Automated system for the electrical connection and disconnection of refrigerated containers to a power supply and/or data transmission network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for connecting and disconnecting refrigerated containers require human intervention, posing safety risks and synchronization challenges, leading to potential damage to goods and increased costs due to manual handling and lack of automation in port and ship environments.
Innovation Solution
An automated system using a mechanical arm for connecting and disconnecting refrigerated containers to a power supply and data transmission network, eliminating the need for human presence by utilizing a movable connector and switchboard with optional ejection mechanisms, allowing for real-time synchronization and reduced manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection and disconnection of refrigerated containers is performed, then human operators can directly handle the connection process, but safety risks increase due to human presence in high-risk port areas with container lifting and handling means
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service connection and disconnection of refrigerated containers through a mechanical arm that autonomously performs the connection to power supply and data transmission networks, eliminating the need for human operators to physically handle connections in hazardous port areas
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical connection process with an automated mechanical arm system that can precisely position and connect containers to power and data networks, substituting human mechanical operations with controlled mechanical automation
2Ease of operation
If manual connection procedures are used, then flexibility in handling is maintained, but synchronization between container movement and power connection deteriorates, leading to temperature loss and goods deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms that monitor container position, movement status, and power connection state, enabling the control unit to synchronize connection operations with container handling activities and maintain temperature parameters by coordinating power supply with actual container status
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system performs preliminary positioning and preparation for connection before actual container movement occurs, ensuring that power and data connections are established or disconnected in advance of temperature-critical events, preventing temperature loss and goods deterioration
3Reliability
If automated mechanical arm system is implemented, then safety and synchronization are improved, but device complexity increases due to integration of mechanical arm, movable connector, and switchboard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power supply connection and data transmission connection into a single integrated automated system operated by one mechanical arm, combining multiple functions (power connection, data connection, disconnection) into a unified automated process that reduces operational complexity despite increased mechanical integration
Data Source
AI summary
System for connecting and/or disconnecting the power supply and/or data connection for refrigerated containers in the port, storage and interchange field and/or on board ship, which container is provided with at least one electrical connector for connection to a power supply and/or data transmission network. The system comprises automated means for the electrical connection and disconnection of the said electrical connector to/from the said power supply and/or data transmission network, which means comprise at least one mechanical arm.