Container Transfer System Using Lift and Conveyance Mechanisms
Solution Overview
Problem
Current cargo transfer methods between transport vehicles require additional equipment and manpower, exposing cargo to tampering, damage, and loss, and are often costly due to the need for dedicated facilities and machinery.
Innovation Solution
A container transfer system comprising a conveyance mechanism and a lift mechanism that allows for the direct transfer of containers between vehicles without external machinery, using a drive tray, conveyor chain, air springs, and telescoping struts to adjust height and angle, enabling horizontal transfer and alignment of containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional transfer methods using forklifts and manual handling are used, then cargo can be transferred between transport vehicles, but additional equipment and manpower are required, increasing cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The transport vehicle is equipped with its own conveyance mechanism and lift mechanism, enabling it to transfer containers autonomously without external forklifts or manual handling. The vehicle serves itself by integrating the transfer functionality directly into its structure
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyance mechanism can perform multiple functions: horizontal transfer of containers, vertical lifting, and positioning. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment like forklifts and cranes
2Productivity
If traditional transfer methods are used, then cargo transfer can be accomplished, but cargo is exposed to tampering, damage, or loss during the transfer process
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosed container acts as an intermediary that protects the cargo during transfer. The container remains sealed throughout the entire transfer process from origin to destination, preventing tampering, damage, or loss while enabling efficient transfer
Solution Approach 2:
The direct conveyance mechanism transfers containers quickly between transport vehicles without intermediate handling steps, minimizing the time cargo is exposed to potential harm during transfer
3Ease of operation
If dedicated facilities and machinery are used for cargo transfer, then transfer operations can be performed, but costs increase due to facility requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer capability is extracted from dedicated transfer facilities and integrated directly into the transport vehicle itself. This eliminates the need for external transfer infrastructure while maintaining full transfer functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The lift mechanism with adjustable height and the conveyance mechanism with variable angle provide dynamic adaptability, allowing the system to work with different container types and vehicle configurations without requiring fixed infrastructure
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
Facilitates efficient, equipment-free cargo transfer between vehicles, reducing exposure to damage and loss, and eliminating the need for dedicated facilities, thereby simplifying the process and lowering costs.
Implementation Method 1
a lift mechanism including a frame, and an air spring attached at a first end to the frame and at a second end to the drive tray
Implementation Method 2
a conveyance mechanism including a drive tray including a channel, a plurality of sockets mounted to the drive tray and positioned within the channel, a conveyor chain mounted on the plurality of sockets
Data Source
AI summary
A container transfer system is disclosed. The container transfer system includes a conveyance mechanism configured to support a container and move the container along a first axis, and a lift mechanism configured to raise and lower the conveyance mechanism.