Unit Load Optimization & Load Bridging

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Overview

This research program investigates the fundamental mechanical interactions between unit load components — pallets, corrugated boxes, and products — during warehouse racking storage and transportation. Understanding these interactions is critical for optimizing packaging design, reducing material usage, and preventing product damage.

Key Contributions

Developed friction-driven finite element models to simulate load bridging effects in warehouse racks
Created Gaussian process surrogate models for rapid prediction of unit load performance
Investigated the effect of pallet stacking patterns on unit load bridging behavior
Studied the impact of pallet overhang on box compression strength

Methods

Our approach combines computational modeling (FEM, machine learning surrogates) with physical testing to create predictive tools that packaging engineers can use to optimize unit load designs without expensive trial-and-error prototyping.

Selected Publications

Predicting the Effect of Pallet Overhang on Box Compression Strength (PTS, 2023)
Development of a Gaussian Process Model for Load Bridging (Applied Sciences, 2021)
Friction-Driven FEM for Unit Load Simulation (Applied Sciences, 2021)
Investigation of Pallet Stacking Pattern on Unit Load Bridging (PTS, 2018)

Development of a friction-driven finite element model to simulate the load bridging effect of unit loads stored in warehouse racks

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Development of a Friction-Driven Finite Element Model to Simulate the Load Bridging Effect of Unit Loads Stored in Warehouse Racks

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000