Cargo Container Locking Interface for Modular Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo containers face challenges with standardization leading to inefficiencies in size compatibility and loading/unloading logistics, particularly for smaller containers, and require secure and efficient coupling methods.
Innovation Solution
A securing lock system with tooth and jaws assemblies, utilizing fluid sources for engaging and disengaging locking interfaces, allowing modular connection and disconnection of cargo containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If specialized loading machinery is used, then loading efficiency is improved, but infrastructure cost and complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container locking system is designed to be self-servicing through its automated tooth and jaws locking mechanism. When containers are stacked, the locking interfaces automatically engage and lock together without requiring external specialized machinery, thereby improving loading efficiency while reducing infrastructure complexity and costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical loading and locking system is replaced with a simpler interlocking mechanism using tooth and jaws assemblies. This substitution eliminates the need for specialized loading machinery while maintaining efficient container stacking and securing capabilities.
2Device complexity
If manual stacking and restraining is used, then equipment cost is reduced, but labor time and operational complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism performs the restraining function automatically through the engagement of tooth and jaws assemblies, eliminating the need for manual stacking and restraining operations. This self-service capability reduces both labor time and operational complexity while maintaining equipment simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stacking and locking functions are merged into a single operation through the integrated tooth and jaws locking mechanism. As containers are stacked, the locking interfaces automatically engage, combining what would traditionally be separate manual operations into one automated process, thereby reducing loading time without requiring complex equipment.
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 efficient and secure coupling of cargo containers, reducing loading complexities and maintaining compatibility with standard transport vehicles, while minimizing movement during transit.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more locking interfaces further include one or more fluid sources that are configured to deliver fluid to move one or both of the tooth assembly or the jaws assembly
Implementation Method 2
the one or more locking interfaces further include a rotational spring rotationally coupled to the one or more jaws
Data Source
AI summary
A securing lock for a cargo support apparatus includes one or more first locking interfaces. The one or more first locking interfaces include a tooth assembly including one or more teeth, and a jaws assembly including one or more jaws. The one or more teeth are configured to be engaged by one or more other jaws of a second locking interface of at least one other container to secure the container to the at least one other container. The one or more jaws are configured to engage one or more other teeth of the second locking interface of the at least one other container to secure the container to the at least one other container.