Folding Container Structure for Standard-Compatible Empty Shipping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable cargo containers are not compatible with standard cargo containers, and their folding mechanisms are complex and inefficient, leading to increased costs and space inefficiencies during transportation of empty containers.
Innovation Solution
A foldable container design that incorporates standard corner fittings and simple folding mechanisms, allowing it to be easily converted between unfolded and folded conditions using hammer locking mechanisms and hinge systems, ensuring compatibility with existing containers and reducing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If foldable container designs are implemented, then space efficiency during empty container transport is improved, but compatibility with standard cargo containers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container design incorporates standard corner fittings that serve dual purposes: they enable the folding mechanism to achieve compact configuration for space-efficient transport, and simultaneously provide compatibility with standard shipping infrastructure for handling and stacking. This universal interface allows the same corner fittings to function in both folded and unfolded states across different transport modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The container structure is divided into collapsible panels connected by hinge systems, allowing the container to be segmented into foldable sections. This segmentation enables the container to transition between expanded and compact states while maintaining structural integrity through the standardized corner fittings that connect the segmented sections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex folding mechanisms are used, then folding capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism utilizes spring assemblies that automatically provide the force needed to collapse and expand the container panels. The springs are pre-loaded to generate the necessary collapsing force, eliminating the need for external power sources, motors, or complex control systems. The operator simply needs to initiate the folding action, and the spring mechanism self-propels the container into its compact configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The design replaces complex powered mechanical folding systems with a passive spring-based mechanism. Instead of using motors, hydraulics, or pneumatic systems to drive the folding action, the invention uses mechanically pre-loaded springs that store and release energy to accomplish the folding and unfolding movements, significantly simplifying the overall system.
3Strength
If hammer locking mechanisms are used, then structural integrity during folding is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hammer locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock the container panels in their folded position through the force generated by the spring assemblies. The locking action occurs self-propelled as the container collapses, without requiring the operator to manually manipulate locks or fasteners. The operator simply initiates the folding motion, and the mechanism self-locks upon completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The hammer locking mechanism is pre-positioned and pre-loaded to engage automatically during the folding process. The locking components are arranged so that the collapsing motion itself drives the locking action, preparing the lock in advance and engaging it as the container reaches the folded position, eliminating the need for separate manual locking steps.
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 design enables efficient use of space by allowing standard cargo containers to be folded, reducing transportation costs and maintaining structural integrity, while being compatible with existing shipping standards.
Implementation Method 1
a first hinge member (31) of the roof panel (11) and a second hinge member (32) of the right side panel (14)
Implementation Method 2
locking mechanisms (78, 79)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A foldable container adjustable between an unfolded condition and a folded condition comprises a roof panel and an opposing base panel, a front panel and an opposing door panel which are each hingedly connected to solely the roof panel, a right side panel and an opposing left side panel, a right side roof skirt and an opposing left side roof skirt having disparate heights, a left side compound beam and a right side compound beam extending from the base panel, and a left side hinge-beam structure and a right side hinge-beam structure each having a hinge point and a skirt retaining portion. The right side panel and the left side panel are hingedly coupled to their respective hinge-beam structures at the hinge points. The hinge points lie in different horizontal planes. The hinge points lie within a midline of their respective side panel.