120 from the boss neck top end 410 to an anchor head top end 425 by an anchor head height. The anchor head 420, which can be pan shaped, can be a flat annulus, or can have another such shape, is configured to elastically deform and rebound, enabling it to pass through the fastener channel 370 and rebound against the pocket base top 360 (FIG. 6A).

As shown in FIG. 8D, the fastener boss 390 defines a boss slot 430 that extends through the boss neck 400 and anchor head 420. The boss slot 430 is defined by a boss slot wall 440 extending upwardly, heightwise 120, and front to back, lengthwise 150, from the pad top surface 250 to the anchor head top end 425. From this configuration, the anchor head 420 is configured to elastically compress when inserted into the fastener channel for inserting and removing the pad 240 from the pallet 110.

As shown in FIGS. 8C and 8D, a plurality of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b are respectively formed in the pad grid sections 250a, 250b. At least two of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b have differing neck diameters, respectively conforming with the diameters of the fastener channel 370a, 370b in which the fastener bosses 390a, 390b are inserted. The anchor head 420 is sized proportionally to the neck diameters. For example, ones of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b that are adjacent to either of the pallet first or second sides 190, 200, when inserted into, e.g., the pocket 210, have a smaller neck diameter than others of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b. For example, in FIGS. 8C and 8D, the first fastener boss 390a has a larger neck diameter than the second fastener boss 390b. In one embodiment, the opposite configuration is provided, e.g., such that ones of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b that are further from either of the pallet first or second sides 190, 200, when inserted into, e.g., the pocket 210, have a smaller neck diameter than others of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b. In another embodiment, all of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b have the same size as each other.

Turning to FIG. 9, further disclosed is a method of utilizing the pallet 110 for transporting freight via a chain conveyor system. As shown in block 1010 of positioning the elastomer pads 240 in pockets 210 formed about the bottom deck 140 of the plastic pallet 110 prior to transporting freight. As shown in block 1020, the method includes removing the pads 240 from the pockets 210 of the pallet 110 after transporting freight.

Turning to FIGS. 10A-10C, an example configuration of the pallet bottom deck 140 is shown. The overall span lengthwise 150 of the pallet 110 can be approximately 1300 mm (millimeters), the overall span widthwise 180 can be approximately 1100 mm, and the overall span heightwise 120 (e.g., FIG. 1A) can be approximately 145 mm, and can be 151 mm including the pad ribs 280.

FIG. 10B shows the third pad 240c1 of the third set of the pads 240c. Widthwise outer pad ribs 280a1, 280a2 are each 4 mm thick, and a distance between them is 32 mm. Widthwise 180, the remaining pads in the third set of the pads 240c are the same as that of the third pad 204c1.

In FIG. 10C, the three chain receiving tracks 310a-310c are shown. Widthwise outer pad ribs 280a1, 280a2 are each 4 mm thick while widthwise inner pad ribs 280b1, 280b2 are each 3 mm thick (though in another embodiment they can be the same width as the outer pad ribs). A distance between each pair of pad ribs is 32 mm. A distance between a centerline 480 that extends lengthwise 150 through the pallet 110 to an inside of the first pad rib 280a2 (e.g., facing the first chain receiving track 310a) is 406 mm. A distance between the centerline 480 to an inside of the second pad rib 280b2 (e.g., facing the second chain receiving track 310b) is 441 mm. A distance between the centerline 480 to an inside of the third pad rib 280b1 (e.g., facing the third chain receiving track 310c) is 476 mm. Widthwise 180, the remaining pads in the first set of the pads 240a (FIG. 7B) are the same as that of the first pad 204a1. This design accounts for two common chain conveyor configurations with the first and second chain receiving tracks 310a, 310b, where the distance is 406 mm and 441 mm. The third chain receiving track 310c track can accommodate chain configuration having centerline distance from 476 mm to 483.75 mm. For the third chain receiving track 310c, a spacing of 483.75 mm is possible by increasing a width (thickness) of the adjacent rib from 3 mm to 10.75 mm, and extending the other end of the chain receiving track rib at the second pad side 286 to the respective pallet side (190 or 200).

The configuration of the second set of pads 240b (FIG. 7B) mirrors the first set of the pads 240a about the centerline 480. This configuration is configured be utilized with chain tracks in different conveyer systems having at least three different chain conveyor layouts. In the above disclosed embodiments, the pads 240 can be installed and removed as needed. Thus, for example if a pallet 110 becomes damaged, the pads 240 can be interchangeably use with another pallet 110 formed with the pockets 210 identified herein.

The pallet 110 is designed to withstand typical pallet loading requirements. For example, under a 15000 N (Newton) forklift loading, the pallet 110 is configured for deformation of less than 20 mm or bend angel of <4.5 deg. Further, under a 3000 kg stacking loading, the pallet 110 is configured to for deformation of <2%. Additionally, under 15000 N loading, the pallet 110 is configured so that the pads 240 remain secured within the pockets 210.

Turning to FIGS. 11A-11D and 12, a support system 700 is shown, which represents another pallet embodiment. Specifically, the system 700 includes a primary platform 705 defining a plastic pallet with a circular deck (FIGS. 11A-11D) and a square deck (FIG. 12). As shown in FIG. 11C, the primary platform 705 is formed by primary platform segments 710a, 710b, that are interconnectable with each other. The primary platform segments 710a, 710b each include a first side 730 and a second side 740. The first and second sides 730, 740 each define one of notches 750 and tabs 760 to respectively mate with (or dovetail with) corresponding tabs and notches of other ones of the primary platform segments 710a, 710b. From this configuration, adjacent ones of the primary platform segments 710a, 710b can be interconnected.

The primary platform segments 710a, 710b each define primary legs 770a, 770b extending downwardly from the primary platform segments 710a, 710b. The legs are shown as being enclosed structures, e.g., formed as exterior shelled structures. The primary legs 770a, 770b are sized to impart a primary slope 775 (FIG. 11D) along the primary platform 705. The primary slope can be substantially one (1) degree.

Secondary platform segments 800a, 800b (FIG. 11C) are interconnectable with each other and with the primary platform segments 710a, 710b to form an extension 805 of the primary platform 705. The secondary platform segments 800a, 800b each include first and second sides 812a, 812b and a radial inner side 812c. The first and second sides 812a, 812b and a radial inner side 812c each define one of notches 814a and tabs 814b to respectively mate with (or dovetail with) corresponding tabs and notches of other ones of the secondary platform segments 800a, 800b and the radial outer edge 710c of the primary platform segments 710a, 710b. The first and second sides 812a, 812b of the secondary platform segments 800a, 800b also include mating fastener tabs 815a, 815b that are radially aligned with each other and include features 816a, 816b, such as through-holes, that enable the use of screws or other implements to secure the secondary platform segments 800a, 800b to each other.

The secondary platform segments 800a, 800b each define secondary legs 820a, 820b extending downwardly from the secondary platform segments 800a, 800b, where one of the secondary legs 820a can be circumferentially larger than the other 820b. The secondary legs 820a, 820b are sized so that the primary platform 705 and the extension 805 of the primary platform 705 are smoothly continuous and planar with each other, and so that the secondary platform segments 800a, 800b will not tip under loading conditions. As shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, the primary platform 705 can have a continuous top surface 830. As shown in FIGS. 12, the primary platform 705 can have a discontinuous top surface 830, e.g., allowing water and debris to fall through a beam-type support structure.

In one embodiment, a leg spacing distance (LD) between any of the legs 770a, 770b, 820a, 820b, when assembled, is 200 mm to 250 mm. Structural ribs 840 form a grid on the bottom surface 850 of the system, along both the primary and secondary platform segments. A rib length RL of any rib segment in the grid is 80 mm to 130 mm.

The support system of FIGS. 11A-11D and 12 can be utilized to support a water tank 702 (FIG. 11D). The extensions (the secondary platform segments 800a, 800b) can be utilized to support a relatively large tank. Without the extensions, the system can include 4-6 interconnectable parts. With the extensions, the system can include 8-12 interconnectable parts. The angled top surface can enable water runoff from the water tank, as well as relatively easy cleaning of the tank. The inclination can help avoid an accumulation of dust on a floor of a water tank, helping to eliminate bacteria due to dust decantation. Benefits of a continuous top surface include preventing of water clogging on the support system 700. Benefits of covered/enclosed support legs also include preventing clogging of water inside the support system 700. In one embodiment, the legs are configured such that a four inch pipe can be passed therethrough in straight line, from one end to other, e.g., via up to six path-through directions. An overall shape of the pallet is shown as circular (FIGS. 11A-11D) and square (FIG. 12), though other shapes, including rectangular and hexagonal can be utilized.

A minimum length/diameter of the support system 700 (e.g., excluding extensions) can be 800 mm and a maximum length/diameter (e.g., including extensions) can be 1500 mm. A minimum load carrying capacity of the support system 700 (e.g., excluding extensions) can be 350 L (liters) and a maximum load carrying capacity (e.g., including extensions) can be approximately 1000 L. A minimum weight of the support system 700 (e.g., excluding extensions) can be 7 kg (kilograms) and a maximum weight (e.g., including extensions) can be 13 kg. The square shaped support system 700 (FIG. 12) can be designed such that under a weighting of 12 kg, a maximum displacement of 0.9 mm can be achieved with a stress distribution of 8 MPa (megapascals). The circular shaped support system 700 (FIGS. 11A-11D) can be designed such that under a weighting of 11.5 kg, a maximum displacement of 2.7 mm can be achieved with a stress distribution of 15 MPa.

The pallets identified above can comprise a polymeric material. The polymeric material is chosen based upon the desired properties, such as thermal stability. Examples of polymeric materials include, but are not limited to, polyesters, polycarbonates, polystyrenes (e.g., copolymers of polycarbonate and styrene, polyphenylene ether-polystyrene blends), polyimides (e.g., polyetherimides), acrylonitrile-styrene-butadiene (ABS), polyarylates, polyalkylmethacrylates (e.g., polymethylmethacrylates (PMMA)), polyolefins (e.g., polypropylenes (PP) and polyethylenes, high density polyethylenes (HDPE), low density polyethylenes (LDPE), linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPE)), polyamides (e.g., polyamideimides), polyarylates, polysulfones (e.g., polyarylsulfones, polysulfonamides), polyphenylene sulfides, polytetrafluoroethylenes, polyethers (e.g., polyether ketones (PEK), polyether etherketones (PEEK), polyethersulfones (PES)), polyacrylics, polyacetals, polybenzoxazoles (e.g., polybenzothiazinophenothiazines, polybenzothiazoles), polyoxadiazoles, polypyrazinoquinoxalines, polypyromellitimides, polyquinoxalines, polybenzimidazoles, polyoxindoles, polyoxoisoindolines (e.g., polydioxoisoindolines), polytriazines, polypyridazines, polypiperazines, polypyridines, polypiperidines, polytriazoles, polypyrazoles, polypyrrolidones, polycarboranes, polyoxabicyclononanes, polydibenzofurans, polyphthalamide, polyacetals, polyanhydrides, polyvinyls (e.g., polyvinyl ethers, polyvinyl thioethers, polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl ketones, polyvinyl halides, polyvinyl nitriles, polyvinyl esters, polyvinylchlorides), polysulfonates, polysulfides, polyureas, polyphosphazenes, polysilazanes, polysiloxanes, fluoropolymers (e.g., polyvinyl fluoride (PVF), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyvinyl fluoride (PVF), fluorinated ethylene-propylene (FEP), polyethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE)), polycarbonate-siloxane block copolymer (such as LEXAN® EXL Resin), terephthalate ester of resorcinol (ITR) (such as LEXAN® SLX Resin), N-phenylphenol phthaleinylbisphenol (PPP-BP) (such as LEXAN™ XHT Resin), or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing.

The polymeric material can comprise a polyester. Polyesters include those derived from an aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, or aromatic diol, or mixtures thereof, containing from 2 to about 10 carbon atoms and an aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, or aromatic dicarboxylic acid, and have repeating units of the following general formula:

• • wherein R¹ and R² are each independently a divalent C₁-C₂₀ aliphatic radical, a C₂-C₁₂ cycloaliphatic alkyl radical, or a C₆-C₂₄ aromatic radical. The polyesters can be formed from terephthalic acid and a combination of ethylene glycol and cyclohexadimethanol, for example, formed from terephthalic acid and a combination of ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol and cyclohexadimethanol. Examples of polyesters include at least one of poly(ethylene terephthalate), spiroglycol modified polyethylene terephthalate, poly-cyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate glycol, poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate), and polyethyelene naphthalate, poly-cyclohexylenedimethylene-terephthalate-glycol, polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate, or polyethylene terephthalate with diethylene glycol. The polyester can comprise poly(ethylene terephthalate) (“PET”), e.g., unmodified PET. The polyester can comprise spiroglycol modified amorphous PET.

The polymeric material can comprise a polyolefin. The polyolefin comprises at least one of a homopolymer or a copolymer. The polyolefin can be of the general structure: C_nH_2n, where n can be 2 to 20. The polyolefin can include at least one of a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polyisobutylene, or a polynorbornene. Examples of polyethylene include linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), and medium density polyethylene (MDPE). The polyolefin can include a polyolefin copolymer, for example, copolymers of ethylene and at least one of propene, 1-butene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 4-methylpentene-1,2-butene, 1-pentene, 2-pentene, 1-hexene, 2-hexene, 3-hexene, norbornene, or a diene (for example, 1,4 hexadiene, monocylic or polycyclic dienes). The polyolefin copolymer can include a heterophasic polyolefin. The polymeric material can include a polypropylene.

The polymeric material can include an additive. The additive can include at least one of a foaming agent, a flame retardant, an impact modifier, flow modifier, filler (e.g., a particulate polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), glass, carbon, mineral, or metal), reinforcing agent (e.g., glass fibers), antioxidant, heat stabilizer, light stabilizer, ultraviolet (UV) light stabilizer, UV absorbing additive, plasticizer, lubricant, release agent (such as a mold release agent), antistatic agent, anti-fog agent, antimicrobial agent, colorant (e.g., a dye or pigment), surface effect additive, radiation stabilizer, anti-drip agent (e.g., a PTFE-encapsulated styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer (TSAN)), or a combination thereof. For example, a combination of a heat stabilizer, mold release agent, and ultraviolet light stabilizer can be used. In general, the additives are used in the amounts generally known to be effective. When used as a support system for a water tank, the polymeric material can include a polyolefin (such as a polypropylene) and a glass fiber filler. An example of such a material is STAMAX® that is commercially available from SABIC's Innovative Plastics Business.

The system disclosed herein includes at least one of the following aspects:

Aspect 1: A transport system 100, including: a pallet 110, formed from plastic, wherein the pallet 110 extends heightwise 120 from a pallet top deck 130 to a pallet bottom deck 140 to define a pallet height, lengthwise 150 from a pallet forward end 160 to a pallet aft end 170 to define a pallet length, and widthwise 180 from a pallet first side 190 to a pallet second side 200 to define a pallet width, wherein, the pallet bottom deck 140 defines a pocket 210, the pocket 210 defines a pocket sidewall 220 that extends heightwise 120 into the pallet 110, from the pallet bottom deck 140 to a pocket base 230 to define a pocket height; and a pad 240, formed of an elastomer, having complementary shape to the pocket 210 and configured to be removably secured within the pocket 210, to define a pallet foot.

Aspect 2: The system of any of the preceding Aspects, wherein: pocket ribs 320 extend heightwise 120 from the pocket base 230 toward the pallet bottom deck 140; and the pocket ribs 320 form a grid that divides the pocket base 230 into pocket grid sections 230a, 230b, wherein the pocket ribs 320 are configured to engage pad grooves 330 formed in a pad top surface 250 of the pad 240 when the pad 240 is removably secured within the pocket 210.

Aspect 3: The system of any of the preceding Aspects, wherein: the pocket base 230 defines: a pocket base bottom 340 that faces heightwise 120 toward the pallet bottom deck 140; and a pocket base body 350 that extends heightwise 120 by a pocket base thickness from the pocket base bottom 340 to a pocket base top 360, wherein the pocket base top 360 is orientated to face heightwise 120 toward the pallet top deck 130; and wherein the pocket base bottom 340 is configured to engage the pad top surface 250 when the pad 240 is removably secured within the pocket 210.

Aspect 4: The system of any preceding Aspect, wherein: the pocket base 230 defines a fastener channel 370, wherein the fastener channel is defined by a fastener channel sidewall 380 that extends heightwise 120 from the pocket base bottom 340 to the pocket base top 360; the fastener channel 370 is cylindrical and defines a faster channel diameter, and wherein the fastener channel 370 is configured to be resiliently engaged by a fastener boss 390 that extends heightwise 120 from the pad top surface 250, wherein the fastener boss 390 is conformingly shaped to fit within the fastener channel 370.

Aspect 5: The system of any of the preceding Aspects, wherein: a plurality of the fastener channels 370a, 370b are respectively formed in ones of the pocket grid sections 230a, 230b; wherein: the fastener channels 370a, 370b are the same size as each other; or ones of the fastener channels 370a, 370b that are adjacent to either of the pallet first side 190 or pallet second side 200 have lager fastener channel diameters than others of the fastener channels 370a, 370b; and the fastener channels 370a, 370b are respectively configured to be resiliently engaged by a plurality of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b that extend upwardly, heightwise 120, from the pad top surface 250, wherein the fastener bosses 390a, 390b are conformingly shaped to fit within respective ones of the fastener channel 370a, 370b.

Aspect 6: The system of any of the preceding Aspects, wherein: the pallet 110 defines a fork entryway grid 460 between the pallet top and bottom decks 130, 140, wherein the fork entryway grid 460 defines: a first set of fork entryways 460a that extend lengthwise 150 from the pallet forward end 160 to the pallet aft end 170; and a second set of fork entryways 460b extending widthwise 180 from the pallet first side 190 to the pallet second side 200, wherein: along the pallet first side 190 and the pallet second side 200, first and second sets of the pockets 210a, 210b are respectively distributed lengthwise 150 so as to be located forward, between and aft of the second set of fork entryways 460b and offset widthwise 180 from the first set of fork entryways 460a; and the first and second sets of the pockets 210a, 210b are respectively configured to receive first and second sets of the pads 240a, 240b, and wherein the first and second sets of the pads 240a, 240b are respectively shaped to conform with the first and second sets of the pockets 210a, 210b to fit therebetween.

Aspect 7: The system of any of the preceding Aspects, wherein: along a center portion 470 of the pallet 110, a third set of the pockets 210c is distributed lengthwise 150 so as to be located forward, between and aft of the first set of fork entryways 460b and widthwise offset from the first set of fork entryways 460a; and the third set of the pockets 210c is configured to receive a third set of the pads 240c, wherein the third set of the pads 240c is shaped to conform with the third set of the pockets 210c to fit therebetween.

Aspect 8: The system of any of the preceding Aspects, wherein: the first and second sets of the pockets 210a-210b are wider than the third set of the pockets 210c, and the first and second sets of the pads 240a-240b are wider than the third set of the pads 240c, whereby the pallet 110 is configured for placement over different chain conveyers respectively configured with chains at differing widthwise locations.

Aspect 9: A pad 240 for placement in a pocket 210 of a pallet 110, the pad including: a pad top surface 250, wherein: the pad 240 extends heightwise 120 from the pad top surface 250 that to a pad bottom surface 260 to define a pad height, the pad 240 extends lengthwise 150 from a pad forward end 262 to a pad aft end 264 to define a pad length, and the pad 240 extends widthwise 180 from a pad first side 266 to a pad second side 268 to define a pad width; pad ribs 280 extend heightwise 120 from the pad bottom surface 260, the pad ribs 280 extend lengthwise 150 from the pad forward end 262 to the pad aft end 264, and the pad ribs 280 are spaced widthwise 180 from each other so that adjacent pairs of the pad ribs 280a, 280b respectively define a chain receiving track 310; and the pad is formed of an elastomer.

Aspect 10: The pad of Aspect 9, wherein: the pad 110 defines three chain receiving tracks 310a-310c that are adjacent, widthwise 180, to each other; and intermediate ones of pad ribs 280b1, 280b2 are the same thickness or thinner than outer ones of the pad ribs 280a1, 280a2 and/or are stiffer than the outer ones of the pad ribs 280a1, 280a2.

Aspect 11: The pad of any of Aspects 9-10, wherein: the pad top surface 250 defines pad grooves 330 that extend heightwise into the pad 110; and the pad grooves 330 divide the pad top surface 250 into pad grid sections 250a, 250b, respectively configured to engage pocket ribs 320 that extend heightwise 120 from the pocket 210 of the pallet 110.

Aspect 12: The pad of any of Aspects 9-11, wherein: a fastener boss 390 extends heightwise from the pad top surface 250; the fastener boss 390 defines a boss neck 400 having a cylindrical shape that defines a neck diameter, wherein the boss neck 400 extends heightwise 120 from the pad top surface 250 to a boss neck top end 410 by a neck height; an anchor head 420 that is formed at the boss neck top end 410; and the anchor head 420 defines an annulus having a diameter that is larger than the fastener channel diameter, wherein the anchor head 420 extends heightwise 120 from the boss neck top end 410 to an anchor head top end 425 by an anchor head height, wherein the anchor head 420 is configured to elastically deform and rebound, to thereby anchor the pad 240 to the pallet 110.

Aspect 13: The pad of any of Aspects 9-12, wherein: the fastener boss 390 defines a boss slot 430 that extends through the boss neck 400 and anchor head 420, whereby the anchor head 420 is configured to elastically compress.

Aspect 14: The pad of any of the preceding Aspects, wherein: a plurality of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b are respectively formed in the pad grid sections 250a, 250b; at least two of the fastener bosses 390a, 390b have neck diameters that differ from each other.

Aspect 15: A method including: positioning elastomer pads in pockets formed about a bottom deck of a plastic pallet that is configured to transport freight; and removing the pads from the pockets after transporting freight.

Aspect 16: A support system 700 including: a primary platform 705 defining a plastic pallet, the primary platform formed by primary platform segments 710a, 710b, that are interconnectable with each other, the primary platform segments 710a, 710b each include a first side 730 and a second side 740, the first and second sides 730, 740 each define one of notches 750 and tabs 760 to respectively mate with tabs and notches of other ones of the primary platform segments 710a, 710b, to thereby interconnect adjacent ones of the primary platform segments 710a, 710b, wherein the primary platform segments 710a, 710b each define primary legs 770a, 770b extending downwardly therefrom, wherein the primary legs 770a, 770b are sized to impart a primary slope 775 along the primary platform 705, wherein the primary slope can be 0.5 to 5 degrees, for example, 1 degree; and secondary platform segments 800a, 800b that are interconnectable with each other and with the primary platform segments 710a, 710b to form an extension 805 of the primary platform 705, wherein the secondary platform segments 800a, 800b each define secondary legs 820a, 820b extending downwardly therefrom, wherein the secondary legs 820a, 820b are sized so that the primary platform 705 and the extension 805 of the primary platform 705 are smoothly continuous and planar with each other, wherein the primary platform 705 has one of a circular and a rectangular shape; and wherein the primary platform 705 has one of a continuous and a discontinuous top surface 830.

In general, the embodiments can alternately comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, any appropriate components herein disclosed. The embodiments can additionally, or alternatively, be formulated so as to be devoid, or substantially free, of any components, materials, ingredients, adjuvants or species used in the prior art compositions or that are otherwise not necessary to the achievement of the function and/or objectives of the present disclosure. The endpoints of all ranges directed to the same component or property are inclusive and independently combinable (e.g., ranges of “less than or equal to 25 wt %, or 5 wt % to 20 wt %,” is inclusive of the endpoints and all intermediate values of the ranges of “5 wt % to 25 wt %,” etc.). Disclosure of a narrower range or more specific group in addition to a broader range is not a disclaimer of the broader range or larger group. “Combination” is inclusive of blends, mixtures, alloys, reaction products, and the like. Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to denote one element from another. The terms “a” and “an” and “the” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, and are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. “Or” means “and/or.” The suffix “(s)” as used herein is intended to include both the singular and the plural of the term that it modifies, thereby including one or more of that term (e.g., the film(s) includes one or more films). Reference throughout the specification to “one embodiment”, “another embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “an aspect”, and so forth, means that a particular element (e.g., feature, structure, and/or characteristic) described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment described herein, and may or may not be present in other embodiments. In addition, it is to be understood that the described elements can be combined in any suitable manner in the various embodiments.

The terms “front”, “back”, “bottom”, and/or “top” are used herein, unless otherwise noted, merely for convenience of description, and are not limited to any one position or spatial orientation. “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event occurs and instances where it does not. Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. A “combination” is inclusive of blends, mixtures, alloys, reaction products, and the like.

All cited patents, patent applications, and other references are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. However, if a term in the present application contradicts or conflicts with a term in the incorporated reference, the term from the present application takes precedence over the conflicting term from the incorporated reference.

While particular embodiments have been described, alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents that are or can be presently unforeseen can arise to applicants or others skilled in the art. Accordingly, the appended claims as filed and as they can be amended are intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents.

Claims

1. A transport system 100, comprising: a pallet, formed from plastic, wherein the pallet extends heightwise from a pallet top deck to a pallet bottom deck to define a pallet height, lengthwise from a pallet forward end to a pallet aft end to define a pallet length, and widthwise from a pallet first side to a pallet second side to define a pallet width,wherein, the pallet bottom deck defines a pocket, the pocket defines a pocket sidewall that extends heightwise into the pallet, from the pallet bottom deck to a pocket base to define a pocket height;wherein pocket ribs extend heightwise from the pocket base toward the pallet bottom deck,wherein the pocket ribs form a grid that divides the pocket base into pocket grid sections,wherein the pocket base defines: a pocket base bottom that faces heightwise toward the pallet bottom deck; and a pocket base body that extends heightwise by a pocket base thickness from the pocket base bottom to a pocket base top, wherein the pocket base top is orientated to face heightwise toward the pallet top deck,wherein the pocket base defines a fastener channel, wherein the fastener channel is defined by a fastener channel sidewall that extends heightwise from the pocket base bottom to the pocket base top, andwherein the fastener channel is cylindrical and defines a faster channel diameter; anda pad, formed of an elastomer, having complementary shape to the pocket and configured to be removably secured within the pocket, to define a pallet foot, wherein the pocket ribs are configured to engage pad grooves formed in a pad top surface of the pad when the pad is removably secured within the pocket,wherein the pocket base bottom is configured to engage the pad top surface when the pad is removably secured within the pocket, andwherein the fastener channel is configured to be resiliently engaged by a fastener boss that extends heightwise from the pad top surface, wherein the fastener boss is conformingly shaped to fit within the fastener channel.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: a plurality of the fastener channels are respectively formed in ones of the pocket grid sections;wherein:the fastener channels are the same size as each other; orones of the fastener channels that are adjacent to either of the pallet first side or pallet second side have lager larger fastener channel diameters than others of the fastener channels; andthe fastener channels are respectively configured to be resiliently engaged by a plurality of the fastener bosses that extend upwardly, heightwise, from the pad top surface, wherein the fastener bosses are conformingly shaped to fit within respective ones of the fastener channel.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein: the pallet defines a fork entryway grid between the pallet top and bottom decks, wherein the fork entryway grid defines: a first set of fork entryways that extend lengthwise from the pallet forward end to the pallet aft end; and a second set of fork entryways extending widthwise from the pallet first side to the pallet second side,wherein: along the pallet first side and the pallet second side, first and second sets of the pockets are respectively distributed lengthwise so as to be located forward, between and aft of the second set of fork entryways and offset widthwise from the first set of fork entryways; andthe first and second sets of the pockets are respectively configured to receive first and second sets of the pads, and wherein the first and second sets of the pads are respectively shaped to conform with the first and second sets of the pockets to fit therebetween.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein: along a center portion of the pallet, a third set of the pockets is distributed lengthwise so as to be located forward, between and aft of the first set of fork entryways and widthwise offset from the first set of fork entryways; andthe third set of the pockets is configured to receive a third set of the pads, wherein the third set of the pads is shaped to conform with the third set of the pockets to fit therebetween.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein: the first and second sets of the pockets are wider than the third set of the pockets, and the first and second sets of the pads are wider than the third set of the pads,whereby the pallet is configured for placement over different chain conveyers respectively configured with chains at differing widthwise locations.

6. A pad for placement in a pocket of a pallet, the pad comprising: a pad top surface, wherein: the pad extends heightwise from the pad top surface that to a pad bottom surface to define a pad height, the pad extends lengthwise from a pad forward end to a pad aft end to define a pad length, and the pad extends widthwise from a pad first side to a pad second side to define a pad width;pad ribs extend heightwise from the pad bottom surface, the pad ribs extend lengthwise from the pad forward end to the pad aft end, and the pad ribs are spaced widthwise from each other so that adjacent pairs of the pad ribs respectively define a chain receiving track; andthe pad is formed of an elastomer, wherein the pad defines three chain receiving tracks that are adjacent, widthwise, to each other; andwherein intermediate ones of pad ribs are the same thickness or thinner than outer ones of the pad ribs and/or are stiffer than the outer ones of the pad ribs,wherein a fastener boss extends heightwise from the pad top surface;wherein the fastener boss defines a boss neck having a cylindrical shape that defines a neck diameter, wherein the boss neck extends heightwise from the pad top surface to a boss neck top end by a neck height;wherein an anchor head that is formed at the boss neck top end; andwherein the anchor head defines an annulus having a diameter that is larger than the fastener channel diameter, wherein the anchor head extends heightwise from the boss neck top end to an anchor head top end by an anchor head height, wherein the anchor head is configured to elastically deform and rebound, to thereby anchor the pad to the pallet.

7. The pad of claim 6, wherein: the pad top surface defines pad grooves that extend heightwise into the pad; andthe pad grooves divide the pad top surface into pad grid sections, respectively configured to engage pocket ribs that extend heightwise from the pocket of the pallet.

8. The pad of any of claim 7, wherein: the fastener boss defines a boss slot that extends through the boss neck and anchor head, whereby the anchor head is configured to elastically compress.

9. The pad of claim 7, wherein: a plurality of the fastener bosses are respectively formed in the pad grid sections;at least two of the fastener bosses have neck diameters that differ from each other.

10. A method of using the pad of claim 6, comprising: positioning the pad in the pocket formed about a bottom deck of the pallet, wherein the pallet is configured to transport freight; andremoving the pads from the pockets after transporting the freight.

11. A transport system, comprising: a pallet, formed from plastic, wherein the pallet extends heightwise from a pallet top deck to a pallet bottom deck to define a pallet height, lengthwise from a pallet forward end to a pallet aft end to define a pallet length, and widthwise from a pallet first side to a pallet second side to define a pallet width,wherein, the pallet bottom deck defines a pocket, the pocket defines a pocket sidewall that extends heightwise into the pallet, from the pallet bottom deck to a pocket base to define a pocket height;wherein pocket ribs extend heightwise from the pocket base toward the pallet bottom deck,wherein the pocket ribs form a grid that divides the pocket base into pocket grid sections,wherein the pocket base defines: a pocket base bottom that faces heightwise toward the pallet bottom deck; and a pocket base body that extends heightwise by a pocket base thickness from the pocket base bottom to a pocket base top, wherein the pocket base top is orientated to face heightwise toward the pallet top deck,wherein the pocket base defines a fastener channel, wherein the fastener channel is defined by a fastener channel sidewall that extends heightwise from the pocket base bottom to the pocket base top, andwherein the fastener channel is cylindrical and defines a faster channel diameter; anda pad, formed of an elastomer, having complementary shape to the pocket and configured to be removably secured within the pocket, to define a pallet foot, wherein the pocket ribs are configured to engage pad grooves formed in a pad top surface of the pad when the pad is removably secured within the pocket,wherein the pocket base bottom is configured to engage the pad top surface when the pad is removably secured within the pocket, andwherein the fastener channel is configured to be resiliently engaged by a fastener boss that extends heightwise from the pad top surface, wherein the fastener boss is conformingly shaped to fit within the fastener channel,

12. The system of claim 11, wherein: along a center portion of the pallet, a third set of the pockets is distributed lengthwise so as to be located forward, between and aft of the first set of fork entryways and widthwise offset from the first set of fork entryways.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein: the third set of the pockets is configured to receive a third set of the pads, wherein the third set of the pads is shaped to conform with the third set of the pockets to fit therebetween.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein: the first and second sets of the pockets are wider than the third set of the pockets, and the first and second sets of the pads are wider than the third set of the pads,whereby the pallet is configured for placement over different chain conveyers respectively configured with chains at differing widthwise locations.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein: the fastener channels are the same size as each other.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein: ones of the fastener channels that are adjacent to either of the pallet first side or pallet second side have larger fastener channel diameters than others of the fastener channels.

17. A pad for placement in a pocket of a pallet, the pad comprising: a pad top surface, wherein: the pad extends heightwise from the pad top surface that to a pad bottom surface to define a pad height, the pad extends lengthwise from a pad forward end to a pad aft end to define a pad length, and the pad extends widthwise from a pad first side to a pad second side to define a pad width;pad ribs extend heightwise from the pad bottom surface, the pad ribs extend lengthwise from the pad forward end to the pad aft end, and the pad ribs are spaced widthwise from each other so that adjacent pairs of the pad ribs respectively define a chain receiving track; andthe pad is formed of an elastomer, wherein the pad defines three chain receiving tracks that are adjacent, widthwise, to each other; andwherein intermediate ones of pad ribs are the same thickness or thinner than outer ones of the pad ribs and/or are stiffer than the outer ones of the pad ribs,wherein a fastener boss extends heightwise from the pad top surface;wherein the fastener boss defines a boss neck having a cylindrical shape that defines a neck diameter, wherein the boss neck extends heightwise from the pad top surface to a boss neck top end by a neck height;wherein an anchor head that is formed at the boss neck top end; andwherein the anchor head defines an annulus having a diameter that is larger than the fastener channel diameter, wherein the anchor head extends heightwise from the boss neck top end to an anchor head top end by an anchor head height, wherein the anchor head is configured to elastically deform and rebound, to thereby anchor the pad to the pallet,

18. A method of using the pad of claim 17, comprising: positioning the pad in the pocket formed about a bottom deck of the pallet, wherein the pallet is configured to transport freight; andremoving the pads from the pockets after transporting the freight.

19. The system of claim 2, wherein: the fastener channels are the same size as each other.

20. The system of claim 2, wherein: ones of the fastener channels that are adjacent to either of the pallet first side or pallet second side have larger fastener channel diameters than others of the fastener channels.