Arcuate Spar Cover Support with Integrated Bayonet Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo transport container cover systems, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,487,584, are complex, prone to damage, require simultaneous operation of all elements, and expose mechanisms to cargo, making them difficult to operate and maintain, while also posing safety risks to operators.
Innovation Solution
A cover support structure using arcuate spars and spar shafts that can be rotated individually, without the need for a locking device or rope, allowing for controlled movement from the ground and automatic stopping at desired positions, minimizing force required and avoiding exposure to cargo.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device and rope system are used to control cover support elements, then the covers can be securely locked and unlocked, but the device complexity increases and the operation becomes more difficult and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the rope and external locking device from the system. Instead, the spar shaft itself integrates the locking function through its bayonet configuration that engages with the container wall, eliminating the need for separate locking components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining secure locking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged with the rotation mechanism. The bayonet shaft design combines the rotational movement with the locking action into a single integrated component, where the shaft's angular insertion into the container wall simultaneously achieves both rotation control and secure locking without requiring additional mechanisms
2Stability of the object's composition
If all bows must move simultaneously, then the cover can be opened or closed uniformly, but the operator has no control over partial opening and must stand away from the container
Solution Approach 1:
The cover support system is segmented into multiple independent spar shafts, each capable of individual rotation and locking. This allows the operator to open or close portions of the cover independently rather than requiring simultaneous movement of all elements, providing granular control and improving operational safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, simultaneous-operation requirement to a dynamic, individually-controllable system. Each spar shaft can be rotated and locked at different positions and times, allowing flexible, adaptive operation that responds to the operator's needs while maintaining structural integrity
3Device complexity
If the bow pivot hinges are located inside the container, then the structure can be compact, but the mechanism is exposed to cargo that can foul or damage it
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing the pivot mechanism inside the container as in conventional designs, the spar shafts are positioned outside the container with their rotation points external to the cargo space. This inverts the traditional arrangement, protecting the mechanism from cargo exposure while maintaining structural compactness through external mounting
4Reliability
If a release rope is used to unlock the bows, then the locking mechanism can be released, but the operator must stand away from the trailer to minimize rope abrasion and achieve sufficient leverage
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical rope-based release system is replaced with a direct manual rotation mechanism. The operator simply rotates the spar shaft to unlock and open the cover, eliminating the need for leverage and rope manipulation. This substitution improves operational safety by allowing the operator to work close to the container without rope abrasion hazards
Data Source
AI summary
A device for container cover support with spat, spar shaft, and spar shaft rotation lock. Rotation of the spar shaft along a non-vertical axis located along the outer surface of the container sidewall causes the spar to rotate upward and alternatively to uncover the container.