Transport Container Flap Locking System Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for transportation containers require expensive devices for each container and prevent the use of automated systems due to the need for manual operation and additional fixing arrangements to prevent unintended opening.
Innovation Solution
A locking system where mechanical elements are separated between the container frame and the docking frame, utilizing a rotary device at the unloading station and a spring-loaded connection system to ensure safe automatic or manual operation of the closing flap, with a manual lever for operation only when the fixing device is unlocked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking devices are directly connected to each transportation container, then each container can be locked independently, but the cost increases significantly as each container requires its own expensive device
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into two parts: a locking device attached to the transportation container and a corresponding docking structure at the unloading station. This allows the expensive rotary device to be located only at the unloading station rather than in each container, significantly reducing per-container costs while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The container frame acts as an intermediary carrier that transports the locking mechanism to the correct position at the unloading station. The frame includes a carrier that can be positioned and locked by the rotary device at the station, eliminating the need for each container to have its own motorized locking system.
2Reliability
If additional fixing arrangements are added to prevent unintended automatic opening, then the closing flap can be secured during transport, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing function is merged with the locking mechanism itself. The same locking device that secures the closing flap during transport also provides the fixing arrangement to prevent unintended opening, eliminating the need for separate fixing components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device serves multiple functions: it locks the closing flap in the closed position during transport, provides fixing arrangements to prevent unintended opening, and enables automatic operation at the unloading station. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
3Reliability
If a robust locking system is designed to prevent unintended opening during transport, then flap security is improved, but the system becomes less adaptable to automated operation at unloading stations
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The carrier can be positioned in different locations along the container frame, and the locking mechanism can transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design allows the same system to provide secure fixing during transport while enabling automatic operation at the unloading station.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic locking system at the unloading station operates autonomously without requiring manual intervention. The rotary device automatically positions the carrier and engages the locking mechanism, allowing the system to serve itself during the locking process while maintaining the security features needed for transport.
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
This solution reduces the number and expense of rotary devices, allowing safe automatic or manual operation of the closing flap, ensuring secure operation even during insertion into a container mixer, while minimizing the need for additional fixing arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
Between the two connection elements an axially acting spring is arranged such that the two connection elements are pressed apart. As a spring, advantageously a pressure spring is used
Data Source
AI summary
An automatically or manually operable closure system for a closing flap on a transport container is situated on the container frame and a docking stand at an unloading station. A rotating device for moving the closing flap is provided on the docking stand and a locking device for locking the closing flap in the closed position is provided on the container frame. A flap shaft, whose other end is mounted rotatably in the container frame and is implemented as a first connection element, engages axially to the rotational axis of the closing flap. The first connection element is axially coupled using a torsion-fixed tongue-groove pair to an axially displaceable second connection element. Formfitting coupling elements are provided on the second connection element and on the driveshaft for moving the closing flap.