Cargo Securement Device Automatic Entry Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo securement devices lack automatic entry and release capabilities without the size, weight, and expense of container pedestals, and do not incorporate interchangeable temperature-dependent actuating elements for uniform performance across a wide range of temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A cargo securement device featuring a rotatable shaft with a cam head that moves through a locking opening in an unlocked position and secures the container in a locked position, utilizing interchangeable torsional springs made from materials like steel or rubber to provide uniform performance across varying temperatures, and a base with a spring-receiving cavity for actuating the head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a container pedestal with automatic entry and release is used, then automatic securement is achieved, but the device becomes large, heavy, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the automatic actuation mechanism from the traditional pedestal structure. The twistlock device incorporates a cam mechanism and spring system that can be actuated automatically by container corner casting movement, eliminating the need for heavy pedestal structures while maintaining automatic entry and release capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The twistlock device serves multiple functions: it provides manual operation capability, automatic actuation through cam surfaces, and securement functionality. This multi-functionality allows the device to achieve automatic entry and release without requiring the specialized heavy pedestal structure
2Weight of stationary object
If a twistlock with manual operation is used, then the device remains small and lightweight, but automatic entry and release are not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The cam surfaces are pre-configured on the twistlock head and base to automatically initiate the locking or unlocking sequence when the container corner casting moves into position. This preliminary mechanical arrangement enables automatic actuation without adding significant weight
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically returns the twistlock head to its initial position after actuation, and the cam surfaces automatically engage or disengage based on container movement. The device serves itself by using the container's own movement to trigger the locking/unlocking action
3Ease of manufacture
If standard spring elements are used, then the device is simple to manufacture, but performance varies across different temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies using tempered steel for the spiral torsional spring, which changes the material parameters to achieve temperature stability. The tempering process modifies the steel's physical properties to maintain consistent spring characteristics across wide temperature ranges from -50°F to +130°F
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism combines tempered steel construction with a specific spiral geometry to create a composite solution that maintains reliability across temperatures. The combination of material treatment and structural design achieves both manufacturing feasibility and temperature-dependent performance consistency
4Strength
If the securement device projects horizontally beyond the container, then securement capability is improved, but the device increases in size and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The twistlock head rotates within a compact space defined by the base and container corner casting. The cam surfaces and spring mechanism are nested within the minimal projection required, allowing the device to maintain securement capability without extending horizontally beyond the container
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables automatic entry and release of cargo containers without projecting horizontally beyond the container, providing securement across different environmental conditions while allowing for interchange of spring elements based on temperature requirements, ensuring reliable operation in extreme temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
a spiral torsional spring constructed from tempered steel for effecting substantially uniform spring performance across a wide range of temperatures
Implementation Method 2
The shaft comprises a head-receiving end and a spring-receiving end... A spring is connected between the shaft and the housing to resiliently bias the head
Data Source
AI summary
A container securement device enables a user to secure a cargo container to a carrier deck. The device includes a base having a projecting shear block received in the lock-actuating opening of the container. A shaft-mounted head rotates between an unlocked or loading position in which the head moves through the locking opening and a locked position in which the container is secured. Automatic entry and release are provided by a selected interchangeable spring element within the base biasing the head to the locked position but permitting movement to the unlocked position when torque is applied by engagement of the container with a cam surface on the head. The spring element may be interchanged as may be required by anticipated climactic and/or temperature conditions. Each spring element is actuable by a uniquely configured shaft member having a spring-receiving end capable of cooperating with at least two types of springs.