Containerized Trailer Modular Compartments Automated Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional trailer loading and unloading operations are inefficient due to the last-in-first-out (LIFO) method, leading to increased labor costs and operational expenses as items in the middle or back of the trailer are inaccessible without unnecessary unload or load operations.
Innovation Solution
A containerized shipping trailer with modular compartments that can be accessed independently, using a module moving apparatus that moves horizontally along a rail to automate the removal and insertion of modules, equipped with RFID tags for security, tracking, and refrigeration, allowing for secure and efficient transfer of goods without disturbing other modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional LIFO loading method is used, then the trailer structure is simple, but labor costs and operational expenses increase due to inaccessibility of middle or back items
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer interior is divided into multiple independently accessible compartments or bays along the length of the trailer. Each compartment can be accessed separately through individual openings, allowing items in any compartment to be loaded or unloaded without moving items in other compartments. This segmentation resolves the LIFO constraint while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Productivity
If modular compartments with independent access are implemented, then loading and unloading efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is segmented into modular compartments that can be independently accessed. Each compartment represents a simple structural unit that can be manufactured separately and assembled, balancing the need for independent access with overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of accessing items only from the rear (one-dimensional access), the trailer provides access points along its length (adding a spatial dimension). This allows direct access to any compartment without requiring sequential access from the rear, improving efficiency while using simple structural additions rather than complex mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If automated module moving apparatus is used, then labor costs decrease, but initial operational investment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer structure enables self-service loading and unloading operations through its independently accessible compartments. Items can be loaded and unloaded directly at various points along the trailer without requiring external lifting equipment or complex automated handling systems, reducing both labor costs and initial investment.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are various embodiments for a containerized shipping trailer and an automated module moving apparatus. A containerized shipping trailer may comprise a shipping container having a plurality of compartments configured to store a plurality of modules in an interior of the shipping container. An automated module moving apparatus may comprise a body configured to move horizontally along a rail from a first position to a second position to insert at least one projection into a portal of a module located in a compartment of the shipping container. The module may be removed and placed at a predefined location.