Container coupling device

Abstract

A coupling device (100) is designed for securing a first container (102) to a second container (104). The device (100) comprises a body (118) with a top connecting cone (120) designed to engage with the lower corner casting (110) of the first container (102) and a bottom connecting cone (122) arranged to engage with the upper corner casting (116) of the second container (104). The device (100) also includes an intermediate plate (124) connected between the top and bottom connecting cones (120, 122). This plate (124) has a recess (132) arranged to face outwardly on the short sides (106, 112) of the first and second containers (102, 104) when the device (100) is engaged. A transceiver cassette (136) is mounted in the recess (!32) of the intermediate plate (124), which includes a communications module (146) configured to transmit and receive data via an antenna (148). The antenna (148) is designed to transmit signals outwardly from the short sides (106, 112) of the first and second containers (102, 104).

Description

The technology pertains to the field of container transportation and logistics, specifically focusing on the secure coupling of shipping containers. It also involves the use of communication technologies for data transmission and tracking, enhancing the traceability and management of these containers.BackgroundThe management and tracking of shipping containers is a complex task, especially when considering the vast number of containers that are transported globally on a daily basis. The use of small devices such as twistlocks or coupling devices, which are placed in shipping container stacks, has been a common practice to secure containers together. These devices often incorporate radio communication capabilities to transmit information about the status and location of the containers. However, the radio environment in which these devices operate is challenging and subject to high attenuation.The steel shipping containers, which are closely placed in stacks, pose a significant obstacle for radio signals to propagate. Regardless of the frequency band or modulation method used, radio propagation is subject to high attenuation when penetrating or going around the steel container to reach its receiver antenna. The stacks of containers, which can reach up to thirteen containers high, often leave less than a metre of free space in many places, making line of sight radio propagation seldom achievable. This results in high attenuation levels, leading to message loss, reduced data rates, or increased error rates.The devices have limited antenna systems and radiated power, and the direction of the antenna becomes crucial for viable implementation.US10717595B2 describes a container corner lock with spring-loaded hooks that engage the container corner casting while containing an internal device that is configured to transmit and receive information to and from an external communication unit. US10717595B2 is silent on the arrangement of an antenna or the inclusion of eink / electronic paper. A problem with US10717595B2 is that the user is able to insert the container corner lock into the container corner casing in more than one way. This can lead to poor performance of the transceiver.SummaryAccording to a first aspect of the disclosure, a coupling device for securing a first container having a lower corner casting to a second container having an upper corner casting comprises a coupling device body having a top connecting cone arranged to engage with the lower corner casting of the first container and being asymmetric about a longitudinal axis, and a bottom connecting cone arranged to engage with the upper corner casting of the second container. An intermediate plate is connected between the top connecting cone and the bottom connecting cone, the intermediate plate having an intermediate plate recess arranged to face outwardly on a first container short side and a second container short side when the coupling device is engaged with the lower corner casting of the first container and the upper corner casting of the second container. A transceiver cassette is mounted in the intermediate plate recess, the transceiver cassette comprising a communications module configured to transmit and receive data via an antenna, the antenna being configured to transmit signals outwardly from the first container short side and the second container short side. This provides a robust and secure method for coupling two containers while enabling efficient data transmission and reception for tracking and monitoring purposes.Optionally in some examples, the bottom connecting cone is asymmetric about the longitudinal axis. The advantage of the asymmetry ensures a single orientation engagement.Optionally in some examples, the intermediate plate recess comprises an offset recess portion arranged to receive a projecting battery portion of the transceiver cassette. The advantage of this claim is that it allows for a compact and efficient design that accommodates an increased battery size without interfering with the structural integrity or functionality of the coupling device. This means that the transceiver cassette is arranged to transmit and receive signals for longer and means that the battery does not need to be replaced as frequently.Optionally in some examples, the offset recess portion extends to one side of the intermediate plate and is offset from the longitudinal axis. This provides a spaceefficient arrangement that optimises the placement of the battery.Optionally in some examples, the intermediate plate has a thickness of 28 mm in a direction along the longitudinal axis.Optionally in some examples, the communications module is configured to use one or more communications protocols including IEEE802.15.4 (Zigbee), ETSI 103 357 (MIOTY), LoRaWAN, or BLE. This provides flexibility in communication options, allowing the device to be compatible with various existing and emerging communication standards for enhanced connectivity and data transmission.Optionally in some examples, the antenna is located within a potting material. The potting material protects the antenna from environmental factors such as moisture, salt, and temperature variations, which are common in marine environments, thereby ensuring reliable performance.Optionally in some examples, the antenna is a helical antenna. The helical antenna provides a compact design with good performance characteristics, including a wide bandwidth and omnidirectional radiation pattern, which is beneficial for maintaining consistent communication signals.Optionally in some examples, the transceiver cassette comprises an e-ink display connected to the circuitry. The e-ink display provides a clear and easily readable interface for displaying the status and identity of the coupling device, even in direct sunlight, due to its high visibility and contrast properties.Optionally in some examples, the e-ink display is configured to show the status and / or identity of the coupling device. This allows for real-time monitoring and identification of the coupling devices, facilitating efficient management and tracking of containers.Optionally in some examples, the e-ink display is configured to display text in different languages. This means that the usability of the device in international settings by providing information in multiple languages, thereby improving accessibility and reducing the likelihood of miscommunication.Optionally in some examples, the intermediate plate is made of steel. The steel provides the necessary strength and durability to withstand the harsh conditions and heavy loads typically encountered in shipping and container handling environments.Optionally in some examples, the coupling device is a fully automatic twistlock (FAT). The fully automatic twistlock mechanism simplifies the process of securing and releasing containers, reducing the need for manual intervention and thereby increasing operational efficiency and safetyOptionally in some examples, the transceiver cassette comprises a memory configured to store a unique global electronic identity for the transceiver cassette and the coupling device body. This ensures precise traceability and accountability of each component, enhancing inventory management and security.Optionally in some examples, the top connecting cone and the bottom connecting cones are arranged to respectively engage the lower corner casting and the upper corner casting in only one orientation. This ensures a secure and stable connection between the containers, preventing misalignment and potential damage during transport and handling.Brief Description of the DrawingsExamples are described in more detail below with reference to the appended drawings.Figure 1 is a view of a first container and a second container secured by a coupling device according to some examples;Figure 2 is a view of a coupling device with an indicated antenna direction according to some examples;Figure 3 is a side view of the coupling device showing the coupling device body, top connecting cone, bottom connecting cone, and transceiver cassette according to some examples;Figure 4 is a perspective view of the coupling device showing the coupling device body, top connecting cone, bottom connecting cone, and intermediate plate according to some examples;Figure 5 is a view of the coupling device showing the intermediate plate recesses and offset recess portion, with a transceiver cassette removed from the intermediate plate recess according to some examples; andFigure 6 is an exploded view of the transceiver cassette according to some examples.Detailed DescriptionThe detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology with sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure.Figure 1 illustrates the coupling device 100 in its operational context, securing a first container 102 and a second container 104 together. As shown in Figure 1, the first container 102 comprises a lower corner casting 110 and the second container 104 comprises an upper corner casting 116, and the coupling device 100 there between.The coupling device 100 is positioned at the intersection of the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102 and the upper corner casting 116 of the second container 104. This placement of the coupling device 100 ensures a secure connection between the containers, facilitating safe and efficient stacking and transportation. The figure also visually depicts the first container short side 106 and the second container short sides 112, which are relevant for understanding the positioning of the transceiver cassette 136 and its antenna 148, as detailed in subsequent figures and descriptions.Whilst Figure 1 refers only to the first container 102 and the lower corner casting 110 and the second container 104 and the upper corner casting 116. However, the first container 102 and second container(s) 104 will have a plurality of corner castings as illustrated in Figure 1. However, for the purposes of clarity Figure 1 only references the lower corner casting 110 and the upper corner casting 116.The coupling device 100 secures a first container 102, which has a lower corner casting 110, to a second container 104, which has an upper corner casting 116. The coupling device 100 has a longitudinal axis 126. When the coupling device 100 is first installed into the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102, it rotates about the longitudinal axis 126.In some instances, the coupling devices 100 remain locked to both the first container 102 and the second container 104 under dynamic movement conditions. The coupling devices 100 may be a fully automatic twistlock (FAT). The coupling devices 100 may optionally incorporate an engagement mechanism, such as a spring-loaded locking pin, a twist-lock mechanism, or a cam-action latch, to securely engage with the corner fitting and prevent accidental dislodgement. The coupling device 100 includes a coupling device body 118The first container 102 is configured to house and transport goods securely. For instance, the first container 102 is optionally a shipping container, such as a 40-foot ISO standard cargo container, a refrigerated container (reefer), a 20-foot ISO standard cargo container, or a 45-foot high cube container.The first container 102 includes a first container short side 106. The first container 102 also has a first container long side 108. The first container 102 includes a lower corner casting 110.The second container 104 is also configured to house and transport goods securely. In some configurations, the second container 104 is configured to be the same as the first container 102.Likewise, the second container 104 includes a second container short side 112. The second container 104 has a second container long side 114. The second container 104 also includes an upper corner casting 116.Figure 2 provides a more detailed view of the coupling device 100 in its operational setting, attached to the first container 102 and the second container 104. This view emphasises the positioning of the antenna 148 and its directional characteristics, which allow improved communication capabilities of the transceiver cassette 136.Figure 2 is a close-up view of the dotted circle in Figure 1 and illustrates how the coupling device 100 integrates with the containers, highlighting the relative positions of the first container short side 106, the second container short side 112, the lower corner casting 110, and the upper corner casting 116. The antenna direction 150 is prominently displayed, indicating the intended path of signal transmission.Figure 2 visually represents an optimal placement and orientation of the antenna 148 for effective communication. It demonstrates how the position of an antenna 148 can facilitate signal transmission outwards from the first container short side 106 and the second container short side 112. By orientating the antenna 148 in this direction when the coupling device 100 is engaged with the lower corner casting 110 and the upper corner casting 116, the transmitted signals from the antenna 148 are transmitted further. This is because the transmitted signals are in a direction towards free space e.g. air and not in a direction towards other containers. This improves connectivity and data exchange within the intermodal shipping environment.The transceiver cassette 136 includes an antenna 148. The antenna 148 is configured to transmit signals outwardly from the first container short side 106 and the second container short side 112. The antenna 148 connects to the circuitry 140 and the communications module 146.In some instances, the antenna 148 is located within potting material. This placement offers increased protection from environmental factors such as moisture, salt, and temperature variations common in marine environments. Additionally, the potting material ensures stability and a fixed orientation for the antenna 148, because the antenna 148 is fixed within the potting material. This means that the antenna 148 is more resistant to shocks and sudden acceleration so the antennas 148 remains fixed with respect to the transceiver cassette 136. This helps fix the antenna direction 150 with respect to the transceiver cassette 136 and the coupling device 100. This means that the antenna 148 is configured to better maintain consistent signal direction and strength.In some examples, the potting material is one or more of materials discussed in more detail below. The potting material has dielectric properties suited for radio propagation through the potting material.The antenna 148 may be configured to be directional or omnidirectional. Examples of antennas 148 types include helical, beam-forming, dipole, microstrip, monopole, slot, and dielectric resonator antennas. Any suitable antenna 148 can be used to transmit and receive signals. In some examples, the antenna 148 is a directional antenna 148 which means that less energy is wasted transmitted signals towards the metal walls of e.g. the first container 102 and the second container 104.The antenna 148 has an antenna direction 150 e.g. as shown in Figure 2. The antenna direction 150 is the direction the antenna 148 is configured to transmit signals. In some instances, the antenna direction 150 is perpendicular to the first container short side 106 and the second container short side 112. This configuration may enable improved signal propagation by reducing the amount of metal obstruction since the antenna 148 is arranged to transmit signals away from the first container 102 and the second container 104. The antenna direction 150 is perpendicular to longitudinal axis 126 of coupling device body 118.Figure 3 presents a side view of the coupling device 100. In particular Figure 3 shows a coupling device body 118 and its constituent parts, The coupling device body 118 includes a top connecting cone 120, a bottom connecting cone 122, and an intermediate plate 124. This perspective allows for a better visualisation of how these elements interact and contribute to the secure connection between the first container 102 and the second container 104.The coupling device body 118 is a structural element of the coupling device 100, providing the framework for the other components. The top connecting cone 120 and the bottom connecting cone 122 engage respectively with the lower corner casting 110 and the upper corner castings 116 to enable a secure lock. The intermediate plate 124 engages both the lower corner casting 110 and the upper corner casting 116 when the coupling device 100 is engaged with the first container 102 and the second container 104. Furthermore the intermediate plate 124 comprises the transceiver cassette 136. The intermediate plate 124 provides structural integrity and protects the transceiver cassette 136. The transceiver cassette 136 is responsible for communication and data transmission, adding an intelligent layer to the coupling device 100 as discussed in more detail below.Figure 3 also shows at least one top projecting lobe 128 and at at least one bottom projecting lobe 130. The at least one top projecting lobe 128 is connected to the top connecting cone 120 and projects therefrom. The at least one bottom projecting lobe 130 is connected to the bottom connecting cone 122 and projects therefrom. Figure 3 only labels a single at least one top projecting lobe 128 and at least one bottom projecting lobe(s) 130 but in some examples there can be multiple top projecting lobes 128 and multiple bottom projecting lobes 130.The at least one top projecting lobe 128 and at least one bottom projecting lobe 130 play a role in the secure engagement of the coupling device 100 with the lower corner casting 110 and the upper corner casting 116. The side view in Figure 3 is particularly helpful in visualising the relative positions and interactions of these components.The coupling device 100 includes a coupling device body 118. The coupling device body 118 may be made of steel. The coupling device body 118 includes a top connecting cone 120, a bottom connecting cone 122, and an intermediate plate 124 which are also all made of steel. In this way the top connecting cone 120, the bottom connecting cone 122, and the intermediate plate 124 are integral and form a single unitary element.The coupling device body 118 includes a top connecting cone 120. The top connecting cone 120 engages with the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102. In some instances, the top connecting cone 120 is arranged to be asymmetric about the longitudinal axis 126. This asymmetry allows it to engage with the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102 in a single orientation. The top connecting cone 120 may also be arranged to prevent rotation during container movement, preventing damage to the cone / casting interface caused by twisting forces. The top connecting cone 120 optionally includes at least one top projecting lobe 128. The at least one top projecting lobe 128 location on the top connecting cone 120 is also asymmetric about the longitudinal axis 126. The upper corner casting 116 and the lower corner casting 110 is each not symmetrical about a hole that receives the bottom connecting cone 122 and the top connecting cone 120. This means that when the upper corner casting 116 receives the bottom connecting cone 122 and the lower corner casting 110 receives the top connecting cone 120, the bottom connecting cone 122 and the top connecting cone 120 is each closer to one side of the upper corner casting 116 and the lower corner casting 110.The coupling device body 118 includes a bottom connecting cone 122. This bottom connecting cone 122 is arranged to engage with the upper corner casting 116 of the second container 104. The bottom connecting cone 122 may be also asymmetric about the longitudinal axis 126, ensuring engagement with the upper corner casting 116 of the second container 104 in a single orientation. The bottom connecting cone 122 may also be arranged to prevent rotation during container movement, thus preventing damage to the cone / casting interface caused by twisting forces. The bottom connecting cones 122 optionally has at least one bottom projecting lobe 130.The coupling device body 118 incorporates an intermediate plate 124. The intermediate plate 124 may be connected between the top connecting cone 120 and the bottom connecting cone 122. It is designed to withstand the maximum anticipated load and minimise wear. The intermediate plate 124 has a thickness of 28 mm along the longitudinal axis 126, within a range of 20mm to 28mm. The intermediate plate 124 includes an intermediate plate recess 132.In some examples, the top connecting cone 120 optionally includes at least one top projecting lobe 128. The at least one top projecting lobe 128 is not necessary and the top connecting cone 120 is arranged to be asymmetric about the longitudinal axis 126 without the at least one top projecting lobe 128. The at least one top projecting lobe 128 is arranged to project into one side of the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102.Likewise in some examples, the bottom connecting cone 122 may optionally include at least one bottom projecting lobe 130. The at least one bottom projecting lobe 130 is not necessary and the bottom connecting cones 122 can be asymmetric about the longitudinal axis 126 without the at least one bottom projecting lobe 130. The at least one bottom projecting lobe 130 projects into one side of the upper corner casting 116 of the second container 104.The intermediate plate 124 includes an intermediate plate recess 132. This recess is L-shaped and designed to receive the transceiver cassette 136. In some configurations, the intermediate plate recess 132 may be arranged to face outwardly on both the first and second container short side 112 when the coupling device 100 is engaged with the upper corner casting 116 and lower corner casting 110. The intermediate plate recesses 132 may also include an offset recess portion 134.The transceiver cassette 136 is related to the intermediate plate recess 132 by being mounted permanently or semi-permanently, for example, using screws or snap-fit connections for semi-permanent mounting, or permanently affixed using welding or adhesive bonding. The transceiver cassette 136 may be mounted in the intermediate plate recess 132. The transceiver cassettes 136 may be removable from the intermediate plate recess 132. This removability enables simplified battery 154 replacement or recharging without interfering with the operational status of the coupling device 100. The transceiver cassette 136 includes a communications module 146 and an antenna 148. It may also include a cassette housing 138, circuitry 140, a controller 142, memory 144, an e-ink display 152, and a battery 154.Figure 4 provides an alternate perspective view of the coupling device 100, similar to Figure 3 but viewed from a different angle. This view offers additional clarity on the three-dimensional structure of the device and the arrangement of its components, particularly the top connecting cone 120, bottom connecting cone 122, intermediate plate 124, and the relative positioning of the transceiver cassette 136 within the coupling device body 118.Figure 5 provides a detailed view of the transceiver cassette 136 and its interaction with the coupling device 100, specifically focusing on the intermediate plate recess 132 and the offset recess portion 134.Figure 5 illustrates the intermediate plate recess 132 and is arranged to house the transceiver cassette 136. The offset recess portion 134 is highlighted, showing its role in accommodating the projecting battery portion 158 of the transceiver cassette 136. The offset recess portion 134 allows for the transceiver cassette 136 having a larger battery 154. Since the top connecting cone 120 is asymmetrically mounted on the intermediate plate 124, there is space for a large intermediate plate recess 132 located, at least in part adjacent to the top connecting cone 120. The intermediate plate recess 132 is arranged to provide secure and correct positioning of the transceiver cassette 136 within the coupling device 100.The separate depiction of the transceiver cassette 136 allows for a clearer view of its features, including the antenna direction 150. This reinforces the directional nature of the antenna 148 and its importance for communication. The antenna 148 is optionally can be directional or omnidirectional. In the case where the antenna 148 is omnidirectional, at least a portion of the transmitted signals are transmitted in the direction of the first container short side 106 and the second container short side 112. Figure 5 clarifies the relationship between the transceiver cassette 136 and the coupling device 100, emphasising the design considerations for integration and functionality.As mentioned above, the offset recess portion 134 is a component of the intermediate plate recess 132 and receives a projecting battery portion 158.In some configurations, the offset recess portion 134 extends to one side of the intermediate plates 124, offset from the longitudinal axis 126.Figure 6 presents an exploded view of the transceiver cassette 136, detailing its internal components and their arrangement. This exploded view allows for a clear visualisation of the individual parts and how they assemble to form the complete transceiver cassette 136.Figure 6 showcases the cassette housing 138 and is a protective enclosure for the internal components. The battery 154 is shown separately, illustrating its placement within the cassette housing 138. The circuitry 140 in some examples is a printed circuit board (PCB) and the components are mounted thereto. The components of the transceiver cassettes 136 are shown unconnected for the purposes of clarity. The circuitry 140 is connected to the various components e.g. including but not limited to a memory 144, controller 142, circuitry 140, and a communications module 146. The antennas 148 and an e-ink display 152 are also shown in their respective positions relative to the other components.This exploded view clarifies the interconnections between the components, such as the connection of the antenna 148 to the communications module 146 and the connection of the various components to the circuitries 140. It also highlights the positioning of the e-ink display 152 for external visibility.As mentioned above the transceiver cassette 136 includes a cassette housing 138. In some instances, the cassette housing 138 has an L-shape. The cassette housing 138 may be made of a durable material. This durable material may be made of durable plastics and potted to withstand extreme environments. Examples of durable materials may include polycarbonate, FIDPE (high-density polyethylene), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), PPS (polyphenylene sulphide), PEEK (polyether ether ketone), nylon (polyamide), acetal (polyoxymethylene or POM), fibreglass-reinforced plastic, polypropylene, or Ultem (polyetherimide). The cassette housing 138 includes a potting material to protect the circuitry 140 against environmental factors. In some configurations, the potting material has dielectric properties suited for radio propagation. Examples of potting materials may include epoxy resin, silicone rubber, polyurethane, silicone gel, thermally conductive epoxy, flame retardant epoxy, UV-curable potting compound, polyacrylate, vinyl ester resin, or aluminium oxide-filled epoxy. The cassette housing 138 includes a projecting battery portion 158 to receive the battery 154The cassette housing 138 includes an outer housing wall 156. The outer housing wall 156 is positioned to be exposed to the environment when the transceiver cassette 136 is mounted in the intermediate plate recess 132. In some instances, the outer housing wall 156 may be constructed of a translucent material to allow visualisation of the eink display 152. Examples of suitable translucent materials for the outer housing walls 156 may include polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).The transceiver cassettes 136 may include circuitry 140. The circuitry 140 is connected to a controller 142 and a battery 154. In some instances, the circuitry 140 is mounted on a PCB.The transceiver cassette 136 includes a controller 142. The controller 142 is one or more processors which may be an integrated circuit mounted on the circuitry 140. The controller 142 processes data from the circuitry 140 and manages communication through the communications module 146. The controller 142 is configured to send a signal to the e-ink display 152. The controller 142 is connected to memory 144. In some configurations, the controller 142 is connected to a communications module 146. The controller 142 may be configured to connect and receive BIC-code and other data from third-party trackers.In some instances, the controller 142 optionally has positioning technology to calculate the actual stowed position. Examples of positioning technologies may include GPS technology to determine the precise geographical coordinates of the container's location, UWB (ultra wideband) technology for accurate indoor positioning within the container stack, RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags and readers for positional tracking within a confined space, RTLS (real-time location system) beacons in the environment to triangulate the position of the container within the yard or ship, a combination of Wi-Fi signal strength triangulation and fingerprinting techniques for position determination in areas with Wi-Fi coverage, geomagnetic sensors to detect the earth's magnetic field variations for indoor positioning applications, or a combination of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons and receivers for proximitybased location tracking in dense container environments.The transceiver cassette 136 includes a memory 144 connected to the controller 142. The memory 144 stores BIC code. In some instances, the BIC code provides a unique global electronic identity for each transceiver cassette 136 and coupling device body 118. This unique identity allows for precise traceability and accountability of each transceiver cassette 136 and coupling device body 118 for better inventory management, simplifies the replacement process for either component without confusing their identities, and enhances security by ensuring each component's authenticity through unique identification. The memory 144 also stores data specific to the coupling device 100. In some examples, the controllers 142 can transmit the unique global electronic identity for each transceiver cassette 136 and coupling device body 118 via the antenna 148 to an external device. This means that tracking and logging of the coupling device 100 including the transceiver cassette 136 and the coupling device body 118 can be achieved.The transceiver cassette 136 includes a communications module 146. The communications module 146 is configured to transmit and receive data via the antenna 148. The communications module 146 may be configured to transmit data via near field communication. In some instances, the communications module 146 is able to transmit either of the unique global electronic identity of the coupling device 100 via near field communication. The communications module 146 may be configured to transmit via the antenna 148 with beamforming to cause directional transmission of signals. In some configurations, the communications module 146 is configured to use one or more communications protocols including IEEE802.15.4 (Zigbee), ETSI 103 357 (MIOTY), LoRaWAN, or BLE.The transceiver cassettes 136 may include an e-ink display 152. The e-ink display 152 shows the status and / or identity of the coupling device 100. The e-ink displays 152 can display text (e.g., "front") in different languages. By displaying FRONT on e-ink display 152, the orientation of the coupling device 100 can be quickly understood by a user. Furthermore, changing the text or images displayed by the e-ink displays 152 can further aid the user to install the coupling device 100. Other information relating to the coupling device 100, coupling device body 118 or the transceiver cassette 136 can be displayed on the e-ink display 152. The e-ink display 152 is connected to the circuitries 140 and the controllers 142 can issue control instructions to the e-ink display 152. In some instances, the e-ink display 152 faces outwardly from the transceiver cassette 136 in the same direction as the antenna 148. The e-ink display 152 enables easy reading of status and identity information, even in direct sunlight, due to its high visibility and contrast properties.The transceiver cassette 136 in some examples includes a battery 154. The battery 154 is electrically connected to the circuitry 140. In some instances, the battery 154 fits into a projecting battery portion 158 within the transceiver cassette 136. Additionally or alternatively the circuitry 140 is connected to an energy harvesting technology, such as solar panels, piezoelectric generators, or kinetic energy harvesters, may be used to supplement, charge, or replace the battery 154.Example 1. A coupling device 100 for securing a first container 102 having a lower corner casting 110 to a second container 104 having an upper corner casting 116, the coupling device 100 comprising:a coupling device body 118 having a top connecting cone 120 arranged to engage with the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102 and being asymmetric about a longitudinal axis 126, and a bottom connecting cone 122 arranged to engage with the upper corner casting 116 of the second container 104;an intermediate plate 124 connected between the top connecting cone 120 and the bottom connecting cone 122, the intermediate plate 124 having an intermediate plate recess 132 arranged to face outwardly on a first container short side 106 and a second container short side 112 when the coupling device 100 is engaged with the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102 and the upper corner casting 116 of the second container 104; anda transceiver cassette 136 mounted in the intermediate plate recess 132, the transceiver cassette 136 comprising a communications module 146 configured to transmit and receive data via an antenna 148, the antenna 148 being configured to transmit signals outwardly from the first container short side 106 and the second container short side 112.Example 2. The coupling device 100 according to example 1, wherein the bottom connecting cone 122 is asymmetric about the longitudinal axis 126.Example 3. The coupling device 100 according to examples 1 or 2, wherein the intermediate plate recess 132 comprises an offset recess portion 134 arranged to receive a projecting battery portion 158 of the transceiver cassette 136.Example 4. The coupling device 100 according to example 3, wherein the offset recess portion 134 extends to one side of the intermediate plate 124 and is offset from the longitudinal axis 126.Example 5. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 1 to 4, wherein the intermediate plate 124 has a thickness of 28 mm in a direction along the longitudinal axis 126.Example 6. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 1 to 5, wherein the communications module 146 configured to use one or more communications protocols including IEEE802.15.4 (Zigbee), ETSI 103 357 (MIOTY), LoRaWAN, or BLE.Example 7. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 1 to 6, wherein the antenna 148 is located within a potting material.Example 8. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 1 to 7, wherein the antenna 148 is a helical antenna.Example 9. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 1 to 8, wherein the transceiver cassette 136 comprises an e-ink display 152 connected to the circuitry 140.Example 10. The coupling device 100 according to example 9, wherein the e-ink display 152 is configured to show status and / or identity of the coupling device 100.Example 11. The coupling device 100 according to example 10, wherein the e-ink display 152 is configured to display text in different languages.Example 12. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 1 to 11, wherein the intermediate plate 124 is made of steel.Example 13. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 1 to 12, wherein the coupling device 100 is a fully automatic twistlock (FAT).Example 14. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 1 to 13, wherein transceiver cassette 136 comprises a memory 144 configured to store a unique global electronic identity for the transceiver cassette 136 and the coupling device body 118.Example 15. The coupling device 100 according to any of the examples 1 to 14 wherein the top connecting cone 120 and the bottom connecting cones 122 are arranged to respectively engage the lower corner casting 110 and the upper corner casting 116 in only one orientation.Example 16. A coupling device 100 for securing a first container 102 having a lower corner casting 110 to a second container 104 having an upper corner casting 116, the coupling device 100 comprising:a coupling device body 118;a top connecting cone 120 arranged to engage with the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102;a bottom connecting cone 122 arranged to engage with the upper corner casting 116 of the second container 104;an intermediate plate 124 connected between the top connecting cone 120 and the bottom connecting cone 122, the intermediate plate 124 arranged to face outwardly on a first container short side 106 and a second container short side 112 when the coupling device 100 is engaged with the lower corner casting 110 of the first container 102 and the upper corner casting 116 of the second container 104; a transceiver cassette 136 mounted in the intermediate plate recess 132, the transceiver cassette 136 comprising:a controller 142;a memory 144 storing a unique global electronic identity for each of the transceiver cassette 136 and the coupling device body 118;a communications module 146 configured to transmit and receive data via an antenna 148.Example 17. The coupling device 100 according to example 16, wherein the intermediate plate 124 comprises an intermediate plate recess 132 arranged to face outwardly on a first container short side 106 and a second container short side 112.Example 18. The coupling device 100 according to example 17, wherein the intermediate plate recess 132 comprises an offset recess portion 134 arranged to receive a projecting battery portion 158 of the transceiver cassette 136.Example 19. The coupling device 100 according to example 18, wherein the offset recess portion 134 extends to one side of the intermediate plate 124 and is offset from the longitudinal axis 126.Example 20. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 16 to 19, wherein the intermediate plate 124 has a thickness of 28 mm in a direction along the longitudinal axis 126.Example 21. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 16 to 20, wherein the intermediate plate 124 is made of steel.Example 22. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 16 to 21, wherein the transceiver cassette 136 comprises an e-ink display 152 connected to the circuitry 140.Example 23. The coupling device 100 according to example 22, wherein the e-ink display 152 is configured to show status and / or identity of the coupling device 100.Example 24. The coupling device 100 according to example 23, wherein the e-ink display 152 is configured to display text in different languages.Example 25. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 16 to 24, wherein the communications module 146 is configured to use one or more communications protocols including IEEE802.15.4 (Zigbee), ETSI 103 357 (MIOTY), LoRaWAN, or BLE.Example 26. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 16 to 25, wherein the antenna 148 is located within a potting material.Example 27. The coupling device 100 according to example 26, wherein the potting material has dielectric properties suited for radio propagation through the potting material.Example 28. The coupling device 100 according to any of examples 16 to 27, wherein the antenna 148 is a helical antenna.The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and / or "including" when used herein specify the presence of stated features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element to another element as illustrated in the Figures. It will be understood that these terms and those discussed above are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the Figures. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements present.Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and illustrated in the drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure and appended claims. In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed aspects for purposes of illustration only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the disclosure being set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A coupling device (100) for securing a first container (102) having a lower corner casting (110) to a second container (104) having an upper corner casting (116), the coupling device (100) comprising:a coupling device body (118) having an upper connecting cone (120) arranged to engage the lower corner casting (110) of the first container (102), and a lower connecting cone (122) arranged to engage the upper corner casting (116) of the second container (104);an intermediate plate (124) connected between the upper connecting cone (120) and the lower connecting cone (122), the intermediate plate (124) having an intermediate plate recess (132) arranged to face outwardly towards a short side (106) of the first container and a short side (112) of the second container when the coupling device (100) is engaged with the lower corner casting (110) of the first container (102) and the upper corner casting (116) of the second container (104); anda transceiver cassette (136) mounted in the midplane socket (132), the transceiver cassette (136) comprising a communication module (146) configured to transmit and receive data via an antenna (148) connected to the communication module (146), characterized in that:the upper connection cone (120) is asymmetrical about a longitudinal axis (126) of the coupling device (100);the upper connecting cone (120) and the lower connecting cone (122) are arranged to respectively engage the lower corner casting (110) and the upper corner casting (116) in a single orientation; andthe antenna (148) is oriented within the transceiver cassette (136) to transmit signals outwardly from the short side (106) of the first container and the short side (112) of the second container.

2. The coupling device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the lower connection cone (122) is asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis (126).

3. The coupling device (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the intermediate plate recess (132) includes an offset recess portion (134) arranged to receive a protruding battery portion (158) of the transceiver cartridge (136).

4. The coupling device (100) of claim 3, wherein the offset recess portion (134) extends to one side of the intermediate plate (124) and is offset from the longitudinal axis (126).

5. The coupling device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the intermediate plate (124) has a thickness of 28 mm in a direction along the longitudinal axis (126).

6. The switching device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the communication module (146) is configured to use one or more communication protocols, including IEEE802.15.4 (Zigbee), ETSI 103357 (MIOTY), Lo Ra WAN or BLE.

7. The coupling device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the antenna (148) is arranged within a casting material.

8. The coupling device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the antenna (148) is a spiral antenna.

9. The coupling device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the transceiver cartridge (136) comprises an e-ink display (152) connected to a circuit (140).

10. The connector (100) of claim 9, wherein the e-ink display (152) is configured to display status and / or identity of the connector (100).

11. The connector (100) of claim 10, wherein the e-ink display (152) is configured to display text in different languages.

12. The coupling device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the intermediate plate (124) is made of steel.

13. The coupling device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the coupling device (100) is a fully automatic twist lock (FAT).

14. The coupling device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the transceiver cartridge (136) includes a memory (144) configured to store a unique global electronic identity for each of the transceiver cartridge (136) and the coupling device body (118).