Interconnected units, systems, control units, computer programs and spreader modules

Abstract

The present invention relates to an interconnection unit (124) of modules connecting a cargo container coupling arrangement (120), the coupling arrangement (120) being configured to be releasably attached to a lifting arrangement (110) and to couple a container (130) to the lifting arrangement, wherein the modules comprise at least one boom head pulley module (122) and a spreader module (123), the interconnection unit comprising one or more boom head pulley fastening units (1241, 1242) provided with anchor points (1243, 1244), wherein the anchor points are configured to be releasably attached to the boom head pulley modules of the lifting arrangement, each boom head pulley fastening unit being movably connected to a corresponding displacement unit (1245, 1246), the interconnection unit (124) further comprising one or more corresponding displacement units movably connected to a corresponding boom head pulley fastening unit (and movably connected to a spreader fastening unit (1247), the interconnection unit further comprising a plurality of locking arrangements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to an interconnection unit configured to connect modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement. The present disclosure also relates to a system and a control unit. Background Art

[0002] When handling cargo containers, typically when loading or unloading a container ship at a seaport, the containers are typically moved using a cargo container coupling arrangement. The coupling arrangement is typically configured to be releasably attached to a lifting arrangement. The lifting arrangement may be, for example, a crane that lifts containers onto / off a ship, a crane that handles containers in a cargo yard or other mobile units or vehicles, such as a straddle carrier, a boom reacher, a rubber-tyred gantry crane (RTG) or a rail-mounted gantry crane (RMG), which lifts and / or moves containers within a cargo area, cargo yard or seaport.

[0003] The coupling arrangement typically comprises modules, such as a head block module and a spreader module. The lifting arrangement uses the coupling arrangement to grip and secure the cargo container when lifting and moving the cargo container. In the coupling arrangement, the spreader module is typically able to self-adjust according to the length of the cargo container to be lifted or moved. This is usually performed by a telescopic beam provided with a clamping arrangement or anchor point (such as a twist lock).

[0004] The boom head tackle module can be considered as the "interface" of the lifting arrangement (e.g. a cable crane) to which the spreader module needs to be connected in order to be able to move the cargo container. The connection is typically achieved by matching and connecting the anchor points of the spreader module to the correspondingly located anchor points of the boom head tackle module.

[0005] A conventional solution for mating a spreader module to a boom head tackle module involves designing a new model of spreader module where the anchor points of the spreader module have matching positions relative to the anchor points of the boom head tackle module and are welded into place.

[0006] A disadvantage of such conventional solutions is reduced flexibility when replacing or swapping out spreader models. Another disadvantage is increased engineering resources, since customization is highly required in the spreader module design to accommodate different boom head block configurations.

[0007] Another disadvantage of such conventional solutions is the increased production and warehousing costs, since a large number of spreader module variants or modules must be produced or stocked.

[0008] It would be desirable to provide new approaches to address one or more of the above-mentioned problems or disadvantages. Summary of the invention

[0009] The above objects are achieved by the subject matter described herein. Further advantageous implementations of the invention are described herein.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the object of the present invention is achieved by an interconnection unit, which is configured to connect modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement, the coupling arrangement is configured to be releasably attached to a lifting arrangement and is configured to couple the cargo container to the lifting arrangement, wherein the modules include at least one boom head pulley module and a spreader module, the interconnection unit includes one or more boom head pulley fastening units, each boom head pulley fastening unit is provided with an anchor point arranged in a first plane, wherein a first reference axis and a second reference axis are orthogonal to each other and extend along the first plane, wherein the anchor point is configured to be releasably attached to the boom head pulley module of the lifting arrangement using an anchor point matching the boom head pulley module, and each boom head pulley fastening unit is movably connected to a corresponding displacement unit and is arranged to displace the set anchor point along an axis parallel to the first reference axis X, the interconnected unit also includes one or more corresponding displacement units, each displacement unit is movably connected to the corresponding boom head pulley fastening unit and is movably connected to the spreader fastening unit, the displacement unit is arranged to displace the set anchor point of the corresponding boom head pulley fastening unit along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y, the interconnected unit also includes a spreader fastening unit configured to be attached to the spreader module, wherein the spreader fastening unit is movably connected to one or more displacement units, and the interconnected unit also includes a plurality of locking arrangements, each locking arrangement is configured to prevent each displacement unit from moving relative to the spreader fastening unit, or to prevent each boom head pulley fastening unit from moving relative to the corresponding displacement unit.

[0011] An advantage of the first aspect is that flexibility is increased when changing or swapping out a spreader model attached to a boom head block. That is, the same spreader module can be adapted for several boom head blocks. Another advantage is that engineering resources can be reduced. Another advantage is that production and warehousing costs can be reduced, since a smaller number of spreader module variants must be produced or stocked than when applying conventional solutions.

[0012] Note that embodiments of the present disclosure relate to all possible combinations of features listed in the claims. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, which are incorporated into this section by reference. By considering the following detailed description of one or more embodiments, those skilled in the art will gain a more complete understanding of embodiments of the present invention, as well as an appreciation of its additional advantages. Reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, which are first briefly described. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1A to Figure 1B A cargo container coupling arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0014] Figure 2 Details of a cargo container coupling arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the invention are shown.

[0015] Figure 3 An interconnect unit according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Anchor points in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0017] Figure 5 A manually operated locking arrangement is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 6 An actuated locking arrangement is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 7 A system for providing micro-motion between modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 8 Details of a control unit according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0021] Fig. 9 An example of a system for providing micro-motion between modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0022] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B A further manually operated locking arrangement is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] By considering the following detailed description of one or more embodiments, those skilled in the art will gain a more complete understanding of embodiments of the present invention, as well as a recognition of additional advantages thereof.It should be understood that the same reference numerals are used to identify the same elements shown in one or more of the accompanying drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] In the present disclosure, the term "control unit" refers to a unit comprising a processing circuit and a memory. The memory contains instructions executable by the processing circuit to implement any of the methods and / or method steps described herein. Figure 8 The control unit is described in further detail.

[0025] In the present disclosure, the term "coupling arrangement" means an arrangement configured to couple a lifting arrangement, such as a wire rope crane, to cargo, in particular a cargo container. Typically, such an arrangement comprises a spreader provided with an adjustable telescopic arm and a twist lock for clamping the corners of the container. The coupling arrangement is configured to be releasably attached to the lifting arrangement, in the sense that it can be detached from the lifting arrangement and reattached again at a later stage. The coupling arrangement typically couples the cargo container to the lifting arrangement by acting as an adapter, e.g. an adapter from the wire rope of the crane to a locking / fixing arrangement in the corners of the cargo container. Thus, during the lifting operation, the cargo / container is fixed to the lifting arrangement.

[0026] Figure 1A A cargo container coupling arrangement 120 is shown according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The coupling arrangement 120 is releasably attached to the lifting arrangement 110 and is configured to couple a cargo container 130 with the lifting arrangement 110. Figure 1A In the embodiment shown, the lifting arrangement is a reach stacker having a coupling arrangement configured to be releasably attached to the lifting arrangement. This allows the coupling arrangement to be replaced in a simple manner.

[0027] Figure 1B Also shown is a cargo container coupling arrangement 120 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The coupling arrangement 120 is releasably attached to the lifting arrangement 110 and is configured to couple a cargo container 130 with the lifting arrangement 110. Figure 1B In the embodiment shown, the lifting arrangement is a wire rope hoist with a coupling arrangement configured to be releasably attached to the lifting arrangement. This allows the coupling arrangement to be replaced in a simple manner.

[0028] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the teachings of the above-mentioned lifting arrangements, but may also include other lifting arrangements suitable for lifting containers, such as straddle carriers.

[0029] Figure 2 Details of a cargo container coupling arrangement 120 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention are shown. In particular, Figure 2 Shows about Figure 1B The details of the coupling arrangement described. The coupling arrangement may include a set of modules selected from any one of the wire rope pulley module 121, the boom head tackle module 122 and the spreader module 123. In some embodiments, the coupling arrangement always includes the boom head tackle module 122 and the spreader module 123 connected using one or more interconnecting units 124.

[0030] In a first example, the coupling arrangement comprises three modules: a wire rope pulley module 121, a boom head block module 122 and a spreader module 123. The pulley comprises a wire rope pulley module 121 through which the wire rope of the crane 110 passes. The rope pulley module 121 is releasably attached to the boom head block module 122. One or more interconnection units 124 are typically attached to the spreader 122 module, for example using bolts or welding. The anchor points of the interconnection units 124 can be adjusted or moved to match the position of the anchor points of the boom head block module 122. Optionally, the anchor points of the interconnection units 124 can be further locked in place by using one or more locking arrangements. The anchor points of the interconnection units 124 can then be releasably attached to the boom head block (122) module of the lifting arrangement (110) using matching anchor points of the boom head block (122) module (for example by using twist lock pin connectors or pin and slot connectors). The spreader module 123 can be optionally moved relative to the boom head block module 122, for example to balance the unevenly loaded containers. The rope pulley module 121 is typically connected / coupled to the crane 110 by a steel cable. The spreader is typically telescopic and can be adjusted to handle containers of different sizes. The spreader is equipped with a twist lock that matches each position of the anchor point / fastening arrangement / corner casting in each corner of the cargo container, and when inserted in the corner casting of the container, the twist lock is locked to the container. Therefore, it ensures that the lifting of the container can be carried out in a safe manner. In each corner of the spreader, above the twist lock, a metal leg, paddle or side flap called a guide is typically attached. They can be tilted downward and used to guide the spreader 123 to the corner of the container 130 that should be attached to the spreader 123. Optionally, the spreader 123 is configured to lift two containers at the same time, which can be called a double spreader.

[0031] In the second example, the coupling arrangement comprises an integrated unit including the functionality of three modules, namely the rope pulley module 121 , the boom head block module 122 and the spreader module 123 .

[0032] In a third example, the coupling arrangement is releasably attachable to a vehicle, such as a reach stacker, and comprises only the functionality of the spreader module 123 .

[0033] Sometimes, the pulley module 121 is mounted directly to the spreader module 123 without using a boom head block. In this case, when removing the spreader from the crane, it is necessary to remove the pulley or the axis of the pulley.

[0034] Any other combination of rope pulley modules 121, boom head block modules 122, and spreader modules 123 are contemplated depending on the application and without departing from the present disclosure.

[0035] The present invention relates to an interconnect unit intended to allow improved compatibility and / or adaptability of spreader modules 123 in order to facilitate improved flexibility when connecting to a lifting arrangement, for example using a boom head tackle module.

[0036] In other words, the present disclosure has at least the advantage that a single model of spreader module 123 can be easily and flexibly adapted to multiple lifting arrangements, such as to different cranes using different boom head tackle modules.

[0037] In a general embodiment of the present disclosure, the interconnection unit 124 is configured to connect modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement 120. The coupling arrangement 120 is configured to be releasably attached to a lifting arrangement 110 and is configured to couple a cargo container 130 with the lifting arrangement (110). This is typically a system setup used in seaports. These modules typically include a set of boom head tackle modules 122 and spreader modules 123.

[0038] The provided interconnection unit 124 comprises one or more boom head pulley fastening units 1241, 1242, each boom head pulley fastening unit being provided with an anchor point 1243, 1244 arranged in a first plane, each boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 being movably coupled to a respective displacement unit 1245, 1246 and being arranged to displace the provided anchor point 1243, 1244 along an axis parallel to the first reference axis X. In other words, the boom head pulley fastening units 1241, 1244 provide adaptability of the anchor point along a first direction or axis.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the cargo container coupling arrangement 120 comprises two interconnected units 124, each of the two interconnected units 124 comprises one or more boom head block fastening units 1241, 1242. Each boom head block fastening unit is provided with an anchor point 1243, 1244 arranged in a first plane, each boom head block fastening unit 1241, 1242 is movably coupled to a respective displacement unit 1245, 1246 and is arranged to displace the provided anchor point 1243, 1244 along an axis parallel to the first reference axis X.

[0040] The interconnection unit 124 further comprises one or more respective displacement units 1245, 1246, each displacement unit (1245, 1246) being movably coupled to a respective boom head block fastening unit 1241, 1242 and movably coupled to a spreader fastening unit 1247, the displacement units 1245, 1246 being arranged to displace the provided anchor points 1243, 1244 of the respective boom head block fastening units 1241, 1242 along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y. In other words, the displacement units 1245, 1246 provide adaptability of the anchor points along the second direction or axis.

[0041] The interconnection unit (124) further comprises a spreader fastening unit 1247 configured to be attached to the spreader module 123, for example by welding a box-type structure to the spreader module 123. The spreader fastening unit 1247 is movably coupled to the one or more displacement units 1245,1246.

[0042] In another example, a spreader fastening unit 1247 is provided in a box type form and may be bolted to the spreader module 123 .

[0043] The interconnect unit 124 further comprises a plurality of locking arrangements, each locking arrangement being configured to prevent each displacement unit 1245 , 1246 from moving relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247 , and / or to prevent each boom head tackle fastening unit 1241 , 1242 from moving relative to the corresponding displacement unit 1245 , 1246 .

[0044] In a typical application, the spreader fastening unit 1247 may be included in the spreader module 123 by attaching the spreader fastening unit 1247 to the spreader module 123 using welding or bolting techniques.

[0045] The first reference axis X and the second reference axis Y are mutually orthogonal to each other and extend along a first plane.Each of the anchor points 1243, 1244 is typically configured to be releasably attached to a boom head tackle module 122 of the lifting arrangement 110 using a matching boom head tackle module 122 anchor point.

[0046] In other words, each of the anchor points 1243, 1244 is moved to a position matching the position in the first plane of a corresponding anchor point of the lifting arrangement 110, e.g. the position of an anchor point of a boom head tackle module. This enables the spreader module 123 to be connected to a plurality of different boom head tackle modules 122 having different positions of their anchor points. Thus, the interconnection unit allows the spreader module 123 to be adapted / adjusted relative to a specific boom head tackle module 122.

[0047] Figure 3 An interconnection unit according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The interconnection unit 124 is configured to connect modules of the cargo container coupling arrangement 120. The coupling arrangement 120 is configured to be releasably attached to the lifting arrangement 110 and is configured to couple the cargo container 130 with the lifting arrangement 110. The modules typically include at least one boom head block 122 module and a spreader 123 module. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 Further described is the coupling of cargo containers.

[0048] In one embodiment, the interconnection unit 124 includes one or more boom head pulley fastening units or X-axis saddle members 1241, 1242. Each boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 is provided with an anchor point 1243, 1244 arranged in a first plane. The anchor points 1243, 1244 are typically attached to the boom head pulley fastening units 1241, 1242, for example using bolts or welding points. A coordinate system including a first reference axis X and a second reference axis Y that are orthogonal to each other and extend along the first plane can be defined.

[0049] Each of the anchor points 1243, 1244 is configured to be releasably attached to a boom head block 122 module of the lifting arrangement 110 using a matching anchor point of the boom head block 122 module. The anchor point may be, for example, part of a twist lock pin connection, part of a pin through connection, or a pulley connection, as described with respect to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Further shown.

[0050] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Anchor points according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In one or more embodiments, each anchor point 1243, 1244 includes a twist-lock pin connection 401, a pin-through connection 402, or a pulley module connection 403. Any standardized or appropriate anchor point suitable for the application may be used.

[0051] Further description Figure 3 Each boom head tackle fastening unit 1241, 1242 is movably connected to a corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246 and is arranged to displace the provided anchor point 1243, 1244 along a first axis 302 parallel to the first reference axis X.

[0052] In one example, the first boom head pulley fastening unit 1241 is provided with an anchor point 1243 welded thereto. The first boom head pulley fastening unit 1241 has a corresponding first displacement unit 1245. The first boom head pulley fastening unit 1241 can slide along the first axis 302 parallel to the first reference axis X, thereby displacing the provided anchor point 1243.

[0053] In other words, the position of the anchor point 1243 may be adjusted in the first plane.

[0054] Each boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 may be movably coupled to a corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246, for example, using a common sliding linear bearing or a sliding member, such as a box-type structure or a dovetail common sliding linear bearing. The boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 is provided with a portion of the common sliding linear bearing, and the corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246 is provided with a corresponding second portion of the common sliding linear bearing. The common sliding linear bearing allows the boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 and the provided anchor points 1243, 1244 to move relative to the corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246 along the first axis 302. In the present disclosure, each boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 moves relative to the corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246 along an axis parallel to the first reference axis X.

[0055] The interconnection unit 124 further comprises one or more respective displacement units or Y-saddle members 1245, 1246, each displacement unit 1245, 1246 being movably coupled to a respective boom head block fastening unit 1241, 1242 and movably coupled to a spreader fastening unit 1247. Each respective displacement unit 1245, 1246 is arranged or configured to displace a provided anchor point 1243, 1244 of a respective boom head block fastening unit 1241, 1242 along a second axis 301 parallel to the second reference axis Y.

[0056] Each displacement unit 1245, 1246 may be movably coupled to the spreader fastening unit 1247, for example, using a common sliding linear bearing or a slide, such as a box-type structure or a dovetail common sliding linear bearing. Each displacement unit 1245, 1246 is provided with a portion of a common sliding linear bearing, and the spreader fastening unit 1247 is provided with a second portion of a common sliding linear bearing that interacts with the first portion. The common sliding linear bearing allows the displacement units 1245, 1246, the respective boom head block fastening units 1241, 1242 and the provided anchor points 1243, 1244 to move relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247 along the second axis 301. In the present disclosure, each displacement unit 1245, 1246 moves relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247 along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y.

[0057] The interconnection unit 124 further includes a spreader fastening unit 1247 configured to be attached to the spreader module 123, such as by using bolts or by welding the spreader fastening unit 1247 to the spreader module 123. The spreader fastening unit 1247 is arranged with a centerline extending in a second plane and parallel to the second reference axis Y. For example, the spreader fastening unit 1247 can be arranged in a rectangular box shape with a centerline. The second plane is arranged parallel to the first plane. As described above, the spreader fastening unit 1247 is movably coupled to one or more displacement units 1245, 1246.

[0058] In other words, the provided anchor points 1243, 1244 move along the first plane as the various components or parts of the interconnection unit 124 move. The boom head tackle fastening units 1241, 1242 are then typically moved along the second axis 301 parallel to the second reference axis, thereby adapting the positions of the anchor points 1243, 1244 to the corresponding positions of the anchor points of the lifting arrangement, such as the anchor points of the boom head tackle module 122. The displacement units 1245, 1246 are moved relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247 along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y, thereby adapting the positions of the anchor points 1243, 1244 to the corresponding positions of the anchor points of the lifting arrangement, such as the anchor points of the boom head tackle module 122.

[0059] The interconnect unit 124 further comprises a plurality of locking arrangements configured to prevent each displacement unit 1245 , 1246 from moving relative to the spreader fastening unit ( 1247 ) and to prevent each boom head tackle fastening unit 1241 , 1242 from moving relative to the respective displacement unit 1245 , 1246 .

[0060] In one embodiment, each boom head block fastening unit 1241 , 1242 is configured to displace the disposed anchor point 1243 , 1244 in a first direction along an axis parallel to the first reference axis X by moving relative to a corresponding displacement unit 1245 , 1246 .

[0061] In one embodiment, one or more displacement units 1245, 1246 are arranged between the first plane and the second plane. Each displacement unit 1245, 1246 is configured to displace the anchor point 1243, 1244 of the corresponding boom head tackle fastening unit 1241, 1242 in a second direction parallel to the second reference axis Y, for example along the second axis 301, by moving relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247.

[0062] In one embodiment, each displacement unit 1245, 1246 may be coupled to the spreader fastening unit 1247 using a common sliding linear bearing or slide, such as a box-type structure or a dovetail linear bearing. As described above, each displacement unit 1245, 1246 may also be coupled to the boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 using a common sliding linear bearing or slide. The displacement units 1245, 1246 are provided with a portion of a common sliding linear bearing, and the boom head pulley fastening unit 1247 is provided with a corresponding second portion of a common sliding linear bearing. The displacement units are coupled to the spreader fastening unit 1247 using common sliding linear bearings, so that the displacement units 1245, 1246, the corresponding boom head pulley fastening units 1241, 1242, and the provided anchor points 1243, 1244 move relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247 along an axis or in a second direction (e.g., along the second axis 301). In the present disclosure, the displacement units 1245 , 1246 move along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y relative to the hanger fastening unit 1247 , thereby also causing the provided anchor points 1243 , 1244 to move along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively, each of the boom head block fastening units 1241, 1242 can be configured to displace the corresponding anchor point 1243, 1244 along the first plane in a first direction parallel to the first reference axis X by moving relative to the corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246. In one example, the first boom head block fastening unit 1241 has a corresponding first displacement unit 1245 and moves relatively along an axis parallel to the first reference axis X. The first direction is typically in Figure 3 One of two opposite directions indicated on the first axis 302 as shown.

[0064] One or more displacement units 1245, 1246 are arranged substantially or to the greatest extent of their volume between the first plane and the second plane, or at least a major part of one or more displacement units 1245, 1246 are arranged between the first plane and the second plane, such as Figure 3 Visible in.

[0065] Additionally or alternatively, each of the displacement units 1245, 1246 can be configured to displace the corresponding boom head block fastening unit 1241, 1242 and the provided anchor points 1243, 1244 in a first direction along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y (e.g., along the second axis 301) and along a first plane by moving relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247. In one example, the first displacement unit 1245 has a corresponding first boom head block fastening unit 1241 with an anchor point 1243, and moves relatively along the second axis 301 parallel to the second reference axis Y. The second direction is typically in Figure 3 In other words, each displacement unit 1245, 1246 is configured to displace the included or attached anchor point 1243, 1244 of the corresponding boom head tackle fastening unit 1241, 1242 in a second direction parallel to the second reference axis Y by moving relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247.

[0066] Figure 5 A manually operated locking arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In this embodiment, the locking arrangement / multiple locking arrangements can be at least partially manually operated, controlled or adjusted. In other words, each boom head block fastening unit 1241, 1242 is typically moved along an axis parallel to the first reference axis X, and / or the corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246 is moved along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y until the position of the set anchor point reaches a target position, typically matching the position of the anchor point of the boom head block 122 module. This is usually a position where two holes of the locking member are aligned to allow the locking pin to be inserted. In this embodiment, each locking arrangement of the one or more locking arrangements includes at least:

[0067] The first locking members 511 , 514 of the displacement units 1245 , 1246 have through holes and are arranged to be aligned with one of the plurality of holes of the spreader fastening unit 1247 when moved relative to the spreader fastening unit 1247 .

[0068] The locking arrangement further comprises a second locking member 512, 513 of the respective boom head tackle fastening unit 1241, 1242 having a through hole and arranged to align with one of the plurality of holes of the displacement unit 1245, 1246 when moved relative to the displacement unit 1245, 1246.

[0069] In addition, the locking arrangement further comprises a first locking pin 501, 504 and a second locking pin 502, 503, wherein the first locking pin 501, 504 is arranged to protrude through the first locking member 511, 514 and extend into one of the holes of the spreader fastening unit 1247, and the second locking pin 502, 503 is arranged to protrude through the second locking member 512, 513 and extend into one of the holes of the displacement unit (1241, 1242). Examples of locking pins may be locking threaded pins, clamping bolts, positioning pins and adjusting bolts.

[0070] exist Figure 5 In the embodiment, two locking members 511, 514 are provided for each displacement unit, and two locking members 512, 513 are provided for each boom head block fastening unit. It should be understood that some embodiments may use a single locking member or three or more locking members without departing from the present disclosure.

[0071] Figure 6 An actuated locking arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The actuated locking arrangement typically includes an actuator and a coupled linkage member, such as an electric actuator and a screw, configured to move each boom head block fastening unit 1241, 1242 along an axis parallel to a first reference axis X and / or move the corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246 along an axis parallel to a second reference axis Y based on a control signal until the position of the set anchor point reaches a target position, typically matching the position of the anchor point of the boom head block 122 module. The control signal to direct the actuator to the target position can be obtained, for example, from a control panel or button operated by a user. The control signal to direct the actuator to the target position can be obtained, for example, from a control unit 710. The control signal to direct the actuator to the target position can be obtained, for example, from a server or cloud 730. The actuator is typically provided with a locking mechanism that locks or stops the movement of the actuator when a control signal indicating movement is not received.

[0072] In this embodiment, each locking arrangement of the one or more locking arrangements comprises at least:

[0073] Actuator units, wherein each actuator unit comprises an actuator (601, 603, 605, 607), such as an electric actuator and / or a servomotor and / or a planetary drive, and a linkage member (603, 604, 606, 608), such as a threaded rod, a roller pinion and rack, a lead screw or a rigid chain and matching cogwheels. Optionally, hydraulic or pneumatic actuators may be used.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, one or more actuator units each include a first axis actuator, wherein the link members 604, 608 of the first axis actuator are connected to the first actuator 603, 607, the displacement unit 1245, 1246 and the corresponding boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242, wherein the first actuator 603, 607 is configured to displace the boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 relative to the displacement unit 1245, 1246 in a first direction in response to a control signal. Each of the one or more actuator units optionally further includes a second axis actuator, wherein the link members 602, 606 of the second axis actuator are connected to the second actuator 601, 605, the displacement unit 1245, 1246 and the hanger fastening unit 1247, wherein the second actuator 601, 605 is configured to displace the displacement unit 1245, 1246 relative to the hanger fastening unit 1247 in a second direction in response to a control signal.

[0075] Figure 7 A system 700 for providing micro-motion between modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement 120 is shown, wherein the coupling arrangement is configured to releasably attach to a lifting arrangement 110 and to couple a cargo container 130 with the lifting arrangement.

[0076] The system comprises a coupling arrangement 120 comprising a plurality of modules, wherein the modules comprise at least one boom head block 122 module, a spreader 123 module and one or more interconnect units 124 according to any embodiment described herein.

[0077] The system also includes a control unit 710 communicatively coupled to the actuators 601, 603, 605, 607 of one or more interconnected units 124, wherein the control unit is configured to transmit control signals to the actuators 601, 603, 605, 607 of the one or more interconnected units 124, such that the one or more interconnected units displace the boom head block module 122 relative to the spreader module 123 in response to the control signals and provide micro-motion between the modules of the cargo container connection arrangement 120.

[0078] In one embodiment, the positions of the anchor points of the interconnected units are moved or adjusted to produce micro-motion between the modules of the cargo container coupling arrangement 120 based on user input.

[0079] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 710 further comprises a communication interface 720 configured to transmit and / or receive data, for example, to / from the actuators 601-607 of the interconnect unit 124. The communication interface 720 may optionally be provided inside or outside the control unit 710.

[0080] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 710 further comprises a user interface comprising a user input device 717 and a display 718, wherein the control unit is configured to receive indications from a user indicating micro-movements (such as skew, tilt and pitch movements) and to send control signals indicating displacements of the actuator unit corresponding to the micro-movements.

[0081] In one example, a user indicates a desired skew movement of the spreader module 123 on a user interface of the control unit 710 , and the control unit 710 then sends a control signal corresponding to an adjustment of the anchor point position of the interconnect unit 124 , resulting in the desired skew movement of the spreader module 123 .

[0082] Additionally or alternatively, the system further comprises a server 730, wherein the control unit 710 is configured to receive indications indicating micro-motions (such as skew, tilt and pitch movements) from the server 730 and to send control signals indicating displacements of the actuators 601, 603, 605, 607 corresponding to the micro-motions.

[0083] Additionally or alternatively, the system further comprises a client 760, wherein the control unit 710 is configured to receive indications indicating micro-motions (such as skew, tilt and pitch movements) from the client 760, and to send control signals indicating displacements of the actuators 601, 603, 605, 607 corresponding to the micro-motions.

[0084] In one example, a server, for example responsible for performing automatic container loading of a vessel, indicates a desired skew movement of the spreader module 123 and sends the indication as a control signal to the control unit 710. The control unit 710 then sends a control signal indicating a displacement of the actuator corresponding to an adjustment of the anchor point position of the interconnect unit 124. The adjustment of the anchor point position results in the desired skew movement of the spreader module 123.

[0085] Additionally or alternatively, the server 730 is configured to receive control signals including sensor data from sensors of the cargo container coupling arrangement 120 (not shown), and generate an indication indicative of a nudge from the server 330 based on the sensor data and using the trained model.

[0086] The coupling arrangement 120 may include sensors (not shown) that monitor the coupling arrangement, for example, to monitor the operational health of the coupling arrangement. Examples of such sensors may be twist lock position sensors configured to detect whether the twist lock is in an open position or a locked position, seeker / flap position sensors configured to detect seeker / flap position, telescopic position sensors configured to determine to what extent the adjustable length / width beams are extended or which telescopic position they are in, load sensors configured to detect loads (e.g., loads coupled to the coupling arrangement 120 or loads carried by the wire rope), vibration sensors configured to detect loads and / or vibrations (e.g., vibrations in the wire rope pulley module 121).

[0087] Additionally, or alternatively, the control unit is further configured to perform any method steps of the methods described herein. In other words, the control unit 710 may, for example, be arranged with the coupling arrangement 120 and / or the lifting arrangement 110 and configured to receive control signals from sensors. The control unit 710 is further configured to transmit control signals to actuators of the coupling arrangement 120 and / or the interconnection unit 124 to control the functions of the coupling arrangement 120 or the interconnection unit 124, such as moving the position of the anchor point, activating / deactivating the twist lock, positioning the seeker / flap or adjusting the telescopic beam to accommodate containers of different sizes.

[0088] The system 700 also optionally includes a communication network 750 configured to exchange signals or control signals between the sensors or nodes 710 , 730 , such as to exchange control signals between the server 730 and the control unit 710 .

[0089] System 300 also optionally includes a server 730 communicatively coupled to control unit 710 directly or via communication interface 720 , and optionally includes a communication interface 740 configured to transmit and / or receive data to / from control unit 710 , for example.

[0090] The server 730 may also be configured to perform any method steps of the methods described herein. In other words, the server 730 may, for example, be configured to send / receive control signals to / from sensors and / or to / from the control unit 710 .

[0091] The system 700 also optionally includes a client 760 communicatively coupled to the server 730 and / or the control unit 710 directly or via the communication network 750 , and optionally includes a communication interface (not shown) configured to transmit and / or receive data to / from the server 730 , for example.

[0092] In one example, the control unit 710 is configured to generate an indication micromotion based on the sensor data. In another example, the server 730 is configured to generate an indication micromotion based on the sensor data. In one example, the client 760 is configured to generate an indication micromotion based on the sensor data.

[0093] Figure 8 Details of a control unit 710 are shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0094] The control unit 710 can be in the form of any of one or more interactive servers, one or more virtual servers or cloud servers, an onboard computer, an electronic control unit (ECU), a digital information display, a fixed computing device, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a handheld computer, a wrist-worn computer, a smart watch, a PDA, a smart phone, a smart TV, a telephone, or a media player.

[0095] The control unit 710 may include a processing circuit 812 that is optionally communicatively coupled to a transceiver for wired and / or wireless communication. In addition, the control unit 710 may also include at least one optional antenna (not shown). The antenna may be coupled to the transceiver and configured to send and / or transmit and / or receive wireless signals in a wireless communication system, such as sending / receiving control signals between the server 730, the control unit 710, and / or a sensor. In an example, the processing circuit 812 may be any one of a group of processors and / or a central processing unit and / or a processor module and / or a plurality of processors configured to cooperate with each other.

[0096] Furthermore, the control unit 710 may also include a memory 815. The memory 815 may contain instructions executable by the processing circuit to perform any of the methods and / or method steps described herein.

[0097] The control unit 710 may also include a communication interface 804 / 720, such as a wireless transceiver and / or a wired / wireless communication network adapter, which is configured to send data values ​​or parameters as signals or control signals to the processing circuit 812, or receive data values ​​or parameters as signals or control signals from the processing circuit 812, or receive data values ​​or parameters from other internal or external nodes, such as receiving a control signal indicating the position of the seeker / flap, a control signal indicating the position of the twist lock, or transmitting a control signal to adjust the telescopic beam to the size of a specific container.

[0098] The server 730 also optionally communicates via a communication network 750 configured to exchange signals or control signals between the sensors or nodes 710 , 730 , such as to exchange control signals between the server 730 and the control unit 710 .

[0099] Additionally or alternatively, the communication network 750 communicates using wired or wireless communication technologies, which may include local area network (LAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), CAN bus, CANopen, global system for mobile networks (GSM), enhanced data GSM environment (EDGE), universal mobile telecommunications system, long term evolution, high speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, Wi-Fi, voice over Internet protocol (VoIP), advanced LTE, IEEE802.16m, advanced wireless metropolitan area network, evolved high speed packet access (HSPA+), 3GPP long term evolution (LTE), mobile WiMAX (IEEE 802.16e), ultra mobile broadband (UMB) (formerly evolution data optimized (EV-DO) revision C), fast low latency access / seamless handover orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (Flash-OFDM), high capacity spatial division multiple access (iBurst®), and mobile broadband wireless access (MBWA) (IEEE 802.20) systems, High Performance Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks (HIPERMAN), Beam Division Multiple Access (BDMA), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (Wi-MAX), and ultrasonic communications, but are not limited to these.

[0100] In one embodiment, the communication interface 804 communicates directly between the communication network nodes 710 , 730 , 760 or via the communication network 750 .

[0101] In one or more embodiments, the control unit 710 may further include an input device 817 configured to receive input or instructions from a user and send a user input signal indicating the user input or instructions to the processing circuit 812 .

[0102] In one or more embodiments, the control unit 710 may also include a display 818 configured to receive display signals indicating a presented object (such as a text or graphical user input object) from the processing circuit 812 and display the received signals as an object (such as a text or graphical user input object).

[0103] In one embodiment, the display 818 is integrated with the user input device 817 and is configured to receive a display signal indicating a presented object (such as a text or graphical user input object) from the processing circuit 812 and display the received signal as an object (such as a text or graphical user input object), and / or to receive an input or indication from a user and send a user input signal indicating the user input or indication to the processing circuit 812. In an embodiment, the processing circuit 812 is communicatively coupled to the memory 815 and / or the communication interface 804 and / or the input device 817 and / or the display 318. The control unit 710 can be configured to send / receive data directly to / from another node, or to send / receive data via a wired and / or wireless communication network 750.

[0104] In an embodiment, the communication interface and / or transceiver 804 communicates using wired and / or wireless communication techniques.

[0105] In embodiments, memory(s) 815 may include a set of memories such as hard disk RAM, magnetic disk drive, floppy disk drive, tape drive, optical disk drive, CD or DVD drive (R or RW) or other removable or fixed media drives.

[0106] In another embodiment, the control unit 710 may also include and / or be connected to one or more additional sensors (not shown) configured to receive and / or obtain and / or measure physical properties associated with the lifting arrangement 110, the coupling arrangement 120 or the cargo container 130, and send one or more sensor signals indicating the physical properties (e.g., ambient temperature) to the processing circuit 812.

[0107] The server may include information about Figure 8 All or a subset of the features of the control unit 710 described.

[0108] Client 760 may include information about Figure 8 All or a subset of the features of the control unit 710 described.

[0109] Fig. 9 An example of a system 700 for providing micro-motion between modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement 120 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0110] As about Figure 2 and Figure 7 As described, the system 700 may include a coupling arrangement 120 configured to releasably attach to a lifting arrangement 110 and configured to couple a cargo container 130 with the lifting arrangement 110 .

[0111] The system 700 includes a control unit 710 that is communicatively coupled to sensors and / or actuators of the coupling arrangement 120. Fig. 9 In the example shown, the control unit 710 may include a communication interface 804 including an IoT (Internet of Things) gateway, a diagnostic module, and a control module. The control module typically manages the spreader operation based on the crane commands. The diagnostic system typically collects and interprets the sensor information obtained by the control system, such as applying predetermined conditions to the control signals obtained / received from the sensors. The IoT gateway typically transmits control signals to / from a server 730 (e.g., an IoT cloud server), and in some embodiments may be integrated with the diagnostic module and host diagnostic system software. In one application, such as Fig. 9 As shown, for example, a control unit including an IoT gateway, a diagnostic module and a control module is arranged on or with a spreader. In other applications, the IoT gateway, the diagnostic module and the control module are arranged on or with a lifting arrangement (such as a crane). The IoT gateway typically communicates using a private IP address, a secure private tunnel over the Internet and encrypted data transmission.

[0112] The system 700 also includes a server 730, such as an IoT cloud server, that is communicatively coupled to the control unit 710 directly or via a communication interface 720, and includes a communication interface 740 configured to transmit and / or receive data. The server 730 is typically located in a private subnet that is not accessible from the Internet. The server 730 also typically uses elastic load balancing and only accepts data from trusted sources. The server 730 is also typically communicatively coupled to a client 760, such as in the form of a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smart watch, or a smart phone.

[0113] In one example, data collected during container lifting is used as training data that can be applied to train a training model. In particular, data indicating spreader micro-motions such as skew, pitch and pitch movements, and corresponding sensor data. The data can be collected during the lifting procedure. The training model can be any suitable machine learning model, such as a neural network based model.

[0114] In the operational mode, the received sensor data is then input into the training model to receive the micro movement indications of the spreader module 123.

[0115] In other words, the server 730 typically collects data from a fleet of connected arrangements 120, such as crane spreaders. The encrypted data is then transmitted from the control unit 710 to the server 730 via an IoT gateway that communicates through a secure private tunnel. The data is stored in a secure private cloud instance where only authorized personnel and applications can access the data. Any application that controls the process can run in a secure private cloud instance. Application requests are isolated from the public internet by a load balancer, and all data traffic is encrypted. Access management is implemented to ensure that only authenticated users can access the data.

[0116] In one example, the promotion procedure includes:

[0117] One or more control signals are received from the sensors indicating the position of all twist-locks in the unlocked position.

[0118] A control signal is transmitted to an actuator of the twist-lock to place the twist-lock in a locked position, for example after receiving a locking command from a lifting arrangement 110, such as a crane.

[0119] One or more control signals are received from the sensors indicating the position of all twist-locks of the coupling arrangement 120 are in the locked position.

[0120] One or more control signals are received from sensors (eg, load sensors of the coupling arrangement 120) indicating that the container 130 is being lifted or hoisted.

[0121] One or more control signals are received from sensors (eg, load sensors of the coupling arrangement 120) indicating that the container 130 is being lowered.

[0122] A control signal is transmitted to an actuator of a twist-lock of the coupling arrangement 120 to place the twist-lock in an unlocked position, for example after receiving an unlock command from a lifting arrangement 110, for example a crane.

[0123] One or more control signals are received from sensors of the coupling arrangement 120 indicating that the position of all twist-locks are in the unlocked position.

[0124] In one embodiment, a computer program is provided and includes computer executable instructions for causing the control unit 710 to perform the method steps when the computer executable instructions are executed on the processing unit circuit 812 included in the control unit 710:

[0125] receiving an indication of a desired micro-motion of the cargo container coupling arrangement 120, such as skew, pitch and pitch movement, and

[0126] A control signal is sent indicating the displacement of the actuator 601 , 603 , 605 , 607 corresponding to the indicated micromotion.

[0127] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided and includes a computer readable medium 815 having instructions which, when executed by a computer such as the server 730 or the control unit 710 , cause the computer to perform any set of any method steps described herein.

[0128] Furthermore, variations of the disclosed embodiments may be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "one" (the indefinite article "a" or "an" in the English original) does not exclude a plurality. The fact that certain measures are cited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

[0129] The computer program described herein may be provided, for example, in a computer program product. In other words, the computer program product may include a computer-readable medium having instructions that, when executed by a computer (or by a processor contained in a computer), cause the computer to perform the method described herein. The computer-readable medium may, for example, be a transient computer-readable medium (such as a signal or wave that transmits instructions from a transmitter to a receiver) or a non-transient computer-readable medium (such as a storage medium or memory that stores instructions). Other examples of transient computer-readable media include electronic signals, optical signals, and radio signals.

[0130] It should be understood that a processor (or processing circuit) may include one or more of a microprocessor, a controller, a microcontroller, a central processing unit, a digital signal processor, an application specific integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array, or any other suitable computing device, resource, or combination of hardware, software, and / or encoded logic that can operate to provide computer functionality alone or in conjunction with other computer components (such as memory or storage media).

[0131] It should also be understood that the memory or storage medium (or computer-readable medium) may include any form of volatile or non-volatile computer-readable memory, including but not limited to permanent memory, solid-state memory, remotely mounted memory, magnetic media, optical media, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), mass storage media (e.g., a hard disk), removable storage media (e.g., a flash drive, compact disk (CD), or digital video disk (DVD)), and / or any other volatile or non-volatile non-transitory device that stores information, data, and / or instructions that can be used by a processor or processing circuitry that is readable and / or computer-executable.

[0132] Fig. 10A A further manually operated locking arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In this embodiment, the locking arrangement can be at least partially manually operated, controlled or adjusted. In other words, each boom head pulley fastening unit 1241, 1242 is typically moved along an axis parallel to the first reference axis X, and / or the corresponding displacement unit 1245, 1246 is moved along an axis parallel to the second reference axis Y until the position of the set anchor point reaches a target position, typically matching the position of the anchor point of the boom head pulley 122 module. This will typically be a position where the anchor points of the spreader module 123 and the boom head pulley 122 module are aligned with each other. Once the relative XY alignment, coordination and positioning of the anchor points of the spreader module 123 and the boom head pulley module 122 are completed, the dual wedge wedge locking system is then deployed to securely lock the saddle 1241 and the displacement unit / base 1245 in place. The locking principle is to use a tapered machined wedge plate 1015 provided with a treated friction surface, such as fine groove cuts, rough textures, etc., and a friction based substrate or article. A high strength threaded rod 1013 of a specific length is then pinned through a drilled hole in the displacement unit / base 1245, each end of the rod is provided with a nut 104, 1016 screwed onto the end of the rod 1013, and the torque of the bolt / nut 1014 is tightened on both sides of the saddle (depending on the bolt size selected) to lock the saddle in place. The bolt can be locked with the help of a nylon locking nut and a wedge-shaped locking washer. This configuration can also be used in pairs in reverse to achieve the most effective locking performance.

[0133] In other words, Figure 5 In contrast to the discrete position adjustments of the illustrated design, the XY alignment, coordination and positioning of the spreader module 123 relative to the anchor point of the boom head block module 122 may be continuous.

[0134] Another advantage is in addition to achieving a locking feature; it also has the advantage of facilitating assembly of the boom head block securing unit 1241 and the displacement unit / base 1245, wherein greater tolerances can be employed to achieve increased flexibility to accommodate different boom head block designs for assembly. In other words

[0135] Fig. 10B Details of a further manually operated locking arrangement according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In this embodiment, each of the one or more locking arrangements includes at least a third locking member 1012. The third locking member 1012 is provided with two flanges arranged perpendicular to each other. The first flange is provided with a through hole, and the second flange is wedge-shaped. The one or more locking arrangements also include a fourth locking member 1015 in the form of a wedge-shaped wedge. The wedge has a wedge shape that matches the wedge shape of the second flange of the third locking member 1012. The one or more locking arrangements also include a fifth locking member 1013 in the form of a rod, which is arranged to be inserted through the through hole of the first flange of the third locking member 1012 and through the through hole of the boom head pulley fastening unit 1241. The wedge shape of the second flange of the third locking member 1012 is arranged to contact the wedge-shaped wedge of the fourth locking member 1015.

[0136] In one or more embodiments, the wedge of the fourth locking member 1015 can be provided with a friction surface, such as a fine groove cut, a rough texture, etc., or a friction-based substrate or article.

[0137] In one or more embodiments, the rod of the fifth locking member 1013 is threaded and the locking arrangement is further provided with a nut 1014 screwed onto the rod.

[0138] The rod 1013 may also be provided with a retaining element, which is arranged at the end of the rod 1013 opposite to the end with the nut 1014. Additionally or alternatively, the retaining element may be a second nut 1016.

[0139] In other words, the locking arrangement is activated when the rod pulls the second flange having the through hole of the third locking member 1012. In one example, the first flange of the third locking member 1012 is then pressed against the wedge of the fourth locking member 1015 and the corresponding displacement unit 1245, thereby generating a friction-based locking of the boom head block fastening unit 1241. In another example, the first flange of the third locking member 1012 is then pressed against the wedge of the fourth locking member 1015 and the corresponding spreader fastening unit 1247, thereby generating a friction-based locking of the displacement unit 1245.

[0140] In some embodiments, the wedge elements act on the wedges in opposite directions, e.g. Fig. 10BAs shown in the example of . In this embodiment, the locking arrangement also includes a sixth locking member 1016. The sixth locking member 1016 is provided with two flanges arranged perpendicular to each other. One of the flanges is provided with a through hole, and the other flange is wedge-shaped. The wedge matches the wedge shape of the flange of the third locking member 1012 and the wedge shape of the wedge block. The rod 1013 is also arranged to be inserted through the through hole of the third flange of the sixth locking member 1012. The wedge shape of the fourth flange of the sixth locking member 1016 is arranged to contact the wedge-shaped wedge block of the fourth locking member 1015.

[0141] exist FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B In the embodiment, two locking members 1011, 1012 are provided for each displacement unit, and two locking members 1011, 1012 are provided for each boom head block fastening unit. It should be understood that some embodiments may use a single locking member or three or more locking members without departing from the present disclosure.

[0142] Finally, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but also relates to and incorporates all embodiments within the scope of the appended independent claims.

Claims

1. An interconnection unit (124) configured to connect modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement (120), the coupling arrangement (120) configured to be releasably attached to a lifting arrangement (110) and configured to couple a cargo container (130) with the lifting arrangement (110), wherein the modules include at least a boom head tackle module (122) and a spreader module (123), the interconnection unit (124) comprising: one or more boom head tackle fastening units, each of the boom head tackle fastening units being provided with an anchor point arranged in a first plane, wherein a first reference axis (X) and a second reference axis (Y) are mutually orthogonal and extend along the first plane, wherein the anchor point is configured to be releasably attached to the boom head tackle module (122) of the lifting arrangement (110) by means of an anchor point matching the boom head tackle module (122), each of the boom head tackle fastening units being movably coupled to a respective displacement unit and being arranged to displace the provided anchor point along an axis parallel to the first reference axis (X), The interconnection unit (124) further comprises one or more corresponding displacement units, each displacement unit being movably connected to a corresponding boom head pulley fastening unit and movably connected to a spreader fastening unit (1247), the displacement units being arranged to displace the arranged anchor point of the corresponding boom head pulley fastening unit along an axis parallel to the second reference axis (Y), The interconnection unit (124) further comprises the spreader fastening unit (1247) configured to be attached to the spreader module (123), wherein the spreader fastening unit (1247) is movably coupled to one or more of the displacement units, and The interconnection unit (124) further comprises a plurality of locking arrangements, each locking arrangement being configured to prevent a corresponding displacement unit from moving relative to a corresponding spreader fastening unit (1247), or to prevent a corresponding boom head block fastening unit from moving relative to a corresponding displacement unit.

2. An interconnect unit according to claim 1, wherein each anchor point comprises a twist-lock pin connection (401) or a pin-slot connection.

3. The interconnect unit according to claim 1, wherein each locking arrangement is further configured to: preventing the corresponding displacement unit from moving relative to the corresponding spreader fastening unit (1247), and The corresponding boom head block fastening unit is prevented from moving relative to the corresponding displacement unit.

4. An interconnect unit according to claim 3, wherein each locking arrangement comprises at least: a first locking member of a corresponding displacement unit, the first locking member having a through hole and arranged to align with one of the plurality of holes of the spreader fastening unit (1247) when moved relative to the spreader fastening unit (1247), and a second locking member of a respective boom head tackle fastening unit, the second locking member having a through hole and arranged to align with one of the plurality of holes of the respective displacement unit when moved relative to the respective displacement unit, The locking arrangement further comprises a first locking pin and a second locking pin, wherein the first locking pin is arranged to protrude through the first locking member and extend into one of the multiple holes of the hanger fastening unit (1247), and the second locking pin is arranged to protrude through the second locking member and extend into one of the multiple holes of the displacement unit.

5. The interconnect unit according to claim 3, wherein each locking arrangement comprises at least: Actuator units, wherein each actuator unit comprises an actuator and a link member.

6. An interconnected unit according to claim 5, wherein each actuator unit includes a first axis actuator, wherein a link member of the first axis actuator is connected to a first actuator, a displacement unit and a corresponding boom head pulley fastening unit, wherein the first actuator is configured to displace the boom head pulley fastening unit in a first direction relative to the displacement unit in response to a control signal.

7. An interconnected unit according to claim 5 or 6, wherein each actuator unit includes a second axis actuator, wherein a link member of the second axis actuator is connected to a second actuator, a displacement unit and the hanger fastening unit (1247), wherein the second actuator is configured to displace the displacement unit in a second direction relative to the hanger fastening unit (1247) in response to a control signal.

8. A system (700) for providing micro-motion between modules of a cargo container coupling arrangement (120), wherein the coupling arrangement is configured to releasably attach to a lifting arrangement (110) and to couple a cargo container (130) with the lifting arrangement, the system comprising: A module of a coupling arrangement (120), wherein the module comprises at least a boom head tackle module (122) and a spreader module (123); One or more interconnect units (124) according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and A control unit (710) communicatively coupled to one or more actuators of the interconnected units (124), wherein the control unit is configured to transmit a control signal to the actuator of the one or more interconnected units (124), such that the one or more interconnected units displace the boom head tackle module (122) relative to the spreader module (123) in response to the control signal and provide micro-motion between modules of the cargo container coupling arrangement (120), wherein the micro-motion is a skew, tilt or pitch movement.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the control unit (710) further comprises a user interface, the user interface comprising a user input device (717) and a display (718), wherein the control unit is configured to receive an indication from a user indicating a micro-movement and to send a control signal indicating a displacement of the actuator unit corresponding to the micro-movement.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the system further comprises a server (730), wherein the control unit (710) is configured to receive an indication indicating a micro-motion from the server (730) and to send a control signal indicating a displacement of an actuator corresponding to the micro-motion.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the server (730) is configured to receive control signals including sensor data from sensors of the cargo container coupling arrangement (120), and to generate an indication indicative of a nudge from the server (730) using a computer implemented training model.

12. A control unit (710) communicatively connected to one or more actuators of an interconnected unit (124) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the control unit (710) is configured to transmit a control signal to the actuator of one or more of the interconnected units (124), so that one or more of the interconnected units displace one or more anchor points of one or more of the interconnected units (124) in response to the control signal.

13. A computer program comprising computer executable instructions for causing a control unit (710) according to claim 12 to perform the method steps when the computer executable instructions are executed on a processing unit circuit (812) comprised in the control unit (710): receiving an indication of a desired micro-movement of the cargo container coupling arrangement (120), the micro-movement being a skew, tilt or pitch movement, and A control signal is sent indicating a displacement of an actuator (601, 603, 605, 607) corresponding to the indicated micro-motion.

14. A spreader module (123) comprising an interconnection unit (124) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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