Innovative Collaboration with NWPCA to Enhance the Pallet Design System with Updated Creep Model
We are thrilled to announce a new collaboration with the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA) and the Pallet Foundation on an exciting project aimed at updating the pallet creep model used in the Pallet Design System (PDS).
This initiative is set to bring significant advancements to the way pallets are designed and evaluated, ensuring even-greater efficiency and reliability in the industry. The primary focus of this collaboration is to conduct 30-day long creep tests on commonly used pallets made from different wood species. These tests will provide critical data on how various wood types respond to prolonged stress, simulating real-world conditions that pallets face during storage and transportation. The comprehensive data collected will be instrumental in refining and enhancing the current prediction models used in PDS.
Kristen DeLack, PE, the principal engineer behind PDS, is at the forefront of this project. With her extensive expertise and dedication, she will leverage the newly obtained data to improve the accuracy and reliability of the creep models within the software. This enhancement will allow users to make more informed decisions when designing pallets, ultimately leading to more durable and cost-effective solutions.
A unique aspect of this project is the active involvement of three dedicated undergraduate summer interns. These interns are gaining invaluable hands-on experience by participating in the testing process. Working on a real-life research project, they have the opportunity to see their efforts directly influence and improve the software used across the industry. This practical experience is not only enriching their education but also preparing them for successful careers in engineering and design.
The updated creep model is expected to significantly enhance the functionality and precision of the Pallet Design System. By incorporating the latest research findings, the software will provide more accurate predictions of block pallet performance over time. This will enable manufacturers to design pallets that are better suited to withstand the rigors of use, reducing the likelihood of failure and improving overall efficiency in the supply chain. This project continues NWPCA’s 40 years of sponsoring hands-on educational and research opportunities for VT students; all of the knowledge generated by these years of research projects is exclusively available through the PDS software.
As we progress with this innovative project, we will be sharing updates and insights into our findings. Our collaboration with the NWPCA represents a step forward in pallet design and testing, and we are excited to keep you informed about the advancements and outcomes.
We are immensely grateful for the support and partnership of the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association. This collaborative effort not only advances our research capabilities but also contributes to the development of more robust and reliable pallet designs. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting venture as we work together to push the boundaries of innovation in the pallet industry.
