Foldable Load Supports for Multi-Container Vehicle Handling

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing load handling systems for vehicles struggle to efficiently handle a wide range of load carrying objects, such as ISO 668 containers and flat-rack containers, due to the need for manual adaptation of the load handling device, which is cumbersome and poses safety risks, especially in hostile environments.

Innovation Solution

A load handling system with a frame arrangement that includes a mounting assembly, first and second support members, and folding structures that can be moved between unfolded and folded positions, allowing for automatic configuration changes between container and flat-rack modes without manual operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual operation of support devices is used to adapt configuration for different container types, then adaptability to handle various load carrying objects is improved, but operator safety deteriorates due to exposure to hostile environments and heavy manual handling

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle different container typesVSAvoidoperator safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The load handling system automatically detects the container type and self-adjusts the support device configuration without operator intervention. The system performs its own adaptation function through automated sensing and actuation mechanisms, eliminating the need for operators to manually reconfigure equipment in hazardous environments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical operation of support devices is replaced with an automated control system that uses sensors to detect container characteristics and automatically actuates hydraulic or electric actuators to reconfigure the support structure. This substitution eliminates direct operator contact with heavy moving parts and hazardous environments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Strength

If big manually operated components are used for heavy loading, then load handling capability is improved, but operational speed deteriorates due to slow manual reconfiguration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload handling capabilityVSAvoidoperational speed

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The support device structure incorporates movable and adjustable components that can dynamically reconfigure between different operational states. The system transitions from a static manual reconfiguration approach to a dynamic automated system where support members, rollers, and structural elements can be rapidly repositioned through actuators controlled by the detection system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical reconfiguration operations are replaced with automated actuation systems. Electric motors or hydraulic actuators rapidly reposition heavy support components, eliminating the slow manual handling process while maintaining the structural strength needed for heavy load handling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If automated detection and reconfiguration system is implemented, then operator safety and operational speed are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator safetyVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system serves multiple functions: it identifies container type, determines required support configuration, and triggers appropriate actuation sequences. The control system integrates sensing, decision-making, and actuation control into a single multi-functional unit, reducing overall system complexity despite the added automation capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the detection device, control logic, and actuation systems into an integrated load handling unit. The sensor array, processing unit, and actuators are merged into a coordinated system that functions as a single automated reconfiguration mechanism, managing complexity through functional integration rather than separate independent subsystems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20250128655A1Load handling system

Publication Date: 2025.04.24 HIAB AB CO CARGOTEC SWEDEN AB

AI summary

A load handling system includes a frame arrangement, a first support member, a second support member, a first folding structure and a second folding structure respectively connecting a mounting assembly with the first support member and the second support member. The first and second support members are configured to be folded towards a longitudinal symmetry axis A1 of the vehicle. In an unfolded position, the first and second support members are in their active position, and arranged to support an underside of a first type of a load carrying object during a loading/unloading procedure. In a folded position, the first and second support members are in their passive position, being a stowed position, thereby enabling use of third support members arranged at the mounting assembly for supporting an underside of a second type of load carrying object during loading and unloading of the second type of load carrying object.