Carrying aid for cargo containers

Abstract

Carrying device for manually picking up and transporting a load container, in particular a material, waste or rubble container, with a frame structure (1) that defines a receiving opening, characterized in that at least one frame element (2, 3) is designed to be movable relative to at least one further frame element in order to adapt the geometry of the receiving opening to different external dimensions or shapes of load containers (5), and that the carrying device can be guided from above over a standing load container (5) in a widened position and is brought into a narrowed, load-receiving position by bringing the frame elements (2, 3) together, in which the frame elements (2, 3) engage under an upper edge, a collar or handle of the load container (5) in order to receive the load container (5) in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

Description

1. Technical field The invention relates to a variable carrying device (carrying aid) for the manual picking up and transport of load containers, in particular heavily loaded load containers in the construction and trade sector, such as mortar tubs, material, waste or rubble containers of various sizes and geometries. 2. State of the art 2.1 Problems with existing cargo containers Standard containers used in construction are primarily designed for storage and filling, but are rarely optimized for ergonomic manual transport over longer distances or up and down stairs. The handles of these containers are usually positioned so close to the container body that carrying them—especially on stairs—severely restricts leg movement. This leads to awkward postures and collisions with the legs. Manually transporting heavy rubble containers without adequate equipment leads to significant health problems in the construction industry. In particular, carrying them in front of the body in a bent-over position puts asymmetrical strain on the lumbar spine and causes severe intervertebral disc compression. Furthermore, the unergonomic handles of conventional buckets cause nerve irritation in the palms of the hands and tendon irritation in the forearms due to concentrated pressure points. 2.2 Disadvantages of known baby carriers Commonly used carrying aids for construction containers are not widely available on the market. The few systems that do exist have significant drawbacks: Lack of flexibility: Rigid carrying frames are often only suitable for a specific container size and fail with other shapes. A carrying aid for rectangular containers cannot be used for round containers, and vice versa. Cumbersome insertion: Many solutions require the heavy container to be lifted before being placed into the carrying aid. Conventional systems are often designed as baskets or bags into which the container must first be lifted. Problematic unloading: A significant disadvantage arises during unloading. To set down the load container, the entire unit, consisting of the carrying aid and the container, must first be placed on the ground. Only then can the container be laboriously lifted out of the aid to finally set it down. This additional lifting process negates the ergonomic advantage of the carrying aid at the moment of maximum load. Lack of stacking capability: With conventional enclosing carrying aids, directly stacking containers at the destination is cumbersome, as the container must first be completely removed from the carrying aid before it can be placed on top of another container. This requires additional lifting operations. 3. Object of the invention The invention is based on the objective of providing a universal carrying device that: is flexibly adaptable to a wide variety of commercially available container geometries (round, rectangular, different volumes); securely holds the load container without requiring it to be lifted for insertion; improves ergonomics by relocating the gripping points away from the container body; enables easy unloading without additional lifting of the container; allows stacking of containers at the destination without additional lifting operations; is optimized for two-person transport and remains usable even in confined spaces. 4. Solution to the task The problem is solved by a carrying device with the features of claim 1. 4.1 Basic principle The invention essentially consists of an adjustable frame structure (1) that defines a receiving opening. The special feature is that the geometry of this receiving opening can be changed to adapt to the outer circumference of different load containers (5). The carrying device is positioned in an expanded position and lowered from above over the upright load container (Fig. 2, steps 1-2). Below the upper edge, the frame structure (1) is narrowed by bringing the frame elements (2, 3) together (step 3). By subsequently lifting the frame, it engages under the edge, collar, or handles of the load container (5) and establishes a positive or non-positive hold (steps 4-5). After transport, the carrying aid can be detached from the container by lowering, expanding, and lifting it upwards ("pass-through principle"). 5. Detailed description of the exemplary implementations The invention is explained in more detail with reference to possible embodiments. The exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying illustrations serve only for demonstration purposes and do not limit the scope of protection. Figure overview The invention is explained in more detail with reference to Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to 7. Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to 7 show: Figure 1: the carrying device in the expanded state in a top view; Figure 2: the overhead handling in five steps: Step 1: frame expanded and positioned over the container; Step 2: frame lowered; Step 3: frame narrowed below the rim; Step 4: frame raised until gripping below the rim; Step 5: load picking; Figure 3: carrying device with a rectangular load container in the load-receiving position; Figure 4: carrying device with a round load container in the load-receiving position; Figure 5: carrying device with different grip positions; Figure 6: load container being placed into another load container using the carrying device; Figure 7: carrying device with three different load containers to demonstrate its versatility 5.1 Preferred embodiment with specific dimensions In the preferred embodiment, the frame structure (1) consists of four telescopic square aluminum profiles with a wall thickness of 2 mm, each designed as an outer and inner tube: Longitudinal elements (2): Outer tube: 40x40mm square profile, length 58.5 cm, wall thickness 2 mm; Inner tube: 38x38mm square profile, length 58.5 cm, wall thickness 2 mm; Adjustment range: 58.5 cm (retracted) to 100 cm (extended); Minimum overlap when extended: 17 cm Cross elements (3): Outer tube: 40x40mm square profile, length 42 cm, wall thickness 2 mm; Inner tube: 38x38mm square profile, length 42 cm, wall thickness 2 mm; Adjustment range: 42 cm (retracted) to 72 cm (extended); Minimum overlap when extended: 12 cm Total adjustment range of the opening: Minimum inner opening: 42 x 58.5 cm Maximum inner opening: 72 x 100 cm This adjustment range allows for the use of all common load containers in everyday construction work, in particular: rectangular mortar tubs 65L or 90L, round mortar tubs 65L or 90L The defined minimum overlap of the inner and outer tubes ensures sufficient structural stability and backlash-free guidance through the internal guide rails, even at maximum extension and high load weights. Guide system: The outer tubes feature internal guide rails into which the inner tubes are guided with a precise fit. The dimensions of 38x38mm inner tubes within 40x40mm outer tubes allow for smooth, backlash-free adjustment. The guide rails prevent the telescopic elements from tilting, even under uneven load. 5.2 Oversized for collision-free placement To ensure collision-free and practical placement of the carrying device, the maximum opening width of the frame structure (1) is preferably larger than the largest cross-section of the container to be accommodated, as can be seen in Fig. 2, step 1. This oversizing allows the user to quickly guide the carrying device over the container from above without having to precisely align it. The additional clearance prevents the frame from hitting the edge of the container during lowering and significantly speeds up the work process. 5.3 Two-person operation with four handles The carrying device is preferably designed for two-person transport and for this purpose has four handles (4) which are arranged in pairs on opposite longitudinal sides (2) of the frame, as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 3. Ergonomic positioning: The handles (4) are designed as force-transmitting extensions of the longitudinal elements (2). This positioning increases the distance between the person carrying the load and the load container (5) ("legroom"), which prevents the load container from hitting the legs when walking and climbing stairs. Individual adjustability of the handle tilt: Each handle (4) can be equipped with its own adjustment mechanism for the handle tilt (see section 5.4), so that both carriers can independently adjust the optimal handle position for themselves, especially when climbing stairs. Adjustable handle position for confined spaces: In an advantageous embodiment, the position of the handles (4) relative to the frame structure (1) is adjustable. This allows the handles (4) to be moved closer to the frame (1) and thus closer to the load container (5) as needed. This feature is particularly advantageous in confined stairwells, narrow passageways, or tight doorways, where a greater distance between the handles would result in an excessively wide overall construction. After passing through the narrow space, the handles (4) can be returned to the ergonomically optimal position. 5.4 Adjustment mechanism of the handles for stair situations In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the handles (4) have a joint or a ratchet mechanism that allows at least three different working positions, as shown in Fig. 5: Position 0° (level): Handles aligned horizontally (0°) for standard transport on straight, level surfaces. Both carriers use the same neutral grip position. The wrist is in a relaxed, straight position. Position +45° (stairs, lower person): Handles inclined upwards by approximately 45°. This position is used by the lower person when climbing stairs, regardless of whether going up or down. Position -45° (stairs, upper person): Handles inclined downwards by approximately 45°. This position is used by the upper person when climbing stairs, regardless of whether going up or down. When climbing stairs, the straps compensate for the incline by adjusting them in opposite directions (+45° below, -45° above), so that despite the incline or decline, the wrists of both straps remain in a neutral, straight position and hyperextension or extreme flexion is avoided. Quick adjustment while carrying: The adjustment mechanism is preferably designed as a push-button or lever locking mechanism, allowing for one-handed operation. Each carrier can thus individually change their handles (4) between the three positions (0°, +45°, -45°) while holding the load, without having to put down the carrying device. This is particularly advantageous when transitioning from flat surfaces to stairs or vice versa, as the transport process does not have to be interrupted. The force transmission from the hand to the frame (1) always occurs in the ergonomically optimal alignment of the forearm, regardless of the body position on the stairs. This significantly reduces the strain on the wrists and tendons and minimizes the risk of overuse injuries from repeated use. 5.5 Fixing the frame position 5.5.1 Mechanical locking mechanism In a preferred embodiment, locking means are used, for example locking bolts, which engage in corresponding recesses of the telescopic frame elements (2, 3) and thus create a positive locking connection. Alternative arrangement of the locking mechanism: The mechanical locking means, in particular locking bolts or pins, can be implemented in different constructive arrangements without changing the function of the invention. External arrangement: The locking mechanisms are located on the outer profile of a telescopic frame element and engage in corresponding recesses or rows of holes in the inner profile. This arrangement allows for all adjustment positions between a fully retracted position and a maximum extended position, with sufficient overlap to ensure structural stability. Internal arrangement (preferred): In a preferred embodiment, the locking mechanism is arranged wholly or partially within the telescopic frame elements. The locking bolt, spring mechanism, and / or actuating device can be integrated into the inner profile, the outer profile, or between the two profiles. This design offers protection against dirt, damage, and unintentional actuation. Actuation: The locking mechanisms can be actuated directly on the respective frame element or remotely, in particular by means of a Bowden cable, pulley, or mechanical force transmission from the handles (4). Such remote actuation allows the user to centrally release and secure the locking mechanism from the handles (4), while the joining and separating of the longitudinal elements (2) as well as the bringing forward of the transverse elements (3) are also carried out via the handles (4), in order to make the entire adjustment process intuitive and without additional manual steps. Simplified two-pin design: In a particularly economical embodiment, two locking pins are sufficient – ​​one pin for the longitudinal axis and one pin for the transverse axis. Due to the symmetrical and stable design of the frame structure (1), the opposite side is automatically guided and positively locked without the need for a separate locking pin. Alternative mechanical systems: Clamping screws, eccentric levers, quick-release fasteners, purely friction-based connections without fixed indexing, spring-loaded locking mechanisms or self-locking mechanisms are also possible. 5.5.2 Positive locking without mechanical locking (alternative embodiment) In an alternative embodiment, the frame position can also be fixed without separate mechanical locking means. This is achieved by a positive-locking interaction between the load container (5) and the frame structure (1). Example: The load container (5) can be equipped with lateral guide rails, grooves, or ribs that engage in corresponding counterparts of the frame structure (1). When the carrying device is lowered over the container, these elements slide into one another and automatically guide the frame into the correct position. The shape of the container itself secures the frame against slippage. This solution is particularly advantageous when the load containers are specifically designed for use with the carrying device. It allows for even faster picking up and releasing of the container, as no locking mechanism needs to be operated. The stability of the connection is ensured solely by the geometric fit between the container and the frame. 5.6 Pass-Through Discharge The carrying device according to the invention solves the problem of cumbersome unloading through a fundamental design feature: Since the carrying device is designed as an open frame that only fixes the container (5) at the upper edge, the container can be released immediately after being placed at the destination (e.g. rubble chute or container) by simply widening the frame (1). The carrying aid can be lifted upwards without the user having to remove the heavy container from its enclosure (the "pass-through principle"). The user releases the locking mechanism, widens the frame (1), and lifts the carrying aid upwards. The container remains on the ground and can be emptied immediately. This eliminates a complete, back-straining work step per transport cycle and significantly reduces overall physical strain. 5.7 Stackability during unloading Another crucial advantage of the invention lies in the stackability of load containers at the destination, as shown in Fig. 6. Since the frame structure (1) is designed as an open, top-removable frame, it allows containers to be stacked directly without additional lifting operations. The transported container (5) is positioned over a previously placed container, the frame structure (1) is expanded and pulled upwards, thereby placing the carried container directly onto the already placed container. With conventional enclosing carrying aids, this direct stacking process is impossible – the container must first be set down, the aid released, and the container lifted again. This offers a significant ergonomic and time advantage, especially with heavy loads and repetitive tasks. 5.8 Compact size and storage When fully retracted, the carrying device achieves a compact size, allowing for space-saving storage and transport in the vehicle. The adjustable frame elements (2, 3) can be pushed together to a minimum, so that the device can also be stored in smaller vans. 5.9 Pass-through compatibility The external dimensions of the carrying device, even in its expanded state, are designed to ensure passage through standard doorways. This is essential for practical use on construction sites, where transport often has to take place through narrow doorways, corridors, or basement entrances. 5.10 Alternative embodiments Number of adjustable elements: The frame structure (1) can be designed with one, two, or four adjustable sides. With one adjustable side, a rigid U-shaped frame remains with one movable closing side. With two adjustable sides, two opposite sides are movable. With four adjustable sides, all sides of the frame (1) are individually adjustable, offering maximum adaptability to any container geometry, as illustrated in Fig. 7. Adjustment mechanisms: The adjustment can be achieved using telescopic rails (profiles pushed into one another) or linear guides (with sliding carriages or joint mechanisms), each of which allows for precise and backlash-free adjustment. REFERENCE MARK LIST (1) Frame structure (2) Longitudinal element (3) Transverse element (4) Handle (5) Load container

Claims

Carrying device for manually picking up and transporting a load container, in particular a material, waste or rubble container, with a frame structure (1) that defines a receiving opening, characterized in that at least one frame element (2, 3) is designed to be movable relative to at least one further frame element in order to adapt the geometry of the receiving opening to different external dimensions or shapes of load containers (5), and that the carrying device can be guided from above over a standing load container (5) in a widened position and is brought into a narrowed, load-receiving position by bringing the frame elements (2, 3) together, in which the frame elements (2, 3) engage under an upper edge, a collar or handle of the load container (5) in order to receive the load container (5) in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. Carrying device according to claim 1, characterized in that the movable frame elements (2, 3) are designed to be telescopically, linearly guided, displaceable and / or articulatedly adjustable. Carrying device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the frame structure (1) is secured in the narrowed carrying position by a releasable fixing. Carrying device according to claim 3, characterized in that the fixing is at least partially achieved by force-fit contact of the load container edge on the frame structure (1). Carrying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving opening in the widened receiving position is dimensioned larger than the outer dimensions of the load container (5) to be received, so that the frame structure (1) can be guided from above to the narrowed carrying position without contact. Carrying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handles (4) are designed as force-transmitting extensions of the longitudinal elements (2) and serve for manually carrying the entire frame structure (1) with the load container (5) inserted therein. Carrying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handles (4) are mechanically connected to the frame elements (2, 3) so that the longitudinal elements (2) and / or the transverse elements (3) can be adjusted by bringing the handles (4) together in the longitudinal direction. Carrying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one handle (4) is provided with a joint or a ratchet mechanism which enables an adjustment of the inclination of the handle relative to the longitudinal element (2). Carrying device according to claim 3, characterized in that the fixing can be released via a remote control from the handles (4). Carrying device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame elements (2, 3) are designed to be adjustable in one or two spatial directions, wherein opposing frame elements (2, 3) are adjustable parallel to each other.

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