Adjustable Container Trailer Locking for Mixed Container Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailers are limited in their ability to safely and flexibly transport containers of different dimensions, requiring multiple trailers for different sizes due to fixed locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A trailer with variably adjustable locking units that can be positioned and adjusted relative to the frame structure, allowing for flexible adaptation to accommodate containers of varying sizes and shapes, including ISO and non-ISO containers, using twistlocks that can be manually operated without hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If locking units are permanently connected to the frame structure, then the trailer structure is simple and robust, but the trailer cannot adapt to different container dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The locking units are designed to be movable along the longitudinal members of the frame structure, allowing their position to be dynamically adjusted according to the container dimensions. This dynamic positioning capability enables the same trailer to accommodate different container sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure is divided into longitudinal members with multiple positioning locations, and the locking units can be independently positioned at different segments along these members. This segmentation allows flexible configuration of locking unit positions to match various container dimensions.
2Productivity
If multiple trailers are used for different container sizes, then each trailer is optimized for its specific container size, but the quantity of trailers and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is designed with universal adaptability to handle multiple container sizes through the movable locking units. A single trailer can be configured for different container dimensions by adjusting the locking unit positions, eliminating the need to maintain multiple specialized trailers and thereby reducing operational costs and improving productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If locking units are made movable to adjust positions, then adaptability to different container sizes is achieved, but the ease of operation and setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is pre-equipped with multiple predetermined positioning locations along the longitudinal members. The locking units can be quickly moved to and secured at these pre-defined positions, reducing the time and effort required for adjustment compared to creating new positions during each setup.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a trailer for a vehicle, in particular for a passenger car and/or a truck, for transporting a container. The trailer comprises a coupling device for detachable coupling to a vehicle, at least one wheel axle, and a frame structure. According to the invention, the trailer further comprises several locking units for detachable locking with corresponding fastening elements of a container, in particular with corner fittings of a container. At least two locking units are variably adjustable and can be positioned on the frame structure.