Foldable Container Twist Lock and Winch System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The shipping industry faces economic losses due to the need to transport empty cargo containers, which occupy valuable space and incur handling costs, and existing foldable container designs are not compatible with standard containers, making them impractical for widespread adoption.
Innovation Solution
A fold and transport assist system for foldable cargo containers, featuring a frame with a twist lock, actuators, winches, and pulleys, allows for efficient folding and unfolding of containers using a mobile gantry, enabling them to be transported in a compact form without compromising safety or compatibility with standard containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If foldable container designs are implemented, then space occupancy during transport is reduced, but compatibility with standard containers is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The container design incorporates universal corner castings and standardized coupling mechanisms that enable the foldable container to interface with standard shipping equipment and other containers, ensuring compatibility while maintaining foldable structure capabilities
2Volume of moving object
If foldable container designs are implemented, then space occupancy during transport is reduced, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container body is divided into modular panels connected by hinge joints, allowing the structure to be segmented for folding while maintaining overall simplicity. Each panel is an independent unit that can be easily manufactured and assembled
Solution Approach 2:
The container employs dynamic hinge joints and locking mechanisms that transition between locked (unfolded) and unlocked (folded) states, enabling the structure to change configuration without requiring complex permanent mechanisms in both states
3Ease of manufacture
If manual folding of containers is performed, then handling costs are reduced, but labor time and operational efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The container incorporates pre-positioned coupling points, alignment features, and guide rails that prepare the folding structure in advance, enabling rapid automated manipulation without requiring complex real-time adjustments during the folding process
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
The system reduces space occupancy during transport, lowers handling costs, and maintains safety and compatibility with existing standards, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing financial losses for shippers.
Implementation Method 1
a twist lock adjustable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the twist lock being situated within the hollow corner
Implementation Method 2
a first actuator operably coupled to the twist lock, the first actuator being mounted to one of the plurality of supports
Implementation Method 3
a first powered winch mounted to the first beam, the first powered winch having a first line with a first attachment feature at an end of the first line; and a first pulley mounted to the second beam, the first pulley being operably coupled to the first line
Data Source
AI summary
A device may include a frame having a first beam, a second beam, and a plurality of supports extending therebetween. The device may include a twist lock operably coupled to a first actuator and situated within a hollow corner of the frame. The device may include an arm having a roller, a second actuator being operably coupled to the arm, and a third actuator operably coupled to the roller. The device may include a first powered winch mounted to the first beam, the first powered winch having a first line with a first attachment feature at an end of the first line. The device may include a first pulley mounted to the second beam, the first pulley being operably coupled to the first line.