Container Auto-Lock System for Freight Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual operation and integration of inter-box connectors (IBC's) in freight containers for locking and unlocking during loading and unloading is time-consuming and inefficient, and results in valuable space loss due to the gaps required between containers.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a container auto-lock system (CALS) into freight containers, which includes a locking mechanism within the castings that automatically secures and releases containers during stacking and unloading, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing the gap between containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual inter-box connectors (IBC's) are used to attach stacked freight containers, then containers can be securely connected, but substantial time and effort are required for manual locking/unlocking and stowing
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically locks containers together when stacked and automatically unlocks when a container is lifted away, eliminating the need for manual locking and unlocking operations. The system serves itself by detecting the stacking condition and automatically engaging or disengaging the lock.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated mechanical system that uses sensors and actuators to detect stacking conditions and automatically control the locking mechanism, substituting human labor with an automated control system.
2Reliability
If inter-box connectors (IBC's) are used to attach stacked containers, then containers can be securely connected, but manual operation is required which is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically locks containers together when stacked and automatically unlocks when a container is lifted away, eliminating the need for manual locking and unlocking operations. The system serves itself by detecting the stacking condition and automatically engaging or disengaging the lock.
3Reliability
If inter-box connectors (IBC's) are used to attach stacked containers, then containers can be securely connected, but gaps of 1-2 inches are produced between containers representing valuable lost space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the inter-box connector component entirely and replaces it with an integrated locking mechanism that is part of the container structure itself, eliminating the need for separate connectors that create gaps between containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is integrated directly into the container corner casting, merging the connection function into the container structure itself rather than using separate external connectors, thereby eliminating the gap between containers.
Data Source
AI summary
A container according the present application includes a container auto-lock system. The container auto-lock system is integrated into the outboard apertures of the lower castings of a domestic sized container. The container auto-lock system includes a locking mechanism which is configured to recess when the container is lowered onto a surface lacking an acceptable receiving aperture. The locking mechanism is also configured to automatically lock when placed on top of a domestic sized container. The container auto-lock system is configured to be compatible with international sized container by allowing the inboard apertures on each lower casting to be available for attaching the domestic container on top of an international container with a conventional locking device.