Intermodal Container Gripper With Hydraulic Multi-Axis Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripping apparatuses for intermodal containers face challenges in accurately positioning lifting and transporting equipment, leading to excessive working times, operator stress, and a need for a more flexible, versatile, and compact design.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes movable gripping means with hydraulic jacks that allow for multiple linear and angular movements, enabling precise positioning and efficient operation through enhanced maneuverability and reduced component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional gripping apparatuses are used, then the lifting and transporting equipment can grip intermodal containers, but the positioning accuracy is poor and working time is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping apparatus employs movable gripping means that can dynamically adjust their position and orientation through multiple degrees of freedom (linear and angular movements). This dynamic capability allows the apparatus to adapt to positioning variations and achieve accurate container engagement without requiring extremely precise pre-positioning of the lifting equipment, thereby reducing the time needed for positioning adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus changes its operational parameters by allowing the gripping means to move along linear paths and rotate through angular ranges. This parameter flexibility enables the system to compensate for positioning errors and achieve accurate gripping through adaptive adjustment rather than relying solely on fixed, precise positioning of the lifting equipment itself.
2Reliability
If traditional gripping apparatuses are used, then the lifting and transporting equipment can grip intermodal containers, but the device complexity is high with many components
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping means is designed as a multi-functional unit that combines multiple gripping functions within a single integrated structure. By consolidating various gripping actions into one versatile mechanism, the apparatus maintains reliable container gripping capability while reducing the total number of separate components needed in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the gripping functions into a unified gripping means structure that integrates multiple operational capabilities. This consolidation approach maintains the reliability of the gripping system while minimizing device complexity by eliminating redundant separate components and streamlining the overall structure.
3Ease of operation
If traditional gripping apparatuses are used, then the lifting and transporting equipment can grip intermodal containers, but the maneuverability is limited and operational accuracy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping means incorporates multiple degrees of freedom including linear movements and angular rotations, providing dynamic adaptability during operation. This dynamic capability enhances both maneuverability (ease of operation) and operational accuracy by allowing real-time adjustments to accommodate variations in container positioning and gripping requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping apparatus operates across multiple dimensions by combining linear translations with angular rotations. This multi-dimensional movement capability significantly improves maneuverability and operational accuracy compared to single-axis mechanisms, as it allows the gripping means to approach and engage containers from various orientations and positions.
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
This design achieves high maneuverability, operational accuracy, and reduced risk of accidents, enhancing working speed, productivity, and operator comfort.
Implementation Method 1
movable gripping means with hydraulic jacks that allow for multiple linear and angular movements
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (10) for gripping one or more intermodal containers (11), and that is usable in an equipment for lifting and transporting said loads or intermodal containers (11); the apparatus comprising means (12) for supporting the apparatus, connectable to the lifting and transporting equipment to which the apparatus is associated, i.e., connectable to corresponding means (13) for lifting and lowering the same lifting and transporting equipment, and means (14), that can be activated and deactivated, for gripping said load or respective intermodal container (11), in particular including first and second means (141, 142) for gripping said load or respective intermodal container (11), especially at opposite transversal ends thereof. Means (16) are provided, which are adapted to move said means (14) for gripping said load or respective intermodal container (11) in relation to said load or respective intermodal container (11) and/or in relation to the zone where said load or respective intermodal container (11) has to be placed.