Extendable Container Rack Locking for Fast Vehicle Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storage systems in moving vehicles face challenges during transportation, such as requiring extensive roping and being difficult to load/unload quickly due to uneven or moving surfaces, which leads to inefficiencies and safety issues.
Innovation Solution
A storage system with extendable components and fixing arrangements that securely engage with containers, allowing for easy loading and unloading by sliding and locking mechanisms, including shot bolts and pivotable latches, to stabilize containers on racks and frameworks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large number of ropes are used to tie containers in storage racks onboard moving vehicles, then the containers can be secured against considerable forces during transportation, but the loading and unloading process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into modular components: fixed components attached to the rack and extendable components that can be independently operated. Each container has dedicated fixing arrangements at specific locations, allowing individual containers to be secured or released without affecting others, thus reducing overall loading/unloading time while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system incorporates extendable components that can dynamically adjust their position and configuration. The extendable fixing arrangements can be quickly deployed to engage with containers during loading and retracted or disengaged during unloading, providing both security when needed and ease of access when not needed, thereby reducing time loss.
2Reliability
If traditional fixing methods are used on uneven or moving surfaces, then containers can be secured, but the alignment of rails and proper positioning of containers becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The extendable components can dynamically adjust their length and position to accommodate variations in rail alignment caused by uneven or moving surfaces. This adaptability allows containers to be properly positioned and secured even when the underlying structure is not perfectly level or stable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for adjustment of geometric parameters (position, angle, length) of the fixing arrangements to compensate for misalignment. By changing these parameters, the system maintains proper container positioning and securing effectiveness despite variations in the supporting structure.
3Reliability
If multiple ropes and complex fixing arrangements are used to secure containers, then containers can withstand transportation forces, but the device complexity and time required for securing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is segmented into standardized, modular components that can be independently assembled and operated. This segmentation reduces overall complexity by breaking down the securing function into manageable units with consistent interfaces, making the system easier to operate despite providing robust securing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The extendable components and fixing arrangements are designed with universal functionality, where a single component type can perform multiple functions (support, alignment, and securing). This multi-functionality reduces the total number of different components needed, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable container securing.
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
Enhances the efficiency and safety of loading and unloading containers by providing secure and stable storage solutions that can withstand forces and uneven surfaces, reducing the time and effort required for handling.
Implementation Method 1
The fixing device may include a shot bolt type arrangement, which may be biased, e.g. by a spring, to an engaging position.
Implementation Method 2
The second fixing arrangement may include a pivotable clasp or latch. The clasp or latch may have a profile designed to allow the protrusion to slide into a recess where the clasp/latch closes around the protrusion.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system including a first component (102), and an extendable component (130) slidably mounted on the first component. The extendable component includes a pair of side members (132) spaced apart to accommodate a container (150) in use and at least one base member (132) arranged to support a lower surface of the container in use. The extendable component includes a first fixing arrangement (138) located at or adjacent one end of the extendable component and a second fixing arrangement (134) located at or adjacent another end, in use, the first and second fixing arrangements being configured to releasably engage with members on a container supported by the extendable component.