Container Lock Bracket Assembly for Fast Weld-Free Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport container securing methods in the oil and gas industry, such as welding and bolting, are time-consuming and logistically challenging, requiring multiple personnel and inspections, and are prone to delays due to weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A lock system using brackets and frames that engage in a quick-connect, weld-free, and bolt-free interlocking mechanism to secure transport containers, allowing efficient loading and unloading without the need for traditional fastening and de-fastening procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding or bolting is used to secure transport containers, then the containers are firmly fixed to the shipping vessel, but the process becomes time-consuming and logistically complex requiring multiple personnel and inspections
Solution Approach 1:
The securing system is divided into separate modular components: brackets fixed to the vessel, frames that hold containers, and locking mechanisms that connect them. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and maintained, enabling rapid container securing without time-consuming welding or bolting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary locking mechanism that bridges the container and the vessel structure. This intermediate device absorbs the complexity of securing operations, providing reliable fixation through mechanical interlocking rather than direct welding or bolting, thus improving both reliability and operational speed.
2Reliability
If welding or bolting procedures are used, then secure container attachment is achieved, but logistical complexity increases due to requiring multiple personnel, equipment, and inspections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex welding and bolting operations from the container securing process. By removing these complex procedures and replacing them with a simplified mechanical locking system, the attachment security is maintained while the logistical complexity and personnel requirements are dramatically reduced.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism uses simple, easily replaceable components that can be quickly installed and removed. Rather than permanent welded or bolted connections requiring extensive inspection and specialized personnel, the system employs simple mechanical elements that can be handled by ordinary workers and replaced if needed.
3Reliability
If traditional fastening methods are used, then containers are securely attached, but the loading and unloading process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system transitions from static permanent connections (welding/bolting) to dynamic reversible connections. The mechanical locking mechanism can be quickly engaged and disengaged, allowing containers to be rapidly secured and released without the time-consuming processes of welding, bolting, de-welding, or de-bolting operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock system for holding transport containers, the system including one or more pairs of brackets, each bracket including frame guides, axle guides and gusset plates. The frame guides are coupled to a major surface of a bracket body of the bracket and have guide walls projecting perpendicularly from the major surface to form frame openings. The axle guides are coupled to and project perpendicularly from the major surface and each of the axle guides surround first thru-holes in the bracket body. The gusset plates couple one of the guide walls to the major surface and the gusset plates have one or more second thru holes therein. A method of assembling the system is also disclosed.