Container Lashing Element for Compressive and Tensile Load Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current container securing systems on large container ships are inadequate for withstanding extreme loads caused by parametric rolling, leading to container stack failures and accidents due to their reliance on purely tensile systems that fail to distribute compressive and tensile forces effectively.
Innovation Solution
A lashing system with a pressure- and tensile-resistant connection using a lashing fitting with a rotatable conical element and a screw element for length adjustment, capable of absorbing both compressive and tensile forces, and a ball element for secure, movable connections, ensuring load distribution and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a purely tensile lashing system is used to secure containers, then the system is simple to implement, but it fails to withstand extreme compressive loads during parametric rolling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the functional parameters of the lashing system by introducing a bidirectional force-absorbing mechanism that can handle both tensile and compressive loads, transforming it from a unidirectional tensile system to a dual-mode force-resistant system capable of withstanding parametric rolling conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The lashing system combines multiple functional elements (lashing rod, conical element, insert element, spherical element) into a composite structure that integrates both tensile and compressive load-bearing capabilities, creating a hybrid system that leverages the strengths of different mechanical components
2Loss of time
If conventional lashing systems are used, then installation is quick and simple, but load distribution is inadequate leading to stack failures
Solution Approach 1:
The conical element with insert element design enables self-aligning and self-locking functionality, where the components automatically position themselves during installation to achieve proper load distribution without requiring complex adjustment procedures or additional tools
Solution Approach 2:
The lashing system is divided into functional segments (lashing rod, conical element, insert element, spherical element) that can be independently manufactured and assembled, allowing for simplified installation while maintaining overall system strength through modular construction
3Quantity of substance
If high container stacks are secured with traditional lashing, then stowage capacity is maximized, but the stacks become unstable under extreme rolling conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The bidirectional force-absorbing lashing system acts as a counterbalancing mechanism that resists both the tensile and compressive forces generated during parametric rolling, providing stabilizing counter-forces that prevent stack toppling while maintaining high stowage capacity
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
The system significantly reduces the likelihood of container stack failures by distributing loads through both compressive and tensile forces, stabilizing the container stacks during extreme sea conditions, and preventing collapse.
Implementation Method 1
a lashing fitting (18) with a rotating head (19), in that the rotating head (19) is arranged pivotably, pivotable about a rotation axis (38), relative to a rod section (35) of the lashing rod (11), in that the lashing fitting (18) has a rotatable conical element (20) for engaging in an opening (121) of a corner fitting (120) of a container (100)
Implementation Method 2
with at least one element for changing a length of the lashing element (for adjusting the length of the lashing element and for tensioning the lashing element between the container corner and the stop)
Implementation Method 3
with at least one element for establishing a detachable, movable connection with the stop
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a lashing element (10) for vertically connecting a container (100) or a stack (110) of at least two containers (100) arranged on top of one another to an anchor point (40) on a surface, in particular on board a ship, having: at least one element (24) for establishing a releasable movable connection to the anchor point (40); at least one element (18) for establishing a releasable connection to a corner fitting (120) of the container (100); at least one element (12) for altering the length of the lashing element (10) so as to adjust the length of the lashing element (10) and tension the lashing element between the container corner (120) and the anchor point (40). According to the invention, a connection with high compressive and tensile strength is created between the at least one element (24) for establishing a releasable movable connection to the anchor point (40) and the at least one element (18) for establishing a releasable connection to the corner fitting (120) of the container (100).